Radio-frequency identification, better known as RFID, is a technology that uses radio-frequency waves to transfer data. Digital data are encoded in RFID tags (which contain a circuit and antenna) and transmitted to an RFID reader. One simply tags objects in order to identify them. The tags don’t need to be visible to be read because the RFID reader sends out a short-range radio signal that is then picked up by the tag.
While there are many RFID systems available at stores, they vary widely in cost. Some cost over tens of thousands of dollars, while short-range passive RFID readers can cost upwards of $30 to $100. With an Arduino development board, you could make your own at a fraction of the cost!
Whether for inventory management, personnel tracking, or just plain ole fun, there are numerous ways to put RFID technology to use. In this article, we’ll take a look at some cool RFID projects that are made with Arduino boards.
TonUino
For the kids who aren’t capable of using an MP3 player just yet, it helps to have some kind of interface in which they can simply push some buttons. The TonUino is a DIY music box made for children, inspired by the popular Tonie music system.
The TonUino is made with an Arduino and an RFID module, as well as other components. Upon startup, the system plays a sound – in this case, the name of the maker’s daughter. Once the RFID card is swiped across the reader, the system starts playing music.
The TonUino project is quite popular. Other makers have shared alternative enclosure designs, including this simple TonUino case, this case with quick charge and a card box, as well as this streamlined design. Another maker has also provided code examples for their TonUino system.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Designer: jmmico
- Project page: Arduino Project Hub
- Core components: Arduino Nano R3, RC522 RFID reader, DFRobot DF Player Mini
RGB Lamp
This DIY lamp turns on or off based on RFID technology. An RFID reader is hidden in the body of the lamp, and tags are attached to colored disks. The light’s color can be changed by simply placing a disk into the circular recess found at the front of the lamp body. Want it to change color randomly? Simply opt for no disk. And to turn the lamp off, place the black disk in the recess.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Designer: pchretien
- Project page: Instructables
- Core components: Arduino Uno, RFID reader and tags, RGB LED strips, a 3-mm or 5-mm LED, N-Channel Mosfet transistors
Vending Machine
This project is a vending machine that dispenses chocolate based on RFID authentication. Once an authorized card is swiped across the reader, it dispenses a chocolate bar. This system is composed of acrylic glass sheets supported by wooden sticks, as well as a makeshift shaft that pushes chocolate out. At its heart is an Arduino Nano connected to various components on a breadboard.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Designer: Sachin Bhangale
- Project page: YouTube
- Core components: Arduino Nano, RC522 RFID reader, breadboard, SD card module, microSD card adapter, dual-color LED, OLED display, buzzer module, magnetic reed switch, DC motor driver
Pet Feeder
This project is an RFID-based automatic pet feeder that’s quite sophisticated. Thanks to an RFID tag attached to your pet, the feeding system will dispense food based on the time of day and the proximity of your pet to the feeder.
The value of the RFID tag is stored in EEPROM memory so that even if there’s temporary power loss, that data will still be in the feeding system’s memory and will continue to dispense food according to the programmed schedule.
Food is released three times every four hours between the hours of 8 am to 8 pm. A buzzer signals to your pet that it’s time to eat. At night, no sound is made, but if your pet’s craving a midnight snack and ventures over to the feeder, it will dispense a one-time meal.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Designer: Tiberia Todeila
- Project page: Device Plus
- Core components: Arduino Uno, MFRC522 RFID module, RTC module, distance sensor
Door Lock
This project is an RFID door lock system made with an Arduino Uno. However, the maker notes that any Arduino would work fine, too. Connected to an RFID reader, the door lock opens when a registered card is read. Since this project connects to a server database, it can register card codes so you can have different users.
This project shows you first how to set up a database, then how to connect the RFID reader, and finally, how to connect up the Arduino to turn it into a controllable lock.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Designer: WouterK
- Project page: Instructables
- Core components: Arduino Uno, RFID reader, servo, breadboard, mechanical cylindrical lock
Windows Login
If you’re looking for an alternative to regular password protection or face lock, this project is worth a look. You can lock or unlock your Windows computer with this Arduino-based RFID Windows login project. The maker shows two ways to do so: one with an RFID card and another by using an Android phone and a QR code.
In the first video, the maker shows their complete circuit with the Arduino connected up with an RFID reader. With a quick swipe of the card, the computer unlocks. The code provided includes comments on where exactly to add your RFID address and Windows password. Instructions for the method with the QR code and Android phone are provided in a separate video.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Designer: planetleak
- Project page: Instructables
- Core components: Arduino Leonardo, RFID module and card, Windows computer
Lockbox
Secure your items in this RFID lockbox! It’s pretty straightforward: RFID tags can be used to unlock the box, or one can use a key as well as a secret combination. In addition to assembling and programming the electronics, parts of the box are 3D printed. The designer’s Solidworks files are provided in the Instructables. We recommend reading our guide on how to convert SLDPRT files to STL for 3D printing.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Designer: AndreasN29
- Project page: Instructables
- Core components: Arduino Uno, RFID module, steel lockbox, on/off switch, solenoid lock, buttons, buzzer, LEDs, tilt sensor, relay, rechargeable lithium battery pack
Attendance System
This project is a time attendance system built with an Arduino and RFID technology. Upon swiping the tag next to the reader, it will record and save both the time and user ID to an SD card. In addition, it shows whether the user is late or on time based on parameters set in the program.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Designer: Random Nerd Tutorials
- Project page: Random Nerd Tutorials
- Core components: Arduino Uno, MFRC522 RFID reader and tags, SD card module, microSD card, SD1307 RTC module, LEDs, resistors, breadboard
License: The text of "The Best Arduino RFID Projects" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.