Ruggedized Reader
User’s Manual
Revised: October 6, 2003
Document Control Number: MNI03H001
Matrics, Inc.
8850 Stanford Boulevard
Suite 3000
Columbia, MD 21045
Tel: 410.872.0300
Fax: 410.872.0700
http://www.matrics.com
Notices
Copyright 2003 Matrics, Inc. All rights reserved.
This document is protected by copyright with all rights reserved. No part of the document may be reproduced or
transmitted by any means or in any form without prior consent in writing from Matrics, Inc.
Trademarks
Matrics is a registered trademark of Matrics, Inc. All other product names or logos mentioned herein are used
for identification purposes only, and are the trademarks of their respective owners.
Statement of Rights
IMPORTANT – READ CAREFULLY: Matrics products incorporate technology that is protected by U.S. patent
and other intellectual property (IP) rights owned by Matrics, Inc, and other rights owners. Use of these products
constitutes your legal agreement to honor Matrics’ IP rights as protected by applicable laws. Reverse
engineering, decompiling, or disassembly of Matrics products is strictly prohibited. Violators will be prosecuted.
ii Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc.
Contents
SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................1
Document Conventions..................................................................................................1
Acronyms and Abbreviations ........................................................................................1
References......................................................................................................................1
Disclaimer......................................................................................................................1
S
ECTION 2. SYSTEM DESCRIPTION .....................................................................................2
Product Description .......................................................................................................2
S
ECTION 3. SPECIFICATIONS AND DIAGRAMS ....................................................................4
Ruggedized Reader Specification..................................................................................4
Ruggedized Reader Diagram – Front View...................................................................5
Ruggedized Reader Diagram – Back View ...................................................................6
LEDs ..............................................................................................................................6
S
ECTION 4. INSTALLATION..................................................................................................7
Getting Started ...............................................................................................................7
Mount the Ruggedized Reader ......................................................................................7
Connect Antenna(s) to the Ruggedized Reader.............................................................8
Connect the Reader to a Host Computer .......................................................................8
Power On (and Off) the Reader .....................................................................................8
S
ECTION 5. CAUTIONS, NOTES, AND APPROVALS ..............................................................9
SECTION 6. WARRANTIES AND RETURNS .........................................................................10
Limited Warranty.........................................................................................................10
Return Material Authorization (RMA) ........................................................................10
S
ECTION 7. TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................................................................11
SECTION 8. CONTACT US ..................................................................................................12
Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc. iii
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iv Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc.
Section 1. Introduction
This Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual, designed for end-users of a Matrics Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) System, describes the Matrics Ruggedized Reader (PN: RDR-RUG-100) and
how to use it.
Document Conventions
The following conventions are used in this User’s Manual:
CONVENTION DESCRIPTION
1. Numbered list Provides step-by-step procedures for performing an action
• Bulleted list
Provides grouped information, not procedural steps
Acronyms and Abbreviations
The following acronyms and abbreviations are used in this User’s Manual:
ACRONYM DEFINITION
IC Integrated Circuit
MVM Matrics Visibility Manager
OOK On Off Keyed
RFID Radio Frequency Identification
TBD To Be Determined
References
For additional information, refer to the following documentation:
• Reader Station User’s Manual (DCN: MNI03H002)
• Clamp Truck Application User’s Manual (DCN: MNI03H003)
• Reader Station Application User’s Manual (DCN: MNI03H004)
Disclaimer
While Matrics has committed its best efforts to providing accurate information and timely updates to
this User’s Manual, we assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies that may be contained herein,
and we reserve the right to make changes to this User’s Manual without notice.
Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc. 1
Section 2. System Description
Matrics develops and markets RFID solutions that are effective and affordable by offering a
combination of low cost, long read range, and a very high read rate unmatched by other RFID
systems. A Matrics RFID System gives you real-time, end-to-end visibility of products and assets in
your factory, distribution center, retail outlet, or other facility. A typical Matrics RFID system
consists of three main components:
• Silicon-based RFID tags that can be attached to vehicles, trailers, containers, pallets, paper rolls,
boxes, etc., to create a “people-free” wireless environment for tracking assets,
• Reader network components (reader stations, readers, antennas, cables, connectors, power
supplies, etc.) that power and communicate with the tags, and
• The Matrics Visibility Manager (MVM) software that runs on your choice of host computer
and collects tag data automatically.
