WORKABOUT PRO4 RFID
MOBILE COMPUTER
INTEGRATOR GUIDE
UHF Linear
WA9901/WA9902
UHF Circular
WA9903/WA9904
WORKABOUT PRO4 RFID MOBILE COMPUTER
INTEGRATOR GUIDE
MN001066A02
Rev. A
April 2015
iii
No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form, or by any electrical or mechanical means,
without permission in writing from us. This includes electronic or mechanical means, such as photocopying,
recording, or information storage and retrieval systems. The material in this manual is subject to change
without notice.
The software is provided strictly on an “as is” basis. All software, including firmware, furnished to the user is on
a licensed basis. We grant to the user a non-transferable and non-exclusive license to use each software or
firmware program delivered hereunder (licensed program). Except as noted below, such license may not be
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not modify, merge, or incorporate any form or portion of a licensed program with other program material, create
a derivative work from a licensed program, or use a licensed program in a network without written permission
from us. The user agrees to maintain our copyright notice on the licensed programs delivered hereunder, and
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We reserve the right to make changes to any software or product to improve reliability, function, or design.
We do not assume any product liability arising out of, or in connection with, the application or use of any
product, circuit, or application described herein.
No license is granted, either expressly or by implication, estoppel, or otherwise under any of our intellectual
property rights. An implied license only exists for equipment, circuits, and subsystems contained in our
products.
Zebra and the Zebra head graphic are registered trademarks of ZIH Corp. The Symbol logo is a registered
trademark of Symbol Technologies, Inc., a Zebra Technologies company
© 2015 Symbol Technologies, Inc
Zebra Technologies Corporation
Lincolnshire, IL U.S.A.
Warranty
For the complete Zebra hardware product warranty statement, go to:
http://www.zebra.com/warranty.
iv Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer Integrator Guide
Revision History
Changes to the original manual are listed below:
Change Date Description
-02 Rev A 04/2015 Zebra rebrand.
Table of Contents
Warranty ........................................................................................................................ iii
Revision History............................................................................................................. iv
Table of Contents
About This Guide
Introduction .................................................................................................................... vii
Configurations................................................................................................................ vii
Chapter Descriptions ..................................................................................................... viii
Notational Conventions.................................................................................................. viii
Related Documents and Software ................................................................................. ix
Service Information........................................................................................................ ix
Chapter 1: Getting Started
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 1-1
RFID Technology Overview .......................................................................................... 1-1
RFID Components .................................................................................................. 1-2
Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer ...................................................................... 1-3
Reading Tags ............................................................................................................... 1-4
Chapter 2: Updating the RFID Firmware
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 2-1
Updating the RFID Firmware ........................................................................................ 2-1
Chapter 3: MobileRFID Functionality
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 3-1
MobileRFID Icons ......................................................................................................... 3-2
MobileRFID Menu ......................................................................................................... 3-3
Configure Region .................................................................................................... 3-4
vi Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer Integrator Guide
Configure RFID ....................................................................................................... 3-7
Version Information ................................................................................................. 3-8
Run/Stop RFID ........................................................................................................ 3-8
Battery Configuration .............................................................................................. 3-9
Smart Power Management Implementation ............................................................ 3-9
Chapter 4: RFID Sample Application
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 4-1
Launching the RFID Sample Application ...................................................................... 4-2
Connection .................................................................................................................... 4-3
Capabilities ................................................................................................................... 4-4
Configuration Menu Options ......................................................................................... 4-4
Tag Storage Settings .............................................................................................. 4-5
Antenna ................................................................................................................... 4-6
RF Mode ................................................................................................................. 4-7
Singulation .............................................................................................................. 4-8
Power On/Off Radio ................................................................................................ 4-9
Reset to Factory Default ......................................................................................... 4-9
Operations Menu Options ............................................................................................. 4-10
Antenna Info ............................................................................................................ 4-10
Filter ........................................................................................................................ 4-11
Access .................................................................................................................... 4-13
Triggers ................................................................................................................... 4-17
Management Menu Options ......................................................................................... 4-22
Help Menu .................................................................................................................... 4-22
Exit ................................................................................................................................ 4-22
Chapter 5: Tag Locator
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 5-1
Using Tag Locator ........................................................................................................ 5-2
Locating Tags Using a .csv File .................................................................................... 5-3
Chapter 6: Troubleshooting
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 6-1
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................ 6-1
Appendix A: Technical Specifications
Technical Specifications ............................................................................................... A-1
Appendix B: RFID APIs
RFID API Reference Site .............................................................................................. B-1
Index
About This Guide
Introduction
This Workabout Pro4 RFID Integrator Guide provides the unique set up and operating procedures for the
Workabout Pro4 RFID mobile computers.
