Custom RFID Dry Inlay Sheets for Authentication and Asset Protection
Wallis supplies custom RFID dry inlay sheets for smart cards, product authentication, anti-diversion, inventory visibility, access credentials, library systems, event tickets, embedded tags and other OEM RFID projects. Available configurations include 13.56MHz HF/NFC and 860–960MHz UHF technologies with customized chips, antennas, dimensions and delivery formats.
An RFID dry inlay contains a chip connected to an etched aluminum or copper antenna on a PET or another approved carrier. It does not include the final pressure-sensitive adhesive, printable face stock or finished protective housing, allowing card manufacturers, label converters and product integrators to build it into their own construction.
The dry inlay alone does not automatically make a product anti-counterfeit or anti-theft. Authentication requires a suitable chip, protected data, controlled keys and a trusted verification platform. Theft prevention requires integration with inventory, access, EAS or RFID reader infrastructure and operational software.
Request a Custom Dry Inlay Quote
Technical Specifications and Custom Options
| Product Type | RFID dry inlay sheet, roll or customized matrix | Model | Dry inlay |
| Basic Structure | RFID chip + chip connection + etched antenna + PET or approved carrier | Adhesive | No final pressure-sensitive adhesive backing |
| Frequency Options | 13.56MHz HF/NFC and 860–960MHz UHF; LF options can be reviewed for specific projects | Protocol Options | ISO/IEC 14443 Type A, ISO/IEC 15693, NFC Forum types or EPC Class 1 Gen 2 / ISO/IEC 18000-63 |
| HF/NFC Chip Examples | NTAG213/215/216, NTAG424 DNA, MIFARE Ultralight, MIFARE Classic, DESFire, ICODE, F08 and other compatible options | UHF Chip Examples | NXP UCODE, Impinj M730/M750 or Monza families, Alien Higgs and other project-specific options |
| Antenna Material | Etched aluminum or copper | Antenna Design | Standard or customized dimensions subject to impedance, frequency, reader and integration requirements |
| Size and Shape | Round, square, rectangular, narrow, compact or customized | Delivery Format | Roll, sheet or customer-specific matrix layout |
| Encoding | NDEF URL, EPC, passwords, user data and other chip-supported data formats | Identifier Handling | UID, TID, EPC or serial-number reading, printing and database matching according to chip type |
| Integration Options | PVC/PET/PC card lamination, label converting, tickets, wristbands, molded products and custom housings | Security Options | Password, locking, cryptographic authentication or tamper-loop capability only with suitable chips and system design |
| Primary Buyers | Card manufacturers, label converters, RFID integrators, security solution providers and OEM product manufacturers | Customization Scope | Chip, antenna, carrier, size, sheet matrix, roll format, encoding, inspection and packaging |
The target page lists UHF 869–915MHz, 13.56MHz ISO/IEC 14443 and 13.56MHz ISO/IEC 15693 as frequency requirements. Final frequency range, exact chip, antenna dimensions, memory, read range and integration temperature must be confirmed for each project.
Dry Inlay vs. Wet Inlay vs. Finished RFID Label
| Comparison | Dry Inlay | Wet Inlay | Finished RFID Label |
| Core Construction | Chip and antenna on a carrier | Dry inlay converted with adhesive and release liner | Wet inlay plus printable face stock, final adhesive and die-cut construction |
| Adhesive Backing | Not included as the final self-adhesive product | Included | Included and selected for the target application surface |
| Printable Face | Not included unless added during further conversion | Usually requires a face material for final printing | Paper, PET, PP or another approved printable face stock |
| Typical Use | Card lamination, product embedding, encapsulation and custom converting | Label converting or compatible direct application | Ready for printing, encoding and attachment to the final item |
| Protection Level | Depends on the material in which it is embedded | Depends on carrier, adhesive and further conversion | Defined by the complete face stock, coating, adhesive, lamination and edge design |
| Typical Buyer | Card maker, tag manufacturer or product integrator | Label converter or RFID integrator | Brand, retailer, logistics operator or end-use program |
Dry Inlay for Maximum Integration Flexibility
Dry inlays are appropriate when the buyer controls the final lamination, housing, adhesive or label-conversion process and needs direct access to the basic RFID component.
Wet Inlay for Adhesive Converting
Wet inlays are appropriate when a pressure-sensitive RFID component is needed for combining with a face material, die cutting, printing or automatic application.
Finished Label for Immediate Application
A finished RFID label is the better choice when the project needs a printable surface, application-specific adhesive, final die-cut dimensions, encoding and roll specifications.
