There is no denying that radio frequency identification (RFID) has enabled data collection procedures to run more quickly and effectively than ever before. It increases data accuracy and collects vast amounts of data without having a direct line of sight. Additionally, RFID tags have a much larger data storage capacity than standard barcodes. How do you know that you have bought the right one from RFID Reader Manufacturer?
You’ve chosen well if you’re considering integrating RFID into your business. The next step is to select the right RFID scanners inside and outside your four walls. There are numerous options available. When selecting the RFID scanners, you wish to buy, keep the following factors in mind. Read the post in detail.
TYPE OF READER:
The two common types of RFID readers are:
- Desktop readers: these devices generate a fixed ID control place.
- Mobile readers: these types of readers are for staff for inventory counts and identifying marked items, and it is a flexible tracking and identifying tool.
Choosing an RFID Reader
The choice of tags influences the selection of an RFID reader. When you choose the best tag for your solution, you’ve completed half of your work regarding RFID reader selection criteria.
The reader must be able to read the tag, variables like kind (active, passive), frequency, and others (LF, HF, UHF, and Microwave), and protocol.
Form Factor
Fixed Readers
It has bolted walls close to doorways or fastened to wire racks next to doors. They can also integrate into stands, dock door portals, and other places attached to conveyor portals.
Vehicle-Mounted
Vehicle-mounted built onto material handling devices, including forklifts, paper trucks, cargo trucks, and pallet jacks, can automate the shipping and receiving of commodities. These interrogators typically feature a unique shape for simpler vehicle installation and a tough build to withstand vibrations and other environmental factors.
Hand Handled
They are highly versatile for exception processing, quality assurance, and mobile shipping receiving units for low-volume reading or writing. They come in several different styles and a wide range and power from and carrying out data transfer via a nearby base unit using an extension cord. Moreover, it has integrated linear antennae and is monostatic, and it keeps its size low as it can use one antenna during the sequential antenna polarization. So, they help you to get the best read range.
Power Consumption
A good battery is essential for readers because they frequently use one. Yet how? You must understand how much power you need while broadcasting it at maximum. Also, you should know how much power an RFID Reader Manufacturer saves when transmitting at a minimum. A sleep mode is just one of the many options that might assist preserve the battery.
Rf Receiver Sensitivity
A dBm value is the maximum receive sensitivity for each RFID reader, below which it cannot “hear” the tag response signal. This sensitivity rating, together with the other attributes, contributes to determining the quality of an RFID reader.
Country Regulations
Each nation has laws governing the use of the radio spectrum since the radio spectrum is the same worldwide. Readers are the transmitters and must adhere to the rules, whereas tags typically operate globally, even for a particular location. As a result, you will encounter multiple versions of the same reader that are country-specific. These versions will vary in terms of the frequency used (865–868 MHz for Europe under ETSI regulations or 902–928 MHz for the US under FCC regulations), transmitted power (2 ERP for Europe and 4 EIRP for the US), and other rules like frequency hopping, listen before talking, and others.
Power And Network Connections
RFID readers require a network and power connection to transmit data. The connection you choose will probably depend on the reader’s form factor, and you’ll often choose one of the following:
Fixed
- USB
- Ethernet
- Serial interface
- Wi-Fi
- Battery-powered
- POE (power over Ethernet)
Handled
- Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi
- USB—when tethered
- Battery-powered
Read Distance
According to the interrogator’s transmitted power, read distance varies. The read distance increases with increasing transmission power (barring interference and adverse environmental conditions). It has certain limitations to national regulations. The antenna also affects the effective transmitted power because cable loss and antenna efficiency can lower the power and, as a result, the read distance. If a battery powers a reader, some readers may not operate at their maximum permitted power setting because of the battery’s limitations, resulting in a reduced reading distance.
Communication Interfaces
RFID readers can link to home devices (computers, smartphones, tablets, etc.) or networks and exchange data in several different ways. The primary interfaces include:
- LAN: Joining a network requires an Ethernet cable. The reader may communicate with linked devices and programmed once they are on the network;
- Wi-Fi, when combined with Bluetooth, offers a wireless, adaptable choice for RFID solutions;
- Bluetooth enables the reader to remain wirelessly connected to a host computer. Mobile devices typically have Bluetooth connectivity options for connecting to smart devices like computers, phones, and tablets;
- Serial port: For direct connection with the host computer, serial ports like RS232, TTL, and USB are some of the most famous serial interfaces. Serial connections are ideal for basic solutions requiring only one reader and computer.
User Interface
RFID readers typically include a programming interface for setting up MMI (Man Machine Interfaces), such as an LED or beeper for feedback. These interfaces give consumers a visual, audible, or both indication. Also, it is convenient. It helps to notify the user when it reads the tag. Further, it shows connection status and battery level when it is reading.
Consider The Reader Is Future Proof:
When selecting RFID readers, you should get consider these two points. The flexibility to upgrade the reader can significantly lower system costs in the long run because you don’t want to replace your current reader with a new one when it becomes obsolete the following year.
API:
The first thing you check in readers before buying is APIs (Application Programming Interface) because they make application development simpler and quicker. Therefore, checking to see if the offered APIs meet your requirements is crucial.
Compliance:
There are certain International standards through which these devices regulate. The European Union’s standards have rules and regulations, which you must follow when using. The ETSI standards guarantee that devices that adhere to them are secure and don’t obstruct other radio communication, such as broadcasting or emergency services. Following the Federal Communications Act is, the organization responsible for overseeing these standards in the US.
Choose The Best Reader
RFID readers connect network devices that can be portable or fixed. It sends signals that turn on the tag using radio waves. After being turned on, the tag returns a wave to the antenna, which converts it into information. The RFID tag’s built-in transponder.
Whatever reader you select, ensure it has the strength and aptitude to meet your wants and raise efficiency throughout your enterprise. If you want your technology to address more precise needs, you may need to consider the characteristics of each reader. Always go for reliable and well-known RFID Reader Manufacturers who can guide you and provide you with a standard reader according to your need. Hope this RFID article helps you choose the most suitable reader for your needs.