Product Description
The Ruggedized Reader (PN: RDR-RUG-100) is an industrial strength UHF RFID Reader designed
for the International Paper warehouse tracking system. The outer enclosure of the Ruggedized Reader
is made of EMI/RFI watertight die-cast aluminum material, coated with a beige-colored, textured
polyester powder paint. The enclosure meets standards (NEMA 4X, IP66, DIN 40050) for degree of
protection, and is CSA certified (Type 4) for use with industrial control equipment.
The Ruggedized Reader offers superior and robust read range capabilities, anti-collision features, and
very high data read rates unmatched by other systems. It provides all of the RF and control functions
required to power and communicate with Matrics passive RFID tags. It sends digital data to the tag
(through one antenna at any given time) on a pulse width modulated On Off Keyed (OOK)
transmitter signal, demodulates the identification signal received from the tag, and then sends the data
to your host computer.
The Matrics Reader network is structured to allow for flexibility in system configurations and in the
arrangement of read points to optimize coverage at a low overall cost. Providing 12 physical antenna
connections, the Ruggedized Reader allows up to 20 varying antenna combinations (depending on
your application) attached directly to a single Reader.
The Ruggedized Reader is designed for use in two different applications:
• Clamp Truck – mounted on Taylor and/or Hyster clamp trucks, and
• Reader Station – mounted overhead in a portal configuration.
In the Clamp Truck application, the Ruggedized Reader is powered by a 48VDC power supply from
Matrics mounted on the clamp truck, with on-board power filtering and regulation to accommodate
gas and electric lift devices and associated noise/voltage variation. Refer to the Clamp Truck
Application User’s Manual (DCN: MNI03H003) for more information about this application.
2 Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc.
In the Reader Station application, the Ruggedized Reader is powered through the Reader Station from
Matrics (PN: RDR-STA-100). Refer to the Reader Station User’s Manual (DCN: MNI03H002) for
more information about the Reader Station. Refer to the Reader Station Application User’s Manual
(DCN: MNI03H004) for more information about this application.
Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc. 3
Section 3. Specifications and Diagrams
Ruggedized Reader Specification
CHARACTERISTIC DESCRIPTION
Name/Part Number Ruggedized Reader (PN: RDR-RUG-100)
Operating Frequency
Channels (RF Ports) 12 (10 Transmit and 2 Receive)
Power Supply 48VDC
Power Consumption 48V up to 5 amps (max.)
Simultaneous Reading Capability 500 tags per second or more
Memory Search < 0.5 sec. (for specific tag ID)
Dimensions 11” long x 6.5” wide x 3” deep (including connectors and bridge)
Temperature
Safety EMI/RF Emissions
Seal
Vibration
Shock
Host Communications RS422/485
Input/Output
RS422/485 Pin Assignments
(host communications)
I/O Connector Pin Assignments
UHF band, FCC Part 90 (909.75-921.75 MHz), 911.75 center
frequency; FCC Part 15 Class A Digital Device
Operational: -10° to +50° C
Storage: -20° to +85° C
Water tight, hermetically sealed (with a UL approved compound)
against windblown dust and rain
Withstands sinusoidal vibration to the following specifications:
o IEC 68-2-6/MIL-STD-810E, Method 514.4
o 10-55 Hz/0.15mm (~.03-.91g)
o 55-500 Hz/2.0g (~.32-.004mm)
Withstands shock to the following specifications:
o IEC 68-2-27/MIL-STD-810E, Method 516.4
o 50g, 11ms, half sine wave
12 dual coax antenna SMA connectors, 1 RS485/Power connector, 1
general purpose I/O connector (2 input and 1 output pair)
Pin A: Rx+ Data
Pin B: Rx- Data
Pin C: Tx- Data
Pin A: Input 1+ (opto-isolated)
Pin B: Input 1- (opto-isolated)
Pin C: Input 0+ (passive switch)
Pin D: Tx+ Data
Pin E: 48VPin F: 48V+
Pin D: Input 0- (passive switch)
Pin E: Output 1 emitter
Pin F: Output 1 collector
4 Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc.
