RFID+ Certification:

Introduction to RFID
RFID basics

RF physics
RF propagation
Antenna field performance
Radiated power output

Interrogation zone basics
Interrogators
Dense environments
Configuring interrogation zones

Regulations and standards
Regulations
RFID standards

Characteristics of tags
Basics of tags
Components of tags
Packaging

Tag implementation
Interaction between tags and interrogators
Factors affecting tag performance
Selection and placement of tags

Site analysis
Electrical environmental conditions
Physical environmental conditions
Coverage area
Site blueprints

Design selection
Virtual components of RFID systems
Hardware components of RFID

Installation
Hardware installation
Installing RFID systems

Monitoring and troubleshooting
Analyzing read rates
Troubleshooting tag failure
Troubleshooting software

RFID peripherals
RFID printers
RFID enterprise systems

Appendix A
Certification exam objectives map
Comprehensive exam objectives

After completing this course, students will know how to:

Explain the uses and benefits of RFID, and identify the components of an RFID system.
Compare radio frequency with wavelength, discuss the factors affecting RF signals, and also discuss the communication methods; discuss antenna characteristics and identify reflective and absorptive materials; calculate ERP.
Identify the types and functionalities of interrogators, and explain interrogator communication; discuss issues related to dense environment and anti-collision protocols; configure interrogation zones and interrogation commands, and optimize interrogation zones.
Discuss power, frequency, and safety regulations and their impact on RFID systems; discuss air interface protocols and the impact of standards on business and IT infrastructure.
Classify tags; discuss the types of antennas and their configuration, integrated circuit, and substrate configuration; discuss labels, inserts, and packing items.
Explain the interaction between tags and interrogators; discuss the factors affecting tag performance and the effects of packaging materials on a tag; explain tag orientation and placement, the movement of tags, and the issues caused by tag stacking.
Discuss the effects of signal interference on the RFID system; explain site obstructions that affect RFID system performance; discuss radiation patterns; Review the RF network architecture, site structures, and mechanical equipment.
Determine the relation between virtual components and hardware components of RFID systems; discuss the hardware components of an RFID system and protection.
Explain hardware installation and safety considerations in the RFID system; explain the installation of an RFID system in various enterprise applications.
Explain monitoring and troubleshooting an RFID system by analyzing read rates, tuning and repositioning the antennas, and diagnosing failed reads and system hardware failure; identify symptoms for tag failure, explain tag management techniques, and identify the causes of IC failure; describe middleware and network connectivity requirements.
Discuss RFID printers, printer properties, and ancillary devices; discuss real-time location system and warehouse management system.

Prerequisites

CompTIA A+ Certification: OS Technologies, 2003 Objectives or equivalent
experience