Zebra Technologies radio frequency identification (rfid) ユーザーズマニュアル

Introduction to RFID
RFID Overview

58978L-008 Rev. A

RFID Programming Guide

11/14/2008

An RFID printer encodes (writes) information on ultra-thin HF or UHF RFID transponders 
that are embedded in “smart” labels, tickets, and tags. The printer encodes the information; 
verifies proper encoding; and prints bar codes, graphics, and/or text on the label’s surface.

The RFID transponder is sometimes called the RFID tag or an inlay. The transponder is 
usually made of an antenna that is bonded to an integrated circuit (IC) chip. The IC chip 
contains the RF circuit, coders, decoders, and memory. If you hold an RFID label up to the 
light, you can see the transponder’s antenna, and you can feel a bump in the label where the IC 
chip is located.

Encoding and printing of an RFID label usually are completed on the first try, but some 
failures may occur. If you experience consistent failures, it may signal a problem with the 
RFID tags, with your label formats, or with the transponder placement.

To select RFID labels for your printer, consider the type of RFID transponder and where the 
transponder is placed on the label.

When selecting RFID labels, consider both your RFID printer and your application. Use tag 
types that have been specifically approved for use in your printer. Failure to do so may result 
in the inability to read or write to (encode) the embedded RFID tags. To ensure that an 
approved tag type will perform up to your expectations, evaluate the transponder’s data 
transmission rates, memory, antenna design, and write capabilities.

As new transponders become commercially available, Zebra will evaluate them for 
compatibility with your printer. For more information about which tag types can be used with 
your printer, see 

, or contact 

your authorized Zebra reseller.

For different transponder types, the following characteristics vary:

•

The amount of programmable memory, which can include a tag ID (TID), Electronic 
Product Code (EPC) data, and user memory.

•

The way that data is segmented.

•

Whether the tag can be locked.

Before you purchase RFID labels, determine what type of RFID transponder to use. Different 
transponder types can have different attributes. Some transponders can only be read while 
others can be read and written to repeatedly. Transponders also have different amounts of 
available memory, which corresponds to the amount of data that can be encoded in it. Select 
the combination that best suits your needs. For more information on different transponder 
types, see 

RFID transponders operate on different frequencies. You must use a frequency that 

complies with local regulations in your country.