Batteries for RFID Applications

Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology is used across industries for wireless identification and tracking of objects and assets. RFID systems consist of RFID tags that store data, RFID readers that read the information from the tags, and software that processes and manages the data. The RFID readers transmit radio frequency signals that are received by the RFID tags and the tags respond by transmitting information back to the RFID reader. There are two types of RFID tags, active and passive tags, and active RFID tags are typically powered by a battery.

At Nichicon, we produce lithium titanium-oxide (LTO) batteries that can be used to power active RFID tags. Our LTO batteries have a long lifespan, high power density, and energy harvesting qualities, allowing them to provide continuous power and energy storage for active RFID tags while rarely needing to be replaced.

What is an Active RFID Battery?

Active RFID tags are RFID tags that contain their own internal power source as opposed to passive RFID tags that lack their own power source. The main power source used for active RFID tags is batteries that allow the tags to continuously transmit signals at distances between 30 and 60 meters. Active RFID tags can also transmit more data than passive RFID tags.

In order for active RFID tags to continuously transmit data at longer distances, they need a dependable battery. Batteries for RFID applications must be able to provide uninterrupted power and have a long lifespan to ensure continuous communication. They must also have a high enough power density to allow active RFID tags to reach their full range.

Nichicon provides batteries for RFID applications that can be used in active RFID tags. Our high-power density LTO batteries allow active RFID tags to transmit data over long distances and their rapid charge/ discharge cycles over a wide temperature range, allow for continuous, uninterrupted power. The long lifespan and energy harvesting qualities of our LTO batteries means you will rarely if ever have to replace the batteries in the RFID tags.

What Makes Nichicon LTO Batteries Great for RFID Applications?

LTO batteries from Nichicon are ideal for RFID applications because they provide uninterrupted power over a long lifespan which allows active RFID tags to provide continuous data transmission over their full range. Our LTO batteries are also low maintenance and compact to fit in RFID tags of virtually any size. You can expect dependable performance from our LTO batteries while rarely needing to replace them.

The following characteristics make Nichicon’s LTO batteries great for RFID applications:

Rapid charging: Our LTO batteries have a fast charge/ discharge time of about 3 minutes which allows them to recharge quickly to provide uninterrupted power.
Micro-size: These LTO batteries are micro-sized with a diameter of 3 millimeters which means they can be used in small devices like RFID tags.
Long life: Our LTO batteries have a lifespan of over 25,000 charge/ discharge cycles and can provide interrupted power for a long time.
Maintenance free: Our LTO batteries are virtually maintenance free and rarely require replacement.
Sustainable: These sustainable batteries are RoHS compliant and meet all environmental standards for operation and disposal.
High power density: You can expect a high-power output and long-lasting performance from our high-power density batteries.
High safety: Our LTO batteries have a low risk of explosion or ignition, even in extreme hot or cold temperatures, making them ideal for RFID tags in any environment.
Low temperature: Our batteries can operate effectively in temperatures as low as -30°C.
High power discharge: Our LTO batteries can discharge in about 3 minutes which makes them well suited for the power needs of RFID tags.
UL 1642, IEC 62133-2 certified
ISO 9001, IATF 16949 & ISO 14001 certified

What is a Lithium Titanate Battery (LTO)?

The lithium titanate battery (LTO) shares many characteristics with the lithium-ion battery. One difference is the LTO anode. An LTO battery uses lithium titanate oxide, while a lithium-ion battery uses carbon. By using lithium titanate, the battery has a significant performance improvement.

How is placing the Nichicon SLB (LTO battery) on a PCB different than a Lithium Titanate or other battery?

The SLB is a battery with long leads, just like a standard capacitor. The leaded profile allows for soldering directly to the circuit board using hand soldering or a select solder technique. Lithium Titanate batteries require an additional mounting bracket or holder placed on a circuit board. The Nichicon SLB (LTO) take less board space allowing them to be used in very compact or densely populated circuit boards.

What is the difference between the Nichicon (SLB) LTO and Lithium-Ion Batteries?

LTO batteries are safer; they have an extremely small risk of ignition if there is a short. The SLB, Nichicon’s LTO battery, has superior charge and discharge capabilities, such as a 20C charge rate. Even higher rates are possible with pulsed discharges, like those used in telecommunications.

What are the advantages of the Nichicon SLB series (LTO battery)?

‘The SLB can withstand up to 25,000 charge/discharge cycles and have a lower cold temperature rating than a lithium-ion battery. And its low internal resistance allows energy harvesters to charge with weak currents without loss. They will not ignite if a short occurs. In addition to the advantages previously mentioned, the SLB comes in aluminum electrolytic case styles and size.

What is the difference between LTO batteries and supercapacitors/electric double-layered capacitors?

LTO batteries provide a substantial increase in capacity and demonstrate minimal self-discharge, distinguishing them from electric double-layer capacitors and enabling prolonged discharge. Remarkably, smaller rechargeable LTO batteries offer an impressive 20-30-fold increase in energy density compared to equivalently sized electric double-layer capacitors. Leveraging this significant advantage, our LTO batteries present a viable alternative to electric double-layer capacitors, delivering consistent power output over extended periods.

What is the difference between LTO batteries and lithium-ion batteries?

Our LTO batteries stand out in terms of their rapid charging, discharging, and extended lifespan, surpassing the capabilities of typical lithium-ion batteries while ensuring enhanced safety. Conventional lithium-ion rechargeable batteries face difficulties in achieving high power discharge, but our LTO batteries effortlessly handle this challenge with exceptional charge/discharge performance and remarkably fast charging times. The ability of LTO batteries to charge rapidly makes them ideal for devices that require quick charging intervals or scenarios. Unlike lithium-ion batteries LTO batteries can also be charged with weaker or low charging currents.

Can RFID Tags Work Without a Battery?

Passive RFID tags can operate without a battery as they are powered by energy from the RFID reader or scanner. These RFID tags are less expensive than active RFID tags and generally have a longer lifespan, but they have a more limited range and cannot store as much data.

Active RFID tags rely in an internal power source and cannot operate without a battery. The batteries in active RFID tags allow for continuous transmission with a more extended range and increased data storage compared to passive RFID tags.

How Often Does an RFID Tag Battery Need Replacement?

Active RFID tags require a battery that provides long-lasting performance and rarely needs to be replaced. LTO batteries from Nichicon have a long lifespan of rapid charge/ discharge cycles and when combined with energy harvesting, they virtually never need to be replaced.