TransCore MPRXFHV1 User Manual

MPRX-FH Reader

User Guide

16-0142-001 Rev A 1/2020

TransCore’s Multiprotocol Reader Extreme Frequency Hopper (MPRX-FH) is a radio
frequency identification (RFID) reader designed for harsh environment applications.
This guide provides site planning, testing, and operating instructions for this system.

This guide is intended for use by authorized TransCore dealers, professional
installers, and service personnel. The MPRX-FH must be installed by a professional
installer. Once installed, configured, and verified by testing, the end user cannot
change the configuration (transmit power, etc) of the MPRX-FH. If changes are
required, the end user must contact their authorized TransCore dealer, professional
installer, and/or service personnel for additional service.

Trusted Transportation Solutions

MPRX-FH User Guide

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

© 2020 TransCore, LP. All rights reserved. TRANSCORE, AMTECH, EGO, and ENCOMPASS are registered
trademarks and are used under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Contents are subject to change. Printed in the U.S.A.

For further information, contact:

TransCore
8600 Jeerson Street NE
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113 USA

TransCore Technical Support

Phone: [phone]
Web: www.transcore.com

TransCore Sales Support
Phone: [phone]

Lantronix ® Technical Support (Ethernet Support)

Phone: [phone]
Web: www.lantronix.com/support/

ii

Approved Antenna List

TRANSMITTERS FOR DETACHABLE ANTENNAS

This radio transmitter, ISED ID: 1584A-MPRXV1, has been approved by Innovation, Science, and Economic
Development Canada to operate with the antenna types listed below, with the maximum permissible gain
indicated. Antenna types not included in this list that have a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated
for any type listed are strictly prohibited for use with this device.

The MPRX-FH complies with FCC Part 15.247 and IC RSS-247 rules and has been designed to operate with
the listed antennas presented in Table 1. The eective maximum gain of each antenna is listed as well as
the required attenuation to ensure that eective gain of greater than the allowed 6dB cannot occur. The
required attenuation presented in Table 1 also includes any cable loss that is included with the system.

To reduce potential interference to other systems, antenna gain and type should be selected in a way that
the EIRP (equivalent isotropically radiated power) is no more than the allowed 36dBm, preferably as low as
possible that is needed for proper operation of the system.

Table 1 Approved Antenna List

FCC COMPLIANCE NOTICE

Manufacture Part Number Polarization

Huber Suhner 1309.17.0111/85018546 Circular 5.50 0.00

Kathrein 52010087 Circular 11.00 5.00

Kathrein 52010249 Linear 11.00 5.00

Kathrein 52010092 Circular -30.00 0.00

Laird S9028P Linear 8.00 2.00

Laird S9025PR Circular 5.50 0.00

MARS Antennas & RF
Systems LTD.

Mobile Mark PN6-915RCP-1C-WHT-6 RH Circular 6.00 0.00

Mobile Mark PN6-915LCP-1C-WHT-6 LH Circular 6.00 0.00

Mobile Mark PL8-915RCP-1Y-WHT-12 RH Circular 8.00 2.00

Mobile Mark HD7-915RCP-BLK RH Circular 7.00 1.00

MTI Wireless Edge LTD. MT-263007/TRH/A/K Circular 11.50 5.50

TransCore AA3152 UTA Linear 14.00 8.00

TransCore AA3237 Linear 6.00 0.00

TransCore AA3110 Linear 12.50 6.50

TransCore AA3153 Linear 10.50 4.50

MA-IS91-T2 Linear 10.50 4.50

Gain
(dBi)

Min lnline Loss

Required (dB)

Table 1 has the antenna polarization, peak linear dBi (decibels over isotropic) gain figures, and the

required loss required between the MPRX-FH and the antenna. This loss can include the cable loss for the
length of the cable required to set up system.

Example:
To set up an MPRX-FH reader for use with the AA3152 antenna using a cable length of LMR-400 with an
average attenuation of 3.94dBi and a length of 115ft, the cable loss would be 4.53dBi. With a gain of 14dBi

iii

MPRX-FH User Guide

from the AA3152, and another external attenuator with a value of at least 3.47dBi or greater, this setup
would meet the FCC rule of the maximum EIRP of 36dBm.

Liste des antennes approuvées

ÉMETTEURS RADIO POUR ANTENNES DÉMONTABLES

o

Cet émetteur radio, n
Développement économique Canada pour fonctionner avec les types d’antennes qui figurent dans la liste
ci-dessous, sous réserve du gain maximal admissible indiqué. Il est strictement interdit d’utiliser tout type
d’antenne qui ne figure pas sur cette liste et dont le gain est supérieur au gain maximal indiqué sur la liste,
tous types confondus, avec cet appareil.

