Hybrid architecture for radio frequency identification and packet radio communication

Abstract

A radio frequency identification ('RFID') hybrid packet radio is provided having full duplex operability. The RFID packet radio includes an antenna and a radio that receives and transmits a packet radio signal and a RFID signal. A processor is provided in communication with the radio to perform signal detection and demodulation with respect to the RFID signal. A transmit path is provided to transport the packet radio signal and the RFID signal from the radio to the antenna. The RFID packet radio includes a first receive path for transporting a received packet radio signal from the antenna to the radio and a second receive path, different from the first receive path, to transport a received RFID signal from the antenna to the processor. The first receive path and the second receive path enable simultaneous transmission and reception of RFID signals.