i-PORT III User’s Guide
IDENTEC SOLUTIONS, Inc.
Suite 102, 1860 Dayton Street
Kelowna, British Columbia
Canada V1Y 7W6
Tel: (250) 860-6567
Fax: (250) 860-6541
www.identecsolutions.com
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Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability
IDENTEC SOLUTIONS, Inc. and its affiliates, subsidiaries, officers, directors,
employees and agents provide the information contained in this Manual on an “as-is”
basis and do not make any express or implied warranties or representations with
respect to such information including, without limitation, warranties as to noninfringement, reliability, fitness for a particular purpose, usefulness, completeness,
accuracy or currentness. IDENTEC SOLUTIONS, Inc. shall not in any circumstances be
liable to any person for any special, incidental, indirect or consequential damages,
including without limitation, damages resulting from use of or reliance on information
presented herein, or loss of profits or revenues or costs of replacement goods, even if
informed in advance of the possibility of such damages.
Trademarks
“IDENTEC SOLUTIONS”, “Intelligent Long Range”, “ILR” and the stylized “i” are
registered trademarks and “i-Q”, “i-D”, “i-CARD”, “i-PORT”, “i-LINKS”, “Solutions. It’s
in our name.” are trademarks of IDENTEC SOLUTIONS, Inc. and/or IDENTEC
SOLUTIONS AG.
Copyright Notice
Copyright © 2002 IDENTEC SOLUTIONS, Inc. All rights reserved.
No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any
means, photographic, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, or used in any information
storage and retrieval system, without the prior written permission of IDENTEC
SOLUTIONS, Inc.
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 2
Radio Frequency Compliance Statement
IDENTEC SOLUTIONS, Inc. is the responsible party for the compliance of the following devices:
MODEL: i-PORT III i-CARD i-D2 TAGS i-Qxx TAGS
FCC ID: O2E-ILR-916IP3 O2E-ICARD-NA OO4-ILR-ID2 OO4-ILR-IQ8T or
OO4-ILR-IQR
CANADA: Pending 35381032231 3538A12112 35381021756A or
35381021825
The user(s) of these products are cautioned to only use accessories and peripherals approved, in
advance, by IDENTEC SOLUTIONS, Inc. The use of accessories and peripherals, other than those
approved by IDENTEC SOLUTIONS, Inc., or unauthorized changes to approved products, may void
the compliance of these products and may result in the loss of the user(s) authority to operate the
equipment.
Operation is subject to the following conditions: (1) these devices may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) these devices must accept any interference, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communication.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case
the user will be required to correct the interference at his/her own expense.
Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Industry Canada Compliance
This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing
Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel
brouilleur du Canada.
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so
chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) is not more than that required for
successful communication.
This device has been designed to operate with an antenna having a maximum gain of 8dBi. Antenna
having a higher gain is strictly prohibited per regulations of Industry Canada. The required antenna
impedance is 50 ohms.
Important Note
To comply with FCC radio frequency exposure compliance requirements, this device must be installed by
an IDENTEC SOLUTIONS certified technician. When installing antennas, a 20 centimeter passing distance
must be maintained from any body part of the user or nearby persons and the antenna.
The installer of this radio equipment must ensure that the antenna is located or pointed such that it
does not emit RF field in excess of Health Canada limits for the general population; consult Safety
Code 6, obtainable from Health Canada.
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 3
Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................................5
1.1 FUNDAMENTALS .........................................................................................................................................5
1.2 SYSTEM OVERVIEW ....................................................................................................................................5
2.0 COMPONENTS...........................................................................................................................................6
2.1 I-PORT III..................................................................................................................................................6
2.2 ANTENNAS..................................................................................................................................................6
2.3 I-Q TAG ......................................................................................................................................................7
2.4 DATA COMMUNICATION BETWEEN I-PORT AND TAG:................................................................................8
3.0 USING YOUR RFID HARDWARE...........................................................................................................9
3.1 LED DISPLAYS ...........................................................................................................................................9
CABLE CONNECTIONS AND PLUG ALLOCATION....................................................................................................10
4.0 SOFTWARE, CONFIGURATION..........................................................................................................11
4.1 IP-ADDRESS, PASSWORD..........................................................................................................................11
4.2 CONFIGURATION, SETTINGS .....................................................................................................................11
4.3 INTERFACES.............................................................................................................................................11
4.4 PROTOCOLS .............................................................................................................................................11
5.0 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS...........................................................................................................12
5.1 CODES, PARAMETERS ...............................................................................................................................12
6.0 TROUBLESHOOTING............................................................................................................................14
6.1 TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................................................................................................................14
6.2 CONTACT..................................................................................................................................................15
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 4
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Fundamentals
IDENTEC SOLUTIONS’ ILR® (Intelligent Long Range®) technology is the next generation of
long range RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). The objective is wireless and automated
data collection over large distances.