Le MPRX-FH est conforme à la section15.247 des règles de la FCC et aux règles du CNR-247, et est
conçu pour fonctionner avec les antennes énumérées dans la liste du tableau1. La liste prescrit le gain
maximal apparent de chaque antenne, ainsi que l’atténuation requise pour faire en sorte qu’un gain
apparent supérieur aux 6dB admis ne peut se produire. L’atténuation requise indiquée au Tableau 1
comprend en outre toute atténuation de câble qui est comprise dans le système.

ISDE 1584A-MPRXV1, a obtenu l’homologation d’Innovation, Sciences et

AVIS DE CONFORMITÉ À LA FCC

Pour limiter les interférences potentielles sur d’autres systèmes, le gain et le type d’antenne doivent être
choisis de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas les 36dBm
admissibles et, de préférence, soit la plus faible possible compte tenu des exigences de fonctionnement
du système.

Tableau1 – Liste des antennes approuvées

Fabricant Numéro de pièce Polarisation

Huber Suhner 1309.17.0111/85018546 Circulaire 5,50 0,00

Kathrein 52010087 Circulaire 11,00 5,00

Kathrein 52010249 Linéaire 11,00 5,00

Kathrein 52010092 Circulaire -30,00 0,00

Laird S9028P Linéaire 8,00 2,00

Laird S9025PR Circulaire 5,50 0,00

MARS Antennas & RF
Systems LTD

Mobile Mark PN6-915RCP-1C-WHT-6

Mobile Mark PN6-915LCP-1C-WHT-6

Mobile Mark PL8-915RCP-1Y-WHT-12

Mobile Mark HD7-915RCP-BLK

MTI Wireless Edge LTD MT-263007/TRH/A/K Circulaire 11,50 5,50

MA-IS91-T2 Linéaire 10,50 4,50

Circulaire sens
horaire

Circulaire sens
antihoraire

Circulaire sens
horaire

Circulaire sens
horaire

Gain
(dBi)

6,00 0,00

6,00 0,00

8,00 2,00

7,00 1,00

Atténuation de
câble minimale

requise (dB

)

iv

TransCore AA3152 UTA Linéaire 14,00 8,00

TransCore AA3237 Linéaire 6,00 0,00

TransCore AA3110 Linéaire 12,50 6,50

TransCore AA3153 Linéaire 10,50 4,50

Le tableau1 indique la polarisation de chaque antenne, le gain linéaire maximal en dBi (décibels par rapport à
l’antenne isotrope) et l’atténuation requise entre le MPRX-FH et l’antenne. Cette atténuation peut comprendre

l’atténuation de câble sur toute la longueur de câble requise pour installer le système.

Par exemple:

Pour installer un lecteurMPRX-FH à utiliser avec l’antenneAA3152 au moyen d’un câbleLMR-400 à
atténuation moyenne de 3,94dBi, d’une longueur de 115pi, l’atténuation de câble serait de 4,53dBi. Le
gain de l’antenneAA3152 étant 14dBi, en utilisant un autre atténuateur externe d’une valeur de 3,47dBi
ou plus, cette installation respecte la p.i.r.e maximale de 36dBm imposée par la FCC.

v

MPRX-FH User Guide

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 RF energy
and may cause harmful interference to radio communications if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual. Operating this equipment in a residential area is likely
to cause harmful interference, in which case, depending on the laws in eect, the user may be
required to correct the interference at their own expense.

CAUTION:

This equipment may not be modified, altered, or changed in any way without permission.
Unauthorized modification may void the equipment authorization from the FCC and will void
the warranty.

TO USERS IN THE UNITED STATES

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMISSION FCC

RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT

47 CFR §15.105A

NO UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS

47 CFR §15.21

USE OF SHIELDED CABLES AND GROUNDING

47 CFR §15.27A

NOTE: Shielded cables and earth grounding the unit is recommended for this equipment to

comply with FCC regulations.

TRANSCORE, LP

USA

vi

AVERTISSEMENT À L’ATTENTION DES

UTILISATEURS AUX ÉTATSUNIS

DÉCLARATION 47 CFR §15.105A DE LA FCC SUR

LES INTERFÉRENCES DES FRÉQUENCES RADIO

REMARQUE : Cet appareil a été testé et déclaré conforme à la catégorie d’un appareil
numérique de classe A en accord avec la partie 15 des directives de la FCC. Ces normes visent
à assurer une protection raisonnable contre les interférences nuisibles lorsque l’appareil est
utilisé dans un environnement commercial. Cet appareil génère, utilise et peut émettre de
l’énergie RF et peut être à l’origine d’interférences nuisibles aux communications radio s’il n’est
pas installé et utilisé en suivant les directives du manuel d’instructions. Si cet appareil est utilisé
dans une zone résidentielle, il est probable qu’il cause des interférences nuisibles. Dans ce cas,
l’utilisateur pourrait être amené à remédier aux interférences à ses propres frais, selon les lois
du pays en vigueur.

