Antennas for an RFID Reader
RFID readers use antennas to create a radio frequency field that interrogates tags. This can range from 1 inch to 100 ft, depending on the reader’s power output.
The data collected by the RFID system is transmitted to a database. It is then accessible by end-users using a mobile application.
Passive tags
Passive tags do not have an internal power source and draw all the energy they need from RF RFID Reader waves sent by the reader antenna. These RF waves are reflected off the object and back to the interrogator, where the tag’s integrated circuit (IC) is activated to transmit data. This communication is called “backscatter.” Passive RFID tags are more cost-effective than active RFID tags and can be attached to a wider variety of surfaces.
They work at LF, HF, and UHF frequencies. Typically, these tags are printed on paper, synthetic, or plastic labels that can be adhered to various objects. They can also be embedded into the object itself. They are a good choice for applications in which the tags will be discarded. These include supply chain tracking and reusable assets.
Semi-passive tags look more like passive tags, but incorporate a battery to improve their performance and enable them to carry and transmit a larger amount of data. These tags are a good choice for applications where you want to get a better read range and require a higher level of performance than passive tags. The downside to these tags is that they are more expensive, and their battery life is shortened by frequent interrogation. Fortunately, this can be overcome with careful design and integration. Active tags have an onboard battery and transmitter, so they don’t need a reader to transmit data. They broadcast their own data at a predetermined frequency or when they receive a trigger signal from a reader. These tags are commonly used for temperature monitoring, intrusion detection, and other high-value applications.
Active tags
The RFID reader uses electromagnetic waves to transmit a signal that awakens the tag and sends back data. The RFID tag uses the incident wave to power its integrated circuit (IC), and sends back a reflected signal with encoded information via its antenna. The RFID reader decodes this signal to read the identifier, which can contain a host of additional information about the item.
Active tags have onboard power sources like batteries, and an active transmitter to broadcast their data. They also have more processing capabilities than their passive counterparts and are ideal for RTLS applications. They transmit data at higher frequencies, such as 850-950 MHz, and have a much longer range. They can be set to transmit a beacon periodically, or on occurrence of certain events.
These tags are more expensive than their passive counterparts and require a battery to function. They are used in a variety of industries, including shipping and logistics, manufacturing, and health and medical. Generally, they are used to track high-value cargo such as containers and vehicles. Additionally, they can be a useful tool for tracking equipment and assets. These devices can be used in a handheld form factor or as an embedded component of a mobile terminal. Some can even run both standard and RFID functions. They can also be mounted to a vehicle or fixed location.
Antennas
Antennas are essential components in RFID systems and can be found in both stationary and mobile readers. They convert electrical power into radio waves that transmit and receive data. An antenna’s performance can be affected by its size, gain, and beam width. It should also be tuned to a specific frequency band. This frequency is important because it defines the RFID system’s operation and read range.
The type of connector on the RFID reader and antenna influences performance. Common connectors include desfire ev1 N-type, RP-TNC, and SMA. Each type of connector has different benefits, with N-type and RP-TNC being the most common and the least bulky. Choosing the right antenna depends on the environment and the RFID tag orientation. Antennas with linear polarization work best with tags that are oriented in one plane. If the tag is oriented in more than one plane, circular polarization works better.
Rugged RFID antennas can be used outdoors or on trolleys and offer high IP protection for harsh environments. They are designed to withstand shocks and are ideal for industrial environments. They are often used in warehousing, logistics, and production lines. They have a wide field of view and detect liquids, products, and metal objects. They also provide a good signal when passing through metal doors or in conveyors. Some manufacturers even integrate these RFID antennas into handheld units to make them portable and easier to use for picking or order fulfillment.
Power supply
Powering an RFID reader is important, and there are a few different ways to do it. One way is to use PoE, which means that the same data transmission cable (typically Ethernet) can also provide power. This is convenient, but requires a specific type of cabling and infrastructure.
Another way to power an RFID reader is with batteries. Batteries are inexpensive and dependable, and can be used for long periods of time. They can be stored in a holder and attached to the reader, or they can be plugged into a 3.5mm screw terminal. There are a number of battery options available, including LiPos.
A third option is to power the RFID reader using solar energy. Solar panels are a cost-effective alternative to other power sources, and can be easily mounted in an outdoor location. Solar power can be purchased by wattage, and a 50-75 watt system will typically power a reader.
Ultimately, RFID provides a powerful tool for businesses that can improve their operations by automating data collection and improving efficiency. By eliminating manual labor, businesses can decrease their operating costs and improve productivity. Moreover, improved accuracy and speed allow workers to increase their output, which reduces inventory carrying costs. In addition, the data collected by RFID can be integrated with any database or ERP system.