HOW RFID WORKS
Data is transmitted via high frequency radio waves between a tag and an interrogator.
Information stored on the tag can be read and modified. Data can be exchanged over long
distances, even in the presence of extreme operating conditions such as dust, dirt, paint or
oil.
The core element of the system is the active ILR tag, which can communicate large
amounts of data (up to 32 kBytes) at a rapid rate of transmission over very long distances
(up to 100 meters). A sophisticated anti-collision handling algorithm enables the
interrogator (i-PORT) to record data simultaneously from hundreds of these tags within
seconds. Connection of the interrogator to a host computer system permits global data
accessibility via a variety of software platforms.
CHARACTERISTICS OF ILR:
• UHF Frequency (868 / 916 MHz)
• Long read and write range of up to 100 meters
• Variable read range from just a few meters up to 100 meters
• Large storage capacity (8 kB or 32 kB)
• Temperature monitoring and recording (optional)
• Highly visible LED “pick-by-light” (optional)
• Long battery lifetime (up to 6 years)
• Anti-collision process and multi-tag handling
1.2 System Overview
IDENTEC SOLUTIONS’ ILR-System consists of 4 main components:
• Active tags (also called transponders) with internal power supply, which are used to
identify goods or to store data and histories
• Interrogator (i-PORT; fixed-mounted) and handheld devices (mobile), which exchange
information with the tags and host computer systems
• Patch antenna for definition of read zone
• A central computer system as basis for control and monitoring
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 5
2.0 COMPONENTS
2.1 i-PORT III
i-PORT III is the next generation of IDENTEC SOLUTIONS’ ILR interrogators. It is capable
of communicating with i-Q series tags with a communication range up to 100 meters.
Up to four antennas (plus one extra send antenna) can
be connected to i-PORT III. Built-in signal strength
measurement capability enables the localization of tags
using triangulation.
i-PORT III is delivered complete with standard software,
which offers the user a variety of options:
• Communication with ILR i-Q tags
• Simultaneous operation with up to four antennas
(receive), with the option of a fifth antenna (send)
• Communication with host computer systems via
Ethernet interface
• Data processing (event messages, in/out, etc.)
• Configuration by means of web-interface (remote
maintenance)
i-PORT III has a Real-Time Operating System (RTOS: Thread X) and an internal Real-Time
Clock (RTC), which permit an exact time allocation of the data. Up to 2000 data messages
can be stored temporarily.
2.2 Antennas
Patch antennas can be used with i-PORT III for definition of read zones. Your system
installer will select the appropriate mounting height for optimal communication range
along with consideration of safety issues.
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Vertically Polarized
Horizontally Polarized
2.3 i-Q Tag
The i-Q series active tag is particularly suited for:
- Identification
- Tracking and Tracing
- Localization
- Temperature Monitoring
- Data carrying
i-Q tags are available in a variety of configurations, i.e. with 8 kByte or 32 kByte of
memory, an optional LED for visual recognition, and optional temperature logging function.
They are available in two different radio frequencies: 868 MHz for use in Europe, 916 MHz
for use in North America or dual frequency for transcontinental applications. The i-Q tags
have a two-way communication range of up to 100 meters (300 feet).
Polarization is dependent on orientation and is rotation symmetrical.
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 7
2.4 Data communication between i-PORT and Tag:
Data communication between the i-PORT reader and tag always initiates from the reader.
First the i-PORT sends out a scan signal, which contains an i-PORT ID and the number of
available slots. All tags that are located in the read zone and that receive the signal search
out a slot at random and answer in this slot. Each slot has a duration of 1.2 ms. This
anti-collision process requires the availability of at least double the number of slots as the
maximum number of tags expected; the probability of collisions increases as the slots are
utilized. As a result of this scan signal, the i-PORT generates a tag list. Data can now be
exchanged (read from or written to) with the tags on this list. Before data is exchanged
with the tag, the i-PORT sends a Session Setup signal to this tag in order to prepare the
tag for the impending data interrogation. In contrast to the scan, which addresses all the
tags, all other commands refer to only one particular tag.
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 8
3.0 Using Your RFID Hardware
Now that your RFID system has been professionally installed, setup, and tested, the
following section will provide you with user interface diagnostic descriptions and
maintenance tips to ensure your RFID system will operate trouble free.