AUCUNE MODIFICATION NON AUTORISÉE

47 CFR §15.21

MISE EN GARDE : IL EST INTERDIT DE MODIFIER, D’ALTÉRER OU D’APPORTER DES CHANGEMENTS

À CET APPAREIL DE QUELQUE MANIÈRE QUE CE SOIT SANS AUTORISATION. TOUTE MODIFICATION
NON AUTORISÉE PEUT ANNULER L’AUTORISATION D’UTILISATION ACCORDÉE PAR LA FCC ET
ANNULERA LA GARANTIE.

UTILISATION DE CÂBLES BLINDÉS ET MISE À LA TERRE

47 CFR §15.27A

REMARQUE : Il est recommandé d’utiliser des câbles blindés et une mise à la terre avec cet
appareil afin de répondre aux réglementations de la FCC

TRANSCORE, LP

ÉTATSUNIS

vii

MPRX-FH User Guide

This device contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply with Inovation,
Science and Economic Development Canada’s licence-exempt RSS(s). Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause interference.

2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.

Cet appareil contient des émetteurs(s)/récepteurs exemptés de licence qui sont conformes
à l’EXEMPTION de RSS(s) d’Innovation, Science et Developpement économique Canada). L’
opération est soumise aux deux conditions suivantes:

1 ) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage.

2 ) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage

est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.

WARNING TO USERS IN CANADA

AVERTISSEMENT AUX UTILISATEURS AU CANADA

viii

RADIO FREQUENCY HEALTH LIMITS FOR MPRXFH READER

USING AN EXTERNAL ANTENNA IN

FREQUENCY BAND OF 902 TO 928 MHZ

Several agencies (OSHA, FCC, IC) have environmental guidelines regulating maximum
permissible exposure (MPE) or “safe” exposure levels that this product falls under. To ensure
that proper safety guideline for the end users of this product, i.e. Occupational (Controlled) and
General Population/Public (Uncontrolled), the recommended levels for each of the agencies are
presented in the next sections with TransCore’s recommendations for safety in the last section.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

OSHA (an agency of The United States of America) legislates in the Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) Title 29 Part 1910 Subpart G 1910.97 titled “Nonionizing radiation”, a maximum

2

safe exposure limit of 10 milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm

) during any 0.1-hour period
(i.e. 6 minutes). Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment)
of 915 MHz and the highest antenna gain that this equipment is certified for use in a final
installation, the minimum safe distance was calculated to be 8in (20cm).

FCC (Federal Communication Commission)

FCC (an agency of The United States of America) legislates in the Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR) Title 47 Chapter I Subchapter A Part 1 Subpart I Section 1.1310 titled “Radiofrequency
radiation exposure limits” that the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) is the following:

Occupational/Controlled Exposure

2

Power density = frequency(in MHz)/300 mW/cm

with an Averaging time of 6 Min

General Population/Uncontrolled Exposure

2

Power density = frequency(in MHz)/1500 mW/cm

with an Averaging time of 30 Min

Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment) of 915MHz
and the highest antenna gain that this equipment is certified for use in a final installation,
the minimum safe distance was calculated. The MPE minimum distances are 14in (36cm) for
the Occupational/Controlled environment, and 31.5in (80.5cm) for the General Population/
Uncontrolled environment.

Industry Canada (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada)

Industry Canada (a Department of the Government of Canada) sets out the requirements in
Radio Standards Specification RSS-102, Issue 5 guidelines, recommending a maximum safe

2

power density in W/m
uncontrolled exposure at 915MHz is 2.77 W/m

. Thus, the maximum permissible exposure for general population/

2

. The average time is 6 minutes. The maximum

permissible exposure (MPE) is the following:

Controlled Environment

0.5

Power density = 0.6455*frequency(in MHz)

W/m2 with a Reference Period time of 6 Min

ix

MPRX-FH User Guide

Power density = 0.02619*frequency(in MHz)

Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment) of 915MHz
and the highest antenna gain that this equipment is certified for use in a final installation, the
minimum safe distance was calculated. The MPE minimum distances are 13in (32cm) for the
Controlled environment and 33in (84cm) for the General Public/Uncontrolled environment.

TransCore Recommendation on MPE (Maximum Permissible Exposure)

The calculated power densities and MPE distance for each of the agencies respective to the
environment is shown below.

General Public/Uncontrolled Environment

0.6834

W/m2 with a Reference Period time of 6 Min

Occupational/Controlled Environment

Agency Power Density

MPE minimum distance Time (min)

(mW/cm2)

in cm

OSHA 10 5.5 14 6

FCC 3.05 10.2 26 6

IC 1.95 12.6 32 6

General Population/Public/Uncontrolled Environment

Agency Power Density

MPE minimum distance Time (min)

(mW/cm2)

In cm

OSHA 10 5.5 14 6

FCC 0.61 22.0 56 30

IC 0.28 33.0 84 6

With the equipment installed and running at the maximum transmit power of 1.0W (30dBm),
0 dB transmit attenuation, using a 6dBi gain antenna that the equipment is certified for, the
recommendation for each of the operation environments is as follows:

1 ) The antenna should be installed at least 33in (84cm) from the General Population/Public i.e.

