What is RFID -- RFID Applications -- Readers and Tags -- Physics and Lower Layers -- Identifier Systems -- System Architectures for RFID -- RFID Middleware -- Network Services -- Privacy and Security -- Epilogue.

RFID technology has been available for decades, but it is only recently that its application has become a core topic for computing. This book introduces the technologies and techniques of large-scale RFID-enabled mobile computing systems, set in the context of specific case studies. The book begins with a quick introduction to RFID basics and then discusses the various elements of the topic, using applications such as e-passports, ticketing and supply-chain management throughout. The text explores RFID technology fundamentals, including operating principles, core system components and performance trade-offs involved in the selection of specific RFID platforms. The emphasis is on a practical approach, developing an arsenal of techniques and designs that can be mixed and matched to fit the needs of new systems and applications. Features • Offers a practical approach, with specific RFID applications providing context for discussion • Highlights the basics of RFID, including wireless energy transfer and communication by reflection. • Presents the main ingredients for building complete network RFID systems • Discusses the different types of readers and tags in detail – making particular reference to common technologies used in real systems • Explores how the different identifier systems encode unique serial codes for tagged entities, and how codes are assigned to particular organizations • Describes the structure and functionality of modern RFID systems and middleware • Considers different types of network services required for RFID support • Debates the hot topics of privacy and security • Looks at the future of RFID technology • Allows readers to experiment via a supplementary website with operational instances of RFID network services: http://www.roussos.eu/rfid Written for IT professionals as well as students, this comprehensive and reader-friendly text discusses the current state-of-the-art in RFID platforms and architecture. It will be invaluable for anyone experienced in software development and involved with RFID technology, and will facilitate informed decision-making.