RFID Integration with Arduino UNO using RC522 and Jumper Wires

 Research Report

By: Vidit Shringi

Abstract

Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology used for automatic identification and data capture. In this research report, we explore the use of an RC522 RFID Module with the Arduino Uno, connected via jumper wires, and programmed through the Arduino IDE software. The project demonstrates RFID authentication using RFID tags/cards, which can be integrated into smart security systems, attendance mechanisms, and IoT applications. The research also documents the circuit setup, code logic, and potential real-world applications.

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1. Introduction

The integration of RFID systems with microcontrollers like Arduino Uno has opened doors for the development of low-cost, efficient access control systems. This report focuses on using the RC522 RFID module, Arduino Uno, RFID card/tag, and jumper wires, with programming done through the Arduino software (IDE).

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2. Components Used

1. Arduino Uno

   • A microcontroller board based on the ATmega328P.

   • 14 Digital I/O pins, 6 Analog inputs.

   • Operates at 5V.

2. RC522 RFID Module

   • Based on MFRC522 chip.

   • Operates at 13.56 MHz.

   • Uses SPI communication with Arduino.

3. RFID Card/Tag

   • Contains unique UID (Universal Identifier).

   • Passive tags powered by the electromagnetic field of the reader.

4. Jumper Wires

   • Used to connect Arduino pins with the RFID module.

   • Ensures a clean, solderless prototyping setup.

5. Arduino Software (IDE)

   • Used for writing and uploading the program.

   • Includes a serial monitor for debugging and monitoring UID reads.

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3. Circuit Diagram and Connections

RC522 Pin	Arduino Pin
SDA	D10
SCK	D13
MOSI	D11
MISO	D12
GND	GND
RST	D9
3.3V	3.3V

Ensure proper connections with jumper wires, and do not power the RC522 module with 5V, as it is a 3.3V device.

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4. Programming and Arduino Software

Libraries Required:

• MFRC522: Official library to communicate with the RC522 module.

• Install via Arduino IDE Library Manager.

Sample Code:

#include <SPI.h>
#include <MFRC522.h>
#define SS_PIN 10
#define RST_PIN 9
MFRC522 mfrc522(SS_PIN, RST_PIN);
void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  SPI.begin();
  mfrc522.PCD_Init();
  Serial.println("Place your card...");
}
void loop() {
  if (!mfrc522.PICC_IsNewCardPresent()) return;
  if (!mfrc522.PICC_ReadCardSerial()) return;
  Serial.print("UID Tag: ");
  for (byte i = 0; i < mfrc522.uid.size; i++) {
    Serial.print(mfrc522.uid.uidByte[i], HEX);
  }
  Serial.println();
  delay(1000);
}

This code initializes the RFID module, reads the UID of any presented tag, and prints it to the serial monitor.

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5. Applications

• Access Control Systems (e.g., doors, lockers)

• Attendance Systems (educational institutions, offices)

• Inventory Tracking

• Cashless Transactions

• Library Management Systems

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6. Conclusion

The integration of an RC522 RFID Module with an Arduino Uno is an efficient and scalable solution for RFID-based projects. With simple wiring using jumper wires and programming through Arduino IDE, developers can build robust and smart identification systems. This setup is an ideal entry point for students, hobbyists, and IoT developers to understand and implement RFID technology in real-world scenarios.

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7. Future Scope

• Integration with GSM/Wi-Fi modules for remote monitoring.

• Use with databases for storing and validating multiple RFID users.

• Expanding to biometric-RFID hybrid systems.