Uncontrolled Environment.

2 ) Maintenance personnel (i.e. Occupational/Controlled Environment) must remain at least 13in

(32cm) from the antenna and limit their time in the environment to 6 minutes when the system
is operating.

x

LIMITES D’EXPOSITION AUX RADIOFRÉQUENCES POUR LE LECTEUR MPRXFH

UTILISANT UNE ANTENNE EXTERNE SUR LA BANDE

DE FRÉQUENCES DE 902.25 À 903.75 ET DE 910.00 À 921.50 MHZ

Plusieurs organismes (OSHA, FCC, IC) publient des directives environnementales qui
recommandent des limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) ou des niveaux
d’exposition «sûrs» auxquels cet appareil se conforme. Pour faire en sorte que chaque
utilisateur final ait connaissance des directives de sécurité qui le concerne, que ce soit
dans son travail (accès contrôlé) ou pour la population générale/le grand public (accès non
contrôlé), TransCore présente les niveaux recommandés par chaque organisme dans ses
recommandations sécuritaires détaillées dans la dernière section.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

Dans le Code des réglementations fédérales (CFR), Titre 29, Partie 1910, Sous-partie G 1910.97,
intitulée «Nonionizing radiation» (Rayonnements non ionisants), l’OSHA (organisme américain)
recommande un plafond d’exposition maximale de 10 milliwatts par centimètre carré (mW/

2

) pendant une période de 0,1 heure (soit 6 minutes). En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz

cm
(milieu de la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet
appareil a reçu une certification d’utilisation dans une installation finale, la distance minimale
sécuritaire est de 20 cm (8 po).

FCC (Federal Communication Commission)

Dans le Code des réglementations fédérales (CFR), Titre 47, Chapitre I, Sous-chapitre A, Partie
1, Sous-partie I, Section 1.1310 intitulée «Radiofrequency radiation exposure limits» (Limites
d’exposition aux rayonnements de radiofréquence), la FCC (organisme américain) établit les
limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) comme suit :

Exposition professionnelle/contrôlée

2

Densité de puissance = fréquence (en MHz)/300 mW/cm

avec une durée moyenne de 6 min.

Exposition de la population générale/non contrôlée

2

Densité de puissance = fréquence (en MHz)/1500 mW/cm

avec une durée moyenne de 30 min.

En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz (milieu de la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le
gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet appareil a reçu une certification d’utilisation dans une
installation finale, la distance minimale sécuritaire est la suivante : les distances MPE minimales
sont de 36 cm (14 po) pour l’environnement professionnel/contrôlé et de 80,5 cm (31,5 po) pour
la population générale/environnement non contrôlé.

xi

MPRX-FH User Guide

Industrie Canada (Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada)

Le Cahier des charges sur les normes radioélectriques 102, 5
(un ministère du Gouvernement du Canada) établit des recommandations pour une densité

de puissance maximale sécuritaire en W/m
population générale/non contrôlée à 915 MHz est calculée à 2,77 W/m
de 6 minutes. Les limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) sont les suivantes :

Environnement contrôlé

Densité de puissance = 0,6455*fréquence (en MHz)

Grand public/environnement non contrôlé

Densité de puissance = 0,02619*fréquence (en MHz)

En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz (milieu de la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le
gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet appareil a reçu une certification d’utilisation dans une
installation finale, la distance minimale sécuritaire est la suivante : les distances MPE minimales
sont de 32 cm (13 po) pour l’environnement professionnel/contrôlé et de 84 cm (33 po) pour le
grand public/environnement non contrôlé.

e

édition, d’Industrie Canada

2

. Ainsi, l’exposition maximale admissible pour la

2

. La durée moyenne est

0,5

W/m2 avec une durée de référence de 6

min.

0,6834

W/m2 avec une durée de référence de 6 min.

Recommandations de TransCore sur les limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes
MPE)

Les densités de puissance et la distance MPE calculées par chaque organisme pour un
environnement donné sont présentées ci dessous.

Exposition professionnelle/environnement contrôlé

Organisme

Densité de puissance

2

(mW/cm

)

Distance MPE minimale

Durée (en min.)

po cm

OSHA 10 5,5 14 6

FCC 3,05 10,2 26 6

IC 1,95 12,6 32 6

Population générale/environnement non contrôlé

Organisme

Densité de puissance

2

(mW/cm

)

Distance MPE minimale

Durée (en min.)

po cm

OSHA 10 5,5 14 6

xii

FCC 0,61 22,0 56 30

IC 0,28 33,0 84 6

Avec l’équipement installé et fonctionnant à la puissance de transmission maximale de
1,0 W (30dBm), 0 dB transmettent l’atténuation, à l’aide d’une antenne à gain 6dBi pour

laquelle l’équipement est certifié, la recommandation pour chacun des environnements de
fonctionnement est la suivante:

1 ) L’antenne devrait être installée à au moins 84 cm (33 po) de la population générale/du grand

public, c’est-à-dire d’un environnement non contrôlé.

