RFID Reader
RFID readers amplify energy, modulate it with data, and transmit that information in short RF signals. These signals can be inductive or electromagnetic depending on the reader type and polarity matching with the tag polarity.
Unlike barcodes, RFID tags can store far more product-related information. This improves productivity by eliminating unnecessary work and delivering data more quickly.
What is an RFID Reader?
Radio Frequency Identification or RFID is a passive wireless technology that uses tagged items to automatically identify and collect data on them. The RFID tag is a small microchip with a unique identifier that allows a reader to communicate with it, receiving signals back that contain information about the item and/or its location within the facility or supply chain.
An RFID reader converts power into a radio wave that can be picked up by RFID antennas, which then transmit the signal to the RFID tags in the vicinity. RFID readers can also be used to write new data onto an RFID tag. An RFID reader’s software can modify the settings of its radio wave transmission, working channel, signal power and sampling time.
When compared with barcode scanners, RFID takes auto-ID to the next level by eliminating the need for line of sight between the operator and the tagged item. This allows for faster data collection by eliminating the need to scan each individual item, as well as allowing for multiple items to be read at once.
RFID readers are usually the most expensive component of a complete RFID system, though pricing can vary depending on features and capabilities. They can be fixed or mobile, with USB Readers being very popular for desktop applications. The majority of RFID readers connect to RFID antenna cables that in turn connect to the tags they need to read. The three most common RFID cable connector types are RP-TNC, SMA and N-Type. The first thing to remember when purchasing an RFID reader and cable is that the connector type must match, for example if your RFID reader has a RP-TNC female connector you will need a corresponding RP-TNC male RFID cable.
What is an RFID Tag?
The RFID tag is a microchip with an integrated circuit and an antenna. It’s usually enclosed in a protective plastic case that is shaped to fit its application. It can be passive or active, and it can have either an EPC (electronic product code) or a TID (tag identification number). The RFID chip has four memory banks – User, EPC, TID, and Reserved. Two of the banks can be updated, whereas the other two are read-only.
The antenna on the RFID tag receives the radio wave transmission from the reader and responds with the information it has stored in its memory bank – either the unique ID of the tag or other data such as temperature, production date, or inventory information. This data is then passed via communication interfaces to host computer systems for interpretation and action.
Unlike barcode systems, RFID technology can provide high-volume and accurate data readings within seconds. This translates into significant time savings for employees involved in picking and packing products, as well as more accurate delivery times. For warehouse managers, it enables them to track RFID Reader and control product movement throughout the warehouse more efficiently. In addition, it can also automate the process of receiving shipments, which helps to decrease labor costs and increases accuracy in processing product orders. This, in turn, increases customer satisfaction.
How does an RFID Reader Work?
RFID is part of a larger group of technologies known as Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC). AIDC tools automatically identify items, collect information about them, and send that information directly into computer systems, with little or no human intervention. RFID methods use radio waves to accomplish this.
An RFID reader emits radio frequency (RF) waves and when those waves reach an RFID tag, the RF signals activate the microchip within the tag to transmit back data to the RFID reader antenna. The tag’s data may be a simple serial number or it could contain more detailed product-related data, such as stock or production numbers, a barcode, or a unique identifier.
Both passive and active tags transmit data through their antennas to the RFID reader, a device that amplifies the energy and modulates it with a signal and then sends that energy out as RF signals toward the tags. The RFID tags respond by retransmitting the signal back to the antenna, containing the encoded information.
The RFID readers receive the signal from the antennas, transform it into a form that can be processed by computers and then convert it into usable information. A mobile reader is a handheld device that can be carried to the desired location, while fixed desfire ev1 readers are mounted on walls, into portals or other stationary locations. Most RFID readers have port for connecting a cable that connects to one or more additional RFID antennas.
What are the Benefits of an RFID Reader?
Many businesses use RFID to eliminate manual scanning and improve data accuracy. This enables them to reduce direct labor in processes that don’t add value to the product and to automate workflows and inventory management.
A key benefit of RFID is that it can be read at a distance, without the need for line-of-sight between the tag and the reader. This is important in environments with high volumes of product or when the item may be obscured by another object or covered by a sleeve or box.
Unlike barcodes, RFID can also transmit data from sensors connected to or embedded in the tags, adding extra functionality to the systems. Combined with powerful analytics software, this provides greater insight into the performance of the business and the efficiency of production processes.
In passive RFID systems, which are the most common, the reader transmits a signal that induces an electromagnetic field in the tag antenna. This wakes up the tag and provides power for it to respond to the reader. This power is enough to operate a small onboard sensor.
Using a wand or reader, workers can quickly check in entire shipments instead of manually scanning individual packages or issuing blind receipts. This increases productivity and eliminates human error. The system can also detect low stock levels and alert staff or automatically reorder the required quantity before the safety stock level is reached.
