SparkFun Simultaneous RFID Reader - M6E Nano

The SparkFun Simultaneous RFID Reader - M6E Nano is a versatile device designed for seamless integration with Arduino-compatible boards. This reader is ideal for tracking almost anything through Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). From keeping tabs on your tools in your toolbox to controlling access to your secret society meetings, this board is designed to handle it all.

The RFID Reader comes with an Arduino shield footprint, allowing you to connect it directly to an Arduino-compatible board or a different microcontroller. You can also connect it directly to your computer using the FTDI header on the board, enabling you to read data using the Universal Reader Assistant.

The board is capable of reading EPCglobal Gen 2 tags at a rate of up to 150 tags per second. It also allows for writing of tags at a standard write speed of 80msec. The board's power output is adjustable from 0dBm to 27dBm. With the right antenna, you can read up to 4.9m, or 1 to 2 feet with the onboard antenna.

Note: The RFID Reader comes with a piece of gray, nonconductive Thermal Gap Filler for heat dissipation and to cover the exposed ground plane, preventing circuits from shorting against it.

Note: The FTDI Cable products are incompatible with the Simultaneous RFID Reader. Please use the CH340 Serial Basic Breakout or another serial interface.

Warning: Ensure that personnel do not stand in the radiation beam of the antenna unless they are more than 21cm away from the face of the antenna. This is to adhere to FCC limits for long-term exposure.

To get started with the Simultaneous RFID Reader, refer to the Simultaneous RFID Reader Guide.

Features:

• EPCglobal Gen 2 (ISO 18000-6C) with nominal backscatter rate of 250kbps
• Separate read and write levels, command adjustable from 0dBm to 27dBm in 0.01 dB steps
• 0.84W in ready mode
• 0.00025W in shutdown mode
• Up to 150 tags/sec to read 96-bit EPC
• 80msec typical for standard write of 96-bit EPC

Documents:

For more information about the product, refer to the Schematic, Eagle File, RFID basics, Hookup Guide, Product Brief, Datasheet, Design Guide, Thermal Gap Filler, Firmware Update (v1.9.0), Firmware release notes, Product Page, OEM Documentation page, Universal Reader Assistant (Windows only), GitHub (Design Files), and GitHub (Arduino Library).

Videos

For a more visual guide on how to use the RFID Reader, watch the tutorial video available.