2 ) Le personnel d’entretien (c’est-à-dire dans un environnement professionnel/contrôlé) doit rester

à au moins 32 cm (13 po) de l’antenne et limiter son temps d’exposition à 6 minutes lorsque
l’appareil est en fonctionnement.

Licensing Requirements

The MPRX-FH is an end-user license exempt device certified under FCC Part 15.247 and IC RS-247. As
such, the end-user of this product is not required to file for a site license from the FCC (US) or IC (Canada).
For other countries, refer to the local laws and frequency control agencies.

Once installed by a professional installer, the end user cannot make changes to the configuration (transmit
power, etc.) of the unit.

xiii

MPRX-FH User Guide

Table of Contents

Approved Antenna List....................................................iii

Licensing Requirements ...................................................xi

Chapter1 System Overview ............................1–17

System Description .....................................................1–17

Reader................................................................1–17

Compatible Tag Types ................................................. 1–22

Chapter2 Test Procedures ............................2–23

Required Tools and Equipment ..........................................2–23

Pre-installation Testing of the MPRX-FH ..................................2–25

Testing the MPRX-FH Circuit ............................................2–25

Connecting the Antenna(s) .............................................2–26

Connecting the Power Supply...........................................2–29

Connecting Communications ...........................................2–32

Connecting Sense Input and Sense Output Circuits ........................2–32

Chapter3 General Software Information ................3–37

Command Entry Conventions .............................................3–37

Command Response Conventions .........................................3–37

Operating Parameters .................................................3–38

Power Fail............................................................3–38

Program Download ....................................................3–38

Startup...............................................................3–39

Tag/Message Buer....................................................3–40

Chapter4Communications Protocols ................... 4–41

Introduction .......................................................... 4–41

Basic Protocol ........................................................4–42

Error Correcting Protocol ...............................................4–42

xiv

Data Inquiry Protocol ..................................................4–43

Basic Protocol and ECP Format..........................................4–43

ECP Reliability ........................................................4–50

Manually Disabling ECP for Maintenance .................................4–53

Chapter5 Commands ................................5–55

Default Settings .......................................................5–55

Operating Modes......................................................5–55

Command List ........................................................5–56

Chapter6 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–82

Configuring the Reader ................................................6–82

Terminal Emulation Software ............................................6–83

Configuring MPRX-FH Parameters ........................................ 6–86

Chapter7 Troubleshooting and Maintenance ............7–94

Error Messages .......................................................7–94

MPRX-FH Repair ......................................................7–97

Technical Support .....................................................7–97

Chapter8 AT5720 Check Tag-to-MPRX-FH ..............8–98

Required Supplies .....................................................8–98

To assemble the kit for two check tags....................................8–98

AppendixAGlossary.................................A–100

AppendixBTechnical Specifications ...................B–105

Reader Specifications .................................................B–105

AppendixC Wiring Information .......................C–108

Communications Interfaces ............................................C–108

AppendixDCommand Quick Reference ................ D–110

Command Syntax .................................................... D–110

Factory Default Settings ............................................... D–110

Numerical Command List ...............................................D–111

Alphabetical Command List............................................ D–116

AppendixE Compatible Tag Information ...............E–122

Tag Configurations ...................................................E–122

Tag Data Formats..................................................... E–123

xv

MPRX-FH User Guide

List of Figures

Figure 1 MPRX End Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–17

Figure 2 Location of Host Port on MPRX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–19

Figure 3  Pin Assignments for Host Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–19

Figure 4 Location of Sense Port on MPRX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1–20

Figure 5 Socket Assignments for Sense Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–20

Figure 6 Socket Assignments for Ethernet Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–21

Figure 7 Wiring for Audible Circuit Tester for MPRX-FH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–25

Figure 8 Connect RF N-type Load or Attenuator to Reader Cable End . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–26

Figure 9 Short Load to Earth Ground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–27

Figure 10 MPRX-FH Showing Antenna Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–28

Figure 11 Location of MPRX-FH Ground Stud. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–29

Figure 12 Location of Host/Sense Ports on MPRX-FH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–30

Figure 13 Stand-alone DeviceInstaller Link. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–33

Figure 14 DeviceInstaller Start Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–33

Figure 15 Connecting Directly to Computer Ethernet Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–34

Figure 16 Multiple NIC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–34

Figure 17 Adapter Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–34

Figure 18 Check for Updates Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–35

Figure 19 Disable Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–35

Figure 20 LanTronix DeviceInstaller Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–36

