User's Manual

Introduction
The AR400 Reader is a ready-to-connect network element that offers a variety of options for connecting
to corporate networks via Ethernet or serial connections. A Setup Wizard facilitates reader
configuration.
RFID Technology
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is an advanced automatic identification (Auto ID) technology that
uses radio frequency signals to identify “tagged” items. A typical RFID system consists of transponders
called tags, readers, and antennas, which function as follows:
• An RFID tag contains a chip that can store a limited amount of data. This data may be pre-encoded or can be
encoded in the field. Tags come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
• A reader sends out radio frequency waves using attached antennas. This RF field powers and charges the tags,
which are tuned to receive radio waves. The tags use this power to transmit data back to the reader, which the
reader converts to a format for computer storage. The computer application translates the data into an
understandable format.
Reader and Antenna
Host Computer
Physical/Network
Connection
RF Wave and
Response
Tags
Figure 1-1. RFID System Elements
RFID Components
Symbol’s RFID solutions offer low cost, long read range, and a very high read rate, providing real-time,
end-to-end visibility of products and assets in the factory, distribution center, retail outlet, or other
facility. A typical Symbol RFID system consists of the following components:
• Silicon-based RFID tags that can be attached to vehicles, trailers, containers, pallets, boxes, etc.
• Different types of antennas to support applications such as dock door (area antennas), conveyor and, in the
future, Smart Shelf (Shelf Antennas).
• Readers that power and communicate with the tags for data capture and provide host connectivity for data
migration.
Tags
Tags contain embedded chips that store information unique to the objects to which they are applied.
Available in various shapes and sizes, tags, often called transponders, receive and respond to requests
for their data. Tags require power to send data, and are available with two power options: