Rockwell Automation 57RF User Manual
User Manual
RFID ICODE Handheld Interface
Bulletin Number 57RF
Important User Information
IMPORTANT
Solid-state equipment has operational characteristics differing from those of electromechanical equipment. Safety
Guidelines for the Application, Installation and Maintenance of Solid State Controls (publication SGI-1.1
your local Rockwell Automation® sales office or online at http://www.rockwellautomation.com/literature/
important differences between solid-state equipment and hard-wired electromechanical devices. Because of this difference,
and also because of the wide variety of uses for solid-state equipment, all persons responsible for applying this equipment
must satisfy themselves that each intended application of this equipment is acceptable.
In no event will Rockwell Automation, Inc. be responsible or liable for indirect or consequential damages resulting from the
use or application of this equipment.
The examples and diagrams in this manual are included solely for illustrative purposes. Because of the many variables and
requirements associated with any particular installation, Rockwell Automation, Inc. cannot assume responsibility or
liability for actual use based on the examples and diagrams.
No patent liability is assumed by Rockwell Automation, Inc. with respect to use of information, circuits, equipment, or
software described in this manual.
Reproduction of the contents of this manual, in whole or in part, without written permission of Rockwell Automation,
Inc., is prohibited.
Throughout this manual, when necessary, we use notes to make you aware of safety considerations.
available from
) describes some
WARNING: Identifies information about practices or circumstances that can cause an explosion in a hazardous environment,
which may lead to personal injury or death, property damage, or economic loss.
ATTENTION: Identifies information about practices or circumstances that can lead to personal injury or death, property
damage, or economic loss. Attentions help you identify a hazard, avoid a hazard, and recognize the consequence.
SHOCK HAZARD: Labels may be on or inside the equipment, for example, a drive or motor, to alert people that dangerous
voltage may be present.
BURN HAZARD: Labels may be on or inside the equipment, for example, a drive or motor, to alert people that surfaces may
reach dangerous temperatures.
Identifies information that is critical for successful application and understanding of the product.
Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Software, Rockwell Automation, and TechConnect are trademarks of Rockwell Automation, Inc.
Bluetooth is a trademark of Bluetooth SIG
Xenoy is trademark of General Electric Company
Intel and XScale are trademarks of Intel Corporation
Microsoft, Windows, and ActiveSync are trademarks of Microsoft Corportation
Trademarks not belonging to Rockwell Automation are property of their respective companies.
Preface
Environment and Enclosure
Follow these guidelines for environment and enclosure information for this
equipment.
ATTENTION: This equipment is intended for use in overvoltage
Category II applications (as defined in IEC 60664-1), at altitudes up to
2000 m (6562 ft) without derating.
This equipment is considered Group 1, Class A industrial equipment
according to IEC/CISPR 11. Without appropriate precautions, there
may be difficulties with electromagnetic compatibility in residential
and other environments due to conducted and radiated disturbances.
This equipment is supplied as enclosed equipment. It should not
require additional system enclosure when used in locations
consistent with the enclosure type ratings stated in the Specifications
section of this publication. Subsequent sections of this publication
may contain additional information regarding specific enclosure type
ratings, beyond what this product provides, that are required to
comply with certain product safety certifications.
In addition to this publication, see:
• Industrial Automation Wiring and Grounding Guidelines, Rockwell
Automation publication 1770-4.1
requirements.
• NEMA Standards 250 and IEC 60529, as applicable, for
explanations of the degrees of protection provided by different
types of enclosure.
, for additional installation
About this Manual
Prevent Electrostatic Discharge
Follow these guidelines when you handle this equipment.
This equipment is sensitive to electrostatic discharge that can cause
internal damage and affect normal operation. Follow these
guidelines when you handle this equipment.
• Touch a grounded object to discharge potential static.
• Wear an approved grounding wrist strap.
• Do not touch connectors or pins on component boards.
• Do not touch circuit components inside the equipment.
• Use a static-safe workstation if available.
• Store the equipment in appropriate static-safe packaging when not
in use.
This manual describes the standard features and operation of the RFID ICODE
handheld interface. Unless otherwise stated, the operational characteristics
described herein correspond to factory default configurations and settings as
shipped from Allen-Bradley. Wherever used herein, the terms “RFID ICODE
handheld interface” or “handheld” applies to all models (except as noted).
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 3
Preface
About RFID
About the RFID ICODE Handheld Interface
RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) is a wireless communication technology
that uses the RF portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to transmit and receive
information from EPC (Electronic Product Code) tags. The tags can come in
many shapes and sizes -such as disks, cards, or paper labels (smart labels) - and can
store a simple identification number or a sophisticated database.
RFID technology is based on the simple idea that a reader can activate an
electronic circuit inside a tag from a distance and exchange information. An
integrated circuit inside the reader creates an alternating current. This current
generates an alternating magnetic field through the reader’s antenna that serves as
a power source for a RFID tag. This magnetic field interacts with the antenna in
the tag which, in turn, activates the tag’s integrated circuit causing the tag to
create a digital signal, which contains an encoded identifier number.
The tag then generates its own alternating magnetic field, which interacts with
the reader’s alternating magnetic field. A device inside the RFID reader senses the
variations and converts this pattern to the digital signal, which interprets the tag's
identifier code.
Designed for one-handed operation, the RFID ICODE handheld interface
features a powerful Windows® CE 5.0 operating system and an Intel® PXA270
XScale™ processor that operates up to 624 MHz. It comes standard with
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and serial communication ports (USB and RS-232).
Additional Resources
With its 13.56 MHz RFID integrated reader and flip-out antenna, the RFID
ICODE handheld interface can read and write ICODE ISO 15693 industry
standard RFID tags within a 3.5 in. (90 mm) range making it ideal for item
tracking, data collection, and setup/maintenance of RFID systems.
These documents contain additional information concerning related products
from Rockwell Automation.
Resource Description
Industrial Automation Wiring and Grounding
Guidelines, publication 1770-4.1
Product Certifications website, http://www.ab.com
You can view or download publications at
http://www.rockwellautomation.com/literature/
technical documentation, contact your local Allen-Bradley distributor or
Rockwell Automation sales office.
Provides general guidelines for installing a
Rockwell Automation industrial system.
Provides declarations of conformity,
certificates, and other certification details.
. To order paper copies of
4 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Important User Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Preface
Environment and Enclosure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Prevent Electrostatic Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
About this Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
About RFID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
About the RFID ICODE Handheld Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Additional Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Table of Contents Chapter 1
Table of Contents
RFID ICODE Handheld Interface
Features
Quick Start Guide
Getting Started
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Rechargeable Battery Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Memory and Mass Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Keypads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Interface Capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Durability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Ingress Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Chapter 2
Powering up the RFID ICODE Handheld Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Reading an RFID Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Writing to an RFID Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Chapter 3
Front Components and Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Rear Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Compact Flash Slot Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Interface Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Power Supplies, Cables, and Adapters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Operation
Chapter 4
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Charging the Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Charge/Low Battery Indicator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Power/Suspend Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Replacing Batteries/Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Using the RFID Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Using the Compact Flash Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Data Entry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Keypads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Key Repeat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 5
Table of Contents
CE Keyboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Transcriber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Windows CE 5.0 Desktop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Windows CE 5.0 Desktop Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Taskbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Start Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Miscellaneous Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Chapter 5
Configuration
Connections
Software
Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Changing System Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Taskbar and Start Menu Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Chapter 6
ActiveSync® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Initial Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Subsequent Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Wireless Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Wi-Fi Companion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Wireless Zero Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Setting Up Identification for Remote Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Connecting to a Mail Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Bluetooth Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Setup and Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Making an ActiveSync Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Chapter 7
User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Screen Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Working with Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Read/Write Times. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Reading Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Writing Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Device Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Minimize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Exit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Data Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Erase. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Clear Tag History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
ASCII Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Tag Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
6 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Table of Contents
Help Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Microsoft® Excel: Importing/Exporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Chapter 8
Troubleshooting
Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Initialization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Read/Write . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Appendix A
Handheld Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Memory and Mass Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
User Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Physical Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Socket Go Wi-Fi! P500 Wireless Card Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Physical Characteristics:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Power Consumption (3.3 V Supply):. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Transmit Power: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Standards Conformance:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
802.11g: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
802.11b: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Frequency Range:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Indoor Range:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Access Protocol: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Certification/Compliance: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Signal and Pin Assignments
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 7
Appendix B
Serial Interface Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Table of Contents
8 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Chapter
1
RFID ICODE Handheld Interface Features
Features
Operating System
The RFID ICODE handheld interface uses Windows® CE 5.0 as its operating
system.
Rechargeable Battery Pack
The RFID ICODE handheld interface comes with a rechargeable Nickel Metal
Hydride (NiMH) battery pack that can provide up to six hours of operating time
on a full charge (depending on power management and use). The NiMH
technology used in the RFID ICODE handheld interface has exceptional charge
life without the “charge memory” characteristic of conventional nickel cadmium
batteries. Partially discharged batteries or extended periods with the charger left
connected will not adversely affect battery life or performance. The RFID
ICODE handheld interface can also run on six AA alkaline batteries.
Processor
The RFID ICODE handheld interface utilizes an Intel® PXA270 processor
designed specifically for high-performance, low power, portable, handheld
devices. It incorporates Intel XScale technology with on-the-fly voltage,
frequency scaling and sophisticated power management. It also complies with the
ARM Architecture V5TE instruction set.
Memory and Mass Storage
The RFID ICODE handheld interface comes standard with 128MB of
SDRAM (approximately 30MB used for the operating system) and 512MB of
internal compact flash memory. An additional 256MB of SDRAM is optionally
available. Internal compact flash memory is optionally expandable to 8+ GB. For
removable data storage or I/O cards, the RFID ICODE handheld interface is
equipped with a Compact Flash (CF) slot.
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 9
Chapter 1
Displays
The RFID ICODE handheld interface features a supertwist nematic liquid
crystal 320 x 240 QVGA-TFT color sunlight readable display with touch screen
and LED backlight.
Keypads
Keypad configurations for the RFID ICODE handheld interface include the
45-key pad and 52-key with directional pad.
Indicators
The RFID ICODE handheld interface has five programmable LED indicators
that can provide a number of useful functions including the state of keypad
modifier keys. An additional LED indicates the current charge or low battery
status.
Interface Capabilities
The RFID ICODE handheld interface comes standard with one USB port and
one RS-232 serial port. The RFID ICODE handheld interface also includes WiFi and Bluetooth®.
Durability
The case is made of General Electric Xenoy®, one of the most durable chemical
resistant materials available today.
Ingress Protection
The RFID ICODE handheld interface is completely dust-tight and can
withstand exposure to jets of water and has an IP (Ingress Protection) rating of 65
as defined by IEC standard 529.
10 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Chapter
Power Supply/Battery Charger
To Unit
2
Quick Start Guide
The Quick Start Guide will give basic instructions on how to use your new RFID
ICODE handheld interface.
Powering up the RFID ICODE Handheld Interface
1. Charge the unit for a minimum of three hours prior to first use.
a. If you are using the wall charger and serial cable (57RF-HH-56IN,
57RF-HH-56US2):
i. Plug the power jack of the battery charger/power supply into the
corresponding cable connector as shown below.
Figure 1 - Power Jack
ii. Remove the rubber cover from the RS-232 connector on the bottom
of the RFID ICODE handheld interface. Plug the interface cable
into the connector.
iii. Plug the battery charger/power supply into a power outlet. The
Charge LED should turn on, indicating that the batteries are
charging.
Figure 2 - Power Outlet
b. If you are using the charging cradle (57RF-HH-56US1):
i. Plug the two-pin connector of the power supply into the back of the
charging cradle as shown below.
Figure 3 - Charging Cradle/Power Supply
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 11
Chapter 2
ii. Plug one end of the detachable AC cord into the power supply and
the other end into a power outlet as shown below.
Figure 4 - Power Supply Cord
iii. Remove the rubber cover from the RS-232 connector on the bottom
of the RFID ICODE handheld interface.
iv. Place the RFID ICODE handheld interface in the charging cradle as
shown below. The Charge LED should turn on, indicating that the
batteries are charging.
