TransCore 22000555201 Users Manual

AR2200 RF Module

User Guide

TransCore Inc.

19111 Dallas Parkway, Suite 300

Dallas, Texas 75287-3106

March 2003

P/N 411052-003

Information in this document is subject to change and does not represent a commitment on the part of
TC IP, Ltd.

©

2003 TC IP, Ltd. All rights reserved. TRANSCORE is a trademark and Amtech is a register ed trademark of
TC IP, Ltd. and is used under license. All other trademarks liste d are the property of their respective owners.
Contents subject to change. Printed in the U.S.A.

For further inf ormation, contact:

TransCore
19111 Dallas Parkway, Suite 300
Dallas, Texas 75287-3106 USA

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

TransCore Action Center (TrAC)
19111 Dallas Parkway, Suite 300
Dallas, Texas 75287-3106 USA

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

WARNING TO USERS IN THE UNITED STATES

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) RADIO FREQUENCY

INTERFERENCE STATEMENT

47 CFR §15.105(a)

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply wit h the limits f or a Class A digital device

pursuant to Part 15 of the Federal Communicati ons Commission (FCC) rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial envi ronment. This e quipmen t gener ates, us es, a nd can radia te radio frequenc y (RF) e ner gy a nd
may cause harmful interference to radio communications if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction man ual. Oper ating th is equipm ent in a r esidentia l area is like ly to cause harmfu l interf erence, in
which case, depending on the laws in effect, the users may be required to correc t the int erference at their
own expense.

NO UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS

47 CFR §15.21

CAUTION: This equipment may not be modified, altered, or changed in any way without permission

from TransC ore, Inc. Unauthorized modification may void the equipment a uthorization from the FCC and
will void the Tr ansCore warranty.

USE OF SHIELDED CABLES IS REQUIRED

47 CFR §15.27(a)

Shielded cables must be used with this equipment to comply with FCC regulations.

A license issued by the FCC is required to operate this RF identification device in the United States.
Contact Tr ansCore, Inc. for additional information concerning licensing requirements for specific devices.

TransCore, Inc.

USA

Contents

1 Before You Begin

Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Intended Audience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Guide Topics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Typographical Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Health Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

2 AR2200 RF Module Overview

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Range Sensitivity Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

ISO Compatible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Patented Design: High-Speed Signal Capture, Noise Immunity. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Frequency Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Preamplifier Line Driver Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Circuit Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

International Safety Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Output Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Harsh Environment Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Custom Frequencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Replacement I/O Interface Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Attenuators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Hex Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Weatherproof Enclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Contents

3 Installing the AR2200 RF Module

AR2200 RF Module Installation Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Differences in Installation Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

AI1200 Reader Power Supply Upgrade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Configuring the RF Module. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Required Wiring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Required Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Positioning the RF Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

vii

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

Terminal Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Grounding the RF Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Terminal Designations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Normal Mode Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Compatibility Mode Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

4 Testing the RF Module

Setting Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

5 Indicator Lights

6 Adjusting RF Power

7 Range Modulation Sensitivity Adjustment

A Technical Specifications

Component Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3

Electrical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3

Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3

Physical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3

viii

List of Figures

Figure 2-1 AR2200 RF Module I/O Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Figure 3-1 Normal Mode and Compatibility Mode Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Figure 3-2 RF Module Terminal Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Figure 3-3 Normal Mode Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Figure 3-4 Antenna Output Port Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Figure 3-5 Compatibility Mode Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

Figure 4-1 RF Board Test Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Figure 5-1 RF Module LED Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Figure 6-1 RF Power Select Dipswitch Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Figure 7-1 Range Modulation Sensitivity Potentiometers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

List of Tables

Table 1-1 AR2200 RF Module User Guide Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Table 1-2 Typographical Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Table 2-1 AR2200 RF Module Options and Operating Frequency Bands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Table 3-1 RF Module Minimum Wire Gauge Vs. Distance from Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Table 3-2 Jack and Plug Terminal Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Table 3-3 Connecting Wires Between the RF Module and the Reader Interface . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Table 3-4 Maximum Cable Lengths for Power Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Table 3-5 Connecting the Check Tag Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Table 3-6 Maximum Cable Length for Check Tag Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Table 3-7 Connecting Wires Between the RF Modules and the Reader Interface . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Table 3-8 Maximum Cable Lengths for Power Wiring and Signal Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Table 3-9 Connecting the System Check Tag Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Table 3-10 Maximum Cable Lengths for Check Tag Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15

Table 4-1 Test Point Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

Table 5-1 LED Indicators and Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Table 6-1 RF Power Output Select Dipswitch Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Table A-1 AR2200 RF Module Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-3

Table A-2 AR2200 RF Module Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-3

Table A-3 AR2200 RF Module Physical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-4

Contents

ix

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

x

1

Before You Begin

This chapter describes this guide’s purpose and intended audience. It
provides a list of topics covered in each section, a list of related
documents, and the symbols and typographical conventions used.

