Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) is a method of storing and remotely retrieving data using devices called RFID tags or transponders. An RFID tag is a small object that can be attached to or incorporated into a product, animal, or person. RFID tags contain antennas to enable them to receive and respond to radio-frequency queries from an RFID transceiver. Passive tags require no internal power source, whereas active tags require a power source.

RFID tags are often envisioned as a replacement for UPC or EAN , having a number of important advantages over the older barcode technology. They may not ever completely replace barcodes, due in part to their relatively higher cost. For some lower cost items the ability of each tag to be unique may be considered to be overkill, though it would have some benefits such as the facilitation of taking inventory.

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