RFID technology
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INTRODUCTION
Recognition technology is probably one of the most essential and wide-spread concept used in today's economic world. Almost every single product purchased by consumers in retail stores is using an identification system: in most case, it is a bar code. This technology, which has started to be implemented 30 years ago, is now facing a serious competitor: the state-of-the-art RFID, which has created over the last few years a big debate. Indeed, a revolution in recognition technology would affect every economic actor, from the manufacturer to the customer: it is then no surprise than a large number of issues appear, ranging from privacy concern to economic profitability.
In this paper, we will review quickly what exactly RFID is and it can bring to both firms and customer, we will then focus on two major companies, Exxon Mobil and Wal-Mart, who both use RFID for very different purpose, in order to get a better understanding on the technology, its various applications, and eventually, if it is likely to quickly change the way companies and customers respectively conduct business and buy products.
What is RFID?
RFID, also known as auto ID, stands for Radio Frequency identification: it is a generic term for an identification system for people or objects, based on three components: an electronic tag, a reader and a computer-based system. The information transfer is made by radiofrequency, which is different from the bar code system (where line of sight is required to scan the information contained). Usually, a serial number that refers to a special product or person (with optional additional information) is packed in a microchip attached to an antenna: this is the transponder or tag.
The reader sends out continual radio waves for which the tag is tuned in...