10 Things to Check for When Installing a Fixed RFID Reader System

Author: Rfid4U Store

When deploying a traditional fixed RFID Reader System, there are usually a various activities that you go through before you get to the installation step. Just to list a couple:

  • RFID tag, hardware and software selection
  • Site survey and workflow analysis
  • Proof of concept testing
  • System design
  • Procurement

However, at the time of installation, it’s a great idea to check the following to make your installation as smooth as possible:

  1. Only connect / disconnect an RFID antenna to an RFID reader when the device is powered off.
  2. Angle the antennas to increase the dwell time (the time tag spends in the read zone when traveling through).
  3. Install antennas with an adjustable swivel mount for adjustment of the antenna height and angle to modify the read zone.
  4. Sure that RF cable connectors are tight!
  5. Protect the RFID readers and antennas so they don’t get bumped, moved or damaged.
  6. Ensure that LED’s and visual indicators on the RFID device are easily visible. This is important to be able to visually verify status lights.
  7. When mounting RFID readers, ensure that there is enough spacing so that cables can be easily added or removed later on.
  8. Cable lengths from one reader to pairs of antennas should be equal (to ensure that the attenuation is equal).
  9. Visually inspect the installed AC outlets and Ethernet cable runs.
  10. Check functions of I/O devices and their correct placement.

Need help with your RFID project – let us know!

Our selection of fixed RFID readers includes products from all the major RFID manufacturers as well as specialty products. In this category we are also featuring readers embedded within portals (such as xPortal from Impinj or RFID Gate from CAEN) or desktop readers.

When selecting the right fixed RFID reader for your application, please consider:

  1. Number of antenna ports (1-16)
  2. Type of network connections (Ethernet, Serial, USB, Wi-Fi)
  3. Type of power (Power Supply, Power-Over-Ethernet POE)
  4. Region (USA, EU, specific country)
  5. Size and mounting
  6. Ruggedness and IP rating

To find out more about RFID readers, please review information about RFID Interrogation Zones.

Please note that some manufacturers do not include power supply and power cord with the reader (this is often due to regional differences in the power cord plug) and these must be purchased separately. Review carefully "What is included in the package" section in Product Features.

Handheld RFID readers are a great option for reading tags on the go and where the mobility of the reader is necessary. Handheld readers have integrated antennas, and a display (there are a few exceptions) for easy operation and immediate interaction with the data. Handhelds are usually utilized for inventory taking and are also great for tag programming.

We offer readers from major manufacturers and in various form factors and price categories. If you need help with selection of a handheld reader for your application, please contact us!

For more information about RFID readers and their selection, refer to the link for RFID reader interrogation zones.

Here’s a few factors to help you choose the right RFID handheld:

  • What operating system (Android, iOS, Windows will the RFID handheld be running or connected to?
  • What size RFID handheld is right for my use case?
  • Does the RFID handheld frequency match your RFID tag?