![Comparison of RFID dry inlay wet inlay and finished label constructions]( "Dry Inlay Wet Inlay and RFID Label Comparison")
RFID Authentication, Anti-Counterfeiting and Anti-Theft Functions
A Basic UID Is Not Complete Anti-Counterfeit Protection
A visible or readable identifier can be copied into another tag or printed code. Stronger authentication requires a chip with suitable cryptographic features, unique keys, protected personalization and backend verification.
Secure NFC Authentication
Secure NFC chips such as NTAG424 DNA can support AES-based authentication, dynamic secure messages and originality checking when configured with a trusted server and controlled keys.
Tamper Evidence Requires a Tamper-Sensing Construction
A standard dry inlay does not detect package opening. Tamper detection requires a chip and antenna design with an approved tamper loop, or a destructible label and packaging construction designed to show removal.
Anti-Theft Requires Reader and Software Infrastructure
RFID can support inventory visibility, unauthorized-removal alerts and exit monitoring, but the inlay must be integrated with readers, antennas, event rules, databases and store or facility procedures.
EPC Inventory Tags Are Not Automatically Encrypted
Many UHF inventory chips are optimized for rapid identification and bulk reading. Their EPC and TID functions should not be described as encrypted product authentication unless the selected chip and application provide that capability.
Backend Verification Is Part of the Security System
A complete authentication program can include chip credentials, a secure database, product records, channel monitoring, rate limits, anomaly detection and a consumer or inspector verification interface.
HF/NFC and UHF Technology Selection
| Comparison | HF/NFC Dry Inlay | UHF Dry Inlay |
| Frequency | 13.56MHz | 860–960MHz with regional tuning requirements |
| Protocols | ISO/IEC 14443 Type A, ISO/IEC 15693 and NFC Forum types | EPC Class 1 Gen 2 / ISO/IEC 18000-63 |
| Typical Reader Behavior | Tap or short-range proximity reading | Short range to several meters with suitable reader, antenna and environment |
| Smartphone Compatibility | Possible with compatible NFC chips and supported phone behavior | Normally requires a dedicated UHF reader |
| Common Security Use | Mobile product authentication, secure URLs, access credentials and tamper-aware applications | Inventory visibility, supply-chain tracking, item identification and exit-event monitoring |
| Memory Terminology | UID, user memory, pages, blocks, passwords, keys and authentication features | EPC, TID, reserved memory and optional user memory |
| Main Selection Inputs | Phone or reader, protocol, data size, security level and antenna area | Regional band, reader, read zone, item material, orientation, density and target range |
Select NFC for Consumer Authentication
NFC is suitable when a consumer, inspector or employee needs to tap the embedded tag using a compatible phone or HF reader to open a product record or perform authentication.
Select UHF for Inventory and Exit Monitoring
UHF is suitable when many items must be identified quickly, at a portal, on a shelf, inside a warehouse or during supply-chain movement.
Select ISO/IEC 15693 for Compatible Vicinity Systems
ISO/IEC 15693 inlays can suit compatible library, document, asset and industrial applications. They should not be assumed to work with every ISO/IEC 14443 reader or smartphone workflow.
Do Not Use One Read-Range Claim for Every Inlay
Actual read range depends on chip sensitivity, antenna dimensions, reader power, reader antenna, regional rules, tagged material, orientation and final embedded construction.
Chip, Memory and Data Options
NTAG213, NTAG215 and NTAG216
These NFC Forum Type 2 chips are widely used for URLs, product information and mobile interaction. Their user-memory capacities differ, so the required NDEF data should be finalized before chip selection.
NTAG424 DNA and Secure Authentication Chips
Secure chips can support AES authentication, secure messaging, originality checks and protected data. They require secure key provisioning, personalization and backend validation.
MIFARE and DESFire Options
MIFARE Ultralight, Classic or DESFire products may be required for compatible access, ticketing, membership or multi-application systems. Reader firmware, software, keys and data structure must match.
ICODE Options
ICODE products can support ISO/IEC 15693 library, asset and vicinity-reader projects. Exact chip generation, memory and originality or password features should be confirmed.
UCODE, Impinj and Alien UHF Options
UHF chip selection should consider EPC capacity, factory TID, optional user memory, sensitivity, access or kill passwords, encoding speed and reader compatibility.
Memory Cannot Be Described as One Universal Byte Range
The original page’s 144–888-byte range corresponds to selected NFC chip families, not every HF, LF or UHF inlay. UHF memory is commonly specified in EPC, TID and user-memory bits.
UID, TID, EPC and Printed Serial Numbers
UID, TID and EPC serve different purposes. Specify which value must be read, programmed, printed, converted to decimal or hexadecimal, and matched to a QR code, barcode or product record.
