Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology that incorporates the use of electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the radio frequency (RF) portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to uniquely identify an object, animal, or person. The advantage of RFID is that it does not require direct contact or line-of-sight scanning. RFID is evolving as a major technology enabler for tracking goods and assets around the world. It can help hospitals locate expensive equipment more quickly to improve patient care, pharmaceutical companies to reduce counterfeiting and logistics providers to improve the  management of moveable assets. It also promises to enable new efficiencies in the supply chain by tracking goods from the point of manufacture through to the retail point of sale (POS). As a result of the potential benefits of RFID, many of the world's major retailers have mandated RFID tagging for pallets and cases shipped into their distribution centres. Many are still unfamiliar with RFID and the benefits it can offer. Lack of good information about RFID and its benefits will potentially impede uptake of the technology. In the face of this need for clear, comprehensive information about RFID and its benefits, this paper gives a clear insight into the technology and its applications.

Key words: RFID, Tag, Antenna..