RFID Protocol: Definition, Function, How it Works, and Its Role in System Integration
- Marketing Tudi
- Dec 30, 2025
- 4 min read
In the era of rapid automation and data digitalization, RFID technology does not only rely on hardware such as tags and readers. One crucial element that is often overlooked is the Protocol, which is the communication rule that ensures identification data can be read, transmitted, and integrated with other systems accurately.
Without the right protocol, the RFID system is at risk of becoming fragmented and difficult to develop. Therefore, understanding the Protocol is an important foundation in building an efficient and scalable RFID solution.
Pengertian Protocol
In general, a protocol is a set of “rules of the game” for communication that allows two devices or systems to understand each other. It is similar to language rules and conversational etiquette: who initiates the communication, what the message format is, how to respond, and what happens if there is an interruption. Without a protocol, devices may be connected, but their data exchange will be inconsistent or difficult to process.
In this article, RFID Protocol refers to the communication protocol at the application level (application-level), which is the rule of how software systems communicate and exchange structured messages with RFID reader. This communication generally uses interfaces such as WebSocket or API, not at the radio signal level between the tag and reader, like the EPC Gen2 or ISO standards.
With this approach, the RFID Protocol serves as a communication language agreed upon between the application and the reader, so that integration becomes tidier and aligns with modern software architecture. The Protocol also helps simplify technical differences between devices, as the IT team can interact through a more system-friendly interface without having to directly handle SDK details or hardware complexity.
Fungsi Protocol dalam RFID
The protocol plays an important role in ensuring the RFID system operates consistently and reliably.
1. Menstandarkan Pertukaran Data
The Protocol defines the message format and data structure so that information from the reader can be processed consistently by the application.
2. Mengatur Kontrol dan Event Reader
Through the protocol, software can manage processes such as start reading, stop reading, data filtering, and device status monitoring.
3. Menyederhanakan Integrasi Software
RFID Protocol reduces direct dependency on the vendor's SDK, allowing integration to be done faster and more structured.
4. Mendukung Automasi Berbasis Event
RFID data can be sent in the form of real-time events that directly trigger business processes in the backend system.
Arsitektur Komunikasi Protocol dalam RFID
The RFID Protocol works within a communication architecture that connects physical devices with digital systems.
1. Lapisan Perangkat RFID
2. Lapisan Protokol Aplikasi
In this layer, the RFID Protocol packages data and commands in a structured format that can be sent via WebSocket or API.
3. Lapisan Sistem Backend
The application system receives RFID data in a ready-to-use format for further processing, storage, or analysis.
Standar dan Pendekatan RFID Protocol
The RFID Protocol at the application level is not always tied to a single standard but adopts an approach that aligns with modern systems.
1. Komunikasi Berbasis Pesan
RFID data is sent as structured messages that are easy for other systems to understand.
2. Event-Driven Architecture
Every tag reading or reader status change can be treated as an event.
3. Integrasi Sistem Terbuka
The Protocol is designed to be easily connected to various applications without needing complex additional logic.
Cara Kerja Procokol
In practice, the application system sends commands to the RFID reader via the RFID Protocol, for example, to start reading or set certain parameters. The reader then executes the command and sends the reading results back in the form of a structured message.
The data received by the application can be directly used for operational needs, such as recording goods movement, asset validation, or activity monitoring, without the need for manual translation from raw data.
Kelebihan Penggunaan Protocol
This technology offers various advantages in increasing operational efficiency.
1. Interoperabilitas Antar Perangkat
The protocol in RFID allows various devices from different vendors to work within the same system.
2. Skalabilitas Implementasi
The system can be developed gradually without major changes to the architecture.
3. Efisiensi Otomasi Data
Data can be processed in real-time, reducing errors due to manual input.
Kekurangan Penggunaan Protocol
Despite having many advantages, there are several things to consider in its implementation.
1. Kompleksitas di Tahap Awal
Protocol selection and configuration require a mature technical understanding.
2. Ketergantungan pada Standar
Not all standards support advanced security features.
3. Variasi Implementasi Vendor
Small differences in protocol implementation may require additional adjustments during integration.
Peran Protocol dalam Integrasi Sistem Modern
The Protocol serves as the main link between the physical world and digital systems. With the protocol at the application level, RFID no longer stands as a separate system but becomes part of an interconnected IT ecosystem.
This approach allows RFID implementation to be done faster, more controlled, and more easily adapted to evolving business processes.
Kesimpulan
RFID Protocol is the foundation of communication that makes the RFID system work consistently, from tag reading to data ready for use in applications. With the right protocol, the identification process becomes faster, tidier, and easily scalable.
In the field, challenges often arise when integrating RFID data into existing software. DERAS Protocol addresses this need through a unified WebSocket interface that simplifies integration, reduces middleware and SDK dependency, and helps avoid vendor lock-in.
As an end-to-end RFID solution provider, TUDI is ready to help you design an efficient and integrated RFID system. Consult your needs with the TUDI expert team to find the best solution for your business.
