Radio Frequency Identification tags are everywhere and this RFID tutorial will help you master them.ﾃあ Inside these tiny tags is a predetermined code which can be read by an RFID reader.ﾃあ These are used in credit cards, badges, pet tracking just to name a few.ﾃあ Some people feel they create too much of a Big Brother tracking effect while some people exploit their lack of security by using them to commit crimes.

Learn more about RFID:

• First, start out learning the basics.
• Here’s another beginners tutorial as well.
• Frequenty asked RFID questions are always useful.
• For anything and everything else you need, RFID Journal has probably covered it.

Typically, an RFID system has two parts: a passive element and an active element.ﾃあ The passive element is the minuscule tag itself which sits dormant until called upon toﾃあdivuldgeﾃあits data.ﾃあ The active portion on the other hand is powered and waits until a tag is within range, thenﾃあdeciphers the tag. ﾃあFor more circuitry and communication fun, check out our Cell Phone section too.

Update! Don’t miss our famous article:ﾃあ Top 40 Arduino Projects of the Web.

Previously we introduced you to the Arduino and itﾃ｢竄ｬ邃｢s awe-inspiring incredibleness. Now weﾃ｢竄ｬ邃｢ll take you on an in depth plunge with enough resources and projects to keep you occupied for the next decade.ﾃあ The best place to get started would definitely be their comprehensive website. I strongly encourage you to browse their resources. They have vast tutorial, learning, hacking and reference sections. Plenty of other websites feature all sorts of arduino projects:

Arduino Tutorials:

1. As usual, Instructables has plenty of tutorials also.
2. If you’ve ever thought, “Can the arduino do…?” Freeduino database has the answer.
3. Ladyada has plenty of information to get you started and more projects to keep you going.
4. This very useful site has outstanding “class notes” to learn from.
5. Makezine has covered plenty of Arduino projects in the past

The Arduino uses the ATmega168. After programming the chip, you can remove it and use it as a standalone with the addition of a single crystal. ﾃあ We enjoy using it, it’s simple to learn, and can be programmed to do plenty of functions, including robotics. For more fantastic guides and tutorials like this one, subscribe to the HacknMod RSS Feed.