Software manual

ReaderStart
DTE800 UK
DTE810
DTE820
DTE830
DTE900
DTE910
DTE930
04/2020
80293180 / 00
ReaderStart

Content
1  Preliminary note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.1  Symbols used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2  Safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2  System requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
3.1 Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
3.2 Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4 Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.1 ReaderStart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.2  RFID system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.2.1  ID tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4.2.2 Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4.2.3  UHF reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5  ReaderStart user interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
5.1 Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
5.2  Function groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
5.3  Status field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5.4  Menu bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5.4.1 File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5.4.2 Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
5.4.3 Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
6  Function group [CO] Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
6.1  "COM" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
6.2  "Ethernet" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
6.2.1  "General" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
6.2.2  "eth0" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.2.3  "IO card configuration" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
7  Function group [AP] Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
7.1  "Settings" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
8  Function group [BR] Basic reading functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
8.1  "Table" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
8.2  "Mode" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
8.3  "Statistics" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
8.4  "Options" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
9  Function group [GP] GPIO functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
9.1  "GPIO card" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
9.2  "Input" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
9.3  "Output" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
9.4  "Test input" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
9.5  "Test output" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
9.6  "Action list" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
9.7  "Assign input to action list" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
10  Function group [E1] Expert settings 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
10.1  "Current parameter set" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
10.2  "Transmission power" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
10.3  "Port multiplex configuration" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
10.4  "RF settings" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
10.5  "Selection parameters" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
11  Function group [E2] Expert settings 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
11.1  "Default parameter set" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
11.2  "Copy parameter set" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
11.3  "Change reader parameter" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
11.3.1  Example 1: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
11.3.2  Example 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
11.3.3  Example 3: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

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11.4  "Configuration password" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

11.5  "Select filter settings" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
11.5.1 Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
12  Function group [TA] - Tag access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
12.1  "Get all tags" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
12.2  "Password for operation" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
12.3  "Write EPC" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
12.4  "Read data" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
12.5  "Write data" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
12.6  "Change password" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
12.7  "Lock" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12.8  "Kill" section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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UK
13  Function group [AM] - AppManager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
14  Function group [TS] - TagScan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
14.1  Stationary ID tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
14.2  Moving ID tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
15  Function group [SS] - SpectralScan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
15.1 Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
16  Configuration parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
16.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
16.2  Parameter ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
16.2.1 Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
16.3  Parameter set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
16.4  "Global" configuration group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
16.4.1 DefaultParamset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
16.5  Configuration group "High-frequency interface" (RFInterface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
16.5.1 RFPower1...8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
16.5.2 TimeToPowerOff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
16.5.3 ModulationType . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
16.5.4 MultiplexingAntennaport1...8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
16.5.5 MultiplexingExposureTime1...8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
16.5.6 CableLoss1...8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
16.5.7 AntennaGain1...8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
16.5.8 RSSIThreshold1...8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
16.5.9 MultiPowerTagAccess1...8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
16.5.10 MaxAllowedAntennaOutputPower1...8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
16.5.11 EnableRSSIThresholdAtSpecificCmds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
16.5.12 FlashWriteAdditionalPower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
16.5.13 FlashReadAdditionalPower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
16.6  Configuration group "Tag communication" ("TagComm") . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
16.6.1 UsePilottone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
16.6.2 InitialQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
16.6.3 Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
16.6.4 MaxErrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
16.6.5 CommunicationProfile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
16.6.6 CommStandard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
16.6.7 IntelligentWrite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
16.6.8 VerifyWrite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
16.6.9 QueryTarget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
16.6.10 QuerySel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
16.6.11 ForcePowerOffAfterEPCWrite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
16.6.12 TransmitGetEPCsPreSelect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
16.6.13 TransmitSelectIfNoFilterIsOn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
16.6.14 NumberOfEPCWords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
16.6.15 UseBlockWrite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
16.6.16 DisableReceivingNXPReadProtectedTags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
16.7  Configuration group "Observed List" ("ObservedList") . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
16.7.1 GlimpsedTimeoutCnt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
16.7.2 ObservedThresholdCnt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
16.7.3 ObservedTimeoutCnt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

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16.8  Configuration group "Host communication" ("HostComm") . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

16.8.1 ExtendedResultFlag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
16.8.2 AntennaIndependentOperation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
16.8.3 ASyncAdditionalRSSIDataDeliveryDelta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
16.8.4 UseMillisecondsAsTimestamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
16.9  Configuration group "ETSI" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
16.9.1 PortChannelListGlobalValue1...16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
16.9.2 PortChannelListPort1...8Value1...16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
16.9.3 ChannelSwitchingMode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
16.9.4 PowerCheckOverAllAllowedChannels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Copyright
Microsoft®, Windows®, Windows Vista®, Windows 7®, Windows 8®, Windows 8.1® and Windows 10® are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation.
Adobe® and Acrobat® are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc.
All trademarks and company names used are subject to the copyright of the respective companies.

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 ReaderStart

1  Preliminary note
The software manual describes the functions of the devices in combination with the software.

1.1  Symbols used

► Instruction
> Reaction, result
[…] Designation of keys and buttons
"…" Designation of display text
→ Cross-reference UK
Important note
Non-compliance may result in malfunction or interference.
Information
Supplementary note

1.2  Safety instructions

Please read the operating instructions prior to set-up of the device. Ensure that the product is suitable for
your application without any restrictions.
If the operating instructions or the technical data are not adhered to, personal injury and/or damage to
property can occur.

2  System requirements
●● Operating system: Windows 7 (32/64 bits), Windows 8.1 (32/64 bits), Windows 10 (32/64 bits)
●● Application software: ReaderStart 3.0x

Other versions of the software may contain changed or new functions which are not described in
this software manual.

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ReaderStart

3  Installation
3.1  Software
Install the software:
►► Insert the data carrier with the software.
>> Alternatively, download the software from the website: www.ifm.com
►► Copy the zip file to an appropriate directory on the PC and unzip.
►► Start the setup file.
►► Use the setup program to install the software on the PC.

3.2  Hardware
The software is compatible with the following devices:
DTE800, DTE810, DTE820, DTE830, DTE835, DTE900, DTE910, DTE920, DTE930
Installation and set-up of the devices are described in the operating instructions:
www.ifm.com

4  Function
4.1  ReaderStart
ReaderStart is a software for UHF readers. Software functions:
●● configuration of UHF readers,
●● test environment with monitoring functions for detecting, writing and reading ID tags.

4.2  RFID system

An RFID system consists of the following components:
●● UHF reader
●● antenna
●● ID tag
●● Programmable controller or programmable logic controller
The figure below shows the schematic layout of the RFID system:

1. Fig.: RFID system with "T" for the ID tag and ① for the Ethernet connection

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4.2.1  ID tag
The ID tag is the data carrier of the RFID system. It consists of different memory banks:
●● EPC - Electronic Product Code
The EPC memory bank is readable and writable and has 96 bits of memory by default. The memory bank
typically stores the product code, serial number, etc. The system reads the memory bank fastest.
●● Data - User data memory
The data memory bank is readable and writable with a memory size depending on the chip type.
Typically, the memory size is 512 bits. Memory sizes up to 8 Kbytes are supported. In the memory bank,
product-specific data is stored. UK
●● TID - Tag Identifier
The TID memory bank contains the unique tag ID number. The number is assigned by the manufacturer,
is internationally unique and cannot be changed.
●● RFU - Reserved for future use
The RFU memory bank is reserved for future use. For example, the access password for the ID tag is
currently stored here.

4.2.2  Antenna
The antenna is a passive element in the RFID system. The antenna transmits the modulated reader
signal.

4.2.3  UHF reader

The UHF reader is the main component of the RFID system. Functions of the UHF reader:
●● modulate the signal,
●● modulate commands,
●● decode responses.
The UHF reader has a communication interface through which the user sends the desired commands to
the device. An ID tag is accessed whenever it moves into the antenna's reception range.

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5  ReaderStart user interface

After the program start, a splash screen is displayed until all the necessary DLLs have been loaded in the
background. After this the program window of the software appears.

2. Fig.: ReaderStart interface

①: Menu
②: Hamburger button
③: Menu bar
④: Status field
5.1  Menus
The settings and operating elements of the software are divided into menus. The menus can be found on
the left ① and at the top ③ of the software. A click on the hamburger icon ② displays the full menu titles
on the left-hand side.

5.2  Function groups

The functions of the software in combination with the connected UHF readers are divided into function
groups. The individual function groups can be selected via the menu on the left ①.

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5.3  Status field

All status messages from the UHF reader and the software are logged in the status field ④ at the bottom
of the screen. There are 3 types of status messages:

Info Shows which action was just performed

Warning Indicates possible problems in the structure and configuration
Error Indicates that the desired action could not be executed
Clicking the right mouse button opens the context menu with the following functions:
●● delete status messages
UK
●● deactivate certain types of status messages
●● copy status messages to the clipboard
●● save status messages to a file

5.4  Menu bar

The menu bar contains the menus [File], [Options] and [Info].

5.4.1  File
In the [File] menu, the current configuration of the UHF reader is saved to a file or an existing
configuration is loaded into the device.

To ensure that the device can be replaced easily in the event of a failure:
►► Store the configuration file on a PC or server.
The [File] menu contains the following menu items:

Menu item Description

Save reader configuration to The available parameter sets (0 - 7) are displayed. The parameter
file sets to be stored can be selected by setting the check. Selecting Save
saves the configuration.
Load reader configuration The file with the reader configuration is selected. Then the parameter
from file sets to be loaded are selected.

Existing parameter sets are overwritten without prompting.

