Cost-effective reader module flaunts multiple-protocol support

A feature-rich, compact UHF RFID reader module — the WJM1000 — is available from WJ Communications. Based on the company's WJC200 Gen2 chipset, this small and cost-effective solution provides software-configurable options to set the RF output power from 10 dB (10 mW) to 24 dB (¼W) while drawing nominal 370 mA. It operates over the North American UHF frequency band (902 MHz to 928 MHz) and includes the RF, digital circuitry, and embedded firmware required for ISO18000-6C (UHF Gen 2) and ISO 18000-6B international standards. 3.3 V CMOS-level serial communications and 4 GPIO lines are available on a 15-pin connector.

RFID inlay achieves size reduction

A new half-size HF (13.56 MHz) aluminum RFID inlay from OMRON boasts a footprint that is approximately 50% smaller (with a size of 46 mm × 43 mm) than its current card-sized product. Compliant with ISO/IEC 15693 standards, the inlay is an extension to the company's existing range of aluminum-coil antenna RFID inlays that now comprise two HF types (the V730 series) and three UHF band types (the V750 series). The inlay features a read range of roughly 35 cm and is available in the form of labels.

Multipurpose RFID chip features long read range

The EM4205/4305 is a new generation of low-frequency RFID ICs designed to fulfill the specific needs of animal identification, waste management, industrial logistics and access control applications. Offered by EM Microelectronics, the transponder chip is ISO 11784/11785 compliant. The EM4305 version comes with enlarged pads and gold bumps, while both versions feature an extended reading range and extremely small chip size, well below 1 mm². The chip can even be configured with the FDX-B protocol for livestock applications or set up to Manchester data encoding with RF/64 data rate and a configuration bit for pigeon races. The EM4205/4305 is backward compliant with the EM4569.

RFID evaluation kit offered

The Impinj GrandPrix evaluation kit is available and enables VARs, system integrators, test laboratories and end users to assess the company's far-field and near-field UHF RFID solutions for pallet-, case-, and item-level tagging applications. The kit includes one Speedway UHF Gen 2 reader with power supply, two far-field antennas, one Brickyard near-field antenna, a sample pack of Monza chip-powered UHF Gen 2 tags for pallet-, case-, and item-level tagging applications, multireader host application software, and supporting documentation (e.g., the Speedway quick start guide and user guide). The kit installs quickly, is easy to use and provides meaningful, application-specific evaluation data for all RFID use models.

RFID reader makes contactless identification easy

Brooks Automation is offering a new, easy-to-use compact HF reader. Its electronic RFID circuitry is housed in a package measuring about 11 cm × 7 cm, and works on a frequency of 13.56 MHz. The reader communicates with transponders using standards or protocols like ISO 15693, EPC and I-Code. Powering is over a USB 2.0 link so no separate cable is needed to connect it to a PC or laptop. Integrated in the reader is a loop antenna that produces a read and write range of about 5 cm to 15 cm, depending on the transponder used. An external antenna can be added for more range.

RFID modulation analysis troubleshoots EPC Gen 2 RFID systems

The 89600 vector signal analysis (VSA) software from Agilent Technologies has a new capability — the 89601A option BHC RFID modulation analysis — which provides an advanced tool set for unfolding the intricate physical layer structure of the EPC Gen 2 UHF signals. Other format RFID signals can also be analyzed using built-in presets or by manually setting the demodulation format, line coding and bit rate. With its well-designed user interface, RFID-specific measurements and up to six simultaneous, user-selected displays, R&D designers can efficiently and effectively analyze interrogator power on individual data bursts of the RFID interrogator and tag.

RFID tag flaunts onboard security

The Lightweight Multistream Encryption (LIME) tag from SecureRF is a battery-assisted passive tag that authenticates and encrypts data communications on the tag itself. As an item-level solution, it provides tamper-proof data “storage on the tag and ensures privacy by allowing only authorized readers with access to sensitive information. The SecureRF LIME tag includes a temperature sensor that addresses cold chain management issues by monitoring and securely recording an item-level temperature history.

Ruggedized RFID antennas introduced

The M/A-COM MAAN-000210-AT0000 is a line of linear polarized antennas with a high-density polyethylene radome that provides superior protection from constant abrasion and a neoprene gasket to prevent liquids from infiltrating the antennas. They operate with a typical gain of 2.5 dB, have a beamwidth of 130° at 3 dB, and a typical VSWR of 1.5:1. Multidirectional conduit access holes and a removable connector access panel are available for a more efficient installation procedure. The connector housing is removable for use in NEMA enclosures. These new ruggedized RFID antennas are ideal for use in baler and compactor applications.