Developments in RFID technology continue to yield larger memory capacities, wider reading ranges, and

faster processing. It is highly unlikely that the technology will ultimately replace barcode — even with

the inevitable reduction in raw materials coupled with economies of scale, the integrated circuit in an RF

tag will never be as cost-effective as a barcode label. However, RFID will continue to grow in its

established niches where barcode or other optical technologies are not effective, such as in the chemical

container industry and live stock industry.

If some standards commonality is achieved allowing RFID equipment from different manufacturers to be used

interchangeably, the market will likely grow exponentially. Until then, the full scope and potential of RFID

technology has yet to emerge.

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