RFID technology is widely used in industries such as logistics, retail and healthcare. As the core device of this technology, RFID Reader has various types and rich functions, and plays different roles in different scenarios. This article will introduce the types of RFID readers and their specific functions in detail to help you better understand and choose the RFID Reader that suits your needs.
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Fixed RFID readers
Install fixed RFID readers in specific locations to monitor and read RFID tags passing through those spots. Use these readers widely in scenarios such as access control systems, warehouse management, and production line tracking. Its advantages lie in its stability and high read rate, and it can maintain long-term operation in high-frequency working environments.
Handheld RFID Reader
A handheld RFID Reader is a portable device suitable for environments that require flexible operation, such as inventory counting, asset management and field data collection. Due to its portability and ease of operation, handheld RFID readers have become an indispensable tool in the daily operations of many companies. They usually support wireless connections, can transmit data in real time, and improve work efficiency.
All-in-one RFID Reader
An all-in-one RFID Reader integrates the reader and antenna into one device. It is usually small and suitable for places with limited installation space. Its advantages are easy installation and stable performance at a short reading distance. People often use it in shelf management, library lending systems, and small logistics applications.
Door-type RFID Reader
Door-type RFID Reader is generally installed in door frames or passageways to monitor the entry and exit of large quantities of items by creating a &#;reading door&#;. This type of reader is particularly suitable for warehouse entry and exit management, retail anti-theft, and personnel management for large events. Its characteristics are that it can cover a large area and read multiple RFID tags at the same time, greatly improving work efficiency.
Data collection and transmission
The core role of the RFID Reader is to read data from RFID tags and transmit it to the background system. Whether it is inventory management or logistics tracking, Reader can quickly and accurately collect large amounts of data and transmit it in real time through wired or wireless networks to ensure that enterprises can obtain the required information promptly.
Real-time monitoring and tracking
Through RFID Reader, enterprises can achieve real-time monitoring and tracking of items or personnel. For example, in the manufacturing industry, it can track the location and status of each workpiece on the production line; in the retail industry, it can monitor the movement of goods to prevent loss or theft.
Automated management
RFID readers can also help enterprises achieve automated management and reduce manual intervention. For example, in a warehouse, it can automatically scan items entering and leaving the warehouse, update inventory information, and reduce the occurrence of human errors. At the same time, integrate it with other systems (such as ERP and WMS) to further improve management efficiency.
Logistics and supply chain management
In the logistics industry, use RFID readers widely for tracking and managing goods. By installing RFID tags on the goods, it can read the goods information in real time at different logistics nodes to ensure the safety and traceability of the goods during transportation. This not only improves logistics efficiency, but also reduces delays or errors caused by inaccurate information.
Retail industry
Through RFID technology, retailers can achieve accurate management of inventory and reduce the risk of out-of-stock and backlog. At the same time, Reader can also be used for anti-theft monitoring, and it can automatically sound an alarm when the goods leave the store without checking out.
Medical Industry
In the medical industry, use RFID readers for patient identification, medicine management, and tracking of medical equipment. Installing RFID tags on patient wristbands, medicine packaging, and equipment, can ensure accurate recording and quick access to all information, effectively reducing the occurrence of medical accidents.
Choose according to the application scenario
When choosing an RFID reader, the first thing to consider is the application scenario. Fixed readers are suitable for occasions that require high stability and large-scale data collection; handheld readers are suitable for environments that require flexible operation; integrated readers are suitable for applications with limited space but high performance; and door readers are suitable for scenarios with large area coverage.
Consider the reading distance
Different RFID readers have significant differences in reading distance. Determine the required reading distance based on actual needs when choosing an RFID reader. For example, fixed readers usually have a larger reading distance and are suitable for occasions that require large-scale monitoring; while integrated readers are suitable for close-range data collection.
Data transmission method
The transmission methods of RFID readers mainly include wired and wireless. A wired connection offers more reliability for large data volumes and stable transmission, while a wireless connection suits flexible operations.
Most RFID readers support integration with existing ERP, WMS and other systems, and can achieve seamless connection through standard interface protocols such as API or middleware.
Its reading speed depends on the specifications and application scenarios of the equipment. Generally speaking, fixed and door readers have faster reading speeds and can read multiple tags at the same time, while handheld readers have more flexible speeds.
The type of equipment and the environment in which it is used determine this. Generally speaking, the maintenance cost of fixed and door readers is high because they need to run for a long time and carry high-frequency data collection tasks. The maintenance cost of handheld readers is relatively low.
