What is a 125 kHz RFID?
How is a 125 kHz RFID System Composed?
How Does 125 kHz RFID Work?
What are the Characteristics of the 125 kHz Frequency?
What are the Read Range of the 125 kHz Frequency?
What are the Common Uses of the 125 kHz Frequency?
What Protocols are Used in 125 kHz RFID Systems?
What Are the Differences Between 125 kHz RFID and 13.56 MHz RFID?
How Can I Tell if My Card Operates on 125 kHz?
Which RFID Frequency is the Best for My Needs?
Conclusion: Why Choose Us?
125kHz low frequency technology is a commonly used technology for wireless communication and identification. It is based on low-frequency electromagnetic waves and has a long communication distance and low power consumption, so it is widely used in many fields. In this paper, we will introduce the principle of 125kHz low frequency technology and its application in the field of identification.
Let's understand the principle of 125kHz low-frequency technology. 125kHz refers to the electromagnetic wave with a frequency of 125 kilohertz, which belongs to the low-frequency range. Low-frequency electromagnetic waves have a long wavelength and can penetrate certain obstacles, so the communication distance in the indoor environment is relatively long. Low-frequency technology uses radio waves that are modulated and demodulated to realize information transmission.
In 125kHz low-frequency technology, the two sides of the communication are usually divided into read-write and tag. The reader is responsible for sending and receiving signals, while the tag is responsible for storing and transmitting identity information. The reader activates the antenna on the tag by sending electromagnetic wave signals of a certain frequency. The tag receives the signal from the reader and responds to the reader by changing its own impedance. The reader receives the response from the tag, decodes and extracts the information stored on the tag.
The application of 125kHz low-frequency technology for identification is mainly embodied in RFID technology.RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification, which utilizes radio waves for automatic identification and storage of data. In RFID system, the tag is called RFID tag and the reader is called RFID reader.RFID tag usually consists of chip and antenna, the chip is responsible for storing and processing the data, and the antenna is responsible for receiving and transmitting the radio signal.
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is actually a wireless communication technology that works by automatically collecting, tracking, and managing information through radio frequency collection and identification technology.RFID systems consist of three main components: tags, readers, and antennas.
A tag, also known as an RFID label or RFID chip, is a passive device that uses radio frequency signals to transmit and receive data.
Read-write, read or read/write electronic tag information equipment, the main task is to control the radio frequency module to the label to transmit read signals, and receive the label's response, the label's object identification information for decoding, the object identification information together with the label on the other relevant information transmitted to the host for processing.
Antenna, the transmitter and receiver device for transmitting data between the tag and the reader.
The working principle of a 125kHz RFID system is as follows:
1. The reader emits a certain radio frequency (RF) signal into the surrounding area.
2. The tag receives the RF signal, and the coil inside the tag’s antenna senses the RF field, extracting energy from it.
3. The tag uses the energy extracted from the RF field to perform tasks such as processing, storing, encryption, and responding.
4. The tag replies with an RF signal.
5. The reader receives the tag's response and uses a decoder to read the information stored in the tag, then processes it accordingly.
1. Stronger penetration ability: low-frequency RFID signals are able to penetrate wood, water, plastics and other non-metallic materials, and are more resistant to electromagnetic interference. Applicable to complex environments, such as underwater, wood, animal bodies and other environments.
2. Frequency range: 125kHz belongs to the low-frequency (LF) RFID operating frequency, compared to other frequency bands (such as HF 13.56MHz, UHF 860-960MHz), has a lower transmission rate and shorter identification distance.
3. Short identification distance: Usually the identification distance is between 10cm and 1 meter, suitable for close range and low speed scenes, applicable to access control, animal identification, etc.
4. Slow data transmission rate: low-frequency RFID transmission rate is slow, suitable for low-frequency and low-speed data exchange applications.
5. Strong anti-interference ability: strong resistance to electromagnetic interference, able to maintain stable work in the environment of high electromagnetic noise, suitable for use in complex industrial environments.
6. Lower cost: low-frequency RFID tags are usually lower cost, suitable for large-scale deployment. Its technology is simple and low production cost, suitable for the need for a large number of labeling scenarios.
7. Low power consumption: low-frequency RFID tags are characterized by low power consumption and can be used for a long time, and the service life of many tags can reach more than 10 years.
8. Packaging forms: low-frequency RFID tags have a variety of packaging forms, such as earring tags, collar tags, sticker tags, nail tags, etc., to meet the needs of different application scenarios.