Figure 5 - Interface into Charging Cradle
2. The Charge LED will blink green when the RFID ICODE handheld
interface is fully charged. Unplug the unit or remove it from the charging
cradle.
3. Press and hold the On/Off switch for one second.
The unit should turn on and begin displaying the boot-up process. After
approximately 15 seconds, the Windows CE 5.0 desktop should appear.
Figure 6 - On/Off Switch
4. Flip the RFID module 180° as shown below. This will provide optimal tag
reading performance.
Figure 7 - RFID Module
12 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Chapter 2
Reading an RFID Tag
1. Using the stylus, double-tap the RFID ICODE icon on the desktop.
The RFID application will open.
Figure 8 - RFID ICODE Application Icon
2. Double-tap in the Start field and type in 0 using the keypad. This sets the
RFID application to start reading/writing tags at the first byte available for
user data.
3. Double-tap in the Length field and type in 0 using the keypad. This sets
the RFID application to read/write the entire tag.
4. Tap the arrow next to the drop-down menu labeled “Mode”. A list should
open with these options: BIN, DEC, HEX, ASCII.
Ta p HEX to set the RFID application to read in hexadecimal mode.
5. If the checkbox labeled “Continuous” is unchecked, the RFID application
is in Single Read/Write mode and will only read/write the first tag. If the
checkbox is checked, tap the box with the stylus to clear it.
6. If the speaker symbol in the center of the bottom bar is blue, the sound is
on. If it is grey, tap it with the stylus to turn the sound on.
Figure 9 - Application Screen Shot 1
7. Place an ICODE compatible tag in range of the RFID module (typically
0.25…3 in. (6.35…76.2 mm) away, depending on tag size).
8. Tap the Read button with the stylus.
9. The handheld will beep and the data grid will display the tag data.
10. The UID field will display the tag UID (Unique Identifier).
11. Use the scroll bar on the right side of the screen to scroll through and view
the tag data.
Figure 10 - Application Screen Shot 2
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 13
Chapter 2
Writing to an RFID Tag
1. If the Start field is not already 0, double-tap in the field and type in 0 using
the keypad. This sets the RFID application to start reading/writing tags at
the first byte available for user data.
2. Double-tap in the Length field and type in 8 using the keypad. This sets
the RFID application to write a total of 8 bytes of data to the tag.
3. Tap the arrow next to the drop-down menu labeled “Mode” and select
ASCII from the list.
4. Double-tap the UID field and type in 0 using the keypad. This allows the
RFID application to write to any ICODE compatible tag. If there is a nonzero UID in the field, the application will only write to that specific tag.
5. If the checkbox labeled “Continuous” is unchecked, the RFID application
is in Single Read/Write mode and will only read/write the first tag. If the
checkbox is checked, tap the box with the stylus to clear it.
6. If the speaker symbol in the center of the bottom bar is blue, the sound is
on. If it is grey, tap it with the stylus to turn the sound on.
7. Tap on cell 0 using the stylus. Use the keypad to enter Rockwell in cells
0…7.
8. Place an ICODE compatible tag in range of the RFID module (typically
0.25…3 in. (6.35…76.2 mm) away, depending on tag size).
9. Tap th e Wr i t e button with the stylus. A pop-up window will appear, asking
you to choose between Wri te fr om S cr ee n and Wr ite fr om Fi le .
Figure 11 - Application Screen Shot 3
14 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Chapter 2
10. Tap the radio button next to Screen.
Figure 12 - Application Screen Shot 4
11. Ta p OK. The handheld will beep, and Rockwell will be written to the tag
in cells 0…7.
12. To check that the write was successful, manually clear the screen by tapping
in cells 0…7 and pressing Backspace on the keypad.
13. Perform a single read (See Reading an RFID Tag
grid will display Rockwell in cells 0…7.
on page 13). The data
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 15
Chapter 2
Notes:
16 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Getting Started
Chapter
3
Front Components and Indicators
This section describes the components and indicators found on the front of the
RFID ICODE handheld interface.
