Understanding the Suite of RFID Technologies

We designed the program at RFID Journal LIVE! 2008 to feature case studies involving every type of RFID technology, and as many applications of the technology as we could. And some of the more than 100 sessions will focus on helping those new to RFID obtain reliable information. We will have sessions on how to choose the right technology for your applications, what questions to ask your systems integrator, how to get the most value out of the data you collect and much more.

The 120-square-foot exhibit hall at LIVE! will be the largest collection of RFID technology providers anywhere in the world. There will be vendors selling every type of RFID technology invented. Visiting the floor will be a great way to learn about the capabilities of different types of RFID technology, and the vendors that offer them.

But how do you find the vendors able to meet your needs? I've been asked this many times. Therefore, we created a tool called RFID Connect, enabling attendees to search for information about vendors and their products and services. You can use the tool to request meetings with vendors, or just to plan the sessions you want to attend and create a list of vendors you wish to see. Last year, more than 80 percent of attendees logged on and used RFID Connect.

So if you have a business problem you think RFID might solve, don't be intimidated by the myriad solutions available. Come and get practical guidance about where to start, listen to end users who solved a similar problem and then visit a list of vendors with the kinds of technology that might solve your problem—active or passive, HF or UHF, ISO or EPC.

In addition, you can use RFID Connect to arrange meetings with speakers and other attendees. You can ask those who have utilized an active solution if it really works, or verify that a passive solution will work in your environment. Given the size of RFID Journal LIVE!—the breadth of the conference program and the depth of technologies being exhibited—it's a unique opportunity to find out which technology is right for your needs. And if you are still unsure after the event, send me an e-mail and I'll do my best to answer your question objectively and honestly.

Mark Roberti is the founder and editor of RFID Journal. If you would like to comment on this article, click on the link below.