Struggling to pick the right RFID antenna for your system? Thanks to decades of emerging technology and engineering developments, there are now so many types of antennas that it can be hard to decide which one is most suitable.
Don’t worry – we’ve rounded up the top tips from experts worldwide so that you can make a well-informed decision when choosing an RFID antenna.
So, let’s get started on finding out just what makes a great RFID antenna!
Key Considerations to Pick the Smartest UHF RFID Antenna
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems are used across various industries, including logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare. These systems rely on three components: an RFID tag, an antenna, and a reader. The antenna is responsible for receiving the signals from the tag and sending them to the reader.
Here are the main aspects to undertake while picking a UHF RFID reader:
- Direction of Polarization
The direction of polarization is an important factor when selecting an RFID antenna. There are two types of polarization – linear and circular – both of which have advantages and disadvantages. Linear polarization is more efficient since it transmits energy in one direction only. In contrast, circular polarization can be more reliable since it can transmit energy in any direction without losing power due to interference or reflections.
- Antenna Gain
Another important consideration when selecting an RFID antenna is its gain – also known as directivity – which is how much energy the antenna can send out in a specific direction compared to other antennas with the same input power. A higher gain antenna can send out a stronger signal over greater distances than one with a lower gain, so you must select an appropriate gain level based on your specific application needs.
- Antenna Beam Angle
The beam angle of an RFID antenna also plays a role in determining how far away it can detect signals from tags. The beam angle refers to how wide or narrow an area the antenna can cover with its transmitted signal. Wider angles generally cover larger areas but may not be as accurate as narrower angles focusing on smaller areas with higher precision.
- Operation Frequency
The frequency at which an RFID system operates significantly impacts its performance and reliability. Different frequencies have different advantages and disadvantages, so taking the time to understand a system’s operation frequency is best for your particular application.
- Mechanical Dimension and Working Environment Accommodation
The physical size and shape of your RFID reader also play a role in determining its overall performance, as larger readers can generally detect signals over greater distances than smaller ones. You should also see how well your chosen system will perform in different working environments, such as warehouses or open fields. There can be interference from other signals or objects that could disrupt an antenna’s operations; it’s good to undertake these aspects.
Different Requirements of RFID Antennas
It’s evident that RFID antennas are used in various settings to help identify and track objects, so you must test their functionality. To ensure the antenna you get works on all fronts, remember the following requirements:
- Access Control Systems
RFID antennas are commonly used in access control systems to secure authentication for entry into buildings or restricted areas. These antennas can be set up inside and outside a building, depending on the desired level of security. The system works by emitting a signal from the antenna that interacts with an RFID tag attached to a person’s ID card or another form of identification. When the card is presented near the antenna, it responds by releasing information such as name, date of birth, etc., allowing access to be granted or denied based on predetermined parameters.
- Forklift
Businesses also use RFID antennas in forklifts to make loading and unloading cargo safer and more efficient. The system works by attaching an RFID tag to each cargo loaded onto the forklift and using an RFID reader mounted on its frame to detect them as it moves through a warehouse or storage facility.
- Handheld RFID Reader
Handheld RFID readers are often used in retail stores or warehouses where space is limited, or movement is restricted due to narrow corridors or tight spaces. These readers allow employees to quickly scan items without moving around too much, saving time and energy while ensuring accuracy in stocktaking processes.
Best UHF RFID Reader Systems
Now that you know what to look for in an RFID antenna, it’s time to pick the best one for your business. Here is a Hopeland RFID antenna range that’ll surely meet your preferences:
The A0920 antenna has a long-distance reading range of up to 15 meters, making it a great choice if you need to read RFID tags over a long distance. It also has a circularly polarized design, which can reduce interference, enhance reception performance and reliability, and provide higher accuracy when reading tags. On top of that, this antenna boasts a gain of 9dbi and has a greater ability to send or receive signals over longer distances.
The HL7205D features a reading range of 10 meters and a gain of 9dbi, which means its signal strength and reception quality will be unaltered. Where this antenna stands out is its low cost — making it an attractive option for businesses on a budget.
Rounding Up
We hope this guide helps to make selecting an RFID antenna easier with its helpful information about different types, styles, and placement of antennas. And when you’re ready to purchase an antenna, the Hopeland RFID product range will be your good friend. With Hopeland, you can be confident knowing that your RFID equipment is backed with quality assurance and technical support.
