How does an RFID tag differ from a barcode?
There are two key differences: (1) An RFID tag can be read via radio. This means that it may be scanned through other objects, and often does not need to be specially oriented with respect to a reading device. RFID tags can sometimes be read at greater distances than barcodes as well. (2) RFID tags transmit unique identifiers. A barcode indicates the type of item it is printed on, e.g., a package of razor blades. An RFID tag indicates not only the type of object it is attached to, but also a unique serial number. Thus an RFID tag can distinguish a given package of razor blades from every other one in the world.
