Is radio frequency identification being used to track pedophiles or released convicts in real time—and, if not, how could I get started on such a project? I am currently attending college. —Name withheld ——— To my knowledge, RFID is not being used to track paroled...
RFID has been used for taking attendance, but there is the possibility that two cards will have the same frequency, which could cause a problem. How can one avoid this? —Name withheld ——— The issue you are concerned about, I believe, is called collision. There can be...
What about the cancer issue? Is that a reason not to use RFID? —Name withheld ——— By "cancer issue," I assume you refer to reports that implants were linked to tumors in lab animals (see Animal RFID Chip Implants Linked to Cancer), as reported by the Associated Press...
Would it be possible for a passive radio frequency identification tag to wake up a processor as it passes within range of a reader? If so, what would be its maximum range? —Name withheld ——— Are you referring to a microprocessor in a computer? There are USB readers...
Is it possible to employ radio frequency identification to log onto a Windows computer securely? —Name withheld ——— RFID technology is used to identify unique individuals, so it is possible to create an interface enabling you to log onto your computer using an RFID...
Our company seeks an RFID system that would enable us to place tags on electrical conduits, enabling us to track sections with an RFID receiver in order to better follow large conduit runs from beginning to end within large construction sites. Is this possible? —Name...
Is it possible to alert people to potential heart failure using RFID—and, if so, how? —Name withheld ——— I'm unaware of any system on the market today that employs radio frequency identification to alert patients or doctors to potential heart failure. Several papers...
Is it possible to apply radio frequency identification in identity cards, to allow doors to open or detect a subject within a forbidden area? —Name withheld ——— One of the most common applications of RFID technology is access control. Many buildings have embedded RFID...
Is a portable RFID timing system available that can be used for horse racing? —Name withheld ——— Racetracks are a challenging environment. You have to cope with rain, mud and a wide temperature range, and the system infrastructure needs to accommodate different track...
Are there any RFID implementation case studies in the tobacco industry? —Name withheld ——— Yes—and we have reported on several of them. Indian cigarette manufacturer ITC markets several cigarette brands. To ensure the quality of its products, the company monitors the...
Internet-based rumors that proposed health-care reform bills in Washington, D.C., call for everyone to be tracked with radio frequency identification are absurd.
Are there any passive UHF radio frequency identification tags that can work with Bluetooth technology, or is it impossible? —Name withheld ——— Ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) tags operate on proprietary and standardized air interface protocols. There are no tags that...