RFID Reader Modules

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
SEN-11862 SparkFun	RFID READER ID-3LA (125 KHZ)	0
IC-KP2-2HB17-2V1D Pepperl+Fuchs	RFID READER R/W MODULE	1
ARRUN5-868.000MHZ Abracon	RFID READER 868MHZ MODULE	291
PLT-RFID-M3E-X ThingMagic, a JADAK Brand	M3E-X L/HF RFID MODULE	0
USB-6EP ThingMagic, a JADAK Brand	RFID READER R/W 865-928MHZ	224
SEN-11827 SparkFun	RFID READER ID-12LA (125 KHZ)	0
RI-RFM-007B-30 Texas Instruments	ANALOG CIRCUIT, 1 FUNC	0
3361.000.00 FEIG ELECTRONIC	ID CPR50.10-E PROXIMITY READER	5
ANT420 ifm Efector	READ/WRITE HEAD; 13,56 MHZ; DATA	0
20911051101 HARTING	RFID READER 865-928MHZ	0
ARRTN5-915.000MHZ Abracon	RFID READER 915MHZ MODULE	78
ANT421 ifm Efector	READ/WRITE HEAD; 13,56 MHZ; DATA	0
DLP-RFID2 DLP Design, Inc.	RFID READER R/W 13.56MHZ MOD	0
MIKROE-262 MikroElektronika	RFID READER READ ONLY 125KHZ MOD	59
1524.000.01.00 FEIG ELECTRONIC	RFID READER READ ONLY 13.56MHZ	19
ANT513 ifm Efector	READ/WRITE HEAD; 13,56 MHZ; DATA	0
RI-STU-TRDC-30 Texas Instruments	RFID S6350 READER MOD 13.56MHZ	1908
20911041104 HARTING	RFID READER READ ONLY 860-960MHZ	0
ANT410 ifm Efector	READ/WRITE HEAD; 13,56 MHZ; DATA	0
ARRAN5-915.000MHZ Abracon	RFID READER 915MHZ MODULE	0

RFID Reader Modules

1. Overview

RF/IF (Radio Frequency/Intermediate Frequency) and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader modules are critical components in wireless communication systems. These modules enable data exchange between readers and tags through electromagnetic waves. Operating across various frequency bands (low-frequency, high-frequency, ultra-high-frequency, and microwave), they play a vital role in modern applications such as asset tracking, access control, supply chain management, and IoT devices. Their ability to support contactless identification and data transmission drives efficiency and automation across industries.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

Type	Functional Features	Application Examples
Low-Frequency (LF) RFID Readers	Short read range (0-10 cm), low data rate, robust against interference	Animal identification, car key immobilizers
High-Frequency (HF) RFID Readers	Read range up to 10 cm, supports ISO/IEC 14443 standards	Contactless payment, smart posters
Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) RFID Readers	Long-range (up to 15 meters), high-speed data transfer	Logistics tracking, warehouse inventory
Active RFID Readers	Battery-powered tags, extended range (>10 meters)	Fleet management, real-time location systems

3. Structure and Components

A typical RFID reader module comprises:

Antenna: Transmits/receives RF signals to/from tags.
RF Front-End: Converts analog signals to digital, handles modulation/demodulation.
Processor: Executes protocol stacks (e.g., EPCglobal) and data filtering.
Interface: Connects to host systems via UART, SPI, Ethernet, or wireless protocols (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth).
Power Supply: Regulates power for operation, often supporting PoE or battery sources.

4. Key Technical Specifications

Parameter	Description	Importance
Frequency Range	Operational band (e.g., 860 960 MHz for UHF)	Determines regulatory compliance and application suitability
Read Range	Distance between reader and tag (cm to meters)	Impacts deployment flexibility
Data Transfer Rate	Speed of data exchange (kbps to Mbps)	Critical for high-throughput environments
Protocol Support	Standards like ISO/IEC 14443, EPC C1G2	Ensures interoperability with tags
Environmental Tolerance	Operating temperature/humidity range	Affects reliability in harsh conditions

5. Application Areas

Major industries utilizing RFID reader modules include:

Supply Chain: Inventory management (e.g., Amazon warehouses)
Healthcare: Patient tracking and medication management
Retail: Smart shelves and anti-theft systems
Transportation: Toll collection (e.g., E-ZPass systems)
Manufacturing: Tool tracking and workflow automation

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

Manufacturer	Product Example	Key Features
Impinj	R420 UHF Reader	Supports 860 960 MHz, 30 dBm output power
Alien Technology	ALR-9900+	Enterprise-grade UHF reader with IPX6 rating
Honeywell	XF RFID Reader	Multi-protocol support for HF/LF tags
STMicroelectronics	ST25RU3993	Near-field UHF reader for secure access control

7. Selection Recommendations

Key factors for selecting RFID reader modules:

Frequency Compatibility: Match reader frequency with tag specifications.
Read Range Requirements: Choose UHF for long-range or HF/LF for short-range precision.
Environmental Conditions: Consider IP ratings for outdoor/dusty environments.
Protocol Standards: Ensure alignment with industry-specific protocols.
Cost vs. Performance: Balance budget with critical features like speed and durability.

Industry Trends

Future developments include:

Higher Frequency Adoption: Growth in 860 960 MHz and microwave readers for global supply chains.
Miniaturization: Compact modules for IoT and wearable devices.
AI Integration: Edge computing capabilities for real-time data analysis.
Enhanced Security: Advanced encryption for NFC and HF readers in payment systems.
Passive RFID Advancements: Extended read ranges without battery power.