NOTE Screens and windows pictured in this guide are samples and may differ from actual screens.
Configurations
All Workabout Pro4 models support the following features:
•
Windows Embedded Hand-held 6.5 and CE 6.0
•
512 MB RAM / 4GB Flash
•
Alphanumeric keypad (long models) / QWERTY or numeric (short models)
•
Color display
•
WLAN 802.11 a/b/g/n radio
•
Bluetooth
•
Optional WWAN Radio
•
Optional GPS
•
Optional Scanner / Imager / Camera
This guide covers the following options:
Model Number Country Support Power* Antenna Type
WA9901 Worldwide 1 W Linear
WA9902 Europe 0.5 W Linear
viii Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer Integrator Guide
Model Number Country Support Power* Antenna Type
WA9903 Worldwide 1 W Circular
WA9904 Europe 0.5 W Circular
*Note: In presence of others radios running and depending on temperature, it may not be possible to reach
maximum output power.
Chapter Descriptions
Topics covered in this guide are as follows:
•
Chapter 1, Getting Started provides an overview of RFID technology and components and a description of
the Workabout Pro4 RFID mobile computer and features.
•
Chapter 2, Updating the RFID Firmware describes how to update the device image and radio firmware.
•
Chapter 3, MobileRFID Functionality includes information on configuring the RFID radio and reading tags.
•
Chapter 4, RFID Sample Application provides information on the RFID sample application and how to use it
to assist in custom application development.
•
Chapter 5, Tag Locator provides information on the application used to detect the location of a tag.
•
Chapter 6, Troubleshooting describes Workabout Pro4 RFID mobile computer troubleshooting procedures.
•
Appendix A, Technical Specifications includes the technical specifications for the reader.
•
Appendix B, RFID APIs provides a reference for information on supported RFID APIs.
Notational Conventions
The following conventions are used in this document:
•
“Mobile computer” or “reader” refers to the Workabout Pro4 RFID mobile computer.
•
Italics are used to highlight the following:
• Chapters and sections in this and related documents
• Dialog box, window, links, software names, and screen names
• Drop-down list, columns and list box names
• Check box and radio button names
• Icons on a screen
•
Bold text is used to highlight the following:
• Dialog box, window and screen names
• Drop-down list and list box names
• Check box and radio button names
• Icons on a screen
• Key names on a keypad
• Button names on a screen
•
Bullets (•) indicate:
• Action items
• Lists of alternatives
• Lists of required steps that are not necessarily sequential.
•
Sequential lists (e.g., those that describe step-by-step procedures) appear as numbered lists.
Related Documents and Software
The following documents provide more information about the reader.
•
Workabout Pro4 Hand-Held Computer Quick Start Guide, p/n 8000297
•
Workabout Pro4 Hand-Held Computer Regulatory Guide, p/n 8000296
•
Microsoft Applications for Windows Mobile 6 User Guide, p/n 72E-108299-xx
•
Application Guide for Mobility Devices, p/n 72E-68902-xx
•
Wireless Fusion Enterprise Mobility Suite User Guide for Version 3.00, p/n 72E-122495-xx
About This Guide ix
•
Mobility Services Platform 3.2 User Guide, p/n 72E-100158-xx
For the latest version of guides, go to: http://www.zebra.com/support.
Service Information
If you have a problem with your equipment, contact Zebra support for your region. Contact information is available
at: http://www.zebra.com/support.
When contacting support, please have the following information available:
•
Serial number of the unit
•
Model number or product name
•
Software type and version number
Zebra responds to calls by e-mail, telephone or fax within the time limits set forth in service agreements.
If your problem cannot be solved by Zebra support, you may need to return your equipment for servicing and will
be given specific directions. Zebra is not responsible for any damages incurred during shipment if the approved
shipping container is not used. Shipping the units improperly can possibly void the warranty.
If you purchased your business product from a Zebra business partner, please contact that business partner for
support.
Chapter 1 Getting Started
Host Computer
Ta gs
Mobile Computer
Wireless LAN/
BT/ActiveSync
RF Wave and
Response
Introduction
This chapter provides an overview of RFID technology and components, and describes the Workabout Pro4 RFID
mobile computer and its features.
RFID Technology Overview
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is an advanced automatic identification (Auto ID) technology that uses radio
frequency signals to identify tagged items. An RFID tag contains a circuit that can store data. This data may be
pre-encoded or can be encoded in the field. The tags come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
To read a tag the mobile computer sends out radio frequency waves using its integrated antenna. This RF field
powers and charges the tags, which are tuned to receive radio waves. The tags use this power to modulate the
carrier signal. The reader interprets the modulated signal and converts the data to a format for computer storage.
The computer application translates the data into an understandable format.