Save reader IO configuration The storage location is selected. Selecting Save saves the
to file configuration.
Load reader IO configuration The file with the reader IO configuration is selected.
from file
Existing parameter sets are overwritten without prompting.

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5.4.2  Options
The [Options] menu contains the following menu items:

Menu item Description

Language select Selects the software language.

After restart of the software the set language is used.

Reset layout Resets the layout of the software.

Change path to log file Changes the path to the log file.

The log file can record read data for test purposes.

Show "No tag" as warning Shows a warning if no ID tag has been detected in the antenna field.
Auto tag read on tab change Re-reads the ID tag after a change between the menus ① in the 2.
Fig. .
Firmware update Updates the UHF reader firmware.
Date and time settings Sets date, time and time zone on the reader.
Load factory defaults Loads factory default settings onto the UHF reader.

This action cannot be reversed.

5.4.3  Info
The [Info] menu contains the following menu items:

Menu item Description

About ReaderStart v3 Shows the respective software version and licences used.
Reader info Shows information about the UHF reader:
●● firmware version
●● Linux module firmware version
●● serial number
●● type number
●● CPU module
●● PA module
●● IO modules
Click [SHOW MORE] to show additional information for UHF readers
with Linux installed:
●● Linux kernel messages
●● current network status
●● active processes
●● file system
License key Shows the licence key of the connected UHF reader. The displayed
licence key can be marked, edited and copied.
Functions of the connected UHF reader can be activated and
deactivated via the licence key. Under "FEATURES", the activated and
deactivated functions are shown.
Reader error status Shows the error status of the connected UHF reader in the status field.

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6  Function group [CO] Communication

The function group [CO] Communication groups together all the functions for establishing connections
and configuring the interface card.

UK

3. Fig.: Function group [CO]

6.1  "COM" section

The serial interface RS-232, RS-485 or RS-422 is used for communication with the UHF reader. The RS-
485/RS-422 interface card supports the standard baud rates of the serial interface of a PC.
A level converter converting the RS-232-compliant signal of the PC to a differential RS-485/RS-422
signal is required for the communication.

The "COM" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Port Sets the COM port. The serial interfaces available in the PC can be
selected. It is not checked whether an interface is already in use.
Baud rate Sets the baud rate.
Flow control Sets the flow control.
Connect Connects the set interface. If the interface is already in use, an error
message appears.
Disconnect Disconnects and releases the interface.

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6.2  "Ethernet" section

To connect to a PC, the UHF reader must be in the same subnet. Alternatively, the UHF reader can be set
to automatically obtain an IP address (DHCP).
The "ETHERNET" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

IP address Sets the IP address of the UHF reader.
Name Sets the host name of the UHF reader.
Search for readers Searches for an UHF reader in the network. The UHF reader is shown
in green if the network configuration matches and in red if it is located
in another subnet like the PC. Example:

Device IP addresses in the same IP addresses in different

subnet subnets
UHF reader 192.168.000.001 192.168.000.001
PC 192.168.000.010 192.168.002.192

You can reset a UHF reader to the factory settings via the
"Search for readers" button:
►► Click on the IP address within the first 20 seconds of finding
the UHF reader.
►► Click "Are you sure to load factory defaults on this reader?".
>> The UHF reader is reset to the factory default settings and can
be accessed at the IP address 192.168.0.1.
Connect Connects the UHF reader with the set IP address.
Tick the box [Secure connection] next to the lock symbol to establish
a secure SHH connection between the PC and the UHF reader. If the
check box is activated, the transmission via Ethernet is encrypted.
Disconnect The connection is disconnected.

Once a UHF reader is connected, the sections "General", "eth0" and "IO configuration" are displayed.

6.2.1  "General" section

The "General" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Name Reports the host name of the UHF reader to the DNS server.
Subsequently, the UHF reader can be addressed using the host name
instead of the IP address.
Keep-alive time Time interval between data packets with which the UHF reader checks
whether the counterpart can be reached. As soon as the counterpart
can no longer be reached, the connection is closed.
The setting "0 ms" causes a disconnection after the restart of the
UHF reader.

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6.2.2  "eth0" section

The section "eth0 - IPV4" contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

IP address The IPV4 address of the Linux module.
Subnet mask The subnet mask of the IPV4 address.
Gateway The gateway of the IPV4 address.
DHCP Automatic issuing of an IP address.
The section "eth0 - IPV6" contains the following operating elements:
UK
Operating element Description
IP address The IPV6 address of the Linux module.
Subnet prefix length The subnet prefix length of the IPV6 address.
Gateway The gateway of the IPV6 address.

Factory settings of the UHF reader

Host name UHF-RFID-Dev
IP address 192.168.0.1
TCP port 4007
Subnet mask 255.255.255.0
Keep-alive time 2000 ms
DHCP deactivated

6.2.3  "IO card configuration" section

The "IO card configuration" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

IO card type IO card types:
●● [Auto detect]: Automatic detection restores the interface to the
default settings.
●● [GPIO]: The GPIO contacts of the UHF reader are used.
●● [Card not used]: The IO card is deactivated and cannot be used.
A faulty configuration can destroy the IO card and the UHF
reader.

Changed settings will be adopted after restart of the UHF reader.

Input x Sets the input.

Invert logical input Negates the electrical signal.
Debounce time This assigns a debounce time in milliseconds.
Output x Sets the output.
Invert logical output Negates the electrical signal.
Debounce time This assigns a debounce time in milliseconds.
Off The output is deactivated.
On The output is activated.
x Hz frequency The output flashes at a frequency of x Hz.
RF on The output is active for the time set in the input field [Turn-off time]
as soon as the radio frequency is present at [First antenna] to [Last
antenna].

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Operating element Description

Antenna error The output is active for the time set in the input field [Turn-off time] as
soon as an antenna error occurs at [First antenna] to [Last antenna].
Tag found The output is active for the time set in the input field [Turn-off time] as
soon as an ID tag is found on [First antenna] to [Last antenna].
Tag operation success The output is active for the time set in the input field [Turn-off time] as
soon as a tag operation at [First antenna] to [Last antenna] has been
successful.
Protocol access The output is enabled and can be controlled with all protocol
commands for GPIO.
To enable access to an output when processing action lists,
the output must be set to [Protocol access] (→ 9.6).

Changed settings will be adopted after restart of the UHF reader.

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7  Function group [AP] Application

The function group [AP] Application enables configuration of the UHF reader for a selected application.
Click on a pictogram to select the application. The properties and settings of the respective application will
be displayed. The settings can be adjusted.

UK

4. Fig.: Function group [AP]

The function group [AP] Application contains the following applications:

Application Description
Conveyor belt > 2 m/s Application for detecting individual ID tags in the antenna field on a conveyor
belt moving at more than 2 m/s.
The distance between the ID tags and the antenna is only a few centimetres.
Conveyor belt ≤ 2 m/s Application for detecting and writing on individual ID tags in the antenna field
on a conveyor belt moving at a speed less than or
equal to 2 m/s.
The distance between the ID tags and the antenna is only a few centimetres.
Gate Application for detecting multiple ID tags in the antenna field as they pass
through a gate.
Vehicle barrier Application for detecting and writing on individual ID tags in the antenna field
identification which are not moving.
The distance between the ID tags and the antenna is a few metres.
Vehicle identification Application for detecting and writing on multiple ID tags in the antenna field
which are moving at a speed of more than 14 m/s.
The distance between the ID tags and the antenna is a few metres.
Shelf application Application for detecting and writing on many ID tags in the antenna field
which are not moving.
The distance between the ID tags and the antenna is less than 1 m.

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ReaderStart

Application Description
Place monitoring Application for detecting and writing on multiple ID tags in the antenna field
which are not moving.
The distance between the ID tags and the antenna is less than 1 m.
People identification Application for detecting multiple ID tags in the antenna field which are moving
at not more than 3 m/s.
The distance between the ID tags and the antenna is less than 1 m.

7.1  "Settings" section

The "Settings" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Number of tags Sets the number of ID tags used in the application.
Port selection Sets the ports used in the application.
Save settings to parameter set Sets the parameter set in which the settings are stored.
Optimized for reading speed An ID tag that has already been read is reset in order to read it fresh.
Under some circumstances the time allowed for detecting all ID tags
may be insufficient, so that some ID tags are not detected.
Optimized for reading An ID tag that has already been read is not reset provided it is still
reliability being supplied with power.
This means that only those ID tags which have not yet been registered
are detected. The confidence that all ID tags are read is increased.

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8  Function group [BR] Basic reading functions

The function group [BR] Basic reading shows information about read ID tags in the table ①. In the
section ② you can configure how ID tags are read.

UK

5. Fig.: Function group [BR]

①: Table with information about read ID tags
②: Settings for reading ID tags
8.1  "Table" section
The status of recognised ID tags is shown in colour in the table:

Colour ID tag status

Green ID tag recognised and read successfully
Yellow ID tag recognised and not read successfully
Red ID tag not recognised and has left the antenna field
The table columns contain the following information of the detected ID tags:

Information Description
EPC length Indicates the length of the EPC (Electronic Product Code) [0 - 496 bit].
EPC The EPC (Electronic Product Code) of the ID tag [hexadecimal
representation].
Port ID tag was read over this antenna port.
RSSI Signal strength of the tag response (Received Signal Strength
Indicator) [0 - 255, no unit].
An ID tag is in the field and is sufficiently supplied from an RSSI
value of "70".
RSSI DBM The RSSI value in the unit dBm [dBm].
Reads Shows how many times this ID tag has been read successfully.
Cycles Number of read processes of ID tags (inventory).

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ReaderStart

Information Description
First read Timestamp of the first reading of the ID tag.
Last read Timestamp of the last reading of the ID tag.
Frequency Used operating frequency for communication with the ID tag.
Tag phase Phase shift of the ID tag.