Figure 13 - Front Components and Indicators
Table 5 - Front Components and Indicators
Item Function Description
1 Display Supertwist nematic liquid crystal display with touch screen
2 Battery Indicator Indicates low battery (red) status and charging (green) status
3 LEDs Indicates use of the SHIFT, CTRL, 2ND ALT, and CAPS modifier keys
4 On/Off Switch Controls the Power, Suspend, and Resume operations
5 Keypad 52-key directional pad shown (45-key pad also available, see the
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 17
Standard 45-key Pad
figure on page 29.
Chapter 3
Rear Components
This section describes the components found on the rear of the RFID ICODE
handheld interface.
Figure 14 - Rear Components
Table 6 - Rear Components
Compact Flash Slot Cover
Item Function Description
1 RFID Module The RFID Module attached to the rear of the unit can read RFID tags in
2 Battery
Compartment
its storage position (shown above) or swing out up to 180° for
maximum range. See the RFID Read Range figure on page 27.
The battery compartment can store either the Nickel Metal Hydride
(NiMH) rechargeable battery pack or six AA alkaline batteries. You can
access the battery compartment by lifting up and turning the retaining
clip.
For more information using batteries, see “Replacing Batteries/Battery
Pack on page 24.”
The compact flash slot cover located on the top of the unit provides access to the
compact flash slot that stores memory and device cards. The hatch cover
thoroughly seals the RFID ICODE handheld interface to maintain a total IP65
solution. Four screws secure the cover to the top of the RFID ICODE handheld
interface. To insert device or memory cards into the compact flash slot, you must
first remove these screws using a flat head screwdriver.
For more information about inserting and removing memory and device cards,
see “Using the Compact Flash Slot
Figure 15 - Compact Flash Slot Hatch
” on page 27.
18 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Chapter 3
Interface Connections
This section describes the interface connectors found on the bottom of the RFID
ICODE handheld interface.
The serial interface connection system is a set of rugged interface and cable
connectors especially designed for industrial environments. It features positive
connector retention without any hardware restraints for quick connect/
disconnect operations and a contact design that prevents failure due to pin
fatigue and cable stress after repeated use. A standard Type B Mini USB
connector allows the RFID ICODE handheld interface to easily connect with
PCs and laptops.
Figure 16 - USB and Serial Interface Connectors
Table 7 - Serial Interface Pin-Outs
Pin Description Pin Description
1X1 7DSR
2 Ground 8 RTS
3RI 9DCD
4 CTS 10 11…18V DC input
5DTR 11Shield
6 TXD 12 RXD
Table 8 - USB Pin-Outs
Pin Description
1+5V DC
2Data –
3Data +
4 Device presence indicator
5Ground
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 19
Chapter 3
Power Supplies, Cables, and Adapters
Rockwell Automation can provide the following optional power supplies, cables,
and adapters based on communication and power requirements. For cable signal
and pin assignments, see “Signal and Pin Assignments
Table 9 - Available Power Supplies, Cables, and Adapters
Catalog Number Part Description
57RF-HH-56US1 Single position charging cradle with domestic power supply cable,
USB cable
57RF-HH-56US2 Domestic wall mount power supply, serial cable, USB cable
57RF-HH-56IN Power supply kit (includes power supply, adapters for USA,
Europe, Australia, UK, and rest of world), serial cable, USB cable
57RF-HH-56CA Serial cable, 15 ft, straight, 9-pin female connector, RS-232,
molded
” in Appendix B, page 107.
20 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Operation
Chapter
4
Power
The RFID ICODE handheld interface comes with a rechargeable Nickel Metal
Hydride (NiMH) battery pack that can provide up to six hours of operating time
on a full charge (depending on power management and use).
You will need to charge the Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery
pack a minimum of three hours prior to first use. Please note that the battery pack
will not attain maximum capacity until it has been charged and discharged
approximately four times. As a result, you may experience shorter than expected
operating time on the first few uses of the product.
NiMH batteries are an extremely stable and dependable source of electrical
energy, but can be sensitive to extreme temperature. If you charge the battery pack
in extreme hot or cold, it will not attain a full charge, and as a result will exhibit
decreased useable time until it recharges again. As a precaution against
overheating, the RFID ICODE handheld interface has built-in temperature
sensors that will suspend the charging process if the battery becomes too warm.
