How to Identify an RFID Tag: A Practical Guide for Everyday Use
If you’ve ever held a plastic access card, a warehouse tag, or a library label and wondered “Is this an RFID tag, and what type is it?” , you’re not alone. RFID technology hides in plain sight — inside cards, stickers, and even tools — and it comes in several different types. Knowing how to identify your RFID tag can save hours of trial and error, especially if you’re troubleshooting or planning to integrate it into a new system. Step 1: Look for Clues on the Tag or Card Sometimes the answer is right in front of you. Check the surface of the card or packaging — you might find a small print like “13.56 MHz” , “125 kHz” , or “UHF” . These numbers tell you the operating frequency: 125 kHz (LF) – often used for access control or animal tracking 13.56 MHz (HF/NFC) – found in transport cards, ID cards, and smartphones 860–960 MHz (UHF) – used in logistics, inventory, or vehicle management If nothing is printed, don’t worry — ther...