8.2  "Mode" section

The "mode" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Synchronous The tag reading modes are synchronous and asynchronous.
/ Asynchronous
●● Synchronous: The synchronous mode is ideal for applications when the
requirements for timing are not critical. This mode allows the device to
switch the carrier off during the idle times, thus saving power. The read
process (inventory) of the ID tags is performed across all configured
antennas.Once all ID tags in the field have been read from the first to the
last antenna, the data is sent to the PC. The read process (inventory) of the
ID tags is then retriggered by the PC.
●● Asynchronous: The asynchronous mode is ideal for applications for which
maximum performance is required. The UHF reader starts the inventory of
the ID tags as quickly as possible.In the asynchronous mode, not every ID
tag that was read is delivered to the PC at the end of an inventory, but only
those that have newly appeared in the field or left it. This allows the time
required for communication to be minimised.
The timing of when an ID tag is reliably read in the field and when the ID
tag no longer appears in the field can be defined using the parameters
"ObservedThresholdCnt" (→ 16.7.2) and "ObservedTimeoutCnt"
(→ 16.7.3).
Listen for event Wait for external trigger via GPIOs.
[Start] Starts the reading of ID tags.
[Stop] Stops the reading of ID tags.
[Clear] Deletes the contents of the table.

8.3  "Statistics" section

The "Statistics" section shows the ID tags detected per second. The current reading performance is
displayed as "Tags per second".
The reading rate is influenced by settings such as the selected radio profile, the respective baud
rate and application-specific data. The settings are made in the expert settings 1 (→ 10) and 2
(→ 11).

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8.4  "Options" section

The "Options" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Memory bank Select the memory bank of the ID tag to be displayed: TID, EPC or User Data.
Break after reading Sets the idle time in milliseconds between 2 read processes. During the idle
time, the carrier can be deactivated.
Bulk reading Sets the time for reading the internal RAM.
When [Bulk reading] is enabled, read processes of ID tags are cached in the
internal RAM. After a configurable time the content of the internal RAM (result UK
list) is sent to the PC. This reduces the need for data transfers.
Save to file Saves the ID tags that have been read to a csv file in the program directory.
Right-click on the [Save to file] check box to open a context menu in which the
csv file can be opened and deleted.
Selected tag as Uses the colour of the selected ID tag as background colour for the table.
background
An ID tag is displayed in the table row with a different colour depending on its
status. With this option the status colour can be extended to the entire table
background. This makes the status of the ID tag visible from afar.
ARU-CSB-ELC (port) Activates an additional presentation for ARU-CSB-ELC antennas.
Show data as UTF8 Shows tag data in the UTF8 (instead of hexadecimal) format.

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9  Function group [GP] GPIO functions

The function group [GP] GPIO functions reads and switches the inputs and outputs. For more complex
procedures, action lists can be created here, which execute a sequence of commands on the UHF reader.
This makes it possible to set up small controls, e.g.:
●● trigger the reader by a light barrier,
●● trigger an action at the outputs by reading an ID tag.

6. Fig.: Function group [GP]

9.1  "GPIO card" section

The "GPIO card" section contains the following operating elements:
Operating element Description
IO card Selects the IO card for setting the GPIO functions.

9.2  "Input" section

The "Input" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Invert logical input Inverts the logical input.
Debounce time Sets the duration of the debounce time.
Read Reads the status.

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9.3  "Output" section

The "Output" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Invert logical output Inverts the logical output.
Function Sets the function to be applied to the output. The following functions are
available:
●● [Off]: Deactivates the output.
●● [On]: Activates the output.
UK
●● [1/2/4/8 Hz frequency]: Sets the flashing frequency.
●● [RF on]: Activates the output when an antenna is active.
●● [Antenna error]: Activates the output if an error occurs at the antenna
(example: antenna is not connected).
●● [Tag found]: Activates the output when an ID tag is detected.
●● [Tag operation success]: Activates the output if a tag operation has been
successful (example: ID tag was read or written to).
●● [Protocol access]: Activates the output if a command was sent via the
interface (Ethernet IP/TCP) (example: start async reading).
First antenna Sets the first antenna to respond to.
Last antenna Sets the last antenna to respond to.
Turn-off time Sets the duration of the turn-off time.
Set Writes the settings.

9.4  "Test input" section

In the "Test input" section the state of the inputs is read. The "Test input" section contains the following
operating elements:

Operating element Description

Read inputs Triggers a one-off read process of the inputs.
Read inputs cyclic Triggers a permanent read process of the inputs.
start

9.5  "Test output" section

In the "Test output" section, the selected output is switched. The "Test output" section contains the
following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Output The output to be tested is selected.
Duration Sets the time until the output is switched to the idle state.
Set output on Sets the output on.
Set output off Sets the output off.

Before setting, the output must be set to the "Protocol access" function (→ 6.2.3).

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9.6  "Action list" section

To automate the processes, command sequences in the form of action lists can be created in the "Action
list" section. The action lists are triggered by a change of flank at the input on the respective GPIO card.
The "Action list" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Action list Selects an action list. The contained actions are executed in the specified
order.
The action lists are set via an XML file. The XML file is opened or re-read by
right-clicking on the [Action] list. For the actions the configuration parameters
are used (→ 16).
The XML file is stored in the folder "~USER\Documents\IFM Electronic GmbH\
ReaderStart v3". After editing and saving, the XML file must be read again by
right-clicking on the [Action] list.
Action Select an action:
●● [Activate Buzzer(500ms)]
●● [SyncGetEPCs]
●● [AsyncGetEPCs]
●● [AsyncStopCommand]
Add action Adds an action to the action list.
Clear action list Clears the contents of an action list.

The created action lists are deleted by restarting the UHF reader.

9.7  "Assign input to action list" section

In the "Assign input to action list" section, an action list is assigned to an input.
The "Assign input to action list" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Action list Selects an action list.
Input Select the input that executes the action list.
Assign to rising edge Executes the action list if there is a rising edge at the selected input.
Assign to falling edge Executes the action list if there is a falling edge at the selected input.

The action list is executed on rising and falling edges when both buttons are clicked.

The assignment of an action list to an input can be deleted:

●● Select the entry "No action list" in the [Action list],
●● reset the UHF reader,
●● restart the UHF reader.

For continuous operation of the UHF reader it is recommended to integrate the commands for the
digital inputs and outputs with external software.

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10  Function group [E1] Expert settings 1

Under "Expert settings 1", you can configure the transmission power, the antenna multiplex configuration
and the RF settings.

UK

7. Fig.: Function group [E1]

10.1  "Current parameter set" section

The "Current parameter set" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Parameter set Selects a parameter set.
Get The selected parameter set is read.
Set The selected parameter set is saved.

10.2  "Transmission power" section

In the "Transmission power" section, the power and antenna type of the transmission path are set. The
"Transmission power" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Port x Enables or disables the selected antenna port.
Cable attenuation Sets the length-dependent cable attenuation.
Antenna type Selects a predefined antenna. The predefined antenna limits the antenna gain.
If "Custom antenna" is selected, the antenna gain can be freely set.
Gain Sets the antenna gain.

With a predefined antenna, the antenna gain is set automatically.

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ReaderStart

To ensure an operation in compliance with the standards, observe the antenna gain and cable
attenuation permissible in the respective country. Otherwise the operating permit of the device
expires.
●● According to ETSE 302208, the radiated power must not exceed 2 W ERP in Europe (referred
to a half-wave dipole).
●● In the FCC approval region, max. 1 W connected HF power at an antenna gain of 6 dBi is
permitted (referred to an isotropic radiator).

A maximum output power of 30 dBm can be set per port.

10.3  "Port multiplex configuration" section

In the "Port multiplex configuration" section, the sequence in which the antennas are used to read ID tags
is set. The "Port multiplex configuration" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Port Set an antenna. The set antennas are controlled from left to right. Deactivated
antennas are skipped.
Exposure time Set an exposure time for the selected antenna. This enables asynchronous
operation.

10.4  "RF settings" section

In the "RF settings" section the frequency range is set. Depending on the approval, the UHF reader
transmits in one of the following frequency ranges:
●● 865 - 868 MHz for Europe
●● 902 - 928 MHz for America
●● 916 - 927 MHz for Australia
●● 920 - 925 MHz for Singapore
To ensure an operation in compliance with the standards in the respective country, observe the
permissible frequency range. Otherwise the operating permit of the device expires.

The "RF settings" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Communication standard Sets the country-specific communications standard. The permitted
communication standard depends on the respective country.
Communication profile Sets the data rate and spectrum of the signal. The following
communication profiles are available:
●● [4: Tx:40kbps/Rx40kbps/Miller4]
●● [6: Tx:80kbps/Rx80kbps/Miller2]
●● [7: Tx:80/Rx40kbps/Miller4]
●● [10: Tx:80kbps/Rx80kbps/Miller4]
●● [31: Tx:80kbps/Rx512kbps/FM0]
Some ID tags require a special data rate. For questions please
contact the service department of ifm electronic.
Time to carrier stand-by Specifies how long the carrier of the UHF reader remains active on the
air interface after the last action. Once this time has elapsed the carrier
is switched off.

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10.5  "Selection parameters" section

In the "Selection parameters" section, the singularisation of the ID tags according to the EPC standard is
set. The "Selection parameters" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Initial Q value Sets the number of ID tags expected in the field.
Sel Specifies whether other parameters are of interest for an inventory of
the ID tag population or not.
Session Sets the session to be used by the UHF reader.
Target Specifies which ID tags in the population should participate in the UK
inventory.

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11  Function group [E2] Expert settings 2

In the parameter set "Expert settings 2", the config password and the select filter settings are set.

