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You cannot avoid RFID as many large companies will require tags on their products in order to do business with them. Everyday items you purchase may have been tracked with RFID.
Comparing the Two RFID Readers
You have seen the two types of RFID readers and so which one should you go for? Here are some factors you can consider.
Cost
In terms of cost, the Parallax RFID reader is very affordable at $39. However, you need to factor in the additional cost of wiring up the unit. You need to buy a power adapter (output 5V DC), a serial cable, as well as the additional hardware needed to convert the signal to serial output. In contrast, the PhidgetRFID kit costs about $58 and includes everything you need.
Ease of Use
In terms of use, the PhidgetRFID is truly plug and play. Just make sure you download the PhidgetWebService and you can start coding straight away. The Parallax RFID Reader Module takes some effort to set up, especially if you are not familiar with electronics and worry about causing damage to the unit.
Flexibility
If you simply want to connect an RFID reader to your computer, then the PhidgetRFID is clearly an easy option. However, the beauty of the Parallax RFID Reader Module is that it allows you to connect the unit to devices other than a PC, such as an embedded controller. Using the Parallax RFID Reader Module, you can embed it in a door and write your own code to authenticate users.
While at the moment, you can't really use the .NET Framework (or the .NET Compact Framework) to write code for an embedded controller, I am really looking forward to the new .NET Micro Framework to allow me to do the job in the near future.
Dimensions
Both readers are similar in size, and are flat enough to be hidden from view.
To sum up, you have seen how RFID works and then learned to build a Windows application that uses two RFID readers-one from Parallax and one from Phidget. Depending on your needs, both low-cost readers offer a lot of exciting possibilities for integrating RFID capabilities into your projects. If you have not tried RFID yet, this is a good time to begin!
Wei-Meng Lee is a Microsoft MVP and founder of Developer Learning Solutions, a technology company specializing in hands-on training on the latest Microsoft technologies. He is an established developer and trainer specializing in .NET and wireless technologies. Wei-Meng speaks regularly at international conferences and has authored and coauthored numerous books on .NET, XML, and wireless technologies. He writes extensively on topics ranging from .NET to Mac OS X. He is also the author of the .NET Compact Framework Pocket Guide, ASP.NET 2.0: A Developer's Notebook (both from O'Reilly Media, Inc.), and Programming Sudoku (Apress). Here is Wei-Meng's blog.
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