Tracient Technologies HFE001107 Users Manual

V5.0.2 Explore-R HF

Explore-R HF

RFID Reader User Manual

Quick Start Guide

Thank you for choosing the RFID Reader from Tracient. Before you start using
your RFID Reader please read the following instructions:

 Install the software provided on the CD-ROM, before connecting your RFID

Reader to the PC.

 To install the software you need a PC that runs Microsoft Windows XP and is

compatible with the provided USB cable.

 The RFID Reader will need charging for at least 2 hours before use. After installing

the software, charge the RFID Reader by connecting it to the PC using the
provided USB cable.

 After installation of the software, user manuals for the RFID Reader and

TraceConnect software are available in electronic format on the PC or CD-ROM.

 AN09 – Virtual COM Port Connections on Bluetooth Enabled Laptops and Desktop

Computers

Important Notice!

Install the software supplied with the Reader before connecting the Reader to the PC.
Failure to do so may cause problems when using the Reader with the PC.

Overview of Features

Hardware

The Explore-R RFID Reader has the following features:

 Battery powered.
 Status LED’s.
 Bluetooth Enabled.
 USB Connection for battery charging, data downloads and configuration.

Software

The TraceConnect software supplied with the Reader gives you everything you need to
evaluate your RFID reader. The software supplied has the following features:

 Control Panel Applet for configuration of the Reader for both the PC and PDA.
 RFID Wedge for capturing Tags for PC and PDA applications.
 RFID Sync log download application for the PC.

Software Developers Kit (SDK)

If you have purchased the SDK version, software will be provided that gives you the
tools to begin developing your own applications. The SDK includes:

 The SDK, a programming interface for Tracient RFID products.
 Example software (including source code) for PC.
 Documentation.

Using the Explore-R HF

Using the Button

The push button is used to operate
the Explore-R. This provides a means
of turning the Reader On, OFF and
initiating a tag read.

Single button press – Press the
button, then remove your finger

Long Press – Hold your finger on
the button until the reader responds
and then remove your finger from
the button

Charging the Explore-R Battery

The Explore-R is powered by a
Lithium-Ion battery. The battery is
charged via the USB port on a PC or
via one of the other charging

accessories that can be purchased
separately. Whenever the Explore-R
is connected to a PC the battery will
be charged. When charging, the
Amber LED will be on.

Charging times vary depending on
the state of the battery. It is
recommended that the battery is
charged when not in use. Doing so
ensures the battery is kept in
working order. A full charge takes
approx 2 Hrs.

Low Battery Indication

The Explore-R indicates a low battery
condition by continuously flashing the
Amber LED. If this happens it is
recommended that you give the Padl­R a full charge.

Turning the Explore-R ON

Press the button. The Blue LED
flashes 3.

If the battery is flat the Explore-R
will turn straight off again. This will
be seen as the Blue LED flashing
6 times in quick succession.

Explore-R Use and
Maintenance

Firmware Upgrades

Your Reader has the ability to have its
firmware upgraded in the field via the
USB interface. These upgrades will be
available for download from the
Tracient website (www.tracient.com).

Turning the Explore-R OFF

Press and hold the button. The Blue
LED flashes 3 times. The Explore-R is
also equipped with an auto shutdown
feature. The factory default for this
feature is to shutdown after 20
minutes of inactivity.

If the Explore-R is plugged into a
USB connection, the auto power
OFF will not operate.

Reading a Tag

To read a Tag, present a compatible
Tag to the Reader’s antenna area.
Press and release the button.

 In Single Read Mode the Reader

will flash Green to indicate a
successful read and Red to
indicate a failed read attempt.

Accessories

A full range of accessories are
available for the Explore-R. These
include:

 Various charging options, such as

mains and car chargers

 Protective boots, to provide

additional weather and
mechanical protection

 Key fobs and chains
 Other RFID Tags

For a complete list of available
accessories or requests for other
RFID products or services, please
contact Tracient or visit the website
(www.tracient.com).