RFID is an acronym for Radio Frequency Identification which means RFID is the wireless, non-contact use of radio frequency waves to transfer data and identify objects, animals, or humans. RFID systems are usually comprised of an RFID reader, RFID tags, and antennas. RFID is widely used in industries like healthcare, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing - just to name a few. RFID is just like barcodes but is not restricted by line-of-sight. In this RFID beginner's guide, we will walk you through the most common questions about RFID, like what is RFID, what is the meaning of RFID technology, how does RFID work, and what is RFID used for.
Welcome to the Beginner&#;s Guide to How RFID Systems Work! This guide is ideal for those new to RFID and who want to find answers to what is RFID, what's the meaning of RFID technology, how RFID is used, what are the different types of RFID, and how to build RFID systems?
Tagging items with RFID tags allows users to automatically and uniquely identify and track inventory and assets. RFID uses radio waves sent via an RFID antenna to RFID tags in the surrounding area. RFID readers amplify energy, modulate it with data, and send the energy at a certain frequency out to an RFID antenna cable to the connected RFID antenna. To learn more about the physics of RFID, take a look at our article - RF Physics: How Does Energy Flow in an RFID System?
The ability to identify each individual RFID tag being read is all thanks to a unique identifier (unique information) in the RFID tag&#;s memory. This unique identifier enables two physically identical items to be easily distinguished from one another by a simple read.
RFID takes auto-ID technology to the next level by allowing tags to be read without line of sight and up to 30+ meters away.
RFID has come a long way from its first application of identifying airplanes as friend or foe in World War II back in the s. Not only does the technology continue to improve year over year, but the cost of implementing and using an RFID system continues to decrease, making RFID more cost-effective and efficient. For more information about how RFID is continuing to improve, check out our article - RFID Failed You in the Past? It May Have Improved More Than You Think.
Examples of applications that benefit from RFID are endless. Applications extend from broad areas like inventory tracking to supply chain management and can become more specialized depending on the company or industry. Types of RFID applications can span from IT asset tracking to textile tracking and even into specifics like rental item tracking.
What sets a potential RFID application apart from applications that can use other types of systems is the need to uniquely identify individual items quickly and more efficiently where traditional systems fall short. Below are a few applications that are successfully using RFID technology.
When learning about RFID technology, it is important to note that there are three main areas or frequencies that all have different read ranges and specifications.Within the Electromagnetic Spectrum, there are three primary frequency ranges used for RFID transmissions &#; Low Frequency RFID (LF RFID), High Frequency RFID (HF RFID), and Ultra-High Frequency RFID (UHF RFID).
There are two types of RFID that reside within the Ultra High Frequency range: Active RFID and Passive RFID.
The relatively wide range of 860 - 960 MHz is recognized as the &#;Global Standard&#; for UHF Passive RFID; however, its late adoption led to the range being further divided into two primarily subsets &#; 865 &#; 868 MHz and 902 - 928 MHz. RFID tags and equipment can either operate on one of these subsets, or on the global range, depending on the manufacturer and the region of operation for the RFID system.
The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) is the governing body in Europe that sets and upholds country-wide standards for communicating via multiple channels, including Radio Waves. By ETSI&#;s regulations, RFID equipment and tags are only allowed to communicate on the smaller frequency range of 865 - 868 MHz because other types of radio communications are allocated to subsets of the larger range of 860 - 960 MHz.
Because ETSI sets the standards for Europe, when purchasing tags and equipment, the standard can be called either ETSI or EU denoting Europe.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the governing body in the United States that sets and upholds country-wide standards for electromagnetic communication via multiple channels including those used for RFID. The FCC regulations state that RFID tags and equipment can only operate between 902 - 928 MHz, because, like Europe, other communication types are allocated to the remaining portions of the larger range of 860 - 960 MHz.
RFID Equipment or Tags that are FCC certified or on the North American Frequency Range, or NA, can be used throughout North America.
Because both ETSI and FCC were the first major standards to be approved, many countries either adopted one or the other, or created their own standards* within a subset of either frequency range. For example, Argentina chose to adopt the FCC range of 902 &#; 928 MHz, while Armenia chose to implement its own, smaller band of 865.6 &#; 867.6 MHz within the ETSI range.
Although regional radio frequency regulations like FCC and ETSI are typically discussed using frequency ranges, there are other specifics that each country regulates such as the amount of radiated power (ERP or EIRP). Certain countries are stricter and regulate where RFID can be used, the amount of frequency &#;hopping&#; that must be used, or that a license is required to use RFID. For more information on each country&#;s regulations &#; read &#; How to Conform to Regional Regulations when using RFID&#;.