Ruggedized Reader Diagram – Front View
Front View
Mounting
Holes
Two (2) Receive
Antenna Connectors
Rx
1
Tag Read LED
Data Link
LED
485 / Power
Connector
Rx
2
Bridge from
Transmit Output
to RF Switch
Power LED
Error
LED
Ten (10) Transmit
Antenna Connectors
(SMA Female)
34
1
10
928
Mounting
Holes
5
6
7
General Purpose
I/ O Connector
11" long (includes connectors) x 6.5" wide
x 3" deep (includes bridge)
Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc. 5
Ruggedized Reader Diagram – Back View
Back View
Mounting
Holes
General Purpose I/O
Connector
485 / Power
Connector
LEDs
ITEM DESCRIPTION
Power LED Green LED is lit when the Reader is powered on and receiving power.
Data Link LED Green LED flashes as it communicates, and indicates a good link.
Error LED Amber LED is lit to indicate a bad link, or a communications error.
Tag Read LED Green LED flashes to indicate tag reads.
6 Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc.
Section 4. Installation
The instructions provided in this section describe a generic installation of the Ruggedized Reader. For
installation instructions specific to a Clamp Truck application, refer to the Clamp Truck Application
User’s Manual (DCN: MNI03H003) for more information. For installation instructions specific to a
Reader Station application, refer to the Reader Station Application User’s Manual (DCN:
MNI03H004) for more information.
Getting Started
Follow the steps listed below (and detailed in the following sections) to install your Ruggedized
Reader:
1. Mount the Reader in a location chosen for optimal surveillance.
2. Connect antenna(s) to the Ruggedized Reader.
3. Connect the Ruggedized Reader to your host computer.
4. Power on the Ruggedized Reader.
Mount the Ruggedized Reader
Before mounting the Ruggedized Reader, you must select a location for it. For best results, consider
the following when determining the optimal placement for your antennas and Ruggedized Reader:
• Make sure that you follow the FCC guidelines for antenna placement. Antennas should be at
least 45 centimeters from trained personnel and 100 centimeters from all other persons.
• Mount the Ruggedized Reader as close as possible to your antennas in order to minimize
cable lengths.
CAUTION: If the Ruggedized Reader is not installed properly, it could
be damaged and your system performance diminished.
To mount the Ruggedized Reader:
1. Position the Ruggedized Reader (PN: RDR-RUG-100) at the desired mounting position on the
wall, shelf, portal structure, or clamp truck, etc..
2. Using the pre-drilled holes at the corners of the Reader, slide through four (4) 10-32 screws for
mounting the Ruggedized Reader.
3. Securely affix the Ruggedized Reader to the selected location using the four (4) 10-32 screws
with lock washers and bolts.
Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc. 7
Connect Antenna(s) to the Ruggedized Reader
Attach your antenna(s) to the Ruggedized Reader in order (1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, Rx1, and then Rx2), and
remove them in reverse order.
1. Attach the straight SMA end of the antenna connector cables to the SMA connector on the back
of the antennas.
NOTE: Make sure that the straight SMA end of the cables connect to the
antennas, and the right angle SMA end of the cables connect to the
Ruggedized Reader.
2. Attach the right angle SMA end of the antenna connector cables to the corresponding connectors
on the Reader.
3. Use an SMA wrench to carefully tighten the cable connection.
CAUTION: Do not over-tighten the cable connection, because you may
damage the connectors.
4. Secure your cables using wire ties (do not bend the cables.)
WARNING: Do not disconnect antenna cables when actively reading
tags (if the LED is lit on the Reader, don’t disconnect the antenna
cables.) You could severely damage your Reader. Make sure that you
unplug the power supply (or power off the clamp truck) to power off the
system first before disconnecting cables.
Connect the Reader to a Host Computer
The steps you must follow to interface the Ruggedized Reader with your system depend upon the
software package you choose to use. Contact Matrics for more information.
Power On (and Off) the Reader
In the Clamp Truck application, the Ruggedized Reader is powered by a 48VDC power supply from
Matrics mounted on the clamp truck, with on-board power filtering and regulation to accommodate
gas and electric lift devices and associated noise/voltage variation. Refer to the Clamp Truck
Application User’s Manual (DCN: MNI03H003) for more information about this application.