Purpose

This guide provides the information necessary for TransCore-certified personnel to
successfully install and test the AR2200 RF Module.

Intended Audience

This guide was written for TransCore-certified personnel who design, configure,
install, test, and maintain TransCore systems in the field.

Guide Topics

Chapter 1

Before You Begin

Table 1-1 lists the information found in this user guide.

Table 1-1 AR2200 RF Module User Guide Information

Chapter 1–Before You

Begin

Chapter 2–AR2200 RF

Module Overview

Chapter 3–Installing the

AR2200 RF Module

Chapter 4–Testing the

AR200 RF Module

Chapter 5–Indicator

Lights

Chapter 6–Adjusting RF

Power

Chapter 7–Sensitivity

Range Adjustment

Describes the purpose, intended audience, guide topics, related
documentation, and document conventions.

Provides an ove rview of the AR2200 RF Module’s features, options, and
accessories.

Provides detailed installation instructions for installing a stand-alone RF
module, or connecting one or two RF modules to an AI12xx or AI1301
Reader.

Provides instructions for testing the installed RF module.

Describes the locations and features of the RF module’s indicator lights.

Explains how to adjust the RF power, if needed.

Explains how to adjust the range sensitivity to screen unwanted tag signals.

Appendix A–Technical

Specifications

Presents reference information on the AR2200 RF Module.

1-3

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

Typographical Conventions

Table 1-2 lists the conventions used in this manual:

Table 1-2 Typographical Conventions

Convention Indication

This procedure might cause harm to the equipment and/or
the user.

Concerns about a procedure.

Code

Dialog Box Title

Function

Menu Item

Note

NUL Zero-value ASCII character or a zero-value byte.
NULL Zero-value pointers. Null-terminated string refers to strings

Code, including keywords and variables within text and as
separate paragraphs, and user-defined program elements
within text appear in courier typeface.

Title of a dialog box as it appears on screen.
Start with the characters G4, and are in mixed case with no

underscores, and include parentheses after the name, as in
G4FunctionName().

Appears on a menu. Capitalization follows the interface.
Auxiliary information that further clar ifies the current

discussion. These important points require the user’s
attention. The paragraph is in italics and the word Note is
bold.

of printable ASCII characters with a zero-value byte placed
in memory directly after the last printable character of the
string.

1-4

Health Limits

Before You Begin

Within the United States, environmental guidelines regulating safe exposure levels are
issued by the Occupational Safety and health Administration (OSHA).

Section 1910.97 of OSHA Safety and Health Standards 2206 legislates a maximum

safe exposure limit of 10 milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm
minutes at both 915 and 2450 MHz.

Although not binding, other organizations such as the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) have issued similar guidelines that are more restrictive than the
OSHA limits (ANSI C95.1). ANSI guidelines recommend a maximum safe power

2

density in mW/cm

of:

2 ) averaged over 6

Frequency

-------------------------------------------------------

Thus, the maximum permissible exposure for general population/uncontrolled

exposure at 915 MHz is 0.61 mW/cm2. The power limit is a 6-minute average.

The RF power density generated by Amtech® equipment was calculated using a max­imum antenna gain of 14 dBi that is equivalent to that typically used in an AR2200
installation.

The antenna gain should not exceed 14 dBi. The antennas used for this transmitter
must not be collocated or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmit­ter.

At 1.6 W transmitted power and a distance of 22 inches (55 cm) from the antenna, the

maximum power density calculated was 0.6 mW/cm2. Install the antennas at least 22
inches (55 cm) from the general public. Maintenance personnel must remain at least

9.7 inches (24.5 cm) from antennas when system is operating.

The data confirms that the Amtech® system effectively meets OSHA requirements
and thus does not represent an operating hazard to either the general public or mainte­nance personnel.

(in MHz)

1500

1-5

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

1-6

2

Over view of AR2200 RF Module

Overview

Chapter 2

AR2200 RF Module Overview

This chapter presents an overview of the AR2200 RF Module’s features,
options, an d accessories.

The AR2200 RF Module, hereafter referred to as the RF module, is a dual-output
radio transmitter/receiver that, on command from a TransCore reader, generates a
radio frequency (RF) signa l in the 865- to 930-MHz radio frequency range, over five
bands, and delivers the signal to the antenna for broadcast. Figure 2-1 shows the top
view of the RF module I/O interface.