*Every region requires its own regional operating frequency, to find yours, visit GS1.org.
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While each system will vary in terms of device types and complexity, traditional (fixed) RFID systems contain at least the following four components:
The exception to that rule is when a system uses a mobile/handheld/USB reader or other integrated reader which combines the reader, antenna, and cabling.
A mobile handheld RFID reader (with an integrated antenna) and RFID tags make up the simplest RFID system, while more complex systems are designed using multi-port readers, antenna hubs (https://www.atlasrfidstore.com/rfid-insider/antenna-multiplexers-save-thousands-of-dollars/), GPIO boxes, additional functionality devices (e.g. stack lights), multiple antennas and cables, RFID tags, and a complete software setup.
An RFID tag in its most simplistic form, is comprised of two parts &#; an antenna for transmitting and receiving signals, and an RFID chip (or integrated circuit, IC) which stores the tag&#;s ID and other information. RFID tags are affixed to items in order to track them using an RFID reader and antenna.
RFID tags transmit data about an item (contained on the RFID chip) through radio waves to the antenna/reader combination. RFID tags typically do not have a battery (unless specified as Active or BAP tags); instead, they receive energy from the radio waves generated by the reader. When the RFID tag receives the transmission from the reader/antenna, the energy runs through the internal antenna to the tag&#;s chip. The energy activates the RFID chip, which modulates the energy with the desired information, and then transmits a signal back toward the antenna/reader.
On each RFID chip, there are four memory banks &#; EPC, TID, User, and Reserved. Each of these memory banks contains information about the item that is tagged or the tag itself depending on the bank and what has been specified. Two of the four memory banks, the EPC and User, can be programmed with a unique number or information for identifying the item on which it&#;s placed. The TID bank cannot be updated because it contains information about the tag itself as well as the unique tag identifier. The RFID tag&#;s Reserved memory bank is used for special tag operations, like locking the tag or expanding its available EPC memory.
Hundreds of different RFID tags are available in many shapes and sizes with features and options specific to certain environments, surface materials, and applications. It&#;s important to choose the ideal tag for the specific application, environment, and item material in order to get the best performance out of your tag. To learn more about how to choose RFID tags for your application and then how to test them, check out our webinar - How to Select an RFID Tag and our article The Importance of Testing RFID Solutions.
Learn more about RFID Tags, checkout our free, easy-to-read guide - A Guide to UHF RFID Tags
Because there is a wide variety of RFID applications, there is also a wide variety of RFID tags and ways to categorize them. A common way to divide tags into types is inlays vs. hard tags. Inlays are cheaper, typically varying between $0.09 - $1.75 depending on the features on the tags. Hard tags are generally more rugged and weather resistant and vary between $1.00 - $20.00.
Form Factor &#; Inlay, Label, Card, Badge, Hard Tag
Frequency Type&#; LF, NFC, HF, UHF Passive (902 &#; 928 MHz, 865 &#; 868 MHz, or 865 &#; 960 MHz), BAP, Active
Environmental Factors&#; Water resistant, Rugged, Temperature resistant, Chemical resistant
Customizable&#; Shape, Size, Text, Encoding
Specific Features/Applications&#; Laundry Tags, Sensor Tags, Embeddable Tags, Autoclavable Tags, Vehicle Tags, High Memory Tags
Specific Surface Materials&#; Metal mount tags, Glass mount tags, Tags for Liquid-filled items
Tag pricing depends on the type of tag and the quantity ordered. As mentioned previously, inlays typically vary between $0.09 - $1.75 and hard tags can vary between $1.00 - $20.00. The higher the level of customization or the more specialized the tag, the more expensive it will be in comparison to typical off-the-shelf tags. For instance, if your application requires a tag with more memory than the average 96 - 128 bits, that tag could cost more due to a different IC being needed to accommodate the higher memory requirement.
To read a full list of questions for selecting an RFID tag, check out our RFID Buyer&#;s Guide.
An RFID reader is the brain of the RFID system and is necessary for any system to function. Readers, also called interrogators, are devices that transmit and receive radio waves in order to communicate with RFID tags. RFID readers are typically divided into three distinct types in terms of mobility/flexibility &#; Fixed RFID Readers, Mobile RFID Readers, and USB Readers.