8. Fig.: Function group [E2]

11.1  "Default parameter set" section

The "Default parameter set" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Default parameter set Allows configuration of a parameter set that is loaded from the EEPROM into
the RAM when the UHF reader boots.
Set The selected parameter set is saved.

11.2  "Copy parameter set" section

The "Copy parameter set" section allows one parameter set to be copied into another parameter set. The
"Copy parameter set" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Source parameter set Selection of the parameter set to be copied.
Target parameter set Selection of the copy target.
Copy Starts copying the parameter set. The successful completion of the copy
operation is confirmed with a message.

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11.3  "Change reader parameter" section

The "Change reader parameter" section allows reader settings to be changed using the parameter ID.
Each setting of the UHF reader has its own parameter ID (→ 16). The "Change reader parameter" section
contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Parameter ID Selection of the parameter ID of the setting.
Parameter value dec / Input of the parameter value in decimal [dec] or hexadecimal [hex] format.
hex
Get Reads the parameter value of the selected parameter ID. UK
Set Writes the parameter value to the selected parameter ID.

11.3.1  Example 1:
In the example, ID tags below a set RSSI value are ignored to ensure stable communication with the ID
tags.

9. Fig.: Set RSSI value "70".

Set RSSI value:
►► Select the parameter ID [RFInterfaceRSSIThreshold1].
►► Set the parameter value "70".
►► Click the [Set] button.
Only ID tags with an RSSI value ">70" are recognised.

The RSSI value must be set separately for each antenna.

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11.3.2  Example 2
In the example there are 2 ID tags in the antenna field:
●● ID tag 1 is located in the middle of the antenna field and is reliably detected.
●● ID tag 2 is located at the edge of the antenna field and is not reliably detected.
The ID tags are to be filtered if they are not reliably detected.

10. Fig.: 2 ID tags in the antenna field

11. Fig.: The ID tag marked in red is not reliably detected.

Filter ID tags that are not reliably detected:
►► Open function group [E2] 2Expert settings 2".
►► In the "Change reader parameter" section
–– set the list "Parameter ID" to [ObservedListObservedThresholdCount],
–– set the input field "Parameter value" to [70],
–– click the [Set] button.
>> The ID tags are filtered if they are detected reliably less than 70x.
The "Parameter ID" [ObservedListObservedThresholdCount] can only be used in asynchronous
mode of the UHF reader (e.g. ASyncGetEPCs).

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11.3.3  Example 3:
In the example there are 2 ID tags in the antenna field:
●● ID tag 1 has the higher received signal strength (RSSI) because it is closer to the antenna.
●● ID tag 2 is further away from the antenna.
The ID tag with the higher received signal strength is to be read by the antenna.

UK

12. Fig.: 2 ID tags in the antenna field

13. Fig.: The read ID tags have different received signal strengths.
Restrict the received signal strength:
►► Open function group [E2] Expert settings 2".
►► In the "Change reader parameter" section
–– set the list "Parameter ID" to [RFInterfaceRSSIThreshold1],
–– set the input field "Parameter value" to [80],
–– click the [Set] button.
>> The ID tags are only detected if the received signal strength is > 80.

The "Parameter ID" [RFInterfaceRSSIThreshold1] can be set individually for each antenna port.

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11.4  "Configuration password" section

In the "Configuration password" section, the password protection is set. The following commands will be
protected against changing by the configuration password:

Command Command
SetCommunicationStandard SetParameterByConfigId
SetPortPower SetIOCardHwConfig
SetCarrierFollowUpTime SetIOCardProtocolConfig
SetPortMultiplexSequenceAndExposureTime SetTime
SetCableLossAndAntennaGain SetAntennaMapping
SetETSIPortChannelList LoadFactoryDefaults
SetETSIPortChannelSwitchingMode FirmwareUpdatePrepare
SetProfile SetSelSessionAndTarget
SetModulationType SetInitialQ
SetExtendedResultFlag SetMaxAirCommErrors
SetDefaultParameterSet SetASyncObservedListParameters
SetActiveParameterSet
The "Configuration password" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Current password Input of the current configuration password.
New password Input of the new configuration password.
Enter config password Deactivates the password protection.
Set config password Activates the password protection.

Activate the password protection:

►► Enter the password in the field [New password].
►► Click the [Set config password] button.
The password protection has been activated.

Deactivate the password protection:

►► Enter the current password in the field [Current password].
►► Click the [Enter config password] button.
The password protection has been deactivated.
The password protection is activated again after 30 seconds. The 30 seconds are reset by any
input in the software.

Change the configuration password:

►► Enter the current password in the field [Current password].
►► Enter the new password in the field [New password].
►► Click the [Set config password] button.
The configuration password has been changed.

Delete the configuration password:

►► Enter the current password in the field [Current password].
►► Do not enter anything in the field [New password].

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►► Click the [Set config password] button.

The configuration password has been deleted.

11.5  "Select filter settings" section

In the "Select filter settings" section, filters can be set which are brought into effect by means of a "Select"
command. The filters can
●● filter out and not detect certain ID tags,
●● detect ID tags with certain defined data in the respective memory banks.
The "Select filter settings" section contains the following operating elements: UK
Operating element Description
Filter Selection of a filter.
Target Selection of the target session.
Action Selection of the action to be performed. The following actions are available
(according to EPC global Gen2 specification, page 73):

Action ID tag matching ID tag not matching

000 Assert SL or inventoried -> A Deassert SL or inventoried -> B
001 Assert SL or inventoried -> A Do nothing
010 Do nothing Deassert SL or inventoried -> B
011 Negate SL or (A -> B, B -> A) Do nothing
100 Deassert SL or inventoried -> B Assert SL or inventoried -> A
101 Deassert SL or inventoried -> B Do nothing
110 Do nothing Assert SL or inventoried -> A
111 Do nothing Negate SL or (A -> B, B -> A)
Memory bank Selection of a memory bank.
On Activates the selected filter.
Bit pointer Input of the start address of the ID tag data from which the mask should
start.
Mask length Entry of the mask length.
Mask data Enter the mask data in hexadecimal format.
Save select filter data Saves the set filters to an XML file.
to file
Load select filter data Loads the filter from an XML file.
from file
Get Reads the filters from the UHF reader.
Set Saves the filters in the UHF reader.

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11.5.1  Example
In the example, ID tags are filtered with the "Select filter settings".

14. Fig.: Detected ID tags.

In the figure 3 ID tags are shown. The ID tags have different EPCs. The ID tags with the EPCs "1111..."
are to be filtered out.
Filter the ID tags with EPC not equal to "2222...":
►► Open the function group [E1] "Expert settings 1".
►► In the "Selection parameters" section
–– set the "Session" list to [2],
–– set the "Target" list to [B].
►► In the "Current parameter set" section, click the [Set] button.
>> The settings are stored in the selected parameter set.
►► Open function group [E2] 2Expert settings 2".
►► In the "Select filter settings" section
–– set the "Target" list to [S2],
–– set the "Action" list to [100],
–– set the "Memory bank" list to [EPC],
–– set the input field "Bit pointer" to [0x20],
–– set the input field "Mask length" to [16],
–– set the input field "Mask data" to [0x2222],
–– tick the "On:" checkbox.
–– click the [Set] button.
>> The ID tags with EPC not equal to "2222..." are filtered.

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12  Function group [TA] - Tag access

Under "Tag access", ID tags are managed in accordance with the EPC Gen2 standard:
●● read ID tags,
●● edit ID tags,
●● change passwords of ID tags.

UK

15. Fig.: Function group [TA]

12.1  "Get all tags" section

In the "Get all tags" section, ID tags in the field of the selected antennas are shown. The "Get all tags"
section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Antenna Select an antenna.
Refresh Search for ID tags in the field of the selected antennas.
The detected ID tags are shown in the area below the [Refresh] button. An ID tag is selected by clicking
on it.

An ID tag must be selected for the settings in function group [TA].

A click on the "i" symbol shows additional information about the ID tag.

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12.2  "Password for operation" section

In the Password for operation, access to locked areas of the ID tag is enabled. The "Password for
operation" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Password Sets the password for the tag operation in the hexadecimal format.
After entering the password, the ID tag changes to the "Secured
state" and access to locked areas is enabled.

12.3  "Write EPC" section

In the "Write EPC" section, the EPC (Electronic Product Code) of the ID tag is changed. The "Write EPC"
section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

New EPC Entry of the new EPC in hexadecimal format. The EPC has a
maximum length which depends on the ID tag.
Auto increment Increases the EPC by "1" at each write event.
Write EPC to selected tag Writes the new EPC to the ID tag.
Write EPC to tag in field Writes the new EPC to the only ID tag in the antenna field.
There must only be one ID tag in the antenna field. The ID tag
does not have to be selected.

12.4  "Read data" section

The "Read data" section offers the possibility to read data from ID tags.
The following settings are necessary for reading data:
●● select a memory bank from the [Memory bank] list,
●● enter the memory address in the [Memory address] input field,
●● enter the number of words in the input field [Word count].

The "Read data" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Memory bank Selection of a memory bank.
Memory address Sets the memory address in hexadecimal format.
Word count Sets the number of words (1 word = 16 bits).
Data Shows the read data.
Data (UTF8) Shows the read data in UTF8 format.
Data (ISO 17367) Shows the read data in ISO 17367 format.
Read data of selected tag Reads the data from the selected ID tag with the memory bank,
memory address and word count settings.
Read complete memory bank of Reads the set memory bank of the selected ID tag.
selected tag
Read data of all tags Reads the data from the ID tags in the antenna field with the
memory bank, memory address and word count settings.
Read complete memory bank of Reads the set memory bank of the ID tags in the antenna field.
all tags

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12.5  "Write data" section

In the "Write data" section, data is written to ID tags.
The following settings are necessary for writing data:
●● select a memory bank from the [Memory bank] list,
●● enter the memory address in the [Memory address] input field,
●● enter the writing data in the input field [Data] or in the input field [Data (UTF8)].

