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The RFID technology 

 

The abbreviation RFID stands for “Radio Frequency Identification“. RFID is a method for automatic identification of objects and human beings. RFID does not stand only for the contact-free identification and localization of objects but also for automated data recording and storage. 

An RFID system consists of a transponder (microchip with antenna in a carrier or housing) that labels the object and a reader to read out the transponder identification. Furthermore, an RFID middleware with interface for other IT systems and data bases is required for the data exchange. 

Passive and active transponders have to be distinguished. Passive transponders acquire the required energy from the electromagnetic field of the antenna of the reader (small range) for their function; active transponders acquire their energy from a battery and have a much larger range for the data exchange with a reader. The RFID technology makes contact-free writing and reading processes possible. Three frequency ranges are distinguished in the RFID technology depending on the applications such as transmission rate, service life, costs per unit, reader range and range of function. 

  • Low frequency (LF, 30-500kHz)
    • small range, cost-effective, many applications
  • High frequencies (HF, 3-30 MHZ)
    • medium range, medium reading speed
  • Ultra high frequency (UHF, 850-950 MHz)
    • large range, high reading speed, requires active, cost-intensive transponders

The most current RFID systems work in the HF range with 13.56 MHz, as for example Legic, Mifare, Hitag and HID. 

 

The Legic RFID system 

The Legic identification medium has been developed by Kaba Group and has become the international standard since its market launch. The Legic principle is based upon the RFID technology, the contact-free information exchange between data carrier and read/write unit. The core is an extremely small microchip with a size of only 2.2 by 2.4 millimeters which can therefore be incorporated into nearly all housings and modules. For example, in commercially available plastic cards, keys or key rings, etc. 

The Legic RFID system operates on the HF frequency 13.56 MHz that has been standardized throughout the world. Legic is a passive system and therefore does not need a battery in the transponder. Whenever the chip is inserted into the electromagnetic field of a transmitting aerial in a read/write station, for instance at a terminal, it acquires the necessary energy and the information exchange starts. Data is then read from the chip or written onto it. 

Data transmission is encrypted so that replication is not possible. A clear identification is given by the unique and unchangeable serial number on each chip. The demands on a very high safety standard are met in combination with a PIN code. Legic is one of the most up-to-date RFID methods for a contact-free identification and information exchange and it is therefore extremely future-oriented. The Legic medium is incorporated in products of all Kaba companies. Licenses for using Legic as RFID system have been and are being awarded to qualified companies in various sectors with the goal of asserting Legic as an identification standard throughout the world. Solutions of more than 240 licensees are currently available.
Clear benefits are apparent for clients who use the Legic technology: 

  • Segmentation of the Legic chip offers multifunctional applications
  • Contact-free chip reading and writing
  • Secure data transmission due to coding and encryption of information
  • Very simple hands-free operation
  • No mechanical wear and tear of the Legic data carrier and the Legic reader
  • High degree of investment security due to the combination with nearly all identification procedures
  • Complete design freedom for the module containing the Legic chip, for example badges, key rings or watches
  • Future-orientation of Legic technologies due to constant innovation
  • Very high functionality combined with an excellent price/performance ratio
  • Function as connecting element for the different applications in the company to an integral organization