2-3

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

2-4

Figure 2-1 AR2200 RF Module I/O Interface

The RF module also receives and demodulates the reflected tag signal returned
through the antenna, then preamplifies and conditions the demodulated signal before
sending it to the reader. The RF module generates the RF power necessary to re ad an
Trans Core tag. It also contains receiver and prea mplifier circuitry to preprocess the
tag signal returne d through t he antenna . Once connecte d to the an tenna and reade r and
tuned, the RF module should require no further mechanical adjustment by the user.

The RF module receives DC power through a cable connection made to the reader. A
separate reader-to-RF module cable carries the demodula ted tag signal from the RF
module to the reader and the on/off control signal from the reader to the RF module

Note: Long coaxial cable lengths betw een the RF module and antenna can degrade
system performance and should be avoided in system configuration.

AR2200 RF Module Overview

RF output power is on whenever the reader is on. However, RF output power may be
switched off through reader firmware commands. RF output power can also be con­trolled through interfacing proximity sensors with the reader. Proximity sensors allow
RF output power to be switched on only in the presence of objects to be identified.
Proximity sensors are useful in installations using batt ery powe r or where continuous
RF output power is not desirable.

Increasing or decreasing the RF signal strength directly impac ts the system's reading
range. To confine the reading range to its optimal area, RF power can be indepen­dently adjusted, in eight steps, from +32.5 dBm to +25.5 dBm, for each antenna. You
can adjust the RF power wi th RF power select switches on the RF modul e’s input/out­put (I/O) interface.

Caution

Do not attempt to increase the RF signal strengt h. Contact TransCor e if you think
that you need to a dju st the RF signal strengt h.

For ease of installa tion, the RF module is connect ed to the reader by cable attached to
a removable 21-terminal plug.

Features

The RF module includes the features listed in this section.

Range Sensitivity Adjustment

Jumper JP1 can be jumpered to inhibit the effect of the range sensitivity adjustments.
When JP1 is jumpered the maximum broadcast range wil l be ensur ed. This may be
done when the RF module is used in a traffic monitoring system where the maximum
size read zone is desired. Sensitivity circuit potentiometers, one for each antenna,
access an infinite range of settings from maximum broadcast range (range sensitivity
adjustment OFF, no mask signal injection) to maximum signal injection (min imum
sensitivity).

ISO Compatible

The RF module meets the criteria for equipment configuration and performance spec­ified by the Internationa l Organization for S tandardization’s DIS 10374 container
identificat ion standard.

Patented Design: High-Speed Signal Capture,
Noise Immunity

The RF demodulat ion circuitr y consists of a two-channel homodyne receiver paten ted
by TransCor e that prevents signal loss, allowing the system to read tags moving at
high speeds. The differential aspect of the RF module design improves system
immunity to noise.

Frequency Range

The RF module is available in a range of 865–930 MHz band frequencies (see Ta ble

1

2-1).

2-5

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

Table 2-1 AR2200 RF Module Options and Operating Frequency Bands

RF Module Option Operating Frequency Band (MHz)

The primary m anufactured frequency for the RF module is 912 MHz. For multiple RF
modules at one site, TransCore recommends using separate frequencies. Tra nsCore
can provide units operating at multiple frequencies in the author ized band.

-01 865.0 to 869.5

-02 869.501 to 892.0

-03 892.001 to 908.5

-04 908.501 to 917.0

-05 917.001 to 930.0

Preamplifier Line Driver Output

The preamplifier provide s balanced low-impedance analog signal line s capable of
driving up to 1,000 ft (305 m) of cable. The preamplif ier output incorporates
electrostatic discharge protection.

Note:

Cable l engths over 5 00 ft (152.4 m) shou ld be used wi th disc r etion ; longe r cabl es
are more susceptible to receiving electrical noise. For more information on cables and
cable lengths, refer to Chapter 6 of the AI1200 Syste m Guide, "System Configuration."

Connections

The RF module is connected to the reader through cable attached to a 21-terminal
plug. The 21-terminal plug mates with a 21-terminal jack on the RF module interface
board. The plug, removable for servicing, uses captive-screw compression terminals.
The antenna coa xial cable connects to the RF module through an N-ty pe connector on
the side of the RF subassembly.

Circuit Protection

The RF module inte rface board filter s DC powe r rece ived fr om the reader and pr otects
output circuitr y from d amage caused by tra nsients on the c able bet ween the re ader a nd
RF module.

International Safety Standards

The RF module complies with United State s and international RF safety standards as
specified by ANSI C95.1, IEC Pub 215 and 657, and NRPB.

2-6

1. The authoriz ed fre quency bands in the United States are 902–904 and 909.75–921.75

MHz. Contact TransCore if your application requires a different operating frequency.

AR2200 RF Module Overview

Output Power

The output power of the RF module is set at the factory to 1.6 W.