9. Limited data storage capacity: low-frequency RFID tags have a small data storage capacity, usually can only store a short identification information (such as ID number), is not suitable for storing large amounts of data.
10. Wide range of application: suitable for a variety of application scenarios, such as animal management, equipment management, warehouse management, access control systems, etc., especially suitable for occasions that require short-range identification and strong environmental adaptability.
125 kHz belongs to the low-frequency RFID system, the operating frequency range of 30 kHz to 300 kHz, mainly used for close-range reading, usually recognizing the distance of 5 to 10 centimeters, the maximum can be up to about 1 meter, but the specific distance needs to be determined according to the actual test.
Due to its short reading range and low cost, 125 kHz RFID systems are widely used in access control, time and attendance, parking lot management and other scenarios to meet low-cost, short-range identification needs. In addition, low-frequency RFID products provide a variety of packaging forms, some high-quality packaging, although the price is higher, but the service life can be more than 10 years, suitable for long-term use of the occasion.
125 kHz RFID is mainly used for short-range communication, applicable to the range of a few centimeters to about one meter, with strong penetration, low cost, low power consumption, suitable for application scenarios that do not require high performance.
Main uses of 125 kHz RFID:
1. Material Management
In intelligent manufacturing production lines, 125 kHz RFID readers enable real-time monitoring and management of materials. By attaching RFID tags to materials, the system can quickly and accurately identify information such as material type, production batch, and production date. This helps companies achieve material traceability, inventory accuracy, and efficient distribution, thereby reducing production costs.
2. Production Process Control
Installing 125 kHz RFID readers on production lines allows real-time product identification, ensuring smooth production processes. In the event of abnormalities, the system can issue timely alerts, enhancing production efficiency and minimizing downtime.
3. Enhanced Product Quality
RFID tags facilitate end-to-end monitoring of the production process. In case of issues within the production chain, RFID technology can swiftly locate problematic products, allowing timely inspection and correction. This reduces the occurrence of defects from the source, improving overall product quality.
4. Animal Identification
Low-frequency RFID tags, compliant with standards such as ISO 11784/11785, are widely used for identifying and tracking pets, livestock, and wildlife. Their ability to penetrate metal and liquids makes them suitable for specialized environments, offering reliable proximity communication.
5. Security and Access Control
125 kHz RFID technology is popular in security systems, including access cards and key cards. Its low-frequency characteristics make it ideal for proximity identification, ensuring secure and contactless access control.
6. Industrial Automation
In factory environments, 125 kHz RFID is used for proximity identification and tracking on production lines. It is ideal for applications that prioritize low cost and low power consumption over high performance, making it a practical choice for many industrial automation scenarios.
7. Access Control Systems
In addition to general security applications, 125 kHz RFID is specifically used for contactless authentication in access control systems, offering secure and convenient entry solutions for various facilities.
125kHz RFID is a widely used low-frequency wireless identification technology applied in various specific fields. Its protocols are primarily defined by standards such as ISO 11784/11785, ISO 14223, and ISO 18000-2.
· ISO 11784/11785: Focused on animal identification, this standard defines the data structure and encoding methods for 125kHz RFID chips, making it the primary standard for pet microchips and livestock management.
· ISO 14223: Enhances the functionality of animal identification chips by supporting read/write operations and encryption, providing greater security for advanced applications.
· ISO 18000-2: Specifies the data transmission protocol for 125kHz RFID in broader applications, such as industrial automation and access control systems.
· 125kHz RFID is valued for its reliability and adaptability, making it a trusted choice in various sectors including animal management, identity verification, and industrial control.
| Differences | 125kHZ RFID | 13.56MHZ RFID |
| Frequency | LF, 125kHZ | HF, 13.56MHZ |
| How it works | Uses inductive coupling for power and data transfer. | Inductive coupling |
| Standards | ISO11784/11785 and ISO18000-2 | Follows ISO 14443, ISO 15693, and ISO 18000-3 |
| Features | Low cost, good penetration. | Longer reading distances and higher data rates. |
| Benefit | Operating frequency is not radio regulated and can penetrate water, organic material and wood. Ideal for close proximity, low speed and small data volume applications. | This frequency wavelength penetrates most materials, but the read distance is reduced. The tag needs to be at least 4mm away from metal, with better metal resistance. |
| Range | 2-10cm | <1m |
| Speed | Data transmission is slow, usually in the hundreds of bits per second. | Faster, typical value is 106Kbit/s |
| Tag | Passive tag | Passive tag |
| Capacity | 125 bits - 512 bits | 128 bits - 8K bytes or more |
| Anti-jamming | Less resistant to metal and water. | Performs better in metal and liquid environments, with high immunity to interference. |
| Security | Less secure and easily copied. | Higher security, supports encryption and authentication. |
| Uses | Access control systems, animal identification | Contactless IC card |
Currently, mobile phones cannot directly read RFID access cards, especially encrypted cards. Some access cards use encryption technology to enhance security. These encrypted cards require specific card readers or compatible mobile phones to be read. Since most mobile phones lack the encryption compatibility needed for these cards, they are unable to read them.