Fixed readers stay in one location and are typically mounted on walls, on desks, into portals, or in other stationary locations. Fixed RFID Readers typically have external antenna ports that can connect anywhere from one additional antenna to up to eight different antennas. With the addition of one or more multiplexers, some readers can connect to up to 64 RFID antennas. The number of antennas connected to one reader depends on the area of coverage required for the RFID application. Some desktop applications, like checking files in and out, only need a small area of coverage, so one antenna works well. Other applications with a larger area of coverage, such as a finish line in a race timing application typically require multiple antennas to create the necessary coverage zone.
Mobile readers are handheld devices that allow for flexibility when reading RFID tags while still being able to communicate with a host computer or smart device. Most mobile devices are cordless and rely on a battery for a power source and Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for data transmission. There are two primary categories of Mobile RFID readers &#; readers with an onboard computer, called Mobile Computing Devices, and readers that use a Bluetooth or Auxiliary connection to a smart device or tablet, called Sleds.
A common subset of fixed or mobile readers is integrated readers. Most mobile readers are integrated readers, but fixed readers are available as lone devices or as integrated devices. An integrated RFID reader is a reader with a built-in antenna that does not have to be connected to an external antenna. Integrated readers are usually aesthetically pleasing and designed to be used for indoor applications without a high traffic of tagged items.
USB Readers are a unique subset of RFID readers because, while they are fixed to a computer, they are not fixed to a wall outlet, allowing them to have more mobility than a typical fixed RFID reader. USB readers are incredibly popular for any desktop applications or specifically for reading and writing individual RFID tags.
Learn more about RFID Readers &#; An Intro to RFID Readers: Basic Options and Features
The most common way to categorize readers is to classify them based on their mobility. Other ways to differentiate between RFID readers include categories like connectivity, available utilities, features, processing capabilities, power options, antenna ports, etc.
A reader will usually be the most expensive component in an RFID system. RFID readers can vary from around $500 to up to $3,000 or more depending on the features and capabilities required. One of the less-expensive classes of readers is USB readers, which have an average price point of around $500 - $600. USB readers generally have short read ranges and are used for desktop applications. Handheld readers and fixed readers vary greatly in pricing depending on the features and functionality offered.
To read a full list of questions for selecting an RFID reader, check out our RFID Buyer&#;s Guide - https://www.atlasrfidstore.com/a-guide-to-buying-rfid-tags-equipment/
RFID Antennas are necessary elements in an RFID system because they convert the RFID reader&#;s signal into RF waves that can be picked up by RFID tags. Without some type of RFID antenna, whether integrated into the reader or external, the RFID reader cannot properly send and receive signals to RFID tags.
Unlike RFID readers, RFID antennas are called "dumb devices" for a couple of reasons - the first being that they cannot power on or retain power individually, and the second being that RFID antennas do not have any computing power. When the reader&#;s energy is transmitted to the antenna, the antenna generates an RF field and, subsequently, an RF signal is transmitted to the tags in the vicinity. The antenna&#;s efficiency in generating waves in a specific direction is known as the antenna&#;s gain. To put it simply, the higher the gain, the more powerful, and further-reaching RF field an antenna will have.
The most common way to categorize RFID antennas is based on how they transmit RF waves which is called their polarity. Linearly polarized RFID antennas transmit RF waves on a plane, either vertical or horizontal, while circularly polarized RFID antennas transmit RF waves in a circular pattern (see images below).
Linearly polarized RFID antennas give off RF waves along a horizontal or vertical plane. If the RF field is a horizontal plane, is it described as horizontally linear, and the same principle applies to an RFID antenna that emits waves on a vertical plane.
If you are using a linear antenna, the polarity can have a significant impact on a system&#;s read range. The key to maximizing read range is to ensure an antenna&#;s polarity aligns with the polarity of the RFID tag. If these do not match up, for instance, a vertical linearly-polarized antenna and a tag with a horizontal linearly-polarized antenna, the read range will be severely reduced. An RFID tag&#;s antenna polarity can be determined by simply looking at the way the tag&#;s antenna is placed in relation to the antenna - typically the longer portion of the tag is either horizontal or vertical. Determining the linear RFID antenna&#;s emitting plane is usually done with testing, but some antennas include an indicator for the linear plane being used.
While this is key to receiving the best read range possible, determining horizontal or vertical linear polarity is not important during purchase, only during equipment setup because the antenna or tag can simply be rotated 90 degrees to match either polarization option. To learn more about RFID Antenna Polarization, read our article - Circular Polarization vs. Linear Polarization: Which is the Right RFID Antenna?
A circularly-polarized antenna transmits RF waves that continually rotate between horizontal and vertical planes in order to give an application enhanced flexibility. This flexibility allows for RFID tags to be read in multiple orientations. However, because the energy is divided between two planes, a circularly-polarized antenna&#;s read range is shorter versus a similar gain linear antenna.
