Design, Printing & RFID Glossary

RFID tags with their own power source that can transmit over longer distances, typically 100+ meters.

The component that transmits and receives RF signals between the reader and tags.

Short-range wireless tech designed for minimal power consumption.

A data unit of 8 bits used in digital storage.

The portion of the design that extends past the trim line to accommodate cutting variances.

The integrated circuit inside an RFID chip that processes and stores data.

The specific RFID chip model/variation determining capabilities and compatibility.

A printing process that uses four ink colors (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black) to create a full range of colors.

The unique code stored on an RFID tag to recognize and track that specific tag during events.

A modern printing method that directly transfers digital images onto materials without using plates.

A printing process that uses heat to transfer dye onto materials like fabric, plastic, or coated surfaces.

Programming an RFID chip or storage device with specific information.

Operating ranges of RFID (LF, HF, UHF) that affect performance and use cases.

A metallic or pigmented film applied to a surface to create a shiny or textured effect.

A high-shine finish that enhances colors and details with a reflective surface.

Special inks that absorb light and emit it in the dark for visibility.

13.56 MHz RFID, often used for access control and payment systems.

Optimized for supply chain, library systems, and asset tracking; supports anti-collision to read multiple tags.

125–134 kHz RFID for access control and animal tracking.

A non-reflective, flat finish that softens colors and reduces glare.

A metallic printing process where metallic particles are added to gold or silver inks to create a true, sparkly gold or silver finish.

A realistic representation of how a final design will look, used to present design concepts to stakeholders.

Subset of RFID enabling communication when devices are within ~4 cm.

Bright, fluorescent inks used to achieve striking and vivid colors.

Legacy contactless chip with 1KB memory, used for access control, transportation, and e-wallets.

4KB storage for multi-use transit and advanced access control scenarios.

Designed for short-term applications such as disposable ticketing, public transportation, and event access. EV1 adds enhanced anti-counterfeiting features.

Most secure Ultralight variant with AES-128 encryption for high-security ticketing and authentication.

Upgraded Ultralight with 3DES encryption for secure ticketing, transit access, and authentication-based applications.

A traditional printing technique where ink is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket and then onto the printing surface.

RFID tags without a power source that rely on the reader’s radio waves to operate.

A metallic printing process where metallic particles are added to inks to create a true, sparkly finish.

An image composed of pixels, commonly used in digital graphics and printing.

Technology used in printed tags and labels for tracking and identification.

A specialist who connects RFID software and hardware so access and cashless systems run smoothly.

The maximum distance at which a reader can successfully communicate with a tag.

A semi-gloss finish that offers a balance between matte and glossy appearances.

A technique where ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto a surface, commonly used for textiles and promotional items.

A printing method that uses only one ink color for a simple and cost-effective design.

A tear-resistant and waterproof paper alternative often used for signage, menus, and outdoor materials.

A durable, tear-resistant, and water-resistant synthetic material often used for wristbands, event passes, and envelopes.

Simple, cost-effective read-only RFID chip compatible with EM4100; used for access control and identification.

The unique code stored on an RFID tag to recognize and track that specific tag during events.

A type of graphic that uses mathematical equations to create shapes, allowing for infinite scalability without loss of quality.

A printing method that allows unique elements such as names or addresses to be customized on each print.

Fabric wristbands made from tightly woven threads, commonly used for festivals and events due to their durability and comfort.

A strong, synthetic fabric known for its durability, often used in banners, flags, and clothing prints.

A versatile plastic material commonly used for ID cards, membership cards, and durable signage.

An image composed of pixels, commonly used in digital graphics and printing.

The area inside the trim line where important design elements should be placed to prevent them from being cut off.

The final dimensions where the print will be cut to its finished size.

The art and technique of arranging type to make written language legible, readable, and appealing.

A printing method that uses pre-mixed ink colors, rather than blending CMYK, to achieve specific, vibrant colors.

A high-shine finish that enhances colors and details with a reflective surface.