Networked RFID: Systems, Software and Services

RFID technology has been available for decades, but it is only recently that its application has become a core topic for computing. This book introduces the technologies and techniques of large-scale RFID-enabled mobile computing systems, set in the context of specific case studies.The book begins with a quick introduction to RFID basics and then discusses the various elements of the topic, using applications such as e-passports, ticketing and supply-chain management throughout. The text explores RFID technology fundamentals, including operating principles, core system components and performance trade-offs involved in the selection of specific RFID platforms. The emphasis is on a practical approach, developing an arsenal of techniques and designs that can be mixed and matched to fit the needs of new systems and applications.Features??? Offers a practical approach, with specific RFID applications providing context for discussion??? Highlights the basics of RFID, including wireless energy transfer and communication by reflection.??? Presents the main ingredients for building complete network RFID systems??? Discusses the different types of readers and tags in detail - making particular reference to common technologies used in real systems??? Explores how the different identifier systems encode unique serial codes for tagged entities, and how codes are assigned to particular organizations??? Describes the structure and functionality of modern RFID systems and middleware??? Considers different types of network services required for RFID support??? Debates the hot topics of privacy and security??? Looks at the future of RFID technology??? Allows readers to experiment via a supplementary website with operational instances of RFID network services: http://www.roussos.eu/rfid Written for IT professionals as well as students, this comprehensive and reader-friendly text discusses the current state-of-the-art in RFID platforms and architecture. It will be invaluable for anyone experienced in software development and involved with RFID technology, and will facilitate informed decision-making.