3.1 LED Displays
Status LEDs:
a) POWER: Lights when power is applied to the i-PORT
b) RUN: Blinks (every 2 seconds) as soon as the i-PORT has booted (approx. 10
seconds after power-up)
c) HOST: Lights when a host is connected to the i-PORT
d) ERROR: Lights when an error occurs (see section: Troubleshooting)
COM LEDs:
a) RX: Lights when the i-PORT receives data on serial interface
b) TX: Lights when the i-PORT sends data on serial interface
INPUT LEDs:
a) 1-4: Light when Inputs 1-4 are set (Connection to Ground)
NOTE: This functionality has not been implemented at this time.
ANTENNA LEDs:
a) 1-4: Light when there is activity at corresponding Antennas 1-4
Green: Antenna is sending
Red: Antenna is receiving (Orange to red, depending on the strength of
the signal
b) W: Lights when there is activity at the Wake-up Antenna
OUTPUT LEDs:
a) 1-4: Light when the corresponding Outputs 1-4 are set
NOTE: This functionality has not been implemented at this time.
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 9
Cable Connections and Plug Allocation
Depending on your project requirements, the installer of this device will have wired one or
more input and output devices. The following will describe the operation of each terminal
block employed on the i-PORT III.
Antenna jacks:
ANT1-4: SMA sockets, send and receive antennas
ANT W: SMA socket, send antenna ONLY (WakeUp Antenna, for i-Q tags only)
Terminal Block 1: +10-30V Connection for power supply (10-30V DC) Supply
GND Connection for power supply (GND) Supply
Terminal Block 2: Functionality has not been implemented at this time.
Terminal Block 3: Functionality has not been implemented at this time.
Terminal Block 4: Functionality has not been implemented at this time.
Serial and Ethernet Interface:
RS 232 interface (up to 115 kb/s) (for setup and diagnostics only) and Ethernet interface
(10 / 100 Mbit/s)
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 10
4.0 Software, Configuration
4.1 IP-Address, Password
The installer of your RFID reader will require an unused IP address for each device
installed in your facility. The installer will configure each i-PORT III reader during the
installation process. If the i-PORT III should be reset for any reason, the default factory
settings are as follows:
IP-Address 192.168.2.244
Subnet-Mask: 255.255.255.0
User Name: user
Password: identec
4.2 Configuration, Settings
Direct Connection:
Connect the i-PORT directly to the network connection in your PC, laptop, etc. using a
crossover network cable.
Ensure that the PC’s IP-Address lies in the same subnet as that of the i-PORT.
Network Connection:
Connect the i-PORT with a straight network cable to the network.
4.3 Interfaces
Ethernet Interface:
Rate of transmission: 10 / 100 Mbit/s
Protocols: TCP/IP, FTP, Telnet, HTTP, SNMP
Ports: Debugport 7090 for Debug data
Communication Port 7070 for communication (commands, messages)
WLAN:
It is possible to effect a WLAN connection by means of a converter, for example a Client
Bridge or Access Point.
4.4 Protocols
The protocol used by the i-PORT is an ASCII protocol. The protocol allows a host computer
to take control of the process or of the i-PORT. It is possible to execute scans, to read or
write data, to start temperature logs etc. on command.
For more information about the protocol, please refer to the i-PORT “Communication
Protocol”.
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 11
5.0 Technical Specifications
5.1 Codes, Parameters
ILR® Parameters
Compatibility ILR® i-Q Tags
ILR® i-Q Tag
Read range (adjustable) 100m (300 ft)
Write range (adjustable) 100m (300 ft)
Max. response time (single tag) < 150 ms
Read rate (ID only) 100 tags/s
Read rate – 128 bit data 35 tags/s
Multi-tag-handling (simultaneous) Up to 2,000 tags
RF Interface
Frequency 868 MHz (EU) or
916 MHz (NA) ISM Band
Certification
RF rate of transmission i-Q 115.2 kbit/s
Number of antennas 5 (4 read/write + 1 wakeup)
Antenna transmitters 1
Antenna receivers 4
Antenna control Independent antennas, simultaneous operation (receive)
User Interface
Ethernet interface 10 Mbit/s / 100 Mbit/s
Protocols
Ports
Serial interface RS 232 – Setup and diagnostics only
Status signals 19 status LEDs (for service and installation)
CPU
Operating system RTOS (Real Time Operating System) Thread X
Program memory 2 MB Flash
Data memory 128 KB SRAM
Configuration memory 8 KB EEPROM
Time base Battery-backed Real Time Clock (RTC)
Electrical Data
Input voltage 10 – 30 VDC
Input power 7.5 W minimum
Standards / safety CE and EN 330 220
Environmental Conditions
Operating temperature 0°C to +50°C
FCC, Part 15 (US)
Industry Canada
EN 330 220 (EU)
Output power: up to 6 dBm — adjustable (50 steps)
Sensitivity: up to -85 dBm — adjustable (100 steps)
TCP/IP, FTP, Telnet, HTTP, SNMP
7090 Debug port, 7070 Communication port
8 MB DRAM
optional –30°C to +70°C
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 12
Storage temperature -40°C to +80°C
Humidity 90%, non-condensing
Physical Data
Dimensions 211mm x 190mm x 58mm
Enclosure Aluminum, anodized
Mass 1.9 kg
Mounting 4 mounting holes, diameter 5mm
Enclosure rating IP 64
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 13
6.0 Troubleshooting
(LED: ANT1, ANT2, ANT3,
corresponding antenna
6.1 Troubleshooting
1) If the red Error LED blinks during the boot process and continues blinking after a
restart, contact the IDENTEC SOLUTIONS hotline.