Options

The following two options are availa ble for the RF module.

Harsh Environment Option

The RF module has a harsh environment option, which is vibration- and shock­resistant. The vibration specification for the harsh environment RF module is
2 g RMS from 5-500 Hz.

Custom Frequencies

The RF module can be set at the factory to operate at a discrete, narrow band
frequency. This option avoids frequency interference from other closely-situa ted units
operating at similar f requencies. If your application requires an operating frequency
outside of the 902 to 904 MHz or 909.75 to 921.75 MHz bands, contact TransCore.
Local laws apply in the determina tion of operating frequencies.

Replacement I/O Interface Board

The I/O interface board is the only replaceable part in the RF module. A ribbon cable
to connect to the RF subassembly is permanently wired to the RF interface board.

Accessories

The following accessories are available for the RF module.

Attenuators

Five-watt 1- to 24-dB attenua tors with N-type connectors are available from
Trans Core. Other attenuators may be available for specia lized applications; conta ct
TransCore for information. Power output can be reduced by up to 7 dB using the RF
module’s RF power output select feature.

Hex Key

The hex key, used for removal and installation of RF module and reader circuit
boards, has a 0.16-in. (4-mm) hex cross-section and a 9.13-in. (230-mm) shaft.

Weatherproof Enclosure

The RF module may be housed in a weatherproof NEMA-4 enclosure ready for
custom installa tion. Enclosur e l ocking l oops accept padlocks with a maxim um 1/4- in.-
(6.3-mm-) diameter shackle.

2-7

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

2-8

3

Installing the AR2200 RF Module

Chapter 3

Installing the AR2200 RF Module

This chapter presents information and procedures for mounting and
installing a stand-alone RF module, or connecting one or two RF
modules to a single AI1200- or AI1301-series Reader.

AR2200 RF Module Installation Options

The AR2200 RF Module can be installed in either of two ways:

• RF module enclosed in a standard NEMA box

• Custom installed using a TransCore standard mounting kit

Differences in Installation Options

NEMA Box — If you install the RF module in a NEMA box, TransCore recommends
that the maximum operating temperature outside the NEMA enclosure not exceed

°F (55°C).

131
Custom Installati on

module. If you do, Tr ansCore strongly recommends that you contact TransCore’s
TrAC (the telephone number is liste d on pag e iii of this guide) to have your mounting
option evaluated. TransCore recommends that the maximum outside temperature for
this mounting option not exceed 158
as a heat sink to lower the RF module temperature to an acceptable degree. You must
have an air gap of at least 0.45 inches (1.1 cm) underneath the mounting baseplate. If
you choose not to leave room for an air gap, you can install an additional metal plate
under the baseplate.

Caution

If your custom installation setup does not meet TransCore recommended mounting
constraints, temperatures above the maximum operating temperature may occur
resulting in premature failu re of the RF module.

— Y ou may ch oose a custom installati on for your sta nd-a lone RF

°F (70°C). You must use a baseplate that serves

AI1200 Reader Power Supply Upgrade

If you are using the RF module with an AI1200 Reader with TransCore standard AC
power supply (P/N 47049-01, KEPCO ERX 15-4), you must replac e that power sup­ply with a new AC standard power assembly that incor porate s a power supply with a
higher current rati ng.

Configuring the RF Module

The RF module has a dual-antenna output and may be configured to operate in one of
two modes: normal mode or compatibil ity mode. In normal mode, a singl e RF module
with one or two antennas is connected to the reader through terminals identified as 0
and 1 on the RF module and the reader. In compatibility mode, two RF modules, each

3-3

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

operating one antenna, are connect ed to one reader with the first RF module connected
to the r eader through t erminals identified as 0 and the second RF mod ule connected to
the reader through terminals identified as 1.

Figure 3-1 depicts system configurations for normal mode and compatibility mode.

Figure 3-1 Normal Mode and Compatibility Mode Configurations

This section describes the necessary parts and tools, site preparation, and the proce­dure for installing an interrogator .

Required Wir ing

Wire gauges are indicated in Table 3-1. All signal wiring should be twisted pair
shielded.