Because the battery pack is an electrical device, you should not expose it to
moisture or wet environments. If the battery becomes wet, wipe it dry and then
allow it to dry thoroughly for several hours before attempting to use or charge it.
Do not leave the battery pack in a fully discharged state for extended periods.
This condition may cause one or more of the cells within the battery pack to fail.
When this occurs and the battery pack is subsequently re-charged, the failed cell
will reduce the total voltage capacity of the battery pack, thus making the battery
appear to discharge faster.
Charging the Unit
The nickel metal hydride battery technology used in the RFID ICODE
handheld interface has exceptional charge life without the “charge memory”
characteristic of conventional nickel cadmium batteries. Partially discharged
batteries or extended periods with the charger left connected will not adversely
affect battery life or performance.
WARNING: Do not enable or utilize the RFID module while charging
the unit. Operation of this nature is likely to cause harmful
interference.
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 21
Chapter 4
IMPORTANT
Because the internal battery charger senses several conditions,
including temperature, you should charge the unit away from any
known, or potential, heat sources. Units exposed to temperatures in
excess of 110 °F (43.3 °C) during the charge cycle may experience
incomplete charging and reduced operating time per charge.
To charge the Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack:
1. Plug the power jack of the battery charger/power supply into the
corresponding cables connector as shown below.
Figure 17 - Power Jack
Power Supply/Battery Charger
To Unit
2. Plug the interface cable into the connector on the bottom of the RFID
ICODE handheld interface.
3. Plug the battery charger/power supply into a power outlet. The Charge
LED should turn on, indicating that the batteries are charging (see
Charge/Low Battery Indicator Functions
Figure 18 - Power Supply and Outlet
table on page 23).
4. Once the battery is fully charged (approximately four hours), you can
disconnect the power supply and run the RFID ICODE handheld
interface exclusively on battery power.
22 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Chapter 4
Charge/Low Battery Indicator
When using the Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack, the Charge/Low
Battery LED will indicate the current battery status as shown in the table below.
Table 10 - Charge/Low Battery Indicator Functions
Function Description
CHARGE With the power supply connected, the CHARGE/LOW BAT LED will indicate one of
LOW BAT With the power supply disconnected, the CHARGE/LOW BAT LED will indicate one
the following conditions:
• High power charge – the LED will turn solid green
• Fully/near full charge – the LED will blink green about four times a second
• Trickle charge – the LED will blink green approximately once per second when
either the battery voltage and/or temperature of the battery assembly are not
within acceptable limits
of the following conditions:
• Batteries are low – the LED will blink red once per second when there is
approximately 30 minutes of power remaining
• Batteries are very low – the LED will turn solid red when there is approximately
10 minutes of power remaining
Power/Suspend Switch
The On/Off switch is located above the keypad. Its function depends on the state
of the RFID ICODE handheld interface at the time the switch is pressed and on
the length of time that the switch is depressed. Operations that the power switch
can initiate are:
• Power on
• Power off
• Suspend
Figure 19 - Power/Suspend Switch
Power On
To power on the RFID ICODE handheld interface:
1. Press and hold the ON/OFF switch for one second.
2. The unit should turn on and begin displaying the boot-up process.
3. After approximately 15 seconds, the Windows CE 5.0 desktop should
appear.
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 23
Chapter 4
However, because there is no outward indication (such as a flashing LED) that
the RFID ICODE handheld interface is powered off or in Suspend mode, the
handheld may resume an active application it if is indeed in a suspended state.
If the unit does not power up or you cannot select any items from the desktop,
refer to “Troubleshooting
” in Chapter 8 (page 95) for more information.
Power Off
To turn off the RFID ICODE handheld interface, press and hold the On/Off
switch for approximately eight seconds. This action will also terminate running
applications and cease serial port operations.
Suspend Mode
Suspend mode allows you to suspend, but not terminate active applications. In
this mode, the display will turn off and the RFID ICODE handheld interface will
cease serial port operations. For battery-powered units, Suspend mode also
conserves battery power.
To place the unit in Suspend mode, press and release the On/Off switch.