2) If the Error LED lights up during operation, a system error has occurred (exception).
First execute a cold start (interrupt the power supply) and observe the system. If the
error occurs again, contact the IDENTEC SOLUTIONS hotline.
3) For other problems, follow the procedures as outlined below.
Problem Possible Cause Procedure Solution
No functionality after
turning on the power
supply
No communication
between i-PORT and
network (PC) i.e.
cannot ping i-PORT
i-PORT IP and Host
Wrong network
Defective network
Tags are not being
recognized
Antennas are not
No power
- Measure the
voltage at the
terminal blocks
Wrong IP address - Double-check the i-PORT IP
IP are not in the
same subnet
cable
cable
Antennas are not
connected
being triggered
- If no voltage at terminal
blocks, check power supply
unit
- Measure directly at the outlet
for a power adaptor
- For a switching power supply,
measure voltage at both input
and output sides
address. Default-IP:
192.168.2.244
- Perform a ping on the IP (see
“Configuration, Settings”)
- If this is unsuccessful, connect
to the I-PORT via a null
modem cable and terminal
program, start the Boot menu
and check/change the IP
- Double-check the subnet mask Change the subnet mask
- Direct connection i-PORT /
Host: cross-over network cable
- i-PORT integrated into
network: network cable
- Do visual check on cable
- Check if the antennas are
connected correctly
- Check if antenna LEDs light up
Change power supply
unit, if necessary
Change the IP address if
necessary and try to
ping the i-PORT
Possibly change the
network cable
Change network cable
Fasten antenna cables
to the designated sites.
Use torque wrench, if
available, otherwise
tighten the SMA plug
lightly.
Activate the
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 14
ANT4, W)
Tel: (250) 860
Tel.: +43 (0)5577 87387
Antenna is defective - Do visual check to see if
antenna is defective
Tag is out of read
zone
Tag is too close to
antenna (Note: can
manifest if using
high power setting
and high sensitivity
tag setting)
Tags are stationary
in an RF “dead” spot
i-PORT does not scan
on various antennas
No messages on Port
7090 (Debug port)
File download
unsuccessful, i.e.
i-PORT does not
accept the file
Internet browser
cannot display
i-PORT web page
Antennas are not
being triggered
DebugInfo has been
turned off (7090)
No connection with
i-PORT
Browser is trying to
access Proxy Server
- Hold a test tag in front of the
antenna and check if tag is
being recognized (blinks, i.e.
Debug port)
- Move the tag away from the
antenna
- Move the tags. Move the antenna
- Check if the antennas in
question are activated and
scan-enabled (see
“Configuration”)
- Check if Debug port is
activated (i.e. which data is
being transmitted)
- Check the IP address and the
network cable
- Deactivate your Internet
browser’s proxy function
(see “Configuration”)
Change antenna(s) if
necessary
If necessary, adjust the
output power to the
requirements
If necessary, reduce the
output power to the
requirements
slightly, add additional
antennas, or shield or
move nearby reflecting
surfaces
Turn on the desired
antennas
Activate the Debug port
(“Configuration”)
Change the IP address if
required or change the
network cable
6.2 Contact
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Document #7201-003, Rev B Page 15
In North America:
IDENTEC SOLUTIONS Inc.
#102 – 1860 Dayton Street
Kelowna, BC
Canada
V1Y 7W6
-6567
Fax: (250) 860-6541
In Europe:
IDENTEC SOLUTIONS AG
Millennium Park 2
A-6890 Lustenau
Austria
-0
Fax: +43 (0)5577 87387-15
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