RFID reader - which one to choose and why?About the author, see also subscription

Stationary readers are devices permanently mounted in one place and used to read markers appearing within the range of the antennas connected to them.Most of the RFID stationary readers allow you to connect from one to even a dozen or several dozen external antennas.

- Devices with integrated antennas will work in the case of simpler applications - says Dariusz J.Kawecki, product manager, responsible for solutions regarding automatic identification at ETOFT.- We save a place thanks to them.We also do not have to install additional cables and antennas.

What should be taken into account in connection with the planned use of the reader are: the size of the device (some, even those with an integrated antenna, have the size of the credit card), the place of assembly (indoor or outdoor), the reader's resistance, e.g..for a fall or vibration and a way of communication with customer systems, where in the simplest (and sometimes sufficient) case it is a USB or RS232 connector.However, an Ethernet network connection or wifi wireless connection is more often used or mobile networks are used..It is also worth considering whether the reader will communicate with external devices, e.g..signal columns or various sensors.In this case, choose a reader with GPIO ports.

Which RFID antenna should you choose?

Selection of antennas/antenna is another step when implementing RFID solutions.In addition to such obvious features as: size (antennas can be from a few centimeters to even a subway and more), shape and resistance to external conditions, the most important are technical parameters - M.in.polarization (circular or linear), obtain or reading angle that have a huge impact on the quality of reading.All listed devices must be dedicated to work in a given geographical area.Why is this so important?Different ranges of RFID frequencies are allowed in various areas.In Europe, a range of 865-868 MHz is valid.

- In addition, when planning the purchase and installation of RFID readers, I recommend it to be in mind that in addition to devices it is worth taking into account the additional, important, and sometimes even necessary elements, such as cabling (intended for specific readers and antennas) or mounting handles, allowing on the one hand tostable installation of devices, and on the other to easily modify their locations - advises an expert from Etisoft.

The key element is also the software that allows you to cooperate with devices with customer systems.Proper selection and configuration of RFID devices will allow for later comfortable and effective use.It is therefore worth ensuring that the equipment supplier is able to provide the necessary support in this respect.

Source: Etisoft