Intermec IF4 Serial Fixed RFID Reader

Intelligent RFID tag read and write

Joining a diversified line of RFID readers, the Intermec Intellitag IF4 serial reader is the ideal RFID peripheral for applications where an edge server or Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is used for process control. The Intermec IF4 RFID reader reduces the communications burden on the network and processing demand on the host PLC. While reading and writing RFID labels and tags, the Intermec IF4 uses an air-interface protocol for filtering out unneeded tag data caused by multiple reads and tags not required for the application.

Monitoring of peripheral devices

General purpose input/output (I/O) circuitry enables the Intermec IF4 RFID reader to monitor and/or control peripheral devices while keeping the cost of ancillary equipment and installation down. After the Intermec IF4 RFID reader controls the selection of appropriate tags for reading, it then combines its pre-configured application parameters with the information from the selected tags in order to activate external sensors as well as control audible and visual indicators. For example, an Intermec IF4 reader mounted above a conveyor can be programmed to scan the destination field on all tags passing by and subsequently report that code to the PLC, which can then actuate diverter mechanisms to route the tagged package to the proper dock door.

Multi-protocol reading capability

RFID standards are continuing to evolve, which requires manufacturers and retailers to have multi-protocol reading capability if they are implementing RFID in an open supply chain. When fully equipped, via firmware downloads, the Intermec IF4 can read multiple air interface protocols, even in mixed populations of tags, including EPC UHF Generation 2 (Gen 2), ISO 18000 6-b and EPC Class 1. The Intermec IF4 RFID reader is factory configured to operate in either of two regional RFID frequency bands: 865 and 869MHz (Zone 1, primarily Europe), or 915MHz (Zone 2, primarily North and South America, with parts of Asia and Pacific Rim).

Global "swift radio" code

Multinational enterprises operating in North America, Europe and Asia no longer have to purchase and support multiple readers in order to cope with the different frequency bands present in each region. The Intermec IF4 RFID readers have a common design with band specific hardware, and are supported with common “soft radio” code. An external auto-range adapting power supply, requiring approximately 2 watts of 95 to 250 Volts AC, allows the IF4 to be capable of continuous operation anywhere in the world.