The "Write data" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

UK
Memory bank Selection of a memory bank.
Memory address Sets the memory address in hexadecimal format.
Data Enters data to write in hexadecimal format.
Data (UTF8) Enters data to write in UTF8 format.
Data mask Writes individual bits on the ID tag. The UHF reader changes the data
read from the ID tag at the positions where the mask bits are "1". The
result is then written back to the ID tag.
Write data to selected tag Writes the data to the selected ID tag with the memory bank and
memory address settings.
Write masked data to Writes the data to the selected ID tag with the data mask settings.
selected tag
Write data to all tags Writes the data to the ID tags in the antenna field with the memory bank
and memory address settings.
All ID tags in the antenna field must have the same
configuration:
●● blocked areas identical,
●● assigned password identical.
Write masked data to all tags Writes the data to the ID tags in the antenna field with the data mask
settings.
All ID tags in the antenna field must have the same
configuration:
●● blocked areas identical,
●● assigned password identical.

12.6  "Change password" section

In the "Change password" section, the passwords for the ID tag are changed. The "Change password"
section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

New password Enter the new password for the selected ID tag.
New kill password Sets the new password to deactivate the selected ID tag.

The kill password is set to "0" by default.

Set password on selected tag Activates the new password for the selected ID tag.
Set kill password in selected tag Activates the new deactivation password for the selected ID tag.

Before changing passwords, the current password must be entered in the "Password for operation"
section (→ 12.2).

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12.7  "Lock" section

In the "Lock" section, the access to functions of the ID tag is restricted. The "Lock" section contains the
following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Kill password Specifies how the kill password is accessible:
●● [No change]: The access remains unchanged.
●● [Accessible]: The kill password is readable.
●● [Accessible with permalock]: The kill password is readable (permanent
setting).
●● [Accessible with password]: The kill password is readable after entering a
password.
●● [Not accessible with permalock]: The kill password is not readable.
(permanent setting).
The functions with the addition "permanent" are stored
permanently and irreversibly on the ID tag.
Access password Specifies how the access password is accessible:
●● [No change]: The access remains unchanged.
●● [Accessible]: The access password is readable.
●● [Accessible with permalock]: The access password is readable
(permanent setting).
●● [Accessible with password]: The access password is readable after
entering a password.
●● [Not accessible with permalock]: The access password is not readable
(permanent setting).
The functions with the addition "permanent" are stored
permanently and irreversibly on the ID tag.
EPC memory bank Specifies how the EPC memory bank is accessible:
●● [No change]: The access remains unchanged.
●● [Writeable]: The EPC memory bank is writeable.
●● [Writeable with permalock]: The EPC memory bank is writeable
(permanent setting).
●● [Writeable with password]: The EPC memory bank is writeable after
entering a password.
●● [Not accessible with permalock]: The EPC memory bank is not writeable
(permanent setting).
The functions with the addition "permanent" are stored
permanently and irreversibly on the ID tag.

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Operating element Description

TID memory bank Specifies how the TID memory bank is accessible:
●● [No change]: The access remains unchanged.
●● [Writeable]: The TID memory bank is writeable.
●● [Writeable with permalock]: The TID memory bank is writeable
(permanent setting).
●● [Writeable with password]: The TID memory bank is writeable after
entering a password.
●● [Not accessible with permalock]: The TID memory bank is not writeable UK
(permanent setting).
The functions with the addition "permanent" are stored
permanently and irreversibly on the ID tag.
User memory bank Specifies how the user memory bank is accessible:
●● [No change]: The access remains unchanged.
●● [Writeable]: The user memory bank is writeable.
●● [Writeable with permalock]: The user memory bank is writeable
(permanent setting).
●● [Writeable with password]: The user memory bank is writeable after
entering a password.
●● [Not accessible with permalock]: The user memory bank is not writeable
(permanent setting).
The functions with the addition "permanent" are stored
permanently and irreversibly on the ID tag.
Lock selected tag Writes the selected security functions to the ID tag.
Lock all tags Writes the selected security functions to all ID tags in the antenna field.

12.8  "Kill" section

In the "Kill" section, an ID tag is deactivated.

The deactivation of an ID tag cannot be undone. The deactivated ID tag will be unusable.

Before deactivating an ID tag, the kill password must be entered in the "Password for operation"
section (→ 12.2).

The ID tag cannot be deactivated if the kill password is set to the default value "0".

The "Kill" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Kill selected tag Executes a kill command on the selected ID tag.
Kill all tags Executes a kill command on all ID tags in the antenna field.

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13  Function group [AM] - AppManager

The function group "AppManager" administers applications on the Linux part of the UHF reader.
The function group "AppManager" is only available for UHF readers with Linux as operating
system.

16. Fig.: Function group [AM]

The "AppManager" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

Get all apps Gets all apps installed in the UHF reader. The apps will be
displayed below the button.
Install app Installs an app via a file system window.
The application must be packed in the tar format and have
the file extension "tar".
Start app Starts the selected app.
Stop app Stops the selected app.
Uninstall app Uninstalls the selected app.
Start app at boot time Starts the selected app at boot time of the UHF reader.

The apps can be transferred to the UHF reader via an FTP server:
►► In the menu bar, select [Linux module].
►► Select [FTP] and then [Start].
>> The FTP server can be reached via the IP address "192.168.0.1".

An LLRP app is available for the UHF readers. More information: www.ifm.com

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14  Function group [TS] - TagScan

The function group "TagScan" graphically displays the phase and received signal strength (RSSI) of an ID
tag.
The "TagScan" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description

ID tag Selects an ID tag.
Refresh Refreshes the ID tags in the field.
Start Starts the presentation of phase and received signal strength.
Stop Stops the presentation of phase and received signal strength.
UK
Refresh rate Sets the refresh rate of the graph.
Number of data points Sets the number of data points in the graph.
The phase is directly proportional to the movement of the ID tag. Thus the phase provides information
on the direction of movement of the ID tag. In the function group [TS] the values "Phase" and "RSSI" are
illustrated over time.
The function group [TS] is only available for the following UHF readers with Linux as operating
system: DTE810, DTE830, DTE835, DTE910, DTE930

The UHF reader changes the transmission frequency every 4 seconds. Phase jumps can occur. To
eliminate phase jumps only select one transmission frequency in the Expert settings [E1] (→ 10).

The values "phase" and "RSSI" are saved in a csv file. Saving is activated under "Basic reading"
[BR] (→ 8).

14.1  Stationary ID tag

The stationary ID tag does not move. The phase jumps can be seen during the change of the
transmission frequency. The RSSI value does not change since the ID tag does not move. The direction
of movement is indicated via the rotating pointer at the top right.

17. Fig.: Function group [TS] - stationary ID tag

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14.2  Moving ID tag

The moving ID tag is moving. The phase jumps can be seen during the change of the transmission
frequency. The RSSI value changes in small steps. The direction of movement is indicated via the rotating
pointer at the top right.

18. Fig.: Function group [TS] - moving ID tag

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15  Function group [SS] - SpectralScan

The function group "SpectralScan" displays the following high-frequency jammers as levels:
●● short-range devices (1st harmonic at 433 MHz),
●● neighbouring UHF readers without sufficient decoupling.

The function group [SS] is only available for UHF readers with Linux as operating system.

The "SpectralScan" section contains the following operating elements:

Operating element Description UK

FCC / Singapore / ETIS Selects the frequency spectrum for the SpectralScan.
Antenna x Selects an antenna for the level display.
Start Starts the level display.
Stop Stops the level display.
Reset maxima Resets the recorded data of the SpectralScan.

15.1  Example
As an example, a neighbouring jammer is to be found.
In 19. Fig. the UHF reader uses channel 4. Alternatively channel 7, 10 or 13 would be possible. After
4 seconds the UHF reader changes the channel. The mode "Dense Reader" and the free frequency
selection permit trouble-free operation in spite of the neighbouring jammer.

19. Fig.: Function group [SS] - example

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In the example there would be a fault if one of the following criteria was met:
●● a jammer permanently uses a frequency,
●● the level reaches the maximum with a channel other than 4, 7, 10 or 13.
Since antennas have a reference characteristics, the jammer can be found by aligning the antenna:
►► Rotate the antenna until the jammer is signalled with maximum strength.
>> The jammer transmits from that direction.

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16  Configuration parameters

The chapter "Configuration parameters" contains parameters and notes for optimum configuration of the
UHF reader.

16.1  Introduction
A configuration parameter of the UHF reader consists of a 32-bit identification number (ID) and a data
portion of 8 to 32 bits depending on the parameter. Below the data portion is called "parameter value" or
"value". The parameters are read from the UHF reader and set by means of the ID. Each configuration
parameter stands for a certain functionality within the UHF reader.
The file "konfigids.h" contains further information about the structure of the IDs and configuration UK
parameters. The file can be found in the source files of the programming environment.
This file contains macros in the programming language "C" by means of which you can address
configuration parameters in your programming environment via a plain text name. The plain text
name is translated into the respective parameter ID during compilation.

At www.ifm.com in the download area of the UHF readers, libraries are available for:
●● C#
●● C++
●● VB.net

At www.ifm.com in the download area of the UHF readers, example programs for the following PLC
are available:
●● Schneider
●● Siemens
●● Codesys
●● Allen-Bradley

16.2  Parameter ID
The ID of a configuration parameter contains the following information:
●● configuration group
●● consecutive number (to distinguish parameters within a group)
●● data type (byte, word, etc.)
●● number of data bytes
●● signs
●● unit
To simplify handling, the configuration parameters have a plain text name. The plain text name starts with
"cfgid" followed by the name of the configuration group.
Then follows the function name of the parameter. The function name indicates the function of the
configuration parameter.

