“Integrated RFID readers come with built-in antennas such as handhelds and fixed while non-integrated readers do not have an integrated antenna and support multiple antennas through additional antenna ports, up to 32, for multi-read zones.”
When it comes to implementing an RFID system for automating a business operation, tracking vehicles in a parking lot, allowing vehicles in a residential society, managing inventory, or simply tracking the items coming in and leaving the premises, selecting an RFID reader that gets the job done with utmost efficiency while saving on cost is a crucial decision. Various RFID readers at your disposal are integrated readers that come with built-in antenna, Handheld RFID readers that are portable and easy to carry, fixed RFID readers that are high performing and offer great coverage, desktop RFID readers that are cost-effective and can be used at a desk with USB power option, and many more. Amongst these RFID scanners, selecting a single type of RFID reader requires knowledge about the RFID system and components.
In this blog, let’s stick to Integrated RFID Readers and non-integrated RFID readers and find out which is the right solution for you. Both types of readers have their own unique features and applications, and understanding their differences is essential for businesses and industries seeking to implement RFID technology effectively. The distinction between integrated and non-integrated RFID readers plays a crucial role in determining the efficiency and practicality of RFID systems as well.
Integrated RFID Readers
Integrated RFID readers are designed with the RFID reader and antenna combined into a single, compact unit. Such integration simplifies the installation process, as the reader and antenna are already optimized to work seamlessly together. Integrated readers are commonly used in applications where space is limited and ease of installation is a priority. They are often found in handheld RFID devices, mobile computers, Fixed RFID Readers that are mounted to Walls and poles, and other portable devices used for inventory management, asset tracking, access control (systems), etc.
Various RFID handheld Scanners and SLEDs including Zebra RFD40 Handheld RFID Reader with Barcode scanning and Bluetooth, Chainway C72 RFID Handheld SLED Reader, Zebra MC3330xR Integrated mobile computer, etc. also come with integrated antennas.
Advantages of Integrated RFID Readers
1.Integrated readers occupy minimal space, making them ideal for applications with limited real estate.
2. Since the reader and antenna are integrated, the installation process is simplified, reducing the time and effort required to set up the RFID system.
3. The single housing of the reader and the antenna together reduces the RF signal power loss through the cables and boosts the performance.
4. Integrated readers are well-suited for mobile applications as well, say a handheld SLED reader, allowing for greater flexibility and convenience in various operational environments.
Disadvantages of Integrated RFID Readers
1.Limited Flexibility
Integrated readers may have limited flexibility in terms of antenna placement and orientation, which can affect read range and performance in certain scenarios. Users cannot choose which antenna to use with the reader, and this limits their options if the application requires a high gain antenna, specific circular or linear polarization, beamwidth, etc.
2. Upgradability
Upgrading specific components of integrated readers, such as the antenna, may be challenging due to the integrated design. This specifically limits the coverage area as well as another use case where you need to deploy multiple RFID Antennas for better coverage and read range.
For example
1.The Long Range UHF RFID Integrated Reader comes with a 12dBi gain integrated antenna and doesn’t support additional antennas. Even though the RFID reader is suited for various retail, healthcare, access control, and warehousing operations, the lack of any additional antenna ports limits the coverage area of this integrated reader.
2. The Zebra FXR90 Ultra Rugged Integrated RFID Reader is a powerful industrial RFID reader designed by Zebra Technologies that is suited for various supply chain, inventory management, retail, shipping, manufacturing, and government applications. It supports a 7dBi integrated antenna and offers -92dBm receiver sensitivity and a high read rate of 1300+ tags per second. What makes the FXR90 RFID reader by Zebra more suitable for industrial applications is the fact that it comes with 4-port and 8-port antenna configurations, allowing you to attach more antennas and create more read zones.
Non-Integrated RFID Readers
Non-integrated RFID readers consist of separate components, with the reader and antenna being distinct units. Such kind of modular design allows for greater flexibility in antenna placement and orientation, making non-integrated readers suitable for applications requiring customized read zones and optimal performance.
Non-integrated readers are commonly used in fixed RFID installations, such as portals, gates, and stationary reader setups. Various fixed and desktop RFID readers such as Zebra FX9600, FX7500, Impinj R720 Fixed RFID Reader, UHF RFID Desktop Reader/Writer, etc. require external antennas and are used as non-integrated RFID readers. The non-integrated RFID readers can support 1 to 32 RFID antennas, allowing you to create extensively more read zones while using a single RFID reader.
Advantages of Non-Integrated RFID Readers
1.The separate design of non-integrated readers allows for flexible antenna placement, enabling the customization of read zones to suit specific application requirements.
2. Non-integrated readers offer the ability to upgrade individual components, such as antennas, without affecting the entire system, providing scalability and adaptability for future needs. You can choose a circularly polarized antenna, linearly polarized antenna, antenna with less gain, antenna with high gain, antenna with required beamwidth, and customize the RFID system specific to your application.
Disadvantages of Non-Integrated RFID Readers
1.Installation Complexity
Setting up non-integrated readers may require more effort and expertise, as the reader and antenna need to be positioned and configured separately.
2. Space Considerations
Non-integrated readers may require more space for installation compared to integrated readers, making them less suitable for applications with limited space availability.
Why UHF RFID Integrated Readers are phased out by Brands?
Now that you understand what integrated readers are and how they differ from non-integrated readers in terms of flexibility and scalability in the coverage area, you must know that not many RFID companies are making these types of readers. Integrated RFID Readers (barring handheld RFID readers) extremely limit the application and the user needs to deploy more readers to get the needed read range and coverage area, which ultimately inflates the cost of the RFID implementation. The lack of RFID antenna ports in integrated readers is not suitable for changing business needs in retail, healthcare, warehousing, etc. and therefore brands are either designing, manufacturing Integrated RFID readers with additional antenna ports or gradually phasing out these types of RFID readers and offering only fixed RFID readers with multiple antenna ports.
To conclude, the choice between integrated and non-integrated RFID readers depends on the specific requirements of the RFID application. Integrated readers excel in portable and space-constrained scenarios, offering simplicity and ease of installation. On the other hand, non-integrated readers provide flexibility and customization options, making them well-suited for fixed installations that demand tailored read zones. Understanding these differences is essential for businesses and organizations seeking to leverage RFID technology effectively to enhance their operational processes and efficiency.
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