RFID Technology

November 22, 2010

Nancy Nisbet’s reading for this week discussed Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. From my understanding, RFID’s are tiny microchips that can be placed on items (or people) to track their whereabouts. For example, stores utilize this technology to decrease shoplifting (by tracking the whereabouts of their merchandise or items), monitor store movements, and analyze purchasing patterns for shoppers.

Initially while reading the article I thought of how freaky it is that we can be monitored with complete ignorance. Often CCTV’s and security cameras can be seen. We are also often aware of other “hidden” measures we are subjected to (i.e. cell phone records, internet history, email monitoring). RFIDs, however, are typically undetectable to the human eye and often exist without our knowledge. Up until last year, I was completely unaware that our Western Student Cards embodied RFID technology to store and monitor our every move across campus.

Looking on the bright side, though, I also considered how beneficial RFID technology could be in a practical sense. What immediately came to my mind was whether or not it was possible to create and RFID-home. I am constantly losing my car keys, my wallet, TV remotes, laptop charger, xbox controllers etc. Wouldn’t it be great (and convenient) to be able to constantly monitor the whereabouts of these items? All I would have to do to find one of these items is view a centralized RFID reader and I will save myself the time and hassle of tearing my room and house apart looking for these items on an almost daily basis.

The following video visualizes / explains what I am talking about:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMjukYHibzM

So, the question we must consider, then, is whether or not the negative capabilities outweigh the positive possibilities of RFID technology?