Pepperl+Fuchs Introduces RFID Read/Write Device for Multi-Tag Reading

Pepperl+Fuchs’ new RFID read/write device is built to handle multiple RFID tags simultaneously. The UR-F800-V1D-4A is designed to read up to 200 tags at a time, making it easy to scan and track assets as they leave a controlled space, such as a warehouse or storage bay.

The Pepperl+Fuchs IUR-F800-V1D-4A RFID read/write device can read up to 200 tags at a time. Image used courtesy of Pepperl+Fuchs

RFID Tracking

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tracking has become a popular way to track inventory. Unlike barcode scanners, RFID tracking systems are less picky about object detection. Who hasn’t gone to the grocery store and struggled to scan a barcode at the self-checkout? However, the RFID tags hidden in clothing can be read by the inventory control scanners should someone try to steal the clothing and conceal it under a heavy coat.

The real advantage of the RFID tracking system is that the RFID tag does not need to be visible. This means an RFID tag inside the most hidden box in a palletized stack can be read. This system is much more efficient than scanning barcodes on boxes as they are palletized. It also makes it easy to track should someone need to verify a particular box is in the pallet. With a barcode reader, the whole stack would have to be depalletized.

Typically, RFID is used for gating applications in logistics, which involves items entering and leaving a space. This could be packages leaving the warehouse, vehicles coming and going on service calls, or even tools leaving the toolbox.

The UHF RFID read/write device is the latest product in Pepperl+Fuchs’ lineup of RFID systems. Image used courtesy of Pepperl+Fuchs

UHF RFID Reader

The IUR-F800-V1D-4A UHF RFID reader is capable of both read and write operations, making it possible to assign or read tags. This capability is particularly valuable in a fast-paced environment where corrections to inventory can be made quickly versus having to single out an item and take it to a separate RFID tag writer.

At the core of this reader/writer is a built-in multiplexer. This is what allows multiple RFID tags to be scanned at a time. Also, the transmitter power is adjustable from 100 mW up to 2 W in 100 mW increments, saving energy if long scanning distances are not required. The unit is set to operate from 920 MHz to 926 MHz UHF band (for Australia), with other options available depending on local radio communication laws and licenses.

This device runs on a standard 24 V DC signal and typically only draws about 20 mA of current. It is built in a ruggedized, powder-coated aluminum housing to withstand most industrial environments. It can be interfaced over RS-232, USB, or Wiegand (scan mode).

An extensive list of accessories is available as well. There are several styles of cables, additional antennas, and mounting brackets that can be used to customize the installation for virtually any industrial environment.

The UHF RFID read-write device can be used to read multiple tags as they are transported throughout a logistics facility. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock

Automation in Logistics

The ability to handle 200 RFID tags at once makes the IUR-F800-V1D-4A a fantastic choice for warehousing and shipping operations, where many items may move at the same time. Rather than having to scan for each tag individually, this scanner can pick up numerous tags as they are transported on pallets, shipping boxes, or other containers. It can serve as a last check to ensure all the necessary products are loaded and ready to ship.