What is RFID?
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) allows students to identify themselves by tapping an RFID-enabled ID card on a compatible RFID reader.
When a student taps their card, Orah reads the card identifier and matches it to the student’s profile. The system can then perform actions such as:
Updating a student's location when tapping into or out of a checkpoint
Supporting RFID-based check-ins for Automated Attendance workflows (based on your school's attendance configuration)
📌 RFID readers work as an external keyboard, sending the card identifier directly to the Orah Checkpoint app.
Benefits of RFID Check-ins
RFID provides a faster check-in experience than manual student searches.
Benefits include:
Faster student check-ins
Reduced queues during busy periods
Improved attendance accuracy
Minimal staff involvement
Works with existing student ID cards (where compatible)
How RFID Works in Orah
The RFID workflow consists of three components:
Student RFID card
RFID reader connected to a checkpoint device
Orah Checkpoint app
When a student taps their card:
The RFID reader reads the card identifier
The reader sends the identifier to the Checkpoint app
Orah matches the identifier to a student profile
The configured action is completed
RFID Use Cases
RFID can be used for:
Checkpoints
Students can tap their card to:
Check into a Health Center
Check into an Athletic Trainer’s office
Check into a Study Center
Check into a Library
Check into any configured checkpoint location
Automated Attendance
Students can tap their card to record attendance for a scheduled class.
For example:
Homeroom attendance
First period attendance
Study hall attendance
Advisory attendance
Student Identification
Orah currently supports matching students using:
Card UID (Unique Identifier)
SIS ID or Reference ID (if stored directly on the RFID card)
Schools can add Card UIDs to student records manually or import them in bulk. If the RFID cards already store the student's SIS ID or Reference ID, no bulk import is required. Orah can match students directly using that identifier.
📌 Using a consistent identifier helps ensure students continue to be recognised correctly if attendance or checkpoint workflows are updated.
Before You Begin
Before implementing RFID, schools should:
Confirm the type of student ID cards being used
Verify card frequency compatibility
Purchase a compatible RFID reader
Configure student identifiers in Orah
The next article explains the hardware requirements and setup process.