Table 3-1 RF Module Minimum Wire Gauge Vs. Distance fro m Reader

Distance from Reader

0 ft to 50 ft (0 m to 15.2 m) AWG 18

50 ft to 100 ft (15.2 m to 30.5m) AWG 16

100 ft to 250 ft (30.5 m to 76.2 m) AWG 12

250 ft to 500 ft (76.2 m to 152.4 m) AWG 10

500 ft to 750 ft (152.4 m to 228.6 m) AWG 8

750 ft to 1000 ft (228.6 m to 305 m) AWG 6

Stranded Copper Wire

(min imum gau ge)

3-4

Installing the AR2200 RF Module

Required Eq uipment

• Voltmeter

• Oscilloscope, 100 MHz (for monitoring intermediate frequency [IF] signals and

discriminate signals)

• Data terminal or computer

• Phillips and fl at-b l ade sc rew dri vers

• N-type 50-ohm load (placed at the ant enna por t for testing)

• N-type attenuators (as needed to adjust RF power)

Positioning the RF Module

In permanent installa tions, position the RF module as close as possible to the antenna
and within 1,000 signal cable ft (305 m) of the reader. Long cable lengths will
increase system sensi tivity to noise. Coaxial cable runs in excess of 50 ft (15.2 m)

1

between the RF module and antenna are not recommended.
connections (up to 1,000 cable ft) (305 m) should be made on the reader-to-RF
module link.

Longer signal cable

Refer to the reader documentation for further information concerning RF module
positioning.

Terminal Connections

The RF module plug and jack connector pair have 21 terminals. Connec tions from the
reader are made to the removable plug. After connections are made, the plug can be
removed from the jack for interface board servicing or repair/replacement.

Figure 3-2 shows the RF module terminal connections.

1. Based on 2 dB loss, Andrews LDF4-50A 0.5 in. OD coaxial cable. If 3 dB loss is tolera­ble, cable up to 75 ft (22.9 m) long may be used between the RF module and the antenna.

3-5

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

3-6

Figure 3-2 RF M odule Terminal Connec tio ns

Grounding the RF Module

The CHASSIS terminal is electri cally connected to case ground at the factory. Case
ground must be connected to earth ground. TransCore does not recommend that a
conduit connection be used as a grounding point. Ground points must make metal-to­metal connections.

Note: TransCore does not recommend grounding the case through nonconducting
finishes, such as paint, anodize, or irudite.

Refer to the reader documentation for further information concer ning grounding. The
CHASSIS terminal jack is shown in Figure 3-2.

Installing the AR2200 RF Module

Terminal Designations

The jack and plug terminals are designated for use as listed in Table 3-2.

Table 3-2 Jack and Plug Terminal Designations

Designation Purpose

GND Chassis ground terminal
SCTRTNI System check tag DC return input

(RFGND from reader)

SCTCTLI System check tag control input

(AUXIO0 from reader)
SCTRTN1 System check tag DC return (RFGND)
SCTRTN0 System check tag DC return from check tag (RF

SCTCTL1 System check tag control line (RF module 1)
SCTCTL0 System check tag control line

+12SCT1 System check tag power for RF module 1
+12SCT0 System check tag 12 V DC power
RFCTL0 RF output control channel 0

RFCTL1 RF output control channel 1 (RF module 1)
RFPWR RF power
RFGND RF ground
CHASSIS Connec tion to NEMA ground

ANCHA1 IF signal A1
ANCHA2 IF signal A2
ANCHB1 IF signal B1

module 0)

a

(RF module 1)

b

(RF module 0)

b

Caution: Do not remove.

ANCHB2 IF signal B2
ANCHC1 IF signal C1
ANCHC2 IF signal C2
GND Chassis ground terminal

a. Used only in compatibility mode.
b. For +12SCT1 and RFCTL1

3-7

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

Normal Mode Connections

In normal mode, only one RF module (with one or two antennas) is connected to a
reader. Figure 3-3 shows the connections used for normal mode.

3-8

Figure 3-3 Normal Mode Connections

Installing the AR2200 RF Module

To install your RF module for operation in normal mode, follow these steps:

1. Turn off power to the RF module and the reader.

2. Connect wires between the RF module and t he reader int erf ace as shown in Table
3-3. Observe the maximum cable lengths shown in Table 3-4.

Table 3-3 Connecting Wires Between the RF Module and the Reader Interface

RF Module Signal AI12XX Terminal

RFGND 43 NA
RFPWR 42 NA
SCTRTNI 43 NA
SCTCTLI 36 NA
RFCTLO 40 10
RFCTL1 41 12
ANCHA1 45 1
ANACA2 46 2
ANCHB1 47 3
ANCHB2 48 4
ANCHC1 49 5
ANCHC2 50 6

Table 3-4 Maximum C able Lengths for Power Wiring

AI1301 RF Interface

Board Terminal

Application

Power wiring Belden 9364 120 ft (36.6 m)
Power wiring Belden 9365 200 ft (61.0 m)
Power wiring Belden 9366 300 ft (91.4 m)
Power wiring Belden 9357 500 ft (152.4 m)
Power wiring Manhattan 33867 500 ft (152.4 m)
Signal wiring Belden 9775 500 ft (152.4 m)

Cable Type (or

equivalent)

Maximum Length

1. Terminate cabl e shields at th e read er end.

2. For AI1301 readers connect the RF module RFGND and RFPWR terminals to
the +12 V RET (-) and +12 V DC terminals, respectively, of the panel terminal
strip.