To take the RFID ICODE handheld interface out of Suspend mode, press and
release the On/Off switch again. The display will turn on and the RFID ICODE
handheld interface will resume running any suspended application, but you must
restart any serial port operations.
If you attempt to resume immediately after suspending the RFID ICODE
handheld interface or vice versa, the unit will delay three seconds before resuming
or suspending.
Replacing Batteries/Battery Pack
WARNING: There is a risk of explosion if you replace the NiMH battery
with an incorrect type. Only use a NiMH battery supplied with your unit or
a replacement NiMH battery supplied, recommended, or approved by
Rockwell Automation.
When using alkaline batteries, replace all alkaline batteries in the RFID ICODE
handheld interface at the same time. Do not mix old and new batteries, mix
different types or brands of batteries, or dispose of the batteries in a fire. These
actions can cause battery rupture or leakage that result in personal injury or
property damage.
Remove the batteries from the RFID ICODE handheld interface when not using
the handheld for extended periods. Store the batteries in a cool, dry location at
normal room temperature.
24 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Chapter 4
To replace the rechargeable battery pack or change AA batteries:
1. Turn the power off. With the unit face down, pull the battery cover
retaining clip up from its recessed slot and turn the clip in a counter
clockwise motion (see the Changing Batteries
figure below).
2. Lift the cover up and remove the batteries/battery pack.
3. If the unit contains a Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack, use the
tab to lift up on the battery pack and then out.
4. Close the battery cover and turn the battery cover retaining clip clockwise
to lock the cover.
Figure 20 - Changing Batteries
Power Management
Battery-powered units can utilize a rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
battery pack that has an average operating time of six hours on a full charge with
power management.
As with all battery-powered devices, the operating time is completely dependent
on the environment, device usage, and the number and type of power-drawing
peripherals attached. The battery discharge rate in a full “Power Off ” state is only
slightly higher to the self-discharge rate of the battery itself.
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 25
Chapter 4
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
Allowing the batteries to remain in a low or very low condition will cause
the unit to enter Suspend mode. In either case, you should save your
work and recharge the unit as soon as possible.
To lengthen the time between charges, you can perform the following actions:
• Use external power for PC Card operations whenever possible—some
PC Cards as well as extended communication via the serial port, may
require large amounts of power to operate, and can quickly drain the
batteries.
• Limit the use of backlight—minimize backlight use when you are
operating on battery power.
You can adjust the backlight timeout level through the Display settings in
the Control Panel or on some units by using the keypad.
• Shorten auto-suspend time—the RFID ICODE handheld interface is
automatically set to suspend operation to conserve battery power when
you have not used the keyboard or the stylus after three minutes. You can
increase the auto-suspend time by changing the Power settings in the
Control Panel.
Using the RFID Module
The RFID module can read ISO-14443 and ISO-15693 RFID high frequency
(13.56 MHz) tags and smart labels. It is compatible with all
RockwellAutomation RFID ICODE tags, as well as ICODE tags from other
manufacturers.
The RFID module is totally application dependent and derives power from the
COM2 port. The RFID module has a flip-out antenna that provides a read range
of approximately 3.5 in. (90 mm) with a credit card size tag at 90° (see Figure
21—RFID Read Range
on page 27). For optimal tag reading performance, adjust
the module to either 90°or 180°.
Electronic items such as microwave ovens and cordless telephones can
affect RFID performance. The presence of metal and/or water can also
affect read range. Do not enable or utilize the RFID module with a cable
connected. Operation of this nature is likely to cause harmful
interference.
26 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Figure 21 - RFID Read Range
Chapter 4
Using the Compact Flash Slot
The Compact Flash slot located on top of the RFID ICODE handheld interface
enables you to utilize Compact Flash and device cards.
If you intend to use a device card, it may also be necessary to install a driver. If so,
make sure the card is Windows CE 5.0 compatible and you have the necessary
drivers. If you are not sure, check with the card manufacturer before attempting
to install the card.
To use the compact flash slot:
1. If needed, remove any screws from the cover to access the Compact Flash
slot.
2. Insert the compact flash card into the slot with the front of the display
facing you and the top of the card pointed to the slot until it clicks and the
release lever moves upward.
