Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Group Members: Mary Ann Gingras Nancy Lee Diana So
Overview What is RFID? History Background Core Issues Tensions and Stakeholders
RFID RFID = R adio F requency ID entification A technology that incorporates all physical, electronic or digital elements that enable RFID tags and readers to collect, use and store required data. Elements include tags, readers, computer hardware (such as servers) and RFID- specific software. (Source: BISG Policy Statement, September 2004)
History Guglielmo Marconi invented the radio 1897 Fundamental understanding of Electromagnetic Energy 1880s1922 Birth of Radar advances thoughts around RFID technology 1950s Early RFID technology used in Research Labs 1970s Numerous RFID patents emerge 1990s RFID applications flourish Singapore Public Library first with RFID 1998 US Department of Defense & Wal-Mart require RFID from suppliers Toronto Public Library
Background Low Frequency High Frequency wavelength
RFID Equipment SignalTo reader
RFID in Libraries Check-Out Security
Library Options Automatic Check-InSorting
Library Options Inventory
Implementation Compatibility with existing and future systems Costs Equipment Labour Return on Investment (ROI)
Health & Safety Dangers of radio frequency waves Motion reduction – ergonomics Self-Service Sorting Inventory
Data Storage What type of tag is it? What can be added to tag? How is data stored? What information does the library put on the tag?
Privacy What information is in the tag? Who has access to the information? What can this information be used for? Stakeholders Public Governing Bodies RFID Vendors RFID Buyers
Implementation Who need to be educated about the technology? What impacts will RFID workers experience? Stakeholders Public Staff Vendors Funders
Health and Safety Should people fear wave emissions? Who benefits from healthy (uninjured) workers? Stakeholders Public Staff Management and Compensators RFID Developers
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Questions?