Dry Inlay Sheet and Roll Integration Requirements
Antenna Size and Inlay Size
Antenna dimensions influence RF performance, while the total inlay dimensions determine the carrier area and space required by the product design. Both dimensions should be shown on the approved drawing.
Sheet Matrix for Card Manufacturing
A sheet layout should specify sheet dimensions, antenna positions, chip orientation, registration marks, card punching layout and spacing between inlays.
Roll Core, Pitch and Winding Direction
Roll supply requires an approved core size, web width, pitch, chip orientation, cross-web position, winding direction, maximum roll diameter and inlays per roll.
Lamination Temperature and Pressure
Card or product lamination must remain within the approved limits for the chip connection, carrier and antenna. Test the complete heat, pressure and cooling cycle before bulk production.
Positioning near Magnetic Stripes or Contact Modules
Smart-card layouts should prevent interference with magnetic stripes, contact modules, embossing, holes, signature panels and card-cutting areas.
Metal and Liquid Considerations
Standard inlays may detune near metal, liquid, carbon-filled plastic or electronic components. A specialized antenna, ferrite, spacer or alternative placement may be required.
Roll Splices and Defective-Inlay Rules
Define whether defective inlays are removed, marked or retained and specify the maximum number of splices. Automated production equipment may require strict continuity rules.
Applications of RFID Dry Inlay Sheets
PVC, PET and Polycarbonate Smart Cards
HF dry inlays can be laminated into access, membership, campus, hotel or transportation cards when the antenna, chip and card structure match the reader and manufacturing process.
Product Authentication and Brand Protection
Secure NFC inlays can be embedded into packaging, certificates, luxury goods or electronics to connect each item to a controlled digital identity and authentication service.
Retail Anti-Theft and Inventory Visibility
UHF inlays can support item-level inventory, exception alerts and exit monitoring when integrated with RFID readers, store systems and defined operating procedures.
Tickets, Wristbands and Event Credentials
Dry inlays can be laminated or encapsulated inside tickets, badges and wristbands for identification, access and engagement applications.
Libraries, Archives and Documents
Compatible HF inlays can support circulation, document tracking and archive management according to the reader protocol, data model and placement requirements.
Industrial Assets and Embedded Products
Dry inlays can be integrated into molded or laminated products, but harsh temperature, chemicals, vibration, metal and mechanical stress may require a specialized encapsulated tag.
Logistics and Supply-Chain Tracking
UHF dry inlays can be converted into carton, pallet, returnable-container or item labels after the antenna is selected for the actual packaging material and contents.
![RFID dry inlay applications in smart cards product authentication logistics and assets]( "RFID Dry Inlay Applications")
RFID Dry Inlay vs. Barcode
| Comparison | RFID Dry Inlay after Integration | Printed Barcode |
| Reading Method | Radio communication; line of sight may not be required | Optical scanning normally requires a visible code |
| Bulk Reading | Possible with suitable UHF tags, readers and item spacing | Normally scanned individually unless advanced imaging systems are used |
| Data | Chip-specific ID and programmable memory may be available | Printed code links to an identifier or data record |
| Security | Ranges from basic identifiers to cryptographic authentication, depending on chip and system | Can use serialized, encrypted or digitally signed data, but the visible symbol can be copied |
| Durability | Depends on the material that encapsulates the dry inlay | Depends on print quality, face material, coating and abrasion exposure |
| Cost and Infrastructure | Higher tag and reader-system cost, with automation and non-line-of-sight benefits | Lower unit cost and widely available optical scanners |
| Best Use | Automated identification, embedded credentials, inventory and authenticated digital interaction | Low-cost visual identification, consumer scanning and broad compatibility |
RFID and barcodes are often used together. A printed QR code can provide universal visual access, while the embedded RFID component supports automated reading, controlled credentials or chip-based authentication.
![Comparison between integrated RFID dry inlay technology and printed barcodes]( "RFID and Barcode Comparison")
Information Required for an Accurate Quotation
Application and required authentication, tracking or access function
HF/NFC, UHF or another required frequency
Protocol and preferred chip model
Reader, smartphone, encoder or access-system model
Security functions, keys, backend and tamper requirements
Target read range and reading environment
Final product material, metal or liquid proximity and installation position
Antenna dimensions, total inlay dimensions and available integration area
Roll core, pitch, winding direction or sheet matrix
Lamination temperature, pressure, card thickness or housing process
Encoding, UID/TID/EPC matching and printed-data requirements
Quantity, sample requirement, packaging, destination and schedule
Send Your Dry Inlay Specification
Sample Testing and Quality Control
Electrical and Visual Inspection
Dry inlays should be tested for chip response, antenna connection, carrier condition and visible defects according to the approved inspection plan.