Battery Handling and Care

This RFID Reader contains a Lithium­Ion battery. To get maximum
performance from the Reader follow
the instructions relating to charging in
the supplied manual.

Battery charging is controlled by the
device when connected either to a PC
via a USB cable, or to other Tracient
specified chargers.

The battery should not be removed,
unless done so by an authorized
Tracient service engineer.

Charging the Battery

Charge the battery for at least 10
hours before use.

Be sure to follow the warnings listed
below while charging the battery.
Failure to do so may cause the battery
to become hot, explode, or ignite and
cause serious injury.

 When charging the battery, use a

specified battery charger.

 Do not continue charging the

battery if it does not recharge
within the specified charging time.
Doing so may cause the battery
to become hot, explode, or ignite.

The temperature range over which the
battery can be charged is 0°C to 45°C.

Charging the battery at temperatures
outside this range may cause severe
damage to the battery or reduce
battery life.

Using the Battery

 Do not allow the battery to get

wet.

 Do not disassemble or modify the

battery. The battery contains
safety and protection devices,
which, if damaged may cause the
battery to generate heat, explode,
or ignite.

 Immediately discontinue use of

the device if during use or
charging, the battery emits an
unusual smell, feels hot, changes
colour or shape, or appears
abnormal in any other way.

 Do not place the battery in

microwave ovens, high-pressure
containers, or on induction
cookware.

 In the event the battery leaks and

the fluid gets into one's eye, do
not rub. Rinse well with water and
immediately seek medical care. If
left untreated, the battery fluid
could cause damage to the eye.

Battery packs may get hot, explode, or
ignite and cause serious injury if
exposed to abuse conditions. Be sure
to follow the safety warnings listed
below:

 Do not place the battery in fire or

near a heat source. Doing so may
cause the battery to explode,
ignite, or result in a loss of
performance.

 Do not install the battery

backwards.

 Do not short circuit the battery.
 Do not puncture the battery,

deform or subject it to strong
impacts or shocks.

Discharging the Battery

Do not discharge or use the battery in
devices other than the RFID Reader.
Doing so may reduce the battery’s life
or cause abnormal battery conditions
which may result in the battery
becoming hot, exploding, or causing
serious injury.

The temperature range over which the
battery can be discharged is -20°C to
60°C. Use of the battery outside this
temperature range may reduce the
performance of the battery.

For Your Safety

Read these guidelines before using your Reader. Failure to comply with
these guidelines may be dangerous or illegal.

Road Safety
Do not operate a vehicle while using the Reader.

Interference
Device performance may be affected by interference.

Hospitals and Pacemakers
Do not operate the Reader near medical equipment or pacemakers.

Aircraft
It is illegal to use wireless devices on aircraft.

Refueling
Do not use the Reader when refueling or near chemicals.

Use Qualified Service
This Reader has no user-serviceable parts. Only qualified personnel may

repair or service this equipment.
Accessories

Use only approved accessories. Do not connect incompatible products.

Batteries
This Reader is equipped with a Lithium Ion Battery. Do not incinerate.

Troubleshooting Guide

Problem Possible Cause / Suggested Action
Power Problems

The Explore-R will not
turn ON.

The battery is flat. Plug the Explore-R into a PC (The
PC must be ON) for charging.

Reader switches OFF
very frequently.

Amber LED flashing
continuously.

Bluetooth Problems
Cannot connect to the

Explore-R via Bluetooth.

I cannot find the Padl-R
when searching using
Bluetooth.

When ever I lose the
Bluetooth Connection
the Explore-R turns off.

I still cannot get the
Bluetooth working.

Check the Auto Power OFF setting using the Control
Panel Applet.

The battery needs charging.

Check the following:

 Connect to the Reader from a PC via USB using

the Control Panel Applet and ensure the Enable
Bluetooth feature under the Settings tab is enabled.

 Disconnect the Explore-R USB cable.
 Turn on the Explore-R.
 Charge the battery.

 The Explore-R is OFF.
 The Explore-R is connected to a PC via the USB

cable.