16.2.1  Example
Configuration parameter "cfgidTagCommIntelligentWrite"
"cfgid": introducing letter combination
"TagComm": name of the configuration group
"IntelligentWrite": function name of the parameter

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16.3  Parameter set

The configuration of the UHF reader is organised in parameter sets. Each UHF reader has 8 parameter
sets. With one exception ("cfgidGlobalDefaultParamset") all configuration parameters are represented
in each parameter set. By using parameter sets the UHF reader can change from one configuration to
another with just one command.
The currently selected parameter set is called "active parameter set". Configuration parameters
are always read or written on the active parameter set by means of the protocol commands
"GetParameterById" and "SetParameterById". A changed active parameter set can be saved in the UHF
reader's EEPROM via "SaveActiveParamset" and is again available when the UHF reader has been
rebooted. The parameter sets are changed with the command "SetActiveParamset".

16.4  "Global" configuration group

16.4.1  DefaultParamset
DefaultParamset
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-7
The parameter "DefaultParamset" indicates which parameter set is to be loaded and activated when the
UHF reader has been started.
The parameter "DefaultParamset" is the only one in its configuration group. In contrast to all other
parameters the parameter is "independent". That means that the parameter does not exist in every
parameter set but only once.

16.5  Configuration group "High-frequency interface" (RFInterface)

16.5.1  RFPower1...8
RFPower1...8
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit ¼ dBm(erp)
Value range 0; 68-136
The parameter "RFPower1...8" sets the transmission power of the UHF reader for the specified antenna
port. What is meant is the power the antenna is to radiate. It is indicated in dBm(erp). To ensure that the
radiated power set via the parameter is correct, the parameters for attenuation of the antenna cable and
antenna gain must be set correctly.
Setting a transmission power greater than 0 dBm(erp) is the prerequisite for executing an inventory via
the antenna port.
The transmission power is set in dBm(erp). A transmission power in dBm(eirp) must be converted
to dBm(erp):
dBm(erp) = dBm(eirp) - 2.14

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16.5.2  TimeToPowerOff
TimeToPowerOff
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type word (16 bits)
Unit Seconds
Value range 0-65535
The parameter "TimeToPowerOff" indicates how long the transmitter carrier should remain switched on
after an inventory or an ID tag operation in general has been completed.
A certain time elapses until the UHF reader starts with the inventory after it has received an inventory UK
command. The UHF reader needs this time for example for LBT (Listen Before Talk) and an antenna
test. Using of the parameter "TimeToPowerOff" it is possible to shorten the time. When an inventory was
completed by the UHF reader and if the next inventory command is given within the time span configured
with this parameter, the UHF reader does not need the LBT and the antenna test and can start with the
inventory faster.
The overall energy consumption of the UHF reader increases during the time the transmission
carrier is switched on but there is no imminent ID tag operation.
The LBT (Listen Before Talk) operating mode is only permitted in existing installations.

16.5.3  ModulationType
ModulationType
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 1
The parameter "ModulationType" defines the modulation type used by the UHF reader for communication
with the ID tag. 2 modulation types are available:
●● value 0: Double Side Band (DSB)
●● value 1: Phase Reversal Amplitude Shift Keying (PR-ASK)
For UHF readers manufactured for the European Union (ETSI), the setting is ignored and the
following modulation type is used:"Value 1: Phase Reversal Amplitude Shift Keying (PR-ASK)".

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16.5.4  MultiplexingAntennaport1...8
MultiplexingAntennaport1...8
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 1-8
The parameter "MultiplexingAntennaport1...8" contains the antenna multiplex list of the UHF reader. In
each of the 8 list positions one of the antenna port numbers "1" to "8" or "0" (zero) is entered. The value
"0" deactivates the list position and the UHF reader changes to the next list position.

Inventory start

Index multiplex list := 0

Index multiplex list +1

Is there
an entry in the
No multiplex list and is
a power configured
for this antenna
port?

Yes
Carry out inventory on
the indicated antenna port

Has the end

of the multiplex
No
list been
reached?

Yes
Inventory end

20. Fig.: Flow chart of an inventory

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16.5.5  MultiplexingExposureTime1...8
MultiplexingExposureTime1...8
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type word (16 bits)
Unit milliseconds
Value range 0-65535
The parameter "MultiplexingExposureTime1...8" is of interest for the reader commands beginning with
"ASync...". Each parameter stands for an exposure time indicating how long the UHF reader is to stay on
the respective position - and thus antenna - in the multiplex list for inventories. UK
In contrast to the synchronous commands the UHF reader does not immediately change to the next entry
in the multiplex list but only when the exposure time indicated for the respective multiplex entry with these
parameters has elapsed. An ongoing inventory is not interrupted when the exposure time has elapsed but
it is continued until it is completed.

16.5.6  CableLoss1...8
CableLoss1...8
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit ¼ dB
Value range 0-255
The parameter "CableLoss1…8" contains the cable attenuation of the antenna cable between UHF
reader and antenna for the respective antenna port of the UHF reader.

An incorrectly set cable attenuation will affect the transmission power.

16.5.7  AntennaGain1...8
AntennaGain1...8
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits); signed
Unit ¼ dBic
Value range -128 - 127
The parameter "AntennaGain1…8" communicates the antenna gain of the connected antennas to the
UHF reader. The UHF reader calculates the socket power to be applied to the HF output from the set
transmission power (antenna radiant power), the antenna gain and the cable attenuation:
socket powerdBm = radiant powerdBm(erp) - antenna gaindBic + cable attenuationdB + 5.14
Use the following formula to convert an antenna gain indicated in dBi to dBic:
antenna gain dBic = antenna gainDBI + 3

Near-field antennas have a negative gain since they are designed for magnetic (not
electromagnetic) coupling with the ID tag.
Configure the near-field antennas by indicating an antenna gain of 5.25 dBic (a parameter value of
21 dec) and not more than the maximum input power of the antenna indicated in the data sheet as
antenna radiant power ("RFPower1...8").

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16.5.8  RSSIThreshold1...8
RSSIThreshold1...8
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "RSSIThreshold1...8" defines the response threshold of the RSSI value for each antenna
port. If the UHF reader carries out an inventory, the field strength (RSSI value) of the ID tag response is
also measured.

ID tags with an RSSI value smaller than the set value are not detected by the UHF reader.

16.5.9  MultiPowerTagAccess1...8
MultiPowerTagAccess1...8
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "MultiPowerTagAccess1...8" can be activated for each antenna port. Then the UHF reader
reduces the transmission power by half after an inventory with high transmission power and looks for any
"overlooked" ID tags.
The stronger the transmission signal of the UHF reader hits an ID tag, the more difficult it is for the ID
tag to modulate the transmission light of the UHF reader via back scatter. The strength of the response
decreases with increasing transmission power of the UHF reader. This behaviour can have the effect
that the UHF reader can only read an ID tag located directly in front of the antenna with low transmission
power.

16.5.10  MaxAllowedAntennaOutputPower1...8
MaxAllowedAntennaOutputPower1...8
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit ¼ dBm(erp)
Value range 0-255
The parameter "MaxAllowedAntennaOutputPower1...8" limits the radiant power of the antenna at an
antenna port to a certain value.

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16.5.11  EnableRSSIThresholdAtSpecificCmds
EnableRSSIThresholdAtSpecificCmds
Firmware as from v1.46.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The RSSI threshold value set with the parameter "RSSIThreshold1...8" has an effect on unspecified ("...
GetEPCs", "...Any") and specified ("...Specific") commands. The effect on specific commands can be
activated or deactivated via the parameter "EnableRSSIThresholdAtSpecificCmds". UK
Example:
The UHF reader cyclically looks for ID tags in the antenna field with "SyncGetEPCs". By means of the
configuration parameter "RSSIThreshold1...8" ID tags below a certain RSSI value are not reported. If an
ID tag is approaching the RSSI threshold, it is reported to the higher level by the UHF reader when it has
reached the threshold. The higher level triggers a specific command for the reported ID tag.
If "EnableRSSIThresholdAtSpecificCmds" is activated, it may now happen that the specific command is
rendered ineffective since the RSSI value of the ID tag trembles around the threshold. In this scenario
"EnableRSSIThresholdAtSpecificCmds" should be deactivated.

16.5.12  FlashWriteAdditionalPower
FlashWriteAdditionalPower
Firmware as from v2.00.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit ¼ dB
Value range 0-48
The parameter "FlashWriteAdditionalPower" has the effect that more transmission power is used for write
commands than for read commands.
Writing data to an ID tag requires more energy than reading data from an ID tag. That means that an ID
tag has to be closer to the antenna for writing than for reading with the same transmission power. The
parameter "FlashWriteAdditionalPower" activates additional transmission power during writing, so that the
different distances for reading and writing do not have to be considered.

16.5.13  FlashReadAdditionalPower
FlashReadAdditionalPower
Firmware as from v2.13.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit ¼ dB
Value range 0-48
The parameter "FlashReadAdditionalPower" has the effect that more transmission power is used for read
commands than for write commands.
Certain ID tags need more energy for reading the user memory than for the inventory. That means that an
ID tag must be closer to the antenna for reading the user memory than for the inventory to determine the
EPC with the same transmission power. The parameter "FlashReadAdditionalPower" activates additional
transmission power during reading, so that the different distances for reading and writing do not have to
be considered.

