Active RFID vs. Passive RFID Tags: What's the Difference?

Although each RFID system is unique based on whether a passive or active tag is used, the necessary equipment stays the same: a tag, an antenna, a scanner/reader, and a digital database. Once in place, the RFID asset monitoring procedure is divided into four stages:
1. A tag with data is added to an asset.
2. An antenna detects a neighbouring tag's signal (passive or active)
3. A reader connects to the antenna and gets data from a tag.
4. The reader sends the information to a database.
The tag is a critical variable that can be swapped out in this process. There are two types of RFID tags to choose from: passive RFID tags and active RFID tags. When it comes to storing data and communicating with readers, each tag has its own set of features.

What exactly is a Passive RFID Tag?

A batteryless RFID tag is often utilised in smaller-scale operations and tracking systems. Because passive tags do not have an internal power source, they are powered by the energy transmitted by an RFID scanner. When opposed to its counterparts, passive RFID tags are more commonly used in firms with a big inventory of physical goods. This is due to their low cost and the possibility of a longer operational life.

What exactly is an Active RFID Tag?

A passive RFID tag has no internal power source, whereas an active RFID tag contains its own battery and internal transmitter in the form of a beacon or transponder. This means that, depending on frequency levels, an active tag can continually transmit signals to an RFID reader up to 150 metres away. As a result, organisations that wish to track assets in real-time and establish an accurate real-time location system are increasingly turning to active RFID tags (RTLS).