Figure 21 Xport Direct+ Device Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–36

Figure 22 Tag and Antenna Orientation (horizontal polarization) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6–85

Figure 23 MPRX-FH RF Control Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6–89

Figure 24 Sense CTAG Pinouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8–98

Figure 25 MPRX Exterior Case Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B–106

Figure 26 MPRX End Panel Dimensions with Antenna Ports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B–107

Figure 27 MPRX End Panel Dimensions with Communication Connectors . . . . . . . . . .B–107

xvi

List of Tables

Table 1 Approved Antenna List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Table 2 Connector Cabling Accessory Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–18

Table 3 Power Supply Current Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–18

Table 4 Recommended Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–22

Table 5 Pretest Accessory Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–24

Table 6 Pretest Accessory Options Available From Third Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–24

Table 7 Pin Assignments for Host Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–30

Table 8 Socket Assignments for Sense Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–31

Table 9 Inrush and Steady State Currents for MPRX-FH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–31

Table 10 Four-Character Command Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3–37

Table 11 Sample Command Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–38

Table 12 Select Baud Rate Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–57

Table 13 Select Stop Bits Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–58

Table 14 Select Parity Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–58

Table 15  Append Time and Date Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–60

Table 16 Append Auxiliary Information Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–60

Table 17 Unique ID Code Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–62

Table 18 Select Valid Code Commands and Frames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–62

Table 19 Software Flow Control Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–73

Table 20 RF Control Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–74

Table 21 RF Attenuation Command Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–74

Table 22  Presence Without Tag Report Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–75

Table 23 RF Control Algorithm Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–76

Table 24 Timeout Period Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–76

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MPRX-FH User Guide

Table 25 Input Inversion Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–77

Table 26  MPRX-FH Default Configuration Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–82

Table 27  Command Sequence to Verify Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6–84

Table 28  Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7–94

Table 29 Symptoms and Remedies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–95

Table 30 Check Tag 0 Wire Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–98

Table 31 Check Tag 1 Wire Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–99

Table 32 MPRX Host Communications Cable Pin Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C–108

Table 33 Communications Interfaces and Conductor Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C–108

Table 34 MPRX SENSE Communications Cable Pin Designations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C–109

Table 35 Ethernet Pin Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C–109

Table 36 MPRX-FH Default Configuration Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D–110

Table 37 MPRX-FH Commands Listed Numerically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D–111

Table 38 MPRX-FH Commands Listed Alphabetically. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D–116

Table 39 SeGo Protocol Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E–122

xviii

Chapter1 System Overview

System Description

The MPRX-FH is a reader that supports transponders formatted for ISO/IEC 18000-63 (Tag Data Standard
Protocol) and TransCore’s Super eGo® (SeGo) radio frequency identification (RFID) technology.

Operational Modes

The MPRX-FH reader can operate in several modes, depending on the application. All modes are read­only.

ISO/IEC 18000-63: This mode has applications mainly in the toll and access control environment.

SeGo: This mode has applications mainly in the toll and access control environment.

The operational mode of the reader is limited by the firmware load, and also by enabling or disabling the
modes using the appropriate #4NN commands, as defined in “Chapter 5 Commands” on page 5–57.

Chapter 1 System Overview

Reader

The MPRX-FH consists of an input/output (I/O) module, a power supply, a reader logic board (also called a
tag decoder), and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter/ receiver (called the RF module) in a compact
enclosure. These components are contained in a highly reliable, compact, and easy-to-install package.

Figure 1 shows the four port version of the MPRX-FH. The host connector, sense connector, Ethernet

connector, and interface selection switch are on the opposite end of the MPRX-FH from the four antenna
port locations.

Figure 1 MPRX End Views

Power and Communications Cables

Cable length for power and communications depends on the physical characteristics of the MPRX­FH installation site. Table 2 lists accessory kits available for cabling options based on your site’s
requirements.

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MPRX-FH User Guide

Electrical Power

Table 2 Connector Cabling Accessory Kits

Part Number Description

58-7200-001 MPRX-FH host connector leads 0.15m (6in)

58-7200-002 MPRX-FH host cable assembly 3m (120in)

58-7200-003 MPRX-FH host cable assembly 5m (200in)

58-7200-004 MPRX-FH host cable assembly 10m (400in)

58-7201-001 MPRX-FH sense connector leads 0.15m (6in)

58-7201-002 MPRX-FH sense cable assembly 3m (120in)

58-7201-003 MPRX-FH sense cable assembly 5m (200in)

58-7201-004 MPRX-FH sense cable assembly 10m (400in)

The MPRX-FH accepts 16-20VAC or 16-28VDC. Consult your local and national electrical codes for
installation and safety requirements.

It is the installer’s responsibility to supply conversion equipment and wiring. Table 3 contains power
supply current requirements.

Power circuits are protected internally against power surges (±30%).

