Abstract: The present disclosure teaches an RFID chip reader comprising two spaced-apart antennae in electrical communication with each other, with one antenna being incorporated into the chip reader, and with the other antenna separate from the main body of the chip reader but in electrical communication with the other antenna by suitable circuitry. The RFID chip reader may optionally include tuner means disposed within the circuitry connecting the two antennae. One antenna may be smaller than the other to facilitate reading of data from an RFID chip associated with an object made from a electrically-conductive material. The chip reader may optionally incorporate tuner means associated with the circuitry connecting the antennas, to optimize circuitry effectiveness. Also taught is an RFID plug comprising an RFID chip encased within a non-conductive matrix, and having deformable projections to facilitate effectively permanent press-fit installation into a plug-receiving pocket in an object associated with the RFID chip.