There are various types of RFID cards such as LF, HF, and UHF cards. These frequencies have different characteristics that give each of them several advantages. Let's see what is the difference between LF, HF, and UHF cards:
LF RFID cards:
In the radio wave spectrum, the frequency range between 30 kHz and 300 kHz is defined as the low-frequency band. Therefore, LF RFID cards typically operate at 125 kHz. The data read speed of these low-frequency cards is slower compared to high-frequency cards. LF cards provide even transmission up to 10cm in each direction. A great advantage of LF cards is that they are not susceptible to any electromagnetic interference or noise. These cards are commonly used in access control applications. LF RFID cards can also be transmitted through thin metal layers.
HF RFID cards:
The high band consists of frequencies from 3 MHz to 30 MHZ. Therefore, the main HF RFID cards operate at 13.56 MHZ. High-frequency systems face moderate levels of radio wave interference compared to low-frequency systems. Too many applications run on high-frequency applications. Therefore, there are many standards and compliances for high-frequency applications. These standards include ISO 15693, ISO/IEC 14443A, and ISO/IEC 14443 for the MIFARE card family. Many smart cards, proximity technology, and NFC cards are high-frequency RFID applications.
UHF RFID cards:
The frequency band between 300 MHz and 3 GHz is defined as UHF. Typically, UHF systems operate at frequencies between 900 MHZ and 915 MHz. This higher frequency will allow for a greater transmission range, up to 12 meters or 40 feet. UHF cards have the highest data transfer rates relative to low or high frequencies. However, UHF is most susceptible to EMI and radio wave noise. Additionally, these cards are relatively easy to manufacture and therefore less expensive than LF and HF cards.
Each type of RFID card has specific needs and is better suited for specific applications. However, UHF cards are the most popular among the new developments in the RFID market. The wider range of UHF cards makes it suitable for various industrial applications. For LF and HF there is always a range where a certain transmission range is essential.
