Mutual Interference Of Readers (Antennas); Reading Range; Operation Of Several Readers Within Restricted Space; Dense Reader Mode - Siemens SIMATIC RF600 System Manual

RF600 system planning
4.3 Antenna configurations
The specified distances are recommended minimum or maximum values for configuration.
4.3.5

Mutual interference of readers (antennas)

Using more than one reader
When several RFID readers are used, there is a danger that RFID tags can also be read by
other readers. It must be ensured that the tag can only be identified by the appropriate reader.
Technical faults between readers then occur particularly when they transmit on the same
channel (on the same frequency).
To prevent this, readers used in Europe and China must operate on different channels with
"Frequency hopping" activated. "Frequency hopping" is permanently set in the USA.
4.3.6

Reading range

The reading range between the reader (antenna) and the transponder is affected by the
following factors:
The reading range depends on
Transmit power of the reader
Tag size and type
Absorption factor of the materials
Production quality of the tag
Reflection characteristics of the
environment
You will find detailed information about the reading range of the individual readers in the
"Technical specifications" in the sections for the various readers.
4.3.7

Operation of several readers within restricted space

4.3.7.1

Dense Reader Mode

A special operating mode for Gen 2 tags enables several RF600 readers to be operated without
interference in close proximity to each other. This applies to all RF600 readers: RF670R,
RF660R, RF630R and RF620R.
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Description
The higher the transmit power of the reader, the larger the
reading range.
The larger the tag antenna, the larger the power input area
and therefore the larger the reading range.
The higher the absorption of the surrounding material, the
smaller the reading range.
The better the tag has been matched to the operating
frequencies during manufacturing, the greater the reading
range.
In a multiple-reflection environment (e.g., in rooms with
reflecting surfaces, machinery, or concrete walls), the
reading range can be significantly higher than in a low-
reflection environment.
System Manual, 06/2010, J31069-D0171-U001-A10-7618
Draft Version 02.06.2010
SIMATIC RF600