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16.6  Configuration group "Tag communication" ("TagComm")

16.6.1  UsePilottone
UsePilottone
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "UsePilottone" activates the pilot tone. ID tags to EPCGlobal Class-1 Gen-2 can
transmit a pilot tone before the user data. Once the ID tag has responded, the pilot tone activates the
synchronisation of the UHF reader.
Without a pilot tone it is more difficult for the UHF reader to synchronise with the tag response.
Permanently activate this parameter to ensure reliable tag detection.

16.6.2  InitialQ
InitialQ
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-15
The parameter "InitialQ" tells the UHF reader how many tags are expected in the antenna field. The value
Q defines in the inventory process how many ID tags are in the antenna field and have to be detected.
The number x of ID tags is calculated as follows:
x = 2Q-1
The value Q is communicated to the ID tags. Then the ID tags randomly select one of x "communication
slots" for their response.
For a fast and efficient inventory, as many communication slots as possible should be used by ID tags.
Multiple use of communication slots would result in collisions.
If the reader detects that Q is too big (hardly any communication slots are used) or too small (there are
collisions), the value Q is automatically adapted and transmitted to the ID tags. The time required for
adaptation can be reduced by informing the UHF reader of the number of expected ID tags in the antenna
field. This way the number of communication slots can be set appropriately already at the beginning of
the inventory.

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16.6.3  Session

Session
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-3
The parameter "Session" determines which session the UHF reader should work with.
ID tags to EPCGlobal Class-1 Gen-2 support 4 different "sessions". An ID tag can remember for each UK
session whether or not it has been detected by the UHF reader via an inventory process (inventoried
flag). The inventoried flags of the sessions have different persistence times. The persistence time
indicates how long an ID tag remembers whether or not it was detected by the UHF reader.

Session ID tag has energy ID tag has no energy

0 Unlimited persistence No persistence
1 Persistence longer than 500 milliseconds Persistence longer than 500 milliseconds
and shorter than 5 seconds and shorter than 5 seconds
2 Unlimited persistence Persistence longer than 2 seconds
3 Unlimited persistence Persistence longer than 2 seconds

16.6.4  MaxErrors
MaxErrors
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-255
The parameter "MaxErrors" indicates how often a command is carried out by the UHF reader if a
response from the ID tag expected by the UHF reader is missing.

16.6.5  CommunicationProfile
CommunicationProfile
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-255
The communication profile between UHF reader and ID tag is set via the parameter
"CommunicationProfile". A communication profile consists of:
●● the transmitted baud rate (reader to ID tag)
●● the received baud rate (ID tag to reader)
●● the coding of the data from ID tag to reader
Different transmission rates, received baud rates and coding are available. Since not every combination
of these 3 characteristics is possible, selected combinations are available as communication profile.
A list of possible communication profiles can be downloaded from the UHF reader via the command
"GetProfileList". Whether or not the UHF reader operates in the "Dense UHF-Reader Mode" depends on
the selected communication profile.
This parameter used to be called "DefaultProfile" up to firmware v2.04.00. The parameter ID was
not changed.

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16.6.6  CommStandard
CommStandard
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-255
The parameter "CommStandard" informs the UHF reader which rules are to be used for radio
communication with the ID tag. Depending on the country the regulations differ with respect to the
transmission power and the transmission channels permitted for communicating with ID tags.

For questions regarding the respective national regulations please contact the ifm support.

16.6.7  IntelligentWrite
IntelligentWrite
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "IntelligentWrite" accelerates the writing of data on the ID tag. If the parameter is active,
the UHF reader first reads the data area to be written to and then only rewrites the parts that change.
In practice it can happen that data is written to an ID tag that already exists. The time needed for this is
saved with the "IntelligentWrite" parameter.
Example
Depending on the ID tag it takes 10 to 20 milliseconds to write 16-bit data (one word). In the worst case,
an ID tag needs 120 milliseconds to write a 96-bit EPC. Reading data only takes one-fifth up to one tenth
of this time.
There is no error message when "IntelligentWrite" is activated if
●● a memory area on an ID tag is copy-protected and
●● identical content is written to the memory area.

16.6.8  VerifyWrite

VerifyWrite
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "VerifyWrite" verifies the data written to the ID tag. After writing, the data is read and
compared. Inconsistencies are signalled to the higher level as "Verify Fail".
The activated parameter "VerifyWrite" is no guarantee that data is written to an ID tag correctly.
With older ID tags, written data can be lost after a few hours.

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16.6.9  QueryTarget

QueryTarget
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "QueryTarget" defines which ID tags are to participate in the inventory.
ID tags to EPCGlobal Class-1 Gen-2 support 4 different "sessions". An ID tag can remember for each UK
session whether or not it has been detected by the UHF reader via an inventory process (inventoried
flag).
The status of the inventoried flag can either be "A" or "B" . When an ID tag is detected in an inventory, the
state of the flag either changes from "A" to "B" or from "B" to "A". The state of the inventoried flag can also
be changed by "Select" commands.
With the parameter "QueryTarget" and the "Select" commands filters can be created: If the parameter
"QueryTarget" has the value "0", only those ID tags with the inventoried flag "A" participate in the
inventory. With all other values, only ID tags with inventoried flag "B" participate in the inventory.
For more information see the "EPCGlobal Class-1 Generation-2 UHF RFID" ((E)) specification
V1.2.0 chapter 6.3.2.2 (pages 43f).

16.6.10  QuerySel

QuerySel
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-3
The parameter "QuerySel" defines the contents of the field "Sel" in the Gen2 command "Query". The "Sel"
fields tells the ID tag whether or not the content of the "Selected-Flags" is relevant for participation in the
inventory. With the parameter "QuerySel" and the "Select" commands filters can be created.
For more information see the "EPCGlobal Standard Class-1 Generation-2 UHF RFID" ((E))
specification V1.2.0 chapter 6.3.2.11.2.1 (page 57).

16.6.11  ForcePowerOffAfterEPCWrite

ForcePowerOffAfterEPCWrite
Firmware as from v1.40.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit milliseconds
Value range 0-255
The parameter "ForcePowerOffAfterEPCWrite" defines the duration of the repowering of an ID tag.
Repowering is performed by the carrier after writing to the EPC memory bank.
During an inventory the ID tag transmits its EPC and a checksum to the reader. This checksum is formed
during "power up" of the ID tag via the memory area of the EPC.
An ID tag cannot participate in the inventory if writing to the EPC's memory bank takes place
without "power up" (without switching off the antenna field). The transmitted checksum does no
longer match the transferred EPC.

For more information see the "EEPCGlobal Class-1 Generation-2 UHF RFID" ((E)) specification
V1.2.0 chapter 6.3.2.1.2.1 (pages 38).

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16.6.12  TransmitGetEPCsPreSelect

TransmitGetEPCsPreSelect
Firmware as from v1.41.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "TransmitGetEPCsPreSelect" changes the process of an inventory.
The parameter "TransmitGetEPCsPreSelect" reduces the time to acquire multiple ID tags when more
than one antenna is used. For the use of this parameter it must be irrelevant which antenna is used to
detect the ID tags.
ID tags that have already been detected by an antenna are no longer detected by the following antennas
from the multiplex list.

If "TransmitGetEPCsPreSelect = 0", an inventory is carried out as follows:

1. Select the first antenna from the multiplex list.
2. Carry out a "Select" with the selected antenna to reset all ID tags in the reception range.
3. Carry out an inventory with the selected antenna until no more ID tags are found.
4. Select the next antenna from the multiplex list and return to 2.
5. The protocol command is terminated and the result is transferred to the higher level.

If "TransmitGetEPCsPreSelect ≠ 0", an inventory is carried out as follows:

1. Select the first antenna from the multiplex list.
2. Carry out a "Select" with the selected antenna to reset all ID tags in the reception range.
3. Select the next antenna from the multiplex list and return to 2.
4. Select the first antenna from the multiplex list.
5. Carry out an inventory with the selected antenna until no more ID tags are found.
6. Select the next antenna from the multiplex list and return to 5.
7. The protocol command is terminated and the result is transferred to the higher level.

The parameter affects the following protocol commands:

●● "SyncGetEPCs"
●● "SyncBulkGetEPCs"
●● "ASyncGetRawEPCs"
●● "ASyncGetEPCs"

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16.6.13  TransmitSelectIfNoFilterIsOn
TransmitSelectIfNoFilterIsOn
Firmware as from v1.45.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "TransmitSelectIfNoFilterIsOn" determines whether a "Select" is to be sent before the
inventory.
A "Select" or a "Select" filter resets all ID tags in the antenna field to a defined initial state. The following UK
inventory detects all ID tags that are in the defined initial state.
The parameter "TransmitSelectIfNoFilterIsOn" is only taken into account if no "Select" filter is
defined.

16.6.14  NumberOfEPCWords

NumberOfEPCWords
Firmware as from v2.00.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-31; 255
The parameter "NumberOfEPCWords" deactivates the automatic detection of the EPC length. The UHF
reader then operates with a fixed EPC length.
As from firmware v2.00.00 UHF readers read ID tags with an EPC length of 0 to 31 words (0 to
496-bit EPCs).

16.6.15  UseBlockWrite

UseBlockWrite
Firmware as from v2.00.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The "UseBlockWrite" parameter activates the "BlockWrite" command for writing data to an ID tag. The
"BlockWrite" command allows you to write more than 16 bits to an ID tag (a word) with just one command.
The time for writing is reduced.
Not all ID tags support the command "BlockWrite". See also the "EPCGlobal Standard Class-1
Generation-2 UHF RFID" ((E)) specification V1.2.0 chapter 6.3.2.11.3.7 (page 74).