 Connect to the Reader from a PC via USB using

the Control Panel Applet and ensure the Enable

Bluetooth feature under the Settings tab is enabled.

 There is a problem with your PC or PDA.

Select the Unplug and Stay ON feature under the
Settings tab in the Control Panel Applet.

Check the Bluetooth address on the Main tab of the
Control Panel Applet. If this is blank, contact Tracient for
assistance.

USB Problems

I cannot find the
Explore-R when
searching using USB.

I cannot connect to the
Explore-R using USB.

 The Explore-R is OFF.
 The Explore-R is not connected to the PC via the

USB cable.

 There is a problem with your PC.
 The Explore-R is OFF.
 The Explore-R is not connected to the PC via the

USB cable.

The Explore-R is not
recognised when
Connected via USB.

Tag Reading Problems
Explore-R fails to read

the Tag.

Every time I read a Tag
the Explore-R turns off.

Every time I read a Tag
the Explore -R loses the
Bluetooth connection.

The USB Driver for the Explore-R may not be installed
correctly.

 Open Control Panel and select the System program
 Select the System Tab and click on the Device

Manager button

 With the Explore-R connected to the PC, check for

an Unknown Tracient device in the list.

 Uninstall this device
 Re connect the Explore-R, The device should install

correctly as long as the RFID connect software has

been installed fully.

Check:

 The Explore-R is set up to read that particular Tag.

Check the Tag type settings in the Control Panel

Applet.

 The Tag is not too far from the Explore-R’s

antenna.
The battery is low. Recharge the Explore -R.

The battery is low. Recharge the Explore -R.

PDA Problems
I cannot find the

applications on the
PDA.

Synchronies the PDA to the PC. The applications and
necessary software will be installed automatically.

LED Flash Indications

Condition Duration Sequence Colour
Power On Temporary 3 Short Flashes Blue
On Continuous 1 Short Flash Blue
Power Down Temporary 3 Short Flashes Blue
Battery Low Continuous 1 Short Flash Amber
Battery Charging Continuous On Amber
Battery Charged Continuous Off Amber
Fault Continuous 1 Short Flash Red
Read Tag Modes

Continuous Read Mode Continuous

1 Long Flash + 1
Short Flash

Blue

Good Read Temporary 2 Short Flashes Blue

Audio Beep Indications

The Explore-R does not support audio functions.

Explore-R HF

1hour all axis.

Specifications

Power Supply
Power

Supply
(Internal)

Power
Supply
(External)

Battery
Charging

Wireless Interface
Bluetooth Bluetooth Standard

Pairing with
other
devices

Profile Serial Port Profile

RF
Operating

Frequency
Read Range Approx 10 cm’s

Air Interface
Standards

3.7V / 160 mAh Li­Ion battery

+5V DC @ 100mA
Max

Via USB Mini-B
Connector

V1.1
Can be discovered

and paired by a PDA
or Bluetooth enabled
device.

(SPP)

13.56MHz
Region - Worldwide

ISO 14443
Mifare Type A
Philips ICODE I
ISO15693
Tag-IT
ISO18000-3
Data Rates
26 kbps (ISO

15693)

106 kbps

(ISO14443)
Tag Type Passive
Antenna Internal

User Interface
Visual Coloured LEDs
Operation Single button

Mechanical
Dimensions

(L x W x D)
Weight 49 grams
Material and

Finish

Environment
Water and

Dust Ingress
Shock Can withstand a

Vibration Random 1.9grms

Operating
Temperature

Humidity 10 - 90% non

53x82x17 mm

PMMA, Black

IEC 529 IP54

drop of 1.2m to

plywood on all faces

and corners.

(non operational),

Random 0.95grms

(operational), 1hour

all axis.

-10 – 55 deg C

condensing

Compliance

FCC ID: VRJHFE001107

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.

