ACG Introduces RF PC Handheld Reader to North American Market
04 August, 2003
category: Contactless
RFID reader in the form of a Compact Flash™ card
ACG, an independent component and technology supplier in the smart card and Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) product markets, announced the availability of a RFID reader in the form of a Compact Flash™ card beginning September 2003.
The latest innovation in the reader family will be marketed under the brand name RF PC Handheld Reader and can be connected to most handheld devices and PCs via a standard CF or PCMCIA slot. PDAs, MDAs, tablet PCs, laptops and desktop PCs can be upgraded with the RF PC Handheld Reader to become a multi tag RFID reader without the need to integrate additional hardware.
Through integration of the upgraded mobile computer into standard networks such as wireless LAN, GSM, GPRS and UMTS, the RF PC Handheld Reader closes a gap in the transmission and processing of collected data. The bi-directional data transfer between local transponders and regional or even global database systems is made possible online.
Applications
The main applications of the RF PC Handheld Reader lie in the areas of logistics and inventory management.
Logistics companies can read and write to passive transponders attached to transported goods with the help of the RF PC Handheld Reader and a handheld device. Data collected by active transponders (e.g. temperature fluctuations, time periods) can be loaded and analysed with the handheld device. The RF PC Handheld Reader provides an easy way to monitor transportation and storage of goods. This also applies to sensitive products, such as perishables, when the cooling chain must be monitored or specific storage times cannot be exceeded.
With the RF PC Handheld Reader, wholesale and retail companies have the option of mobile reading of transponders attached to goods. Information pertaining to individual items, such as the price or order number, can be accessed directly. The registration of changes in inventory is also possible.
Additional applications of the RF PC Handheld Reader lie in the areas of local public transportation and administrative management, where paper tickets can be read and checked for validity in a mobile fashion.
Technical Data
The ACG RF PC Handheld Reader supports all typical operating systems (Windows 98, 2000, ME, NT Service Pack 4 and XP) as well as the majority of 13.56 MHz transponders available on the market (Tag it – I-CODE, ISO 15693: Tag it ISO, My-D, I-CODE SLI, LRI 512, KSW temp, ISO 14443: Mifare Standard/Ultra Light, SLE66CL160, SR176).
“The Multi tag RF PC Handheld Reader offers tremendous value to clients who desire enhanced flexibility and performance while protecting their existing investment,” said Roger Hornstra, managing director North America for ACG.” “By integrating our technology, clients have the ability to manage and execute tough logistical requirements more easily – taking their current platform to new levels of performance.”
The reading distance between the RF PC Handheld Reader and transponders is approx. 8-10 cm, ensuring both long battery life and easy use of the RF PC Handheld Reader. In addition, the RF PC Handheld Reader can be used in ambient temperatures from -20° C to +85° C, which significantly expands its application options, particularly in industrial environments.
Additional information:
ACG Identification Technologies
Roger Hornstra
Managing Director
Telephone: 404-531-9604
E-mail: [email protected]
Technical Details of the RF PC Handheld Reader
Operating Systems: Windows 98, ME, NT Service Pack 4 and XP
Supported Transponders: Tag it – I-CODE
ISO 15693: Tag it ISO, My-D, I-CODE SLI, LRI 512, KSW temp
ISO 14443: Mifare Standard/Ultra Light, SLE66CL160, SR176
Reading Distance: Transponder-dependent (up to 80 – 100 mm)
Interface: CF Type 2
Supply Voltage: 3.3V .. 5V / 110 mA, Power Down Mode
Transmission Speed: 9600 baud – 57.6 kBaud
Temperature Range: – 20°C – + 85°C
ACG AG, headquartered in Wiesbaden, is an independent component and technology supplier in the markets for smart cards, RFID and semi-conductors. The company achieved a turnover of 63 million euro in the first quarter of 2003. ACG is represented at 28 international locations in 16 countries with over 600 employees.