Table 3 Power Supply Current Requirements

a

Standby

68°F (20°C)

Supply

(RF On)

a

Maximum

Power at 68°F (20°C)

(RF O)

Operating Power at

16 to 20V AC 20W (Watts) 14W

16 to 28 V DC 20W 14W

a 1700 milliamp (mA) initial rush-in current at startup

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Chapter 1 System Overview

Host Communications

The MPRX-FH communicates through an asynchronous RS–232, RS–422, or Ethernet interface. Figure 2
shows the MPRX-FH communications ports and Figure 3 shows the host connector pin designations.

Figure 2 Location of Host Port on MPRX

Pin Number Operation

1

2

3

4

5

6

7 RS422_RX+

8

9

10

11 +V In

12 +V Return

RS232_TX

RS232_RX

LOCK

LOCK_RTN

RS422_TX+

RS422_TX–

RS422_RX–

COM_GND (RS232 GND)

COM_GND (RS422 GND)

Figure 3  Pin Assignments for Host Connector

The standard RS–232/RS–422/Ethernet connection maximum distance depends on the baud rate, cable
type, and the receiving device at the other end.

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MPRX-FH User Guide

Sense Connections

Figure 4 shows the location of the MPRX-FH sense port, and Figure 5 shows the sense connector socket

designations.

Figure 4 Location of Sense Port on MPRX

Socket Number Operation

1 +12VDC OUT

2 OUT1

3 I/O GROUND

4 I/O GROUND

5 PULSE OUT

6 OUT0

7 CTAG 0

8 CTAG 1

9 I/O GROUND

10 I/O GROUND

1–22

11 SENSE 1

12 SENSE 0

Figure 5 Socket Assignments for Sense Connector

TransCore Proprietary

Chapter 1 System Overview

The MPRX-FH’s two RF sense input circuits are TTL (Logic Level, 0V/5V), designed to be shorted to I/O
Ground (0V) to provide sense presence detect for antenna ports 0 and 1 (Sense 0) and antenna ports 2
and 3 (Sense 1).

The MPRX-FH’s tag lock output circuit is a single-pole, double-throw relay providing a dry contact closure.
These contacts are rated at 42.2V AC peak (30V

The output circuit is not intended for the direct control of electro-mechanical devices such as motorized
barrier arms. For such applications, the MPRX-FH output circuit should be used to drive a secondary
appropriately-rated high-power relay.

) or 60V DC, at 1A maximum with non-inductive load.

rms

Ethernet Interface

The Ethernet interface is a standard M12 socket. Figure 6 shows the connector socket designation.

Socket Number Operation

1 Receive +

2 Transmit +

3 Receive -

4 Transmit -

Figure 6 Socket Assignments for Ethernet Connector

Antenna Interface

The site must include interface cable(s) between the MPRX-FH and the compatible antenna(s) chosen for
the site. The antenna interface is a reverse polarity TNC connector.

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MPRX-FH User Guide

Table 4 Recommended Cables

Cable Type

RG–223 0.216 12.8dB

RG–214 0.425 7.5dB

FSJ1–50 0.25 5.68dB

LDF2–50 0.375 11.01dB

FSJ4–50B 0.50 11.25dB

LDF4–50A 0.50 6.94dB

a Suxes 50, 50A, and 50B indicate 50-ohm cables available
from the Andrew Corporation.

Compatible Tag Types

The MPRX-FH provides the capability to read ISO/IEC 18000-63 formatted tags and TransCore Super eGo
(SeGo) protocol tags. Refer to “Compatible Tag Information” on page E–124 for information on compatible
tag models.

Overall

a

Diameter

(in.)

Cable Loss

per 100 ft

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Chapter2 Test Procedures

Required Tools and Equipment

Ensure that you have received all parts before beginning your pre-installation MPRX-FH tests.

Your MPRX-FH is packaged with the following materials:

• One MPRX-FH

• One MPRX-FH Quick Start Guide

• Any accessories ordered as options (refer to Table 5.)

Other required accessories are:

• Power/communications cable harness

• 16-20VAC or 16-28VDC

• At least one MPRX-FH-compatible antenna (refer to “Table 1 Approved Antenna List” on page iii)

Chapter 2 Test Procedures

• Antenna RF cable

These may be ordered as accessories from TransCore or obtained from other sources.

Additional Materials Needed for Testing

You will need these additional materials to perform the pretests on the MPRX-FH:

• Test tags, supplied by the TransCore dealer or distributor (formatted for ISO/IEC 18000-63 or SeGo)

• Suitable power wiring for the MPRX-FH (refer to “Table 1 Approved Antenna List” on page iii)

• Audible circuit tester and 9V DC battery for circuit tester power

• Wire stripper

• At least one MPRX-FH compatible antenna

• Suitable RF interface coaxial cable

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MPRX-FH User Guide

Pretest Accessory Options Available From TransCore

Table 5 lists optional TransCore MPRX-FH installation accessory items.