Learn more about RFID Antennas &#; 9 Tactics For Choosing an RFID Antenna
RFID Antennas, like most RFID equipment, can be divided into different categories that help to narrow down the best antenna for an application. Even though antennas are grouped by a few different factors, the most common groupings for RFID Antennas are polarity (circular vs linear) and ruggedness (indoor vs. outdoor).
Most RFID antennas are typically priced between $50 and $300 per antenna, but there are a few that cost more because of key, application-specific factors, such as ground/mat antennas. These antennas are specialized for applications such as race timing and must be rugged enough to survive and perform well while people, bikes, or even go-carts run over them. Specialized antennas can increase a system&#;s cost significantly but are also an investment that can make a big impact on an application.
To read a full list of questions for selecting an RFID antenna, check out our RFID Buyer&#;s Guide - https://www.atlasrfidstore.com/a-guide-to-buying-rfid-tags-equipment/
When considering purchasing and deploying any new system, two of the most important questions to answer are if and when the company will see a return on its investment. Fixed costs, recurring costs, as well as the cost of switching in terms of labor costs, all must be evaluated before implementing a new system.
Before implementing an RFID system, both Application Feasibility and Cost Feasibility should be assessed.
Application Feasibility refers to the process of determining if the application is suitable for use with RFID. Like all technology, RFID has limitations. Environmental constraints, read range limitations, and asset material composition are just a few of the different aspects that can severely impact how effective an RFID system is for a specific application. The Application Feasibility process should entail scoping of the project and the project&#;s environment as a starting point, and then determining if RFID (or another technology) is the right fit for the application. Some applications need more advanced features, like real-time tracking, which can be accomplished by a type of Real-Time Location System, or RTLS. An RTLS system can be put together with a variety of different technologies including RFID. Learn more about RTLS systems in our RTLS guide. (https://www.atlasrfidstore.com/what-is-rtls-an-introduction-to-real-time-location-systems/)
Cost Feasibility refers to assessing if implementing an RFID system is achievable from a monetary perspective. Cost Feasibility includes not just if an ROI is possible, but also includes working with current numbers and prospective numbers to determine the estimated timeline for a return on investment. RFID systems can be expensive. They require an initial investment for testing and working with different types of equipment and tags (which may be a sunk cost for the company if the technology doesn&#;t pan out). After the testing phase, deployment costs begin (Read more about Fixed vs. Recurring Costs below). Only after a system has been implemented and is working properly can the timeline begin for seeing a return on the investment.
Grouping costs by fixed (initial) or recurring will help to paint a more accurate picture of expected yearly costs and return on investment of a system.
Fixed costs are one-time costs that are associated with getting started. In an RFID deployment, a fixed cost is typically associated with hardware like readers, antennas, and cables needed to setup the system. Fixed costs do not necessarily mean that you will not ever purchase that item again, it just means that the item is not used once and then discarded or consumed during the application. If you plan to set up an initial system and then expand that system later, hardware will still be considered a Fixed Cost. RFID tags are only considered to be a fixed cost when they are continually reused throughout the system &#; e.g. access control RFID fobs that are assigned and redistributed as needed to employees.
Recurring costs are attributed to items that are used once and then discarded or consumed during the application. An RFID inlay or label is a common example of a recurring cost in an RFID system. Because of their low-cost, these tags are frequently applied once and kept on an item for its lifespan (or discarded after use). If an RFID printer is used, then printer ribbon would also be a recurring cost. If a software license renews annually or is purchased as a SaaS (Software as a Service) product, then it too should be factored as a recurring cost.
Even though this guide is filled with RFID knowledge, it is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes implementing RFID technology. The great news is that we have many different ways to learn more:
RFID Insider &#; The goal of this blog is to keep you well-informed and up-to-date with the latest developments in the RFID industry. Whether you&#;re an industry veteran or a new-comer to the RFD world, we plan on creating original content covering a wide range of topics for all levels of RFID expertise.
YouTube channel &#; Discover tutorials, interviews, and more on atlasRFIDstore&#;s channel. We&#;ll be discussing radio frequency identification and its various applications across a wide range of industries.
eBooks & resources &#; We have additional guides similar to this one that discuss the main components of an RFID systems, RFID applications, and even information in deploying a system. Other resources like infographics, customer profiles, and whitepapers are also available in our RFID resources section.
For additional information and questions, feel free to contact us.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Tray RFID Readers.