RFID or Radio Frequency Identification Tag is an ID system meant for the purpose of identification and tracking through the use of small radio frequency identification devices. Information is stored electronically within the tag.
Components of the RFID Tagging System
An RFID tagging system comprises:
- The RFID tag.
- A read and write device.
- A host system application meant for collecting data, processing, and transmitting.
There are two types of RFID tags – active tags and passive tags.
Active Tags – They have their own power source. Hence, they have a larger memory capacity and can read at great ranges.
Passive Tags – Don’t have their own power source. They are activated briefly by the RF (radio frequency) scan of the RFID reader. Due to the small electric current, passive tags usually just transmit an ID number.
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RFID Tagging Vs Barcode System:
RFID tagging is an alternative option for the barcode system. The former is more expensive but comes with added benefits such as RFID tags don’t fall off, get dirty, or the fact that they do not need an unobstructed line of sight between the reader and the tag.
What Is the Connection Between RFID Tagging and FASTag?
FASTag eliminates the need to stop and pay cash at toll plazas by automatically deducting the toll amount from a reloadable tag affixed on a vehicle’s windscreen. This reloadable tag uses RFID technology for such transactions once the tag account is activated.
Benefits of RFID Technology in FASTag:
- No requirement of unobstructed line of sight between the reader and the tag.
- Toll payments will be directly deducted from the prepaid account linked to it.
- No human intervention required for scanning and data logging.
- Offers high degree of authentication and security, making it more difficult to counterfeit.
With FASTag, you no longer need to stop at toll plazas and pay cash. This cashless payment of toll fees is currently operational at over 180 toll plazas nationwide. More will be brought under this programme in the future.
The FASTag programme is being implemented by IHMCL (Indian Highways Management Company Limited) and NPCI (National Payment Corporation of India) along with FASTag Issuer Agencies, Toll Plaza Concessionaires, and Toll Transaction Acquirers.
