Design Article
RFID Security - Part 1: RFID radio basics & architecture
Frank Thornton
8/26/2010 8:15 AM EDT
In a broad context, radio transmissions containing some type of identifying information are considered Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). This can be a cab driver using his unit number over the air, or the call sign of a radio station. This chapter discusses the tools, applications, and security of RFID.
RFID is about devices and technology that use radio signals to exchange identifying data. In the usual context, this implies a small tag or label that identifies a specific object. The action receives a radio signal, interprets it, and then returns a number or other identifying information. (e.g., "What are you?" answered with "I am Inventory Item Number 12345").
Alternatively, it can be as complex as a series of cryptographically encoded challenges and responses, which are then interpreted through a database, sent to a global satellite communications system, and ultimately influence a backend payment system.
Some of the current uses of RFID technology include:
• Point of Sale (POS)
• Automated Vehicle Identification (AVI) systems
• Restrict access to buildings or rooms within buildings
• Livestock identification
• Asset tracking
• Pet ownership identification
• Warehouse management and logistics
• Product tracking in a supply chain
• Product security
• Raw material tracking/parts movement within factories
• Library books check-in/check-out
• Railroad car tracking
• Luggage tracking at airports
Next: RFID Security in General
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http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/poconoarmchairreview
8/28/2010 2:58 AM EDT
This article could use somewhat better organization, but still it was one of the better reads in the Design category on this website. I especially liked the part about RFID security. The author gave some good examples of security problems. Actually, they were exciting examples, reminiscent of a good thriller novel. (I'd like to write one based on some of these issues!) An engineer studying this subject likely could get some real work done after reading the book this article comes from.
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hm
9/1/2010 3:37 PM EDT
Is there IEEE or other similar standard for RFID for different applications? As DoD has asked for RFID for their military procurement, they should have defined their requirements. Do you think there should be some worldwide body to device common standard for this technology? Common objective and guideline to develop it may make this product more secure and easily adaptable to different users.
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