Figure 22 - Using the Compact Flash Slot
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 27
Chapter 4
3. Close the cover.
4. When inserting memory cards, a “UserCF” folder will appear when you
open My Computer. You can then copy and paste the contents of UserCF
to the other folders on the RFID ICODE handheld interface.
When inserting device cards, the RFID ICODE handheld interface will
attempt to recognize the device. If it finds a driver for the device, the RFID
ICODE handheld interface will display a dialog box for that device.
If the RFID ICODE handheld interface cannot find a driver for the
device, it will display the following dialog box:
5. If the correct card type appears, you can enter the appropriate information
in the dialog box required and then click OK to complete the installation.
Data Entry
6. To remove a card from the slot, simply push the card release lever down and
remove the card.
Keypads
52-Key Pads
This joystick style keypad with bezel nomenclature features easy screen
navigation and alphanumeric keypad entry and four programmable function keys.
Users can also access navigation keys and backlight control via the SHIFT key.
Figure 23 - Standard 52-key Pad
28 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
Chapter 4
45-Key Pads
In order to provide the functionality of a full-size keyboard with only 45 keys, the
RFID ICODE handheld interface keypad makes use of modifier keys. Units
configured with the 45-key pad utilize five LED indicators (located above the
On/Off switch) to indicate the active state of the keypad modifier keys. Units
with the 45-key pad also have keypad functions to adjust contrast and backlight.
Figure 24 - Standard 45-key Pad
Modifier Keys
The following modifier keys (located on the bottom of a standard keypad) enable
you to access the various functions that can appear on a key. Modifier keys take
effect when first pressed and typically remain in effect until you press another key,
unless it is another modifier key (see the Modifier Key Actions
table on page 30).
Optionally equipped units can use LEDs to indicate the selection of a modifier
key. The Power/Suspend Switch
Figure 25 - 45-Key Pad Modifier Key
figure on page 23 provides examples of LEDs.
• CTRL and ALT Keys—operate in the same manner as on conventional
PCs, except that by default they have a one-time locking action to facilitate
one-handed operation.
Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011 29
Chapter 4
• SHIFT Key—unlike conventional PC keyboards, the SHIFT key enables
you to access symbols, punctuation marks and navigation arrows rather
than shift alphabetic keys to uppercase. By default, the SHIFT key has a
one-time action. However, you can press the SHIFT key twice and lock
the keypad into Shift mode, where each subsequent key press will only
access characters that appear in the upper left of a key. Pressing the SHIFT
key a third time will release Shift mode.
On standard RFID ICODE handheld interface 45-key pads, the functions
and characters accessed via the SHIFT key appear in the upper left of a key
(shaded in light grey in the Standard 45-key Pad
figure on page 29).
• 2ND Key—shifts the numeric keys to corresponding function keys
(1=F1, 2 =F2, etc.) that are found on conventional PC keyboards. It also
shifts other keys for punctuation, non-printing characters (such as Delete
and TAB), and PC key definitions (such as Page Up, Page Down, Home,
Insert and Caps Lock).
On standard RFID ICODE handheld interface 45-key pads, the functions
and characters accessed via the 2ND key appear at the bottom of a key,
(shaded in dark grey in the Standard 45-key Pad
figure on page 29).
Like the SHIFT key, the 2ND key has a default one-time action and a
locking mode (for example, pressing the 2ND key twice will lock the
keypad into 2ND mode).
Table 11 - Modifier Key Actions
Key Presses Result
A Lowercase “a”
Shift & A Move cursor left one position
2ND & A Delete character
2ND & Caps Lock & A Uppercase “A”
Key Repeat
By default, the RFID ICODE handheld interface does not automatically repeat a
key stroke when you hold down a key. However, you can enable the key repeat
function by configuring the Keyboard setting in the Control Panel.
CE Keyboard
In addition to entering data through the keypad, you can also enter data by using
the CE Keyboard. This utility displays a keyboard on the screen to allow data
entry via the Command Line or into applications where “text accessibility”
control has focus (for example, text or combo box).
30 Rockwell Automation Publication 57RF-UM001A-EN-P - September 2011
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