In the Reader Station application, the Ruggedized Reader is powered through the Reader Station from
Matrics (PN: RDR-STA-100). Refer to the Reader Station User’s Manual (DCN: MNI03H002) for
more information about the Reader Station. Refer to the Reader Station Application User’s Manual
(DCN: MNI03H004) for more information about this application.
8 Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc.
Section 5. Cautions, Notes, and Approvals
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Part 15, Digital Device
Note: 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 User’s Manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
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 or her own expense.
No Modifications: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Information to the User: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This
device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
WARNING: This device must be installed in a location that is not accessible to
the general public. Install the device so that the antenna is at least one (1) meter
from unsuspecting personnel. Failure to install this device as described will result
in a failure to comply with FCC rules for RF exposure and is discouraged.
Disclaimer: Operation of any radio transmitting equipment, including this product, may interfere
with the functionality of inadequately protected medical devices. Consult a physician or the
manufacturer of the medical device if you have any questions. Other electronic equipment may also
be subject to interference.
Radio Station Licensing: In the United States, operation of this device by entities other than the
federal government agencies requires a radio station license issued by the FCC under Part 90 of its
Rules. Operation by federal agencies is subject to licensing by the National Telecommunications and
Information Administration. Operation in other countries is subject to national regulation.
Radio Frequency Emissions Exposure: This device must be installed in licensed stations in such a
manner that the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limits set forth in § 1.1310 of the FCC Rules
are met for both occupational/controlled exposure and for general population/uncontrolled exposure.
The maximum duty cycle for this device shall not exceed 37% if operated in a manner consistent with
this manual. The combination of output power and antenna gain shall not exceed an effective radiated
power of 30 watts. All qualified end-users of this device must control their exposure conditions
and/or duration to comply with the occupational/controlled MPE limit and requirements. Users must
be provided with training information, antenna installation instructions, and transmitter operating
conditions, including antenna co-location requirements of §1.1307(b)(3) for satisfying RF exposure
compliance. The antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance
of at least 45 cm from trained authorized operators and 100 cm from all other persons. Never touch an
antenna that is transmitting or come closer to an active antenna than the distances specified in this
paragraph. A qualified technician should perform all repairs.
Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc. 9
Section 6. Warranties and Returns
Limited Warranty
Matrics warrants its products to International Paper to be free of defects in workmanship and material
for a period of one (1) year from date of receipt. Matrics’ sole and complete responsibility under this
warranty is expressly limited to repair or replacement of the defective product.
Replacement products may be new or reconditioned. All products that are replaced shall become the
property of Matrics The warranty for replacement products is the same as the equivalent newly
purchased product.
Any tampering or modification to the product, or subjecting of product to abnormal electrical,
mechanical, or environmental abuse will void this product warranty.
Return Material Authorization (RMA)
You must obtain a return material authorization (RMA) number from Matrics Customer Service (refer
to the “Contact Us” section in this User’s Manual) before you return any parts for repair or
replacement. This RMA number must be clearly marked on the outside of the returned package, and
referenced in any correspondence contained within the package.
NOTE: If you return parts to Matrics without a RMA number, they may
be returned to you at your own expense.
Before you call Matrics to receive a RMA number, make sure that you have the following
information available for the Customer Service technician:
A description of the returning item.
Serial numbers (if applicable.)
A description of the fault or failure. (Example: The antenna cable appears to have
been pulled out of the antenna, and the system is not functioning.)
Fault or Error message (if applicable.)
10 Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc.
Section 7. Troubleshooting
In the event that you encounter a problem with your system, refer to the following table for possible
solutions:
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
TBD
TBD
TBD
Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc. 11
Section 8. Contact Us
For sales, service, and technical assistance, contact Matrics at:
Tel: 410.872.0300
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. EST
Fax: 410.872.0700
http://www.matrics.com/
Matrics, Inc.
8850 Stanford Boulevard
Suite 3000
Columbia, MD 21045
USA
12 Ruggedized Reader User’s Manual 2003 Matrics, Inc.
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