Mastering RFID Webinar: Unlock Features and Functionality with IC Innovation

This webinar, focused on IC features and functionalities, brought together industry leaders to explore the evolving capabilities of RFID technology. Hosted by Suzanne Gotfryd from Atlas RFID, and joined by Trevor Davis from Impinj and Steven Wood from Atlas RFID, the session offered a deep dive into the functionality of RFID readers, tag strategies, and emerging innovations such as Gen2x.

Participants gained valuable insights into the importance of understanding both the reader and tag sides of RFID deployments. From foundational knowledge to advanced features like Gen2x, the webinar equipped attendees with the tools to optimize their RFID applications across a range of industries.

Key Topics Discussed

• Overview of RFID reader types - from embedded chipsets to finished readers
• Importance of a robust tag strategy and differences in tag ICs, inlays, and final tags
• Exploration of Impinj’s R700 reader and its enterprise-level capabilities
• Deep dive into Gen2x – enhanced read speed, tag sensitivity, and range
• Use of RFID in environments such as warehousing, retail, vehicle management, and manufacturing

Webinar Polls

Poll #1 What would you say your level of knowledge/expertise on RFID/IoT Is?

Brand New: 5.23% | Still Learning: 20.26% | In the Middle: 28.76% | Knowledgeable: 32.03% | Very Knowledgeable: 13.73%

Poll #2 What is your primary RFID application?

Access Control: 8.39% | Asset Tracking: 37.42% | Inventory Management: 32.26% | Managing People: 4.52% | Other: 17.42%

Poll #3 Do you know the difference between finished readers, reader modules, and reader IC's?

Yes, I do: 43.23% | Mostly - I still get a little confused: 23.23% | No, I do not: 33.55%

Poll #4 Do you know the difference between finished tags, inlays, and tag IC's?

Yes, I do: 61.44% | Mostly - I still get a little confused: 22.22% | No, I do not: 16.34%

Poll #5 Did you feel like you learned more in this webinar about tag and reader IC's and the innovative features behind them?

Yes, I did: 69.72% | Somewhat: 21.10% | I still have some questions: 9.17%

Webinar Q&A

We will be adding all of the questions and the relevant answers to this article as the answers are received. If you do not see your question/answer, or want to see these as they posted, bookmark this page or continue to check back! Additionally, all questions will be answered via email, so continue to check your inboxes if you submitted a question during the live webinar.

Question: I have an issue with the read range of my tags. I am using 127 mm by 18 mm sized tags, the problem is reading them at a distance of at least 40 ft. What can I do?

Answer: To improve read range, start by evaluating the tag's design—check if it's using a high-sensitivity chip and consider switching to a larger inlay with a bigger antenna if possible. Also, assess the gain of the reader's antenna and whether it's appropriate for the setup. Finally, if the tag orientation is consistent, using a different polarization, like a linear antenna, could help extend the read range.

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Question: Can you guys talk about RFID readability around metal?

Answer: RFID around metal is still challenging because UHF signals reflect off metal surfaces and can't pass through them. However, there are metal-compatible tags available, including durable long-term tags and printable label tags that work well when applied directly to metal. In metal-dense environments, antenna placement and orientation are critical, and higher-performance tags may be needed. Take a look at our sample packs, including our Impinj RAIN Sample Pack, to help find the best fit.

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Question: The Impinj R700 has a sensitivity of -93 dBm, can you explain what this means and under what conditions this sensitivity is achieved?

Answer: The Impinj R700 RFID reader’s sensitivity of -93 dBm refers to its ability to detect very weak signals that are reflected back from RFID tags. In simpler terms, this level of RFID reader sensitivity is like having a highly sensitive microphone that can pick up faint whispers from far away, allowing the reader to detect tags at greater distances compared to less sensitive readers, which typically operate in the -70 to -80 dBm range.

High sensitivity is beneficial in extending read range, especially in environments where tags are far from the antenna or partially obstructed. However, it can also introduce challenges. For instance, in densely tagged environments like a warehouse with multiple pallets, an overly sensitive reader might pick up "stray tags" not meant to be read at that moment—leading to inaccurate or noisy data.

This is where RFID reader power and configuration strategies come into play. To optimize performance, users need to carefully balance reader sensitivity and RF power output, while also implementing filtering techniques to isolate "tags of interest" (TOI). Managing both sensitivity and power settings allows for cleaner reads and helps reduce unwanted tag reads from surrounding areas.

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Question: Which tag would you recommend using on an SCB or an air cylinder in a fire hose coupler? We are not quite sure what an SCB is, but we answered about an oxygen tank or scuba tank.

Answer: There are specialized RFID tags designed for nearly every application, including challenging surfaces like scuba or oxygen tanks. For curved metal surfaces, tags can be securely attached using industrial epoxy or metal straps. In applications like hose nozzles, similar techniques apply - using durable, on-metal tags that resist impact and maintain readability even in tough environments. Durability and proper adhesion are key to ensuring reliable performance.

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Question: How does moisture affect RFID signals or RSSI's?

Answer: Moisture can negatively impact RFID performance in two key ways—by absorbing or reflecting the RFID signal. Water in the environment or surrounding a tag can cause signal loss, leading to weaker communication between the reader and tag. For instance, placing a tag on or near a liquid container, like a gallon of milk or water, can disrupt the signal due to how water interferes with both the forward (reader to tag) and reverse (tag to reader) links. Although many RFID tags are waterproof and can be submerged, their read range typically becomes very limited once submerged beyond a certain depth.

To mitigate these effects, it's important to find airspace around or near the tagged item, such as placing the tag near the top of a liquid container rather than directly against the liquid. Additionally, tag orientation plays a huge role in signal strength. Tags aligned directly with the antenna will return a stronger signal, while those that are perpendicular or turned edge-on to the antenna may be much harder to read. In environments with challenging materials like liquids or metals, having a solid RFID tag strategy—with the right tag, antenna type, and positioning—is essential to achieving consistent and accurate reads.

Do you have a follow-up question or a new question after watching? Post it in the comments and we will try to answer within a few business days. Or chat with us at any time.