Metal can be both problematic and beneficial to RFID. Metal reflects radio frequency causing it to significantly reduce the read range of any tags placed directly on the metal. It can also be used to reflect a signal around a corner or to the opposite side of a human body.
When tagging metal items, consider the following:
- Use a Metal Mount RFID tag. Many tags are designed specifically for use directly on metal; however, most of these tags will only work when on metal. Do not use them on other materials.
- Foam spacers are an excellent low-cost solution for applications that do not require durability.
Metal obstructions in a room can also affect RFID:
- Place a metal plate on one side of a doorway and a reader on the other. The metal plate will help reflect the reader signal to read tags on both sides of a person or cart moving through the door.
- RFID tags cannot be read through metal. Be sure your readers have a clear view of any tags around metal.
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