EN 60950
CISPR 22:2003, EN 55022:1998
CISPR 24:1997,
C-Tick: Z997
RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC
WEEE Directive 2002/95/EC

This product must not be disposed of
with other waste. Instead, it is your
responsibility to dispose of your waste
equipment by handing it over to a
designated collection point for the
recycling of waste electrical and
electronic equipment. The separate
collection and recycling of your waste
equipment at the time of disposal will
help conserve natural resources and
ensure that it is recycled in a manner
that protects human health and the
environment. For more information
about where you can drop off your
waste equipment for recycling, please
contact your local city recycling office
or the dealer from whom you
purchased the product.

EN 55024:1998

Limitations and
Recommendations

Tracient accepts no liability for
damage to devices connected to, or
operated with the RFID Reader. The
examples, code and SDK are
provided for end users and are to be
used at the end user’s own risk.

In order to avoid or minimise potential
risk of ergonomic injury follow the
recommendations below:

 Reduce or eliminate repetitive

motion

 Maintain a natural position
 Keep device within easy reach
 Improve work procedures

All Tracient devices are designed to
be compliant with rules and
regulations applicable for the locations
they are sold into. Any changes or
modifications made to the device
without Tracient’s approval could void
the user’s authority to operate the
device.

Warranty Statement

Tracient manufactures its hardware
products in accordance with industry
standard practices. Tracient warrants
that for a period of twelve (12) months
from date of shipment, products will
be free from defects in materials and
workmanship. This warranty is
provided to the original owner only
and is not transferable to any third
party. It shall not apply to any product
(i) which has been repaired or altered
unless done or approved by Tracient,
(ii) which has not been maintained in
accordance with any operating or
handling instructions supplied by
Tracient, (iii) which has been

subjected to unusual physical or
electrical stress, misuse, abuse,
power shortage, negligence or
accident, or (iv) which has been used
other than in accordance with the
product operating and handling
instructions. The Customer must notify
Tracient in writing within 7 days of the
alleged defect first coming to the
Customer’s notice, and the Customer
must at this time also state the date
and place of the purchase. Preventive
maintenance is the responsibility of
the customer and is not covered under
this warranty. Tracient shall not be
responsible for any defect in products
arising as a result of defects in any
third party software or hardware.

Items and accessories having a
Tracient serial number will carry a 90­day limited warranty. Non-serialized
items will carry a 30-day limited
warranty.

Warranty coverage and procedure

During the warranty period, Tracient
will repair or replace defective
products returned to Tracient’s
headquarters in Christchurch, New
Zealand or an authorized service
agent. Products must be shipped in
the original or comparable packaging,
shipping and insurance charges
prepaid. Tracient will ship the repaired
or replacement product freight and
insurance prepaid within New Zealand
only. The removal of the defective
equipment and the installation of any
repaired or replacement parts shall be
performed by the Customer at its own
expense.

Subject to any service contract
between the Customer and Tracient
and with respect to products not
capable of removal and return to
Tracient, in such cases Tracient will

use its best endeavors to remedy any
defect by remote repair, advice or
upgrade. In the event that such defect
is not able to be repaired in the
manner provided above,

Tracient will, at the Customer’s
request, undertake repairs at the cost
of the Customer.

Tracient will use new or refurbished
parts at its discretion and will own all
parts removed from repaired products.
The customer will pay for the
replacement product in case it does
not return the replaced product to
Tracient within 3 days of receipt of the
replacement product. The process for
return and Customer’s charges will be
in accordance with Tracient’s
Exchange Policy in effect at the time
of the exchange.

The customer accepts full
responsibility for its software and data
including the appropriate backup
thereof. Repair or replacement of a
product during warranty will not
extend the original warranty term.

General

Except for the warranties stated
above,

Tracient disclaims all warranties,
express or implied, on products
furnished hereunder, including without
limitation implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose. The stated express
warranties are in lieu of all obligations
or liabilities on part of Tracient for
damages, including without limitation,
special, indirect, or consequential
damages arising out of or in
connection with the use or
performance of the product.

Tracient’s liability for damages to
buyer or others resulting from the use

of any product shall in no way exceed
the purchase price of said product,
except in instances of injury to
persons or property. Some states (or
jurisdictions) do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, so the
proceeding exclusion or limitation may
not apply to you.