Part No. Description

58-7200-001 MPRX-FH Host Connector with Leads 0.15m (6in)

58-7200-002 MPRX-FH Host Cable 3m (120in)

58-7200-003 MPRX-FH Host Cable 5m (200in)

58-7200-004 MPRX-FH Host Cable 10m (400in)

58-7201-001 MPRX-FH Sense Connector with Leads 0.15m (6in)

58-7201-002 MPRX-FH Sense Cable 3m (120in)

58-7201-003 MPRX-FH Sense Cable 5m (200in)

58-7201-004 MPRX-FH Sense Cable 10m (400in)

20-7001-001 MPRX-FH check tag accessory kit

13-5118-903 Test Rail Tag with metal back plane – Rail-car Format – SeGo

13-5118-904 Test Rail Tag with metal back plane – Locomotive Format – SeGo

Table 5 Pretest Accessory Options

Table 6 lists pretest accessory options available from a third party.

Table 6 Pretest Accessory Options Available From Third Party

Mfg Part No. Mfr. Description

HG908P-NM LCOM 915 Mhz Bench Antenna – LCOM – 4 ft type N male connector

4N5W-03 AERO FLEX Type N attenuator 5 W – 3 db

4N5W-10 AERO FLEX Type N attenuator 5 W – 10 db

4N5W-15 AERO FLEX Type N attenuator 5 W – 15 db

3018-5W AERO FLEX Type N 50 ohm load – 5 W

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TransCore Proprietary

Pre-installation Testing of the MPRX-FH

9

VDC

Battery

6-12VDC

Buzzer

+ -

Pin 4 on

Host Connector

Pin 3 on

Host Connector

- +

Pretest involves the following steps:

• Testing the MPRX-FH circuit

• Connecting the antenna(s)

• Connecting the power supply

• Connecting communications

• Connecting sense input and sense output circuits

• Power and tag read capability testing prior to final installation of the MPRX-FH

Testing the MPRX-FH Circuit

Before installing the MPRX-FH permanently at the site, you should test the circuit to confirm that the MPRX­FH has power and can read a tag that is in the tag read zone.

A voltage meter or audible circuit tester (buzzer) is necessary in order to test the circuit. An example test
setup diagram is shown in Figure 7. The buzzer is powered by a 9VDC battery and is equipped with two
alligator-clip leads. When you touch the leads together, the box will produce an audible sound.

Chapter 2 Test Procedures

Figure 7 Wiring for Audible Circuit Tester for MPRX-FH

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MPRX-FH User Guide

Connecting the Antenna(s)

To test the MPRX-FH, connect the antenna and power supply as described in this section.

Discharge Voltage from the Antenna

Caution

During shipping and installation, an antenna can build up a very high voltage charge.

The voltage needs to be discharged before connecting the antenna to the reader.

TransCore strongly advises that you use adequate Earth Ground for this voltage
discharge procedure in accordance with the National Electric Code for the locale where you are
installing the MPRX-FH.

Use these instructions to discharge high voltage from the antenna before proceeding with further
pre-installation testing of the reader.

Required Equipment

This procedure requires the following equipment.

• MPRX-FH

• External antenna

• Grounding RF cable (long enough to reach Earth Ground source)

• N-type load (e.g., 50 Ω) or RF attenuator (e.g., 20 dB)

1. Terminate the reader end of the grounding RF cable with any N-type load or RF attenuator

(Figure 8).

2–28

Figure 8 Connect RF N-type Load or Attenuator to Reader Cable End

2. Connect the grounding RF cable to the antenna (Item 1 in Figure 9).

3. Short the outer metal case of the load or attenuator to Earth Ground for approximately 10 seconds

(Item 2 in Figure 9). In this example, the operator is using the mounting pole that has been
properly connected to Earth Ground.

TransCore Proprietary

Chapter 2 Test Procedures

CAUTION

TransCore does not recommend using a screwdriver or other tool to short the RF cable center
conductor to the outer ground of the cable. This grounding method can damage the center pin
or the threads of the connector.

Figure 9 Short Load to Earth Ground

4. Disconnect the grounding RF cable from the antenna and connect the permanent RF cable to
reader.
Once the antenna is discharged and properly connected to the reader, the reader circuitry
provides a DC path to keep any further charge from building up in the antenna.

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MPRX-FH User Guide

Connecting the Reader and Antenna

1. Ensure the reader is turned o and power is disconnected.

2. Connect one end of the RF interface cable to the antenna.

3. Connect the other end of the RF interface cable to the appropriate antenna port on the end of the

MPRX-FH. Refer to Figure 10.

4. The ports can be turned on in consecutive order. If all four ports will not be used, start with Port 0

and turn on connected ports. Unused ports should be set to OFF. Refer to “Numerical Command

List” on page D–113 for a list of commands.

Figure 10 MPRX-FH Showing Antenna Ports

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