“Various power options in RFID readers include AC power adapter, in-built battery power, USB cable power, PoE/PoE+ (Power over Ethernet), and PoE injector, etc.”
As businesses quickly adapt to varying technical advancements in automatic identification and data capture technology and leverage the power of RFID, barcoding, biometric security solutions, etc. to capture valuable data, device manufacturers are also innovating the way you can power these AIDC devices. Take an RFID reader for example, given the rise in the use of RFID technology, RFID manufacturers are making RFID readers that can support various powering options available including in-built battery power, AC power adapter, USB cable, PoE/PoE+ (Power over Ethernet), and PoE injector. With multiple power options available to power up an RFID reader, businesses can use these scanners even in remote areas. The use of handheld RFID readers that support an in-built battery for power, is particularly useful when you’re on the move. These portable readers are easy to carry and work effortlessly for hours.
RFID readers, as devices that interrogate and read RFID tags and capture the data from RFID tags for end users, are available in different configurations including RFID handheld Readers, SLEDs, RFID fixed readers, Integrated Readers, etc.
5 power options in an RFID Reader with examples
RFID readers can be powered up in several ways, each with its advantages and use cases. Here are the 5 main power options for RFID readers:
1.Power Adapter
The reader is connected to a standard power outlet using an AC power adapter. This is a simple and reliable power solution, but it limits the mobility and placement of the reader. Various fixed readers and integrated readers come with AC power adapters and support AC powering options.
For Example:
1.The Zebra FX9600 and the Zebra FX7500 RFID readers support AC power input of 100-240V and a power output of 24V, 3.25A, and 78W.
2. TheImpinj R700 RFID Reader is a high-performance, enterprise-grade reader that supports multiple power options. It can be powered using a power adapter, PoE, or an external 12-24V DC power supply. The R700 is designed for fixed RFID deployments in industries like retail, logistics, and manufacturing.
These RFID readers are simple plug-and-play time however, limit the use of RFID readers to a fixed position such as entry/exit gates and POS.
2. Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Another power option in RFID readers is PoE (Power over Ethernet). The PoE/PoE+ RFID Reader is powered through the Ethernet cable, which carries both data and power. It allows the reader to be placed anywhere with an Ethernet connection, without the need for a separate power source. PoE is a good option for fixed RFID installations.
For Example:
The Impinj R700 series fixed RFID readers; the Zebra FX9600 and Zebra FX7500 RFID readers use the PoE/PoE+ power options. The Impinj R700 Readers support the PoE (802.3af), and PoE+ (802.3at) power options.
Power over Ethernet is a quite simple way to power integrated and Fixed RFID Readers where the data transmission cable (the Ethernet cable) can be used for power supply along with data transmission.
3. PoE Injector
Another option to use PoE power option is to use PoE injector. It is particularly used when the Ethernet standard is not updated. To use a PoE injector, you would require two Ethernet cables, a PoE injector with a line cord, and a power brick.
For Example:
The Zebra FX9600 RFID reader can be used with a PoE injector to power it over the PoE.
4. Battery Power Supply
Mostly used in Handheld RFID Readers and SLEDs, the batter power supply option is a great option. Such readers have an internal battery that provides power, making it portable and wireless. This is useful for mobile or handheld RFID applications, such as inventory management, stock-taking, and item-finding.
For Example:
The Zebra RFD40 Handheld SLEDs and other handheld RFID Readers come with an in-built battery to support battery power supply.
5. USB Power Supply
The USB cable as a power supply is another quick and easy way to power an RFID reader. The reader is powered through a USB connection, which is suitable for simple, low-power RFID applications that don't require high performance, such as desktop or personal use cases.
For Example:
UHF RFID USB Desktop Reader/Writer is a simple high high-performing desktop RFID reader that can be used with a laptop or a desktop computer system. It is used for various desktop applications such as POS, schools libraries, etc.
To conclude, RFID handheld readers are designed to be powered in several specific ways, offering versatility used in retail, supply chain and manufacturing, libraries, inventory management, etc. These prominent powering options include an AC adapter, in-built battery, USB cable, PoE/PoE+ and PoE injector, etc. While PoE, AC adapter, and USB cable power options are RFID fixed readers and integrated readers being used at libraries, entry and exit gates at the warehouse, and retail settings, RFID handheld readers and SLEDs use in-built batteries for power. Thus, selecting an RFID reader as per need and powering option is very crucial as your entire RFID system depends upon RFID readers among others.
Disclaimer: The information presented here is for general information purposes only and true to best of our understanding. Users are requested to use any information as per their own understanding and knowledge. Before using any of the information, please refer to our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.
