Jacob Laitinen asked 2 years ago I am in the process of writing a thesis for my graduate program, in which I am planning to use RFID asset-tracking tags to record the movements of up to three actors onstage and offstage. Is there any information you could share with me about what hardware and software I would need to accomplish this goal? Should I use active or passive RFID tags, and will I be able to track the movements with a Wi-Fi router array? My funds are limited, and I was hoping to obtain room-accurate paths of the few actors on a budget. Any information you might have would be greatly appreciated.
—Jacob
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Jacob,
You could use an active RFID system for this application. An active ultra-wideband (UWB) system would give you very precise location data, but it would require several receivers. Active tags cost $25 or more apiece, but since you only need a few, this shouldn't pose an issue. You could also use a passive overhead real-time location system. You might be able to cover the entire stage with a single reader if the ceiling were high enough. I would suggest you contact RF Controls, which should be able to provide what you'd need.
Mark Roberti
Founder and Editor
RFID Journal
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