RF Performance Testing
Test the proposed inlay with the intended reader, antenna, power, product material, orientation and final embedded position. Free-air performance may differ substantially from the finished product.
Lamination or Encapsulation Test
Run the actual heat, pressure, molding, curing or encapsulation cycle and confirm chip survival, antenna continuity, registration and final reading performance.
Authentication System Test
For anti-counterfeit applications, verify key provisioning, dynamic messages, server responses, replay handling, error states and consumer or inspector workflows.
Anti-Theft System Test
For exit monitoring, test read zones, tag orientation, shielding, item density, false alarms, event rules and integration with inventory or store systems.
Encoding and Record Matching
Read back encoded data and confirm that UID, TID, EPC, QR codes, serial numbers and product records remain correctly matched.
Sheet and Roll Inspection
Verify inlay count, positions, pitch, sheet registration, roll direction, splices, defective-inlay marking and protective packaging.
Why Choose Wallis RFID Dry Inlay Sheets?
Multiple Frequency and Chip Options
Wallis can review HF/NFC, ISO/IEC 15693 and UHF projects according to the required reader, range, memory and security level.
Custom Antenna and Sheet Layout
Antenna dimensions, carrier size, roll specifications and sheet matrices can be developed around card, label or product-integration equipment.
Authentication and Encoding Support
Buyers can discuss secure NFC chips, NDEF, EPC, passwords, UID/TID reading, variable records and backend-linked authentication requirements.
Card Material and Lamination Experience
Dry inlays can be developed alongside PVC, PET and polycarbonate card constructions, subject to compatibility testing and approved processing conditions.
Sample Approval before Bulk Production
Physical samples help validate RF performance, security workflow, sheet registration and resistance to the final lamination or embedding process.
![Protective sheet and roll packaging for custom RFID dry inlays]( "RFID Dry Inlay Packaging")
Request Samples and Latest Pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an RFID dry inlay?
It is an RFID chip-and-antenna assembly on a carrier without the final pressure-sensitive adhesive, printable face material or protective housing.
Is a dry inlay ready to stick onto a product?
No. A wet inlay or finished RFID label is normally used when self-adhesive application is required. A dry inlay is intended for further conversion, lamination or embedding.
Does every RFID dry inlay prevent counterfeiting?
No. Basic chips mainly provide identification. Strong authentication requires a secure chip, controlled keys, protected personalization and a trusted verification backend.
Does an RFID inlay automatically prevent theft?
No. Theft prevention requires readers, antennas, software, alert rules and operating procedures. The inlay is one component of the complete system.
Which chip is suitable for product authentication?
Secure NFC products such as NTAG424 DNA may be appropriate for cryptographic authentication. The choice depends on phone compatibility, keys, backend design, tamper requirements and risk level.
Can the dry inlay detect package opening?
Only when a compatible tamper-detection chip and antenna loop or a suitable destructible construction is used. A standard dry inlay does not detect opening.
Can dry inlays be embedded into PVC, PET or PC cards?
Yes, when antenna size, chip position, card thickness, lamination temperature, pressure and reader compatibility are confirmed through sample testing.
Do you supply HF/NFC and UHF dry inlays?
Yes. The target page lists 13.56MHz ISO/IEC 14443, 13.56MHz ISO/IEC 15693 and UHF frequency options. Exact chips and antennas must be confirmed.
Can the same inlay work with an NFC phone and a UHF reader?
Only a specifically designed dual-frequency product can support both interfaces. Standard NFC and UHF inlays are separate products.
What read range can I expect?
HF and NFC are normally short-range, while UHF may reach several meters in suitable conditions. Final range depends on chip, antenna, reader, material, orientation and final integration.
Can a standard dry inlay be embedded near metal?
Standard antennas often detune near metal. A specialized antenna, ferrite, spacer or alternative placement may be required and should be tested on the finished product.
Can Wallis customize the antenna and inlay size?
Yes. Custom dimensions can be reviewed according to frequency, chip impedance, available space, material, target range and order volume.
Can Wallis encode EPC, NDEF, passwords or user data?
Encoding can be discussed according to the selected chip. Provide the memory map, format, sequence, password or key requirements and read-back verification rules.
Can the inlays be supplied in rolls or sheets?
Yes. Roll and sheet formats can be customized according to label conversion, card lamination, punching or product-assembly equipment.
Should samples be tested before mass production?
Yes. Test RF performance, lamination, encapsulation, security workflows, reader compatibility, sheet registration and final product durability.
What information is required for a quotation?
Send the application, frequency, protocol, chip, reader, security requirement, integration material, antenna size, sheet or roll format, encoding, quantity, packaging and destination.