Figure 1-1
RFID System Elements
1 - 2 Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer Integrator Guide
RFID Components
Zebra RFID solutions offer low cost, long read range, and a high read rate. These features provide real time
end-to-end visibility of products and assets in the factory, distribution center, retail outlet, or other facility. The
Workabout Pro4 RFID system consists of the following components:
•
Silicon-based RFID tags that attach to retail products, vehicles, trailers, containers, pallets, boxes, etc.
•
An integrated antenna that supports applications such as item level tracking and asset tracking.
•
An embedded radio module that powers and communicates with tags for data capture and provides host
connectivity for data migration.
Tags
Tags contain embedded chips that store unique information. Available in various shapes and sizes, tags, often
called
transponders, receive and respond to data requests. Tags require power to send data.
There are several categories of tags based on the protocol they support, read/write memory, and power options:
•
Active RFID tags are powered by internal light-weight batteries, and also use these batteries to broadcast
radio waves to the reader.
•
Semi-passive RFID tags are also powered by internal light-weight batteries, but draw broadcasting power
from the reader.
•
Passive RFID tags are powered by a reader-generated RF field. These tags are much lighter and less
expensive than active tags, and are typically applied to less expensive goods.
Antenna
Antennas transmit and receive radio frequency signals.
Radio Module
The radio module communicates with the tags and transfers the data to a host computer. It also provides features
such as filtering, CRC check, and tag writing. The Workabout Pro4 RFID mobile computer supports standard RFID
tags as described by EPCGlobal
TM
Class 1 Gen2 protocol.
Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer
The Zebra Workabout Pro4 RFID mobile computer includes an intelligent C1G2 UHF RFID reader with RFID read
performance that provides real-time, seamless EPC-compliant tags processing. Workabout Pro4 RFID mobile
computers are designed for indoor inventory management and asset tracking applications, and can host
third-party, customer-driven embedded applications. Features include:
•
ISO 18000-6C standard (EPC Class 1 Gen 2)
•
Read, write, kill, lock, block write/block erase, and permalock functionality
•
Alphanumeric keypad (long models) / QWERTY or numeric (short models)
•
Color display
•
Orientation-insensitive integrated external antenna
•
Windows® Embedded Hand-held 6.5 and CE 6.0
•
WLAN 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless connectivity
•
Application-specific setup for ease of installation
Getting Started 1 - 3
•
Low Level Reader Protocol (LLRP)
•
Sample application and support for custom or third-party applications
•
RFID API support
•
Event and tag management support
Figure 1-2
The Workabout Pro4 RFID mobile computer provides a wide range of features that enable implementation of
complete, high-performance, intelligent RFID solutions.
Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer
1 - 4 Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer Integrator Guide
Reading Tags
To read RFID tags:
1. Remove the Workabout Pro4 from AC power and ensure the LLRP icon is green.
2. Use an RFID reader application to enable tag reading. For a sample application, browse to the Workabout
Pro4 Application directory and select RFID3Sample6.exe. See Chapter 4, RFID Sample Application.
3. Aim the mobile computer at the tag, oriented horizontally or vertically depending on the tag orientation. The
distance between the tag and the antenna is the approximate read range.
4. Press the trigger within the application to interrogate all RFID tags within the radio frequency (RF) field of view
and capture data from each new tag found. Release the trigger to stop interrogating tags.
Chapter 2 Updating the RFID Firmware
Introduction
This chapter lists contact information to assist you with RFID Firmware updates.
Updating the RFID Firmware
The RFID_FLASH utility, used to update the RFID firmware, is no longer provided. For related issues, contact
Zebra support: https://portal.zebra.com/Support/US-EN?WT.mc_id=support
Chapter 3 MobileRFID Functionality
Introduction
MobileRFID is an RFID server application that runs in the background on the mobile computer. The MobileRFID
icon appears in the system tray. This chapter includes information on using and configuring MobileRFID.
Figure 3-1
MobileRFID Icon
3 - 2 Workabout Pro4 RFID Mobile Computer Integrator Guide
MobileRFID Icons
The MobileRFID icon indicates RFID radio status as described in Table 3-1.
Table 3-1
MobileRFID Icon Indicators
Icon Indication
RFID running, radio on.
RFID running, (radio off/not enough power).
RFID stopped (radio not found/battery critical/stopped from user interface).
MobileRFID Menu
If using RFID as the Windows default home screen, tap the RFID panel, then tap the Settings button.
MobileRFID Functionality 3 - 3
Figure 3-2
If not using RFID as the Windows default home screen, tap the MobileRFID icon in the system tray. A menu
appears.
MobileRFID Home Window and Settings Window
Figure 3-3
MobileRFID Icon Menu
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