3-9

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

3. Te rminate the two antennas output ports (located on the side of the RF

Caution

Turning on RF power with an unterminated antenna port could result in
damage to the RF module.

subassembly below the internal ribbon cable) with a cable that is
connected to an antenna or a 50-ohm, N-type, male load. The antenna
output ports must be terminated before turning on power to the reader
and RF module. Figure 3-4 shows the antenna output port locations.

3-10

Figure 3-4 Antenna Output Port Locations

4. Connect the system check tag cable shown in Table 3-5. Observe the
maximum cable length shown in Table 3-6.

Table 3-5 Connecting the Check Tag Cable

Installing the AR2200 RF Module

Check Tag Line

Red +12SCTO +12 V DC via panel

Black SCTRTNO +12 V RET (-) via panel

White SCTCTLO Terminal 8 of the RF

Drain/shield Do not terminate at RF source end. Cut flush with

Table 3-6 Maximum Cable Length for Check Ta g Cable

Application

Check tag cable Belden 9773 100 ft (30.5 m)

RF Module Terminal

for A I 1 2XX

cable end at RF source.

Cable Type

(or equivalent)

AI1301

terminal board

terminal board

interface board

Maximum Length

Note: Voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) measurements at the antenna must be
made. Readings should be in line with antenna specifications. See the techn ical speci­fications for the antenna for information on appropriate VSWR readings.

Compatibility Mode Connections

In compatibility mode, two RF modules are conne cted to a single reader . In
compatibility mode each RF module operates only one antenna.

All compatibility mode connec tions are made in parall el, with the excep tion of the RF
control connections. Only one RF control line from the reader (RFCTL0 or RFCTL1)
is connected to each RF module.

Figure 3-5 shows compatibility mode connections.

3-11

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

3-12

Figure 3-5 Compatibility Mode Connections

To install your RF module in compatibility mode, follow these steps:

1. Turn off power to the RF module and the reader.

2. Connect wires between the RF modules and the reader interface shown in T able
3-7. Observe the maximum cable lengths shown in Table 3-8.

Installing the AR2200 RF Module

Table 3-7 Connecting Wires Between the RF Modules and the Reader Interface

RF Module Signal AI12XX Terminal

RFGND 43 NA
RFPWR 42 NA
SCTRTNI 43 NA
SCTCTLI 36 NA
RFCTLO 40 (RF module 0

only)

RFCTL1 41(RF module 1

only)
ANCHA1 45 1
ANACA2 46 2
ANCHB1 47 3
ANCHB2 48 4
ANCHC1 49 5
ANCHC2 50 6

10 (RF module 0 only)

12 (RF module 1 only)

AI1301 RF Interface

Board Terminal

T able 3-8 Maximum Cable Lengths for Power Wiring and Signal Wiring

Application

Power wiring Belden 9364 120 ft (36.6 m)
Power wiring Belden 9365 200 ft (61.0 m)
Power wiring Belden 9366 300 ft (91.4 m)
Power wiring Belden 9357 500 ft (152.4 m)
Power wiring Manhattan 33867 500 ft (152.4 m)
Signal wiring B el den 9775 500 ft (152.4 m)

Cable Type

(or equivalent)

Maximum Length

1. Terminate cabl e shields at th e read er end.

3-13

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

2. For AI1301 readers connect the RF module RFGND and RFPWR terminals to
the +12 V RET (-) and +12 V DC terminals, respectively, of the panel terminal
strip.

3. Terminate the two antenna output ports (located on the side of the RF
subassembly bel ow the internal ri bbon cable) with a cable that is co nnected to an
antenna or a 50-ohm, N-type, male load as shown below.

RF module 0: ANTENNA 0 to antenna cable

RF module 1: ANTENNA 0 terminated with 50-ohm load

The antenna output ports must be termi nated before turning on power to the reader
and RF module. Figure 3-4 on page 3-10 shows the antenna output port locations.

Caution

Turni ng on RF power with an unterminated antenna port could result in damage to
the RF module.

ANTENNA 1 terminated with 50-ohm load

ANTENNA 1 to antenna cable

1. Connect the system check tag cables as shown in Table 3-9. Observe the
maximum cable length shown in Table 3-10.

Table 3-9 Connecting the System Check Tag Cables

Chec k Tag Line

Red +12SCTO +12 V DC via panel

Black SCTRTNO +12 V RET (-) via panel

White SCTCTLO Terminal 8 of the RF

Drain/Shield Do not terminate at RF source end. Cut flush with

RF Module Terminal

for AI12XX

cable end at RF source.

