In this chapter, we give a detailed introduction of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology and 15 different applications for different industries. We introduce RFID transponders, readers, middleware, and labels. A detailed classification and explanation of each of these components is provided. This is, then, followed by outlining the key applications of this technology in the real world as well as industrial scenario. The following applications are covered in this chapter: RFID for item tracking and tracing, for access control, and for anticounterfeit. The benefts that can be achieved by adopting this technology are outlined in detail. The following applications are explained in detail:

•Baggage tracking •Library book tracking •Animal tracking •Hospital equipment tracking •Patient tracking •Newborn baby tracking •Tracking children •Golf ball tracking •Crowd control •Family access to babies in neonatal care •Vehicle identifcation • Electronic drug pedigree •Anticounterfeit bank notes •Secure passports and visas • Anticounterfeit automobile parts

RFID system is composed of the following main elements: tags, readers, antennas, and middleware [EAS05, MS08]. A typical RFID system is shown in Figure 9.1. When the RFID tag comes in the range of the reader, the reader activates the tag to transmit its unique information. ¥is information is propagated to the RFID middleware, which appropriately processes the gathered information and then updates the backend database.