RFID Readers & Antennas

Because there are many types of RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification), there are many types of gateways,
routers, readers, and antennas available to collect RFID data. The below guide is designed to help you
understand these differences and select the right fit for your project needs.

Handheld Readers

Handheld_RFID_Reader

Handheld RFID Readers are the simplest way to get started with RFID. Handheld devices allow for greatest mobility when using RFID within environments which regularly change or do not allow for mounting of permanent fixed readers. RFID gives advantages over barcode technologies by allowing digital scanning through a wide range of materials.

Benefits include:

  • 100% Mobile
  • No Physical Installation
  • Non-Line of Sight (nLoS) Scanning

    • Fixed Readers

    Portal_RFID_Reader

    Fixed RFID Readers are typically used for creating chokepoints at entry/exit points of a process or building. While integrated antennas may be used, typical applications will utilize multiple external antennas to ensure read accuracy.

    Benefits include:

  • Handsfree & Always On
  • High-Power Accuracy
  • Simple Installation

    • Overhead Arrays

    Ceiling_RFID_Reader

    Overhead RFID Arrays showcase the latest advancements in pRTLS (Passive Real Time Location Services). High ceiling mounts allow for greater area coverage and real-time updates to capture location and movement at 3D visibility such that x,y, and z coordinates are available.

    Benefits include:

  • Handsfree & Always-On
  • 3D Position Data
  • Large Coverages Zones

    • General Guidance - RFID Readers

    Handheld readers remain the preferred method for in-person asset identification given their portability. Fixed readers are commonly used for doorways, dock doors, work stations, production checkpoints, and forklifts given their high rate of accuracy and limited range. Overhead RFID Arrays are growing in popularity due to the ability to know 3D location, directionality of movement, superior range, and high coverage area.

    Most RFID systems utilize both mobile and fixed RFID readers to meet data collection needs. The combination of handheld, fixed, and overhead RFID readers allows for both improvement in overall system performance as well as reduced infrastructure and labor costs. These systems may also be combined with legacy barcode and manual data entry systems as well as active technologies such as WiFi, LTE, Bluetooth, UWB, and LoRa.

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