Form Factor
The Form Factor of a device refers to its physical characteristics, such as size and shape. For example, an RFID inlay may be integrated into a label, a credit card, a keychain fob or an ID badge. These would all be different from factors for the inlay.
The table below describes the typical construction of more common form factors. (Endorsement disclaimer)
| Label (Smart Label) | Similar to peel and stick barcode labels. A thin, flat and flexible inlay is sandwiched between the printable and backing layers of a multilayer label structure. Example» |
| Ticket | A thin, flat and flexible inlay is applied to single layer paper or cardstock substrate. Example» |
| Card | The inlay is embedded in a plastic card similar to a credit card. Such a card may also include a conventional magnetic stripe. Example» |
| Ear Tag | The RFID tag is embedded in a plastic identification tag designed to be attached to the ears of livestock for identification and tracking purposes. Example» |
| Bead | The tag is encapsulated in a small glass bead for implantation under the skin. This technology was originally developed for animal identification and tracking (example»), and was subsequently approved by the US FDA for use in humans in 2004 (Feder & Zeller, 2004; example»). |
| Integrated | The tag is integrated into the item being tagged rather than applied as a separate label. |
| Wristband | The tag is integrated with plastic strap to be worn around the wrist. Example» |
| Encapsulated | The tag is encapsulated in plastic or other RF-neutral material to provide physical strength and/or the ability to withstand harsh environments. Example» |
| Case | The tag is enclosed in a rigid case of plastic or other RF-neutral material. This form factor is often used in active applications where the power supply, sensors or other components are encased with the tag. Example» |
References:
Feder, B. J. and Zeller, T. (2004, October 14). Identity badge worn under skin approved for use in health care. The New York Times. Retrieved October 14, 2004 from http://www.nytimes.com/2004/10/14/technology/14implant.html
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