The maximum range of an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) module can vary significantly depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown of the typical ranges for different types of RFID systems:
1. Low Frequency (LF) RFID (125-134 kHz): - Range: Up to 10 cm (4 inches) - Commonly used for animal tracking and access control
2. High Frequency (HF) RFID (13.56 MHz): - Range: Up to 1 meter (3 feet) - Used in payment cards, library books, and NFC applications
3. Ultra High Frequency (UHF) RFID (860-960 MHz): - Passive tags: Up to 12 meters (40 feet) - Active tags: Up to 100 meters (330 feet) - Used in supply chain management, asset tracking
4. Microwave RFID (2.45 GHz and 5.8 GHz): - Passive tags: Up to 1 meter (3 feet) - Active tags: Up to 100 meters (330 feet) - Used in long-range tracking and toll collection systems
Factors affecting RFID range: 1. Power output of the reader 2. Sensitivity of the reader 3. Size and design of the antenna 4. Environmental conditions (metal objects, liquids, interference) 5. Tag type (passive vs. active) 6. Orientation of the tag relative to the reader
It's important to note that while some specialized active RFID systems can achieve ranges of several hundred meters, most common RFID applications operate within shorter distances for practical and regulatory reasons.
When selecting an RFID module, consider your specific application requirements, including range needs, frequency regulations in your region, and the type of objects you'll be tagging.