AI1301

terminal board

terminal board

Interface Board

3-14

Installing the AR2200 RF Module

Table 3-10 Maximum Cable Lengths for Check Tag Cable

Application

Check tag cable Belden 9773 100 ft (30.5 m)

Cable Type (or

equivalent)

Maximum Length

Note: Voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) measurements at the antenna must be
made. Readings should be in line with antenna specifications. See the antenna te chni­cal specificati ons for information on appropriate VSWR readings.

3-15

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

3-16

4

Testing the RF Module

Chapter 4

Testing the RF Module

This chapter provides instructions for testing the installed RF module.

(Need required equipment, tools section here .)

After connect ing terminals betwee n the RF module and the reader , you should te st the
RF module. You will need an oscilloscope and a data terminal or computer connected
to the AI1200 or AI1301 reader.

The RF module has 12 test points, numbered TP1 through TP12 as shown in
Figure 4-1.

Figure 4-1 RF Board Test Points

4-3

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

The test points are defined in Table 4-1.

Table 4-1 Test Point Definition

3, 4 (CHA1, CHA2) RF module analog signals A
5, 8 (CHB1, CHB2) RF module analog signals B
7, 6 (CHC1, CHC2) RF module analog signals C
9 (40 kHz) Range modulator (unattenuated), 5-V square wave, 40

10 (RM_DC_ADJ1) RF1 range adjust level, 5.0–4.0 VDC, with 4.0 VDC

11 (RM_DC_ADJ0) RF0 range adjust level, 5.0–4.0 VDC, with 4.0 VDC

12 (GND) Oscilloscope or digital multimeter ground point

Test Point Purpose

KHz

minimum sensitivity and 5.0 VDC maximum sensitivity

minimum sensitivity and 5.0 VDC maximum sensitivity

Steps 4 & 5 values TBD
according to J. Owerko.

2 (RCCTL1) RF control line 1, output time on duration
1 (RFCTL0) RF control line 0, output time on duration
J3 (RANGE MOD

INHIBIT)

Short ed with jumper to disable modulation feature

For optimal RF module performance, verify the following criteria.

1. Power output is 1.6 W ±0.1 W measured when module is powered up and after
15 minutes.

2. IF signal noise is less than 90 mV and output port is terminated.

3. Measured output frequency is ±25 PPM of factory-tuned frequency.

4. IF signal range injection is set to approximately 180 mV, measured at IF signals.

5. DC level range injection is between 0 V DC and 1 V DC, measur e d at test points
8 and 9.

Setting Voltage

During initial testin g, set the DC voltag e level at the RF module to a minimum of 11. 0
V DC with RF power on and a maximum of 13.5 VDC with RF power off. Make the
adjustment to achieve this DC leve l at the rea der power supply. Adjusting the DC
voltage level compensa tes for the voltage drop within the DC power cable.

4-4

5

Indicator Lights

Chapter 5

Indicator Lights

This chapter describes the RF module’s indicator lights.

The RF module has four LED indicators on the RF interface board, labeled as shown
in Figure 5-1.

Figure 5-1 RF Module LED Indicators

Each indicator and its message are desc ribed in Ta ble 5-1.

Table 5-1 LED Indicators and Messages

Indicator Functio n Color(s) Message

DS4 DC PWR ON Green/Yellow DC input power

Green

–Input in range of 11.5 VDC to 13.5 VDC

Yellow

–Input out of range (<11.5 VDC, >13.5 VDC)

–PWR is off

OFF
DS2 RF ON Red 12 VDC applied to RFPWR and RFGND
DS3 RF1 ON Red RF output channel 1 on

* Do not disconnect antenna transmission line to

RF output channel 1 when DS3 is on.
DS1 RF0 ON Red RF output channel 0 on

* Do not disconnect antenna transmission line to

RF output channel 0 when DS1 is on.

5-3

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

5-4

6

Adjusting RF Power

Chapter 6

Adjusting RF Power

This chapter explains how to adjust the RF power, if needed.

RF power may be independently reduced, when necessa ry , f or each antenna port by
selecting the desir ed output RF power level setting for the RF PWR Select
dipswitches (SW2 or SW1) for Antenna 1 or Antenna 0. Figure 6-1 shows dipswitch
locations.

Figure 6-1 RF Power Select Dipswitch Locations

6-3

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

Independent RF power output leve l adjustments, for each antenna port, from +25. 5
dBm to +32.5 dBm in 1-dB steps are specified in Table 6-1.