NFC functionality in mobile phones generally operates on three frequencies: 13.56MHz, 125KHz, and 225KHz. Access cards operating at 125KHz fall under the low-frequency category, which is not supported by all phones. If a phone does not support 125KHz, it cannot read these low-frequency access cards.
To enable a phone to read such access cards, an external low-frequency reading device is necessary. For example, a Bluetooth-enabled handheld low-frequency card reader like the TS-L401 can be used. This device employs wireless reading technology and supports electronic tags compliant with the ISO 11784/11785 international standards, including FDX-B, FDX-A, and HDX formats.
1. Checking card information
Check to see if the card is labeled with frequency information. Some cards will be directly labeled as 125 kHz. if the card is not clearly labeled, you can further confirm using other methods.
2. Use a cell phone or card reader
Use an NFC-enabled cell phone or a dedicated card reader to check if the card can be read. If the card's frequency is 125kHz, it may not be read by an ordinary cell phone that supports the 13.56MHz frequency. In addition, cell phones with NFC function can simulate the function of access control card. If the cell phone cannot read the card, but a normal card reader can, it may be a low frequency card of 125kHz.
3. Check the card model number
If the card has a model number or manufacturer's information, you can look up the detailed specifications of the model on the Internet to confirm its operating frequency.
4. Card appearance and identification
Numeric Identification: ID cards usually have 10 digits or 8 digits, and the frequency is usually 125 kHz. if the card has this type of numeric identification, it may be a 125 kHz ID card.
Shape and color: 125kHz low-frequency cards are usually white square cards or keychain cards, but it is inaccurate to judge by appearance alone, and other methods need to be combined.
5. Use professional equipment to detect
Card reader detection: use professional access control card reader, read the card, the card reader displays the frequency information can directly determine whether the 125kHz frequency.
6. Spectrum analyzer
Spectrum analyzer can detect the frequency of RF signal. Put the card close to the antenna, observe the frequency peak on the spectrum analyzer, you can confirm whether the card is 125kHz. however, this equipment is more complicated to operate, and the price is higher, usually used by professionals.
7. Sensing Distance
125kHz low frequency cards have a short sensing distance and usually need to be within 1cm of the reader to be read successfully. If the card can only be read very close to the reader, it may be a 125kHz low frequency card.
Which frequency RFID tags should be selected for different application scenarios?What are the differences between different frequency bands of RFID tags? According to your actual needs to choose, can ensure that in the actual application of more convenient.
Low-frequency RFID tags use the frequency band range: 10KHz-1MHz, common main specifications are 125KHz, 135KHz, etc.. Low-frequency RFID tags at home and abroad in the field of animal individual tracking identification has been used in large quantities, mainly using low-frequency identification (frequency lower than 135KHz) chip, implanted into the animal body, the technology is very mature, the domestic manufacturers have been able to master the corresponding technology.
High-frequency electronic tags using the frequency band range: 1MHz ~ 400MHz, common main specifications for 13.56MHz is widely used in all walks of life consumer payment, anti-counterfeiting traceability, unmanned retail, self-service management. Commonly used in high-frequency book tags, NFC tags, consumer electronic tags, high-frequency anti-counterfeiting tags.
UHF tags use the frequency band range: 400MHz ~ 1GHz, common main specifications are 433MHz, 868 ~ 950MHz, especially suitable for logistics, vehicle management, jewelry management, file management, laundry management, medical management and other fields, UHF tags unique long-distance range reading and multi-tag group reading function, so that it is easier to adapt to the complex environment.
Above is the whole introduction about 125kHZ RFID, thank you for your reading. If you have any demands for 125kHZ RFID products, please feel free to contact us and submit your requirements, such as product name, specification, quantity, application, chip, model number and so on, we have a professional team who will communicate with you one to one and provide the best RFID solution to you.
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