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Security & Identification

Technology Examples Industrial (LC)

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Technology examples: Industrial

Security and identification technology like RFID or authentication is found in many markets and application examples. Click through those related segments to learn more:

 

Access control

RFID systems offer advantages in access control systems of all sizes

If an RFID tag authorised for the relevant door is held up to the reader, the system releases the door opener. In hotels for example, the RFID room card opens a room door until a defined departure time (but then no longer opens it), while access in a large access control system is often controlled individually via a central computer. If an RFID access card is lost, the relevant card can be locked within seconds, thus preventing unauthorised access.

IP protection

Wherever there is a need for IP protection or protection from imitations

ID technology can help – with both hardware and software protection. Hardware and software can be clearly assigned to one another using RFID. Manufacturers can also clearly identify original accessories when providing spare parts. For example, the system might only enable a specific function when it detects an ID tag in the original accessory. This means that manufacturers can be sure that sensor data is only coming from original parts and that only original actuators are controlled, which manufacturers can be confident offer correct functionality. Over-build protection is also implemented effectively using ID technology: if for example a manufacturer is contracted to produce 1000 devices, then the OEM provides 1000 specially encoded ID tags, without which any remaining devices will not operate.

Logistics

The field of logistics is one of the first ever applications of RFID technology

For example, the serial numbers of all the devices on a pallet can be read simultaneously with a suitable RFID reader, regardless of the orientation of the box and without unpacking the devices. Each device can also be uniquely identified during the entire production process.

Payment

RFID systems are ideal for paying small amounts of money

In the Allianz Arena in Munich, drinks are purchased using an RFID system, where visitors add credit to a card in advance. When a purchase is made, the amount is deducted from the card by the RFID reader/writer – a process that is much faster than handling cash or debit/credit cards. Any remaining credit can be claimed back at a machine, but many season ticket holders simply keep the credit on their ‘Flash’ card until the next football match. There are now many different vending machines for chocolate, ice cream, drinks, etc., which support payment via RFID technology. Credit can be loaded onto an NFC Smartphone or an RFID payment card in advance, and the amounts are then deducted when the card is used in a machine. Compared to a cashless payment solution suitable for credit cards, RFID technology is much more economical for machine manufacturers and operators. The prices within vending machines can also be programmed using RFID technology – for example, service personnel can transfer new prices via an NFC smartphone while filling the vending machine.

Ticketing

Many public transport systems are using RFID technology

Skiers have been using a typical RFID application for years. Now that lift passes have been fitted with an RFID tag, there is no need to waste time scanning a barcode or showing the ticket as the RFID antenna automatically detects the lift pass in the skier's jacket pocket. Other public transport systems also use RFID technology; the Oyster Card on the London Underground is one of the most well-known applications. Some expensive tickets now contain an RFID tag instead of a hologram in order to prevent forgeries.

Vending machine

Credit can be loaded onto an NFC-compatible Smartphone or an RFID card

RFID systems are ideal for paying small amounts of money. There are now many different vending machines for chocolate, ice cream, drinks, etc., that support payment via RFID technology or using a money card. Credit can be loaded onto an NFC-compatible Smartphone or an RFID card / money card in advance, and the amounts are then deducted when the card is used in a vending machine.Compared to a cashless payment solution suitable for credit cards, NFC technology is much more economical for machine manufacturers and operators. The prices within vending machines can also be programmed using NFC technology – for example, service personnel can transfer new prices via an NFC-compatible smartphone while filling the vending machine.

Waste management

Go one step further and weigh the waste in an RFID-tagged bin in order to charge a precise service fee

If a rubbish bin has an RFID tag integrated in the plastic (or stuck on afterwards), it is possible to identify the bin individually so that a fee is only payable when the bin has actually been emptied. Some waste disposal companies go one step further and even weigh the waste in an RFID-tagged bin in order to charge a precise fee for their service.

Wireless Service Interface (MM)

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Wireless service interface

Service personnel can use a wireless service interface and an RFID reader or NFC phone to access the electronics inside a machine

From a purely technical point of view, this is a memory that has an RFID interface (e.g., as per ISO 15693) on one side and a microcontroller interface (in most cases I2C or SPI) on the other side. With an RFID system, you know which specific vehicle has pulled onto your lot. It's far better than magnetic stripe cards that can be used by anyone. Each vehicle can have its own options, upgrades, special pricing or even block certain options via the profile settings for the vehicle's RFID tag. It's fantastically flexible making life easier for service teams and customers, providing the appropriate sales offerings.