Table 6-1 RF Power Output Select Dipswitch Settings

RF PWR SELECT

ANTENNA 1 or ANTENNA 0

DIPSWITCH SETTINGS

POS 1 (LSB) POS 2 POS 3 (MSB)

ON ON ON 0 (maximum RF power output) +32. 5

OFF ON ON 1 +31.5

ON OFF ON 2 +30.5

OFF OFF ON 3 +29.5

ON ON OFF 4 +28.5

OFF ON OFF 5 +27.5

ON OFF OFF 6 +26.5

OFF OFF OFF 7 (m inimum RF power output) +25.5

RF POWER OUTPUT

ATTENUATION (dB)

NOMINAL RF POWER

OUTPUT LEVEL (dB m )

The RF power can be further reduced (independently) for each antenna port by
inserting externa l (fixed) attenuators between each ante nna port and its associated
antenna. This method of independent port power reduction reduceS receiver
sensitivity (i ncreasing attenuation reduces sensitivity). For any application requiring
the addition of external ( fixed) attenuators, the power rat ing of the at tenuators should
be at least twice the transmit te d power.

6-4

7

Range Modulation Sensitivity Adjustment

Chapter 7

Range Modulation Sensitivity Adjustment

This chapter explains how to adjust the AR2200 RF Module’s range
modulation sensitivity to screen unwanted tag signals.

The range modulation sensitivity adjustment feature of the RF module is used to
screen unwanted tag signals without decreasing RF power. This feature reduces the
system’s reading range and the difference between peak and continuous read
sensitivity.

Using the range modulation feature you can independently reduce the receiver
sensitivity lev els for Antenna Port 1 or Antenna Port 0 via two 14-turn continuously
adjustable potentiometers (one for each antenna port). You can enable the range
modulation by removing programming jumper J3 (Figure 7-1). Entailing J3 inhibits
the range modulation.

Figure 7-1 Range Modulation Sensitivity Potentiometers

You can enable or disable the range modulation using the two-position programming
jumper, J3 (Figure 7-1). Installing the jumper disables the range modulation.
Removing the jumper enables range modulation.

You can make continuos and independent adjustment for each antenna port via two
14-turn continuously adjustable potentiometers (one for each port) that are loca ted on
the I/O Interfa ce (Fig u re 7-1 ). The p ote ntio me te rs spec if ics are as follow s :

• Antenna Port 1 range modulation sens itivity adjustment: R52 (ANTENNA1)

• Antenna Port 0 range modulation sens itivity adjustment: R51 (ANTENNA0)

7-3

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

To adjust read sensitivity, insert a small flat-blade screwdriver into the potentiometer
slot for the appropriate antenna and rotate the potentiometer fully counter-clockwise
for maximum receiver sensitivity/read range or fully clockwise for minimum receiver
sensitivity/r ead range.

The sensitivity rang e paramete rs are as follows:

• RM_DCADJ_1, RM_DCADJ_0 = 5.0V DC, maximum sensitivity/rea d range

• RM_DCADJ_1, RM_DCADJ_0 = 4.0V DC, minimum sensitivity/read range

The resulting reduct ion in receiver sensitivity is as follows:

• 0 dB to 20 dB (minimum)

• 0 dB to 30 dB (nominal)

The range sensitivity adjustment does not cover the system’s entire tag reading
capability, or dynamic range. F or some installations, you may need to reduce RF
power in conjunction with rang e sensitivity adjustment to achieve the desired results.
Experiment with both RF power attenuation and range sensitivity adjustment to
achieve the optimal read range.

7-4

A

AR2200 Technical Specifications

This appendix provides reference information for the AR2200 RF
Module.

Component Specifications

This appendix describes the engineering specifications for the AR2200 RF Module.

Electrical Specifications

Table A-1 shows the electrical requirements for the AR2200 RF Module.

Table A-1 AR2200 RF Module Electrical Requirements

Technical Specifications

Appendix A

Technical Specifications

Characteristic Specification

Input power 12 VDC
Power consumption 40 W maximum
Power connection 3-pin connector

Environmental Specifications

The AR2200 RF Module can withstand the environmental c onditions shown in Table
A-2.

Table A-2 AR2200 RF Module Environmental Specifications

Environment Specification

Shock 5 G ½-sine pulse, 10 ms duration, 3 axes
Vibration 1.0 G
Operating temperature -40° to +167°F (-40° to +7 5°C)
Humidity 95% noncondensing

10 to 500 Hz

rms

Physical Specifications

Table A-3 lists the physical specifications of the AR2200 RF Module.

A-3

AR2200 RF Module User Guide

Table A-3 AR2200 RF Module Physical Specifications

Size 13.5 x 13.0 x 6.36 in (34.3 x 33.0 x 16.2 cm)
Weight 22 lb (10 kg)

Specification Value

A-4