RFID Frequency 918.4–923 MHz: Vietnam Compliance

The RFID frequency 918.4–923 MHz is the only compliant UHF band for RFID devices in Vietnam, as specified in Circular 08/2021/TT-BTTTT. Understanding the frequency regulations, transmit power, and EPC Gen2 standard is a prerequisite for businesses to deploy production batch traceability systems legally and effectively.

Table of Contents

• What is the Vietnam-compliant RFID frequency 918.4–923 MHz?
• What are the specific regulations in Circular 08/2021/TT-BTTTT regarding RFID frequency?
• How does the 500 mW ERP transmit power affect tag read performance?
• How does production batch traceability using UHF RFID work?
• Summary table of compliant UHF RFID technical specifications
• What is the investment cost for RFID production batch traceability?
• Common mistakes when deploying RFID traceability
• FAQ about Vietnam-compliant RFID frequency

#What is the Vietnam-compliant RFID frequency 918.4–923 MHz?

The RFID frequency 918.4–923 MHz is the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) band licensed by the Ministry of Information and Communications of Vietnam for RFID devices. This regulation is in Circular 08/2021/TT-BTTTT, replacing previous regulations, to standardize the frequency band used for radio frequency identification technology in Vietnam.

The 918.4–923 MHz band belongs to the UHF spectrum, allowing tag reading at long distances (from tens of centimeters to several meters) and reading multiple tags simultaneously. This is why UHF RFID is widely applied in production batch traceability, warehouse management, and supply chain.

According to regulations, the maximum allowed transmit power is 500 mW ERP (Effective Radiated Power). Imported or domestically manufactured devices must strictly comply with this limit to avoid interfering with other radio systems.

#What are the specific regulations in Circular 08/2021/TT-BTTTT regarding RFID frequency?

Circular 08/2021/TT-BTTTT specifies the 918.4–923 MHz band for UHF RFID devices, with a maximum transmit power of 500 mW ERP. Devices must comply with the EPC Gen2 technical standard (ISO/IEC 18000-63) and require compliance certification before being circulated in Vietnam.

Circular 08/2021/TT-BTTTT was issued by the Ministry of Information and Communications, effective from October 1, 2021, replacing Circular 05/2019/TT-BTTTT. This regulation aims to:

• Standardize the frequency band used for UHF RFID devices in Vietnam
• Limit transmit power to avoid interference between devices
• Ensure compatibility with the international EPC Gen2 standard
• Require QCVN compliance certification for imported devices

Businesses should note: non-compliant UHF RFID devices may be confiscated and subject to administrative fines. Therefore, when importing or purchasing devices, check the supplier's compliance certification.

#How does the 500 mW ERP transmit power affect tag read performance?

The 500 mW ERP transmit power allows UHF RFID readers to read tags at distances of 3–7 meters under ideal conditions. However, actual performance depends on the installation environment, tag material, and tag orientation relative to the antenna.

In manufacturing environments, 500 mW ERP is a balance between read range and interference avoidance. With this power level:

• Read tags on pallets at distances of 3–5 meters
• Read 50–100 tags simultaneously in one scan
• Operate stably in areas with multiple readers

Note: metal and liquids absorb or reflect radio waves, significantly reducing read range. In environments with high metal content, read range can drop to 1–2 meters. The solution is to use specialized on-metal tags or adjust antenna placement.

#How does production batch traceability using UHF RFID work?

UHF RFID production batch traceability works by attaching RFID tags containing a unique identifier (EPC) to products or shipping boxes. Fixed or handheld readers scan tags at control points, recording the time, location, and status of each batch.

A typical deployment process includes 5 steps:

1. Tag attachment: Attach UHF RFID tags to cartons, pallets, or finished products
2. Data encoding: Write production batch code, production date, line, and shift onto the tag
3. Reader installation: Place fixed readers at warehouse gates, conveyor belts, or shipping areas
4. Automatic reading: Readers scan tags as goods pass through, recording into the management system
5. Traceability: When traceability is needed, the system retrieves the entire history of the batch from production to shipping

Compared to barcodes, UHF RFID reads multiple tags simultaneously without scanning each one individually. However, the cost of RFID tags (2,000–5,000 VND/tag) is higher than barcode labels, so businesses need to consider based on product value.

#Summary table of compliant UHF RFID technical specifications

Summary table of compliant UHF RFID technical specifications Term Definition Practical example UHF frequency band Frequency band 918.4–923 MHz per Circular 08/2021 Zebra FX9600 fixed reader operates in this band ERP power Power

Term	Definition	Practical Example
UHF frequency band	Frequency band 918.4–923 MHz per Circular 08/2021	Zebra FX9600 fixed reader operates in this band
ERP power	Effective radiated power, maximum 500 mW	VP-RH272 handheld reader transmits at 500 mW ERP
EPC Gen2 standard	Communication standard between reader and tag (ISO/IEC 18000-63)	UHF-10 RFID tag compatible with EPC Class 1 Gen2
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