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How Embedded UHF RFID Readers Are Transforming IoT

7th November

Embedded UHF RFID readers are revolutionizing industries by providing efficient, scalable, and cost-effective solutions for automatic identification and tracking. At CAEN RFID, we’re proud to offer a wide range of embedded UHF RFID readers tailored to various systems, each designed to optimize performance in specific applications.

This article explores the key benefits and applications of embedded RFID readers, along with the technological insights shared by Stefano Coluccini, General Manager of CAEN RFID, in his recent interview for Think WIoT, which can be read here.

Applications: Which Systems Are Embedded RFID Readers Suitable For?

CAEN RFID provides various series of embedded readers, each designed for specific applications:

Lepton³ Series: Ideal for short to medium-range applications such as label printers, desktop readers, POS systems, wearable devices, and access control devices. The radio frequency core of the module is based on the Impinj E310 reader chip that permits to achieve fast reading speed and to be used in dense reader and dense tag environments for top-class rated performances. These readers are suit well systems that do not require long-range reading capabilities.


Lepton⁷ Series: With a radio frequency core of the module based on the Impinj E710 chip and long-range reading capabilities due to higher output power and sensitivity, this series is best for high-performance sleds, handheld terminals, fixed readers, industrial reading points, automatic inventory vending machines, and environments requiring reliable performance with complex tag arrangements.


Lepton⁹ Series: With a radio frequency core based on the Impinj E910 chip, Lepton9 is the top-performing series in terms of sensitivity, Lepton⁹ is designed for use in high-end fixed readers that need superior performance in challenging reading environments.


Curios to find the Lepton module that best suits your business’ necessities? You can download our Lepton selection guide here.

Advantages of Embedded RFID Readers Over External RFID Readers

Embedded RFID readers offer several benefits compared to traditional external RFID readers, making them increasingly popular in modern applications:

Compact Size: The smaller form factor of embedded modules allows for more compact final products and efficient use of space.

Energy Efficiency: Embedded readers consume less power, which is crucial for battery-powered devices and contributes to overall energy sustainability.

Cost-Effective: They are significantly more affordable than fixed readers, which makes embedded readers a scalable solution for mass production.

Integration: How Are Embedded RFID Readers Integrated into Existing Hardware?

The compact nature of embedded readers makes them relatively easy to integrate into various systems, but antenna placement can present challenges.

In cabinets or vending machines, space is typically not an issue, but antenna placement is critical for optimal reading performance.

In printers, the challenge lies in reading or writing to a single tag at a time. Custom antenna designs are often required, and CAEN RFID offers engineering services to assist with this.

For handhelds and wearables, the limited space may require custom enclosures to house both the reader and antenna.

Power Supply Requirements for Embedded RFID Readers

CAEN RFID provides modules  with a wide voltage range (3.2V to 5.25V DC) to ensure compatibility with lithium batteries. For modules with a narrower voltage range, we provide circuit design tips to achieve stable power supply integration. A consistent and stable power source is vital for the reliability of RF devices, including RFID readers.

Communication Between RFID Reader and Host System

Embedded RFID readers connect directly to microcontrollers, limiting communication interface options to I2C, SPI, and Serial UART. CAEN RFID uses Serial UART for its broad compatibility with both microcontrollers and more complex CPU boards. Additionally, we will soon offer adapter boards with USB-C connectors to simplify integration into a broader range of devices.

Maintenance of Embedded RFID Readers

Like most electronic components, embedded RFID readers require minimal maintenance. They are comparable to other standard modules like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth in terms of maintenance, and CAEN RFID offers a 12-month warranty on all modules.

Security Measures for Data Captured by RFID Readers

Embedded modules serve as local readers within the final product, which handles the data processing and security. Encryption and authentication mechanisms are implemented at the system level, for example, on Android-based handhelds that use RFID modules.

Performance Considerations for Embedded RFID Readers

  1. Adapting the Read Range:

Adjust the read range based on the output power, sensitivity, and antenna gain. CAEN RFID offers three module series with varying sensitivity levels (-72dBm, -85dBm, -90dBm) to meet different application requirements.

  1. Antenna Placement and Design:

Antenna design is highly application-dependent. For example, in printers, limited space and signal reflection from metal components create unique challenges. CAEN RFID provides custom antenna designs and expert recommendations for optimal performance.

  1. Ensuring Read Accuracy

In challenging environments, high-sensitivity readers and metal-specific tags are essential. CAEN RFID offers solutions for reliable performance near metal and in humid conditions.

Future of Embedded RFID Readers in IoT and Smart Factories

Embedded RFID readers are set to play a pivotal role in the evolution of smart factories and IoT solutions. As RFID technology becomes more integral to everyday tools and machinery, it will enable greater efficiency, scalability, and automation across industries. By embedding RFID into devices such as industrial machines and handheld terminals, businesses can streamline asset tracking and data management processes, laying the foundation for fully connected, intelligent manufacturing systems that are essential to Industry 4.0.

 

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