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16.6.16  DisableReceivingNXPReadProtectedTags
DisableReceivingNXPReadProtectedTags
Firmware as from v2.01.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "DisableReceivingNXPReadProtectedTags" blocks the reception of read-protected ID
tags.
If an ID tag has been protected with the "ReadProtect" command, a value of "0" (zero) is transmitted for
the EPC and the checksum during an inventory. The ID tag protected in this way has no valid checksum.
Since a UHF reader considers ID tags in an inventory by default, with an EPC and a checksum with a
value of "0" (zero), false detections may occur. ID tags are detected although there are none in the field.
The activated parameter changes the behaviour of the reader: In an inventory, ID tags are not taken into
account if the EPC and the checksum have the value "0" (zero).

16.7  Configuration group "Observed List" ("ObservedList")

16.7.1  GlimpsedTimeoutCnt
GlimpsedTimeoutCnt
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-255
The parameter "GlimpsedTimeoutCnt" deletes an ID tag from the internal administration list if the ID tag
has not been detected after a configurable number of inventories. An ID tag is not detected if it does not
respond to a "Go" message.
The parameter "GlimpsedTimeoutCnt" is taken into account by asynchronous protocol commands
("ASync..."). For asynchronous commands a list with all ID tags found in the antenna range is created.
If an ID tag is repeatedly located within the antenna range during inventories, a "Come" message is
generated for this ID tag and transmitted to the higher level. If an ID tag is repeatedly not detected during
inventories, a "Go" message is generated and transferred.
The parameter "GlimpsedTimeoutCnt" has no influence on the generation of a "Come" or "Go"
message. If possible, do not change the parameter "GlimpsedTimeoutCnt".

16.7.2  ObservedThresholdCnt
ObservedThresholdCnt
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-255
The parameter "ObservedThresholdCnt" counts the inventories that detect ID tags. The inventories are
only counted if a "Come" message has been generated and transmitted to the higher level.
The parameter "ObservedThresholdCnt" is taken into account by asynchronous protocol commands
("ASync..."). With asynchronous commands a list with all ID tags found in the antenna range is created. If
an ID tag is repeatedly within the antenna range during inventories, a "Come" message is generated for
this ID tag and transmitted to the higher level. If an ID tag is repeatedly not detected in inventories, a "Go"
message is generated and transferred.

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16.7.3  ObservedTimeoutCnt

ObservedTimeoutCnt
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-255
The parameter "ObservedTimeoutCnt" counts the inventories after an ID tag was no longer detected. The
inventories are only counted if a "Go" message has been generated and transmitted to the higher level.
UK
The parameter "ObservedThresholdCnt" is taken into account by asynchronous protocol commands
("ASync..."). With asynchronous commands a list with all ID tags found in the antenna range is created. If
an ID tag is repeatedly within the antenna range during inventories, a "Come" message is generated for
this ID tag and transmitted to the higher level. If an ID tag is repeatedly not detected in inventories, a "Go"
message is generated and transferred.

16.8  Configuration group "Host communication" ("HostComm")

16.8.1  ExtendedResultFlag
ExtendedResultFlag
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-15
The parameter "ExtendedResultFlag" defines which data of the ID tags are transferred to the higher level.
Setting the lower 4 bits to "1" sets the parameter:
●● Bit 0: Transfer antenna information (on which antenna was the ID tag detected)
●● Bit 1: Transfer RSSI value (field strength information of the ID tag response)
●● Bit 2: Transfer timestamp (at what time was the ID tag detected)
●● Bit 3: Transfer protocol control word (PC, XPC_W1, XPC_W2. See also the "EPCGlobal Class-1
Generation-2 UHF RFID" specification V1.2.0 chapter 6.3.2.1.2 (page 38)

16.8.2  AntennaIndependentOperation
AntennaIndependentOperation
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "AntennaIndependentOperation" permits distinction between the operations of the reader:
●● "antenna-dependent" (parameter deactivated)
●● "antenna-independent" (parameter activated)
The parameter "AntennaIndependentOperation" is taken into account by all asynchronous protocol
commands ("ASync...") and by the command "SyncBulkGetEPCs". In the case of the mentioned
commands, the UHF reader compares the ID tags found via an inventory with ID tags from an internal list.
The antenna-dependent operation uses the EPC and the antenna information. An ID tag detected by
several antennas creates several data records in the reader. The data records contain the same EPC but
different antenna port numbers.
The antenna-independent mode only uses the EPC. An ID tag detected by several antennas creates only
one data record in the reader.

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16.8.3  ASyncAdditionalRSSIDataDeliveryDelta
ASyncAdditionalRSSIDataDeliveryDelta
Firmware as from v2.00.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-255
The parameter "ASyncAdditionalRSSIDataDeliveryDelta" provides the RSSI value of an ID tag to
●● generate a "TagData-Changed" message and
●● transfer it to the higher level.
At a value of 255 no "TagDataChanged" messages are generated.
The parameter "ASyncAdditionalRSSIDataDeliveryDelta" is taken into account by asynchronous protocol
commands ("ASync...") except "ASyncGetRawEPCs".
With asynchronous commands a list with all ID tags found in the antenna range is created. If an ID tag is
repeatedly within the antenna range during inventories, a "Come" message is generated for this ID tag
and transmitted to the higher level. If an ID tag is repeatedly not detected in inventories, a "Go" message
is generated and transferred.
Changing the RSSI value (field strength) between the "Come" and "Go" messages allows conclusions to
be drawn concerning the movements of an ID tag within the antenna field.
The parameter "ExtendedResultFlag" must be set accordingly so that the RSSI value is part of the
"TagDataChanged" message.

16.8.4  UseMillisecondsAsTimestamp

UseMillisecondsAsTimestamp
Firmware as from v2.00.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "UseMillisecondsAsTimestamp" sets the type of timestamp:
●● UTC time in seconds since 01/01/1970 0:00 h,
●● milliseconds elapsed since the start of the reader.
The timestamp contains the time when an ID tag was detected. After an inventory, a timestamp can be
transmitted to the higher level (→ 16.8.1). If the parameter is activated, the milliseconds elapsed since the
start of the UHF reader are transferred as timestamp.

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16.9  Configuration group "ETSI"

16.9.1  PortChannelListGlobalValue1...16
PortChannelListGlobalValue1...16
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-15
The parameter "PortChannelListGlobalValue1...16" administers the radio channels permitted for UK
Europe and creates the ETSI channel list. The ETSI channel list comprises max. 16 entries. Each
entry can contain an ETSI channel number in the range from "1" to "15". The value "0" (zero) is the
end of the channel list. Entries with an ETSI channel number ">15" are ignored. The configuration
parameter "ChannelSwitchingMode" can be set such that the reader randomly selects a channel for the
communication with the ID tags from this channel list.
The parameter "PortChannelListGlobalValue1...16" is only relevant if "ETSI_EN302208" or "ETSI_
EN302208_LBT" is selected as communication standard.

16.9.2  PortChannelListPort1...8Value1...16
PortChannelListPort1...8Value1...16
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-15
The parameter "PortChannelListPort1...8Value1...16" administers the radio channels permitted for Europe
and creates the ETSI channel list for each antenna port. Each ETSI channel comprises max. 16 entries.
Each entry can contain an ETSI channel number in the range from "1" to "15". The value "0" (zero) is
the end of the channel list. Entries with an ETSI channel number ">15" are ignored. The configuration
parameter "ChannelSwitchingMode" can be set such that the reader randomly selects a channel for the
communication with the ID tags from this channel list.
The parameter "PortChannelListPort1...8Value1...16" is only relevant if "ETSI_EN302208" or
"ETSI_EN302208_LBT" is selected as communication standard.

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16.9.3  ChannelSwitchingMode

ChannelSwitchingMode
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type byte (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0-1
The parameter "ChannelSwitchingMode" sets the channel selection mode.

ETSI communication Mode 0 Mode 1

standard
ETSI_EN302208 ●● no LBT ●● no LBT
●● use of the global channel list for ●● use of the channel list
each port with random selection associated with the port with
of the channel random channel selection
ETSI_EN302208_LBT ●● LBT on the first configured ●● LBT for each change of port on
antenna this port
●● use of the global channel list in ●● use of the channel list
random channel order associated with the port in
random channel order
●● no new LBT and therefore
no change of channel during
change of port

The LBT (Listen Before Talk) operating mode is only permitted in existing installations.

The parameter "ChannelSwitchingMode" is only relevant if "ETSI_EN302208" or "ETSI_

EN302208_LBT" is selected as communication standard (only in existing installations).

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16.9.4  PowerCheckOverAllAllowedChannels
PowerCheckOverAllAllowedChannels
Firmware as from v1.30.00
Data type bool (8 bits)
Unit -
Value range 0; 255
The parameter "PowerCheckOverAllAllowedChannels" sets the level settings of the channel plan for the
European frequencies according to the valid "4-channel plan" (or the outdated "Listen Before Talk").
The communication standards specify different maximum transmission powers per channel. The UK
transmission power is limited to the smallest maximum power of the selected channels.
The parameter "PowerCheckOverAllAllowedChannels" is only relevant if "ETSI_EN302208" or
"ETSI_EN302208_LBT" is selected as communication standard (only in existing installations).

For EN302208:

Channel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Max. permitted 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0
transmission
power [W]
Example for EN302208: The channels 3 and 4 are entered in the channel list, which results in a maximum
transmission power of 0 watts. The UHF reader signals a "power check error" for the respective channel.

For EN302208_LBT:

Channel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Max. permitted 0.1 0.1 0.1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 0.5 0.5
transmission
power [W]
Example for EN302208_LBT: The channels 3 and 4 are entered in the channel list, which results in a
maximum transmission power of 2 watts. The UHF reader transmits with 0.1 watts since the entered
channel 3 has a maximum power of 0.1 watts.

61