User's Manual

RFID System S21 Configuration Principles
Introduction 1-3
By using a RFID system comprising of a population of Transponders and strategically placed
Readers and Exciters, you can electronically monitor the path of test letters through the collection
and delivery process, particularly at points between Postal administrations and their agents.
Each probe letter includes a RFID Transponder bearing a unique identification. The probe letters
are posted, sorted, and delivered in the same way as normal letters. As they pass pre-determined
points en-route (Reading Points/identification zones), the Transponders are identified. The
collected information is then read and stored on local computers. This information is downloaded
on demand to a Central Management System (CMS).
The Postal RFID System includes the following main specific equipment:
• Transponders PT21/PT23 carrying the identification data
• Exciters EX21 to generate an electromagnetic (LF) field that excites the Transponder PT21/
PT23
• Readers RD21 to receive data transmitted by the Transponder PT21/PT23(UHF) and to relay
this information via the RS-485 interface to the main computer
• Power Supply TRM95 to power Readers RD21 and Exciters EX21 from the local AC main
supply.
IMPORTANT This manual refers to S21 features and equipment associated with RFID System S21.
RFID System S21 Configuration Principles
Communication Links There are several communication links between the components of the RFID System S21.
• Reader-to-Transponder: excitation (LF=125.0 kHz - uplink) - configurable;
writing (LF) - fixed configuration.
• Transponder-to-Reader (UHF-433.92 MHz - downlink) - configurable.
• Reader-to-Exciter and Exciter-to-Reader (RS485_COM, RS485_SGN) - fixed configuration.
• Reader- to-Main PC and Main PC-to-Reader (RS232 or RS485) - configurable.
System Parameters Parameters controlling the RFID System S21’s configuration are logically organized in groups. For
a detailed explanation on the meaning and usage of the parameters, refer to the RFID System S21
Reference Guide. System Code
Reader Address When a Reader is part of a network, it must have a unique address.
Real Time Clock The Reader RD21 has an on board Real Time Clock.
Reader Data Handling Data that is captured from the Transponder is stored in an internal buffer.
Reader Serial Port When setting the serial port parameters, remember that communication with the monitoring
equipment can result in a bottleneck in the RFID System. We recommend, therefore, using the
highest baud-rate available.
Reader Reset There are two main ways to reset the Reader:
• Hardware reset