Event Ticketing Solutions in 2010

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology that has been around for at

least two decades and we have become accustomed to it in many areas of our lives. We can see RFID solutions and subset Near Field Communications (NFC) used in libraries, universities, at music festivals, stadium events, buses and now in credit cards. But how does it work and how do you choose the right RFID solutions for your business or environment?

For RFID to work you need two components, a sensor and a proximity card. The sensor which, for example, may be mounted on a wall outside a university lecture hall constantly emits a low level radio frequency field that can be activated when the proximity card comes within a short distance. The card, which can also be known as a smart card, is fitted with an antenna and an RFID processor chip. The reader emits enough voltage, picked up by the antenna, to power the chip and this enables communication between the card and reader. The card holds details of its owner and when the details are verified by the system an action takes place- in this case the door to the lecture theatre opens.

There are many types of card now available from Limited Use Smart Cards (for use on public transport) to cards that a skier on holiday may purchase for use on ski lifts. The cost of the card itself is now relatively inexpensive when bought in bulk but the card will need to be encoded and this can only be done by the vendor of your chosen RFID reader.

If you are considering integrating RFID into your environment for security or as a purchasing tool in a cash dominated environment there are a few things to consider. Understanding these basics will help you make a rational decision when engaging a consultant or choosing a supplier. Remember, you will want your solution to be robust and to not just integrate now but also to continue to act as a great solution for years to come.

1. How popular is format that the system uses. If you are only considering an access control solution today, what might your requirements be in two years time- will the two formats integrate well or will you have to rethink your RFID strategy at a later date.

2. Can you get a fixed price contract on all cards that you will require over the foreseeable future?

3. What memory size does the smart card have? As your business grows you will may want to introduce more vendors (or more uses) into your system and therefore onto the card. Aim for a larger memory as it will bring down your costs in the long term.

4. Don't expect the card and reader to work as the brochure or sales person says it will. Ask for an in situ demonstration to be sure that the solution fits your requirements.

5. Can your vendor or consultant provide you with other solution providers' products to help you understand the bigger picture.

It's really not difficult to find ways to integrate RFID into your business as an RFID Solution will cut costs and help with data control but finding the solution that is robust enough to carry you through as your business grows takes time and contemplation. Do this now and you will see bigger benefits and greater results in the future.

Trevor Crotch Harvey is an RFID and Near Field Communications expert specialising in smart technologies and

Event Ticketing Solutions in 2010

By: Trevor RfidConsultants

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