Active RFID Systems GP-RWT Infrared triggered part 15 transmitter User Manual

Active RFID Systems, Inc. Infrared triggered part 15 transmitter Users Manual

Users Manual

ARS Active RFID Systems, Inc RFID System Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual Version 103105 The information contained in this document is the sole property of Active RFID Systems, Inc. and cannot be disclosed to third parties without our expressed written permission. It is provided for your use in conjunction with the Active RFID Systems supplied RFID system only.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 2 of 35 Contents 1. RFID EVALUATION KIT DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................................... 4 11..11.. EVALUATION KIT COMPONENTS................................................................................................................. 4 11..22.. EVALUATION KIT FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION.............................................................................................. 5 11..33.. EZ READER SOFTWARE ........................................................................................................................... 6 11..44.. ACTIVE TAGS ........................................................................................................................................... 6 11..55.. EASY-TRAK TRIGGER ............................................................................................................................... 6 11..66.. EASY-TRAK READER ................................................................................................................................6 11..77.. ANTI-COLLISION TAGS EXPLAINED ............................................................................................................ 6 2. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS........................................................................................................................... 6 3. INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION INSTRUCTIONS......................................................................... 7 33..11.. HARDWARE INSTALLATION ........................................................................................................................ 7 3.1.1. Connecting the Easy-Trak Reader to the PC .................................................................................... 7 3.1.2. Connecting the Easy-Trak Trigger to the PC .................................................................................... 7 33..22.. SOFTWARE INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION ........................................................................................ 8 3.2.1. Installing the .NET Framework on the PC .........................................................................................8 3.2.2. Configuring the Network Connection................................................................................................. 8 3.2.3. Determining Which Serial Port is Being Used ................................................................................... 9 3.2.4. Installing the EZ Reader Software on the PC.................................................................................. 10 3.2.5. Configuring the EZ Reader Software Settings ................................................................................ 11 3.2.5.1. Configuring the Serial Port for the Trigger ............................................................................................. 11 3.2.5.2. Configuring the IP Address for the Reader Used as a Trigger .............................................................. 12 3.2.6. Loading the Optional Tag Memory Map .......................................................................................... 13 4. USING THE EVALUATION KIT................................................................................................................... 14 44..11.. EVALUATION KIT CONFIGURATIONS ......................................................................................................... 15 4.1.1. Example. Functionality of One System Configuration .................................................................... 16 4.1.2. Easy-Trak Trigger Handheld Modes................................................................................................16 4.1.2.1. Mode 1 - Last Command Memory Mode. ..............................................................................................17 4.1.2.2. Mode 2 - Low Power Singe Tag Mode .................................................................................................. 17 4.1.2.3. Mode 4 - 24 Tag Anti-Collision Mode .................................................................................................... 17 4.1.2.4. Mode 5 - Beacon On ............................................................................................................................. 17 4.1.2.5. Mode 6 - Beacon Off ............................................................................................................................. 18 4.1.3. Changing the Easy Trak Trigger Modes.......................................................................................... 18 44..22.. EXAMPLES. RUNNING THE EVALUATION KIT ............................................................................................ 18 4.2.1. Reading Data From Tags ................................................................................................................ 18 4.2.1.1. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as Serial Device - Tags Respond with RF to Reader ..................................... 18 4.2.1.2. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as a Handheld Device - Tags Respond with RF to Reader ............................ 18 4.2.1.3. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as a Serial Device - Tags Respond with IR to Trigger .................................... 19 4.2.2. Writing Data to Tags........................................................................................................................ 19 4.2.2.1. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as Serial Device - Read/Write to Tags With IR............................................... 19 4.2.2.2. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as Serial Device - Read RF and Write IR ....................................................... 19 44..33.. REVIEW OF EASY READER SOFTWARE SCREENS AND FUNCTIONALITY...................................................... 20 4.3.1. Responses Screen .......................................................................................................................... 21 4.3.2. Tag Data Screen.............................................................................................................................. 23 4.3.3. Search Screen ................................................................................................................................. 25 4.3.4. Tag Configuration Screen................................................................................................................ 27 4.3.5. Beacon Ctrl Screen ......................................................................................................................... 28 4.3.6. Temperature Screen........................................................................................................................ 29 4.3.7. Debugger Screen ............................................................................................................................ 30 4.3.8. Configuration Screen....................................................................................................................... 31 A.1 INSTALLING THE USB/SERIAL CABLE ADAPTER AND DRIVER (OPTIONAL) ............................... 33
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 3 of 35 List of Figures Figure 1 - Evaluation Kit Components ..................................................................................... 5 Figure 2 - TCP/IP Properties ................................................................................................... 9 Figure 3 - System Properties ................................................................................................. 10 Figure 4 - Device Manager Window ...................................................................................... 10 Figure 5 - Serial Port Settings................................................................................................ 12 Figure 6 - IP Address............................................................................................................. 13 Figure 7 - Typical Desktop Setup .......................................................................................... 15 Figure 8 - Responses Screen ................................................................................................ 21 Figure 9 - Tag Data Screen ................................................................................................... 23 Figure 10 - Debugger Screen ................................................................................................ 30 Figure 11 - Configuration Screen........................................................................................... 31 List of Tables Table 1 - Evaluation Kit Configurations ................................................................................. 15 Table 2 - Trigger Handheld Modes ........................................................................................ 17 Table 3 - Responses Screen ................................................................................................. 21 Table 4 - Tag Data Screen .................................................................................................... 23 Table 5 - Search Screen........................................................................................................ 25 Table 6 - Beacon Control Screen .......................................................................................... 28 Table 7 - Temperature Screen............................................................................................... 29 Table 8 - Configuration Screen.............................................................................................. 31
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 4 of 35 1. RFID Evaluation Kit Description Please note that the RFID Evaluation Kit is a fully functional system, however, it is intended to demonstrate first principles only. Our industrial versions offer enhanced performance by virtue of greater RF range, improved anti-collision response and waterproof enclosures. The kit is designed for evaluation of the effectiveness and functionality of active RFID and the RFID system components, as well as to enable development of a final product specification that will lead to a production system that will satisfy specific requirements. RF Systems are, by their nature, subject to outside interference sources. For example, laptop computers, welders, ham radios, and wireless weather stations can all interfere with RFID systems. Range and reliability can be affected by these sources. Therefore, as a standard precaution and to optimize performance, it is recommended that the Reader be placed as far from a laptop or other potential sources of interference as possible. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. 11..11.. Evaluation Kit Components The Active RFID Systems RFID Evaluation Kit includes the following components:  One Easy-Trak Reader, antenna, and power adapter  One Easy-Trak Trigger  ARS Active Tags  USB to Serial Adapter  Serial Cable  Network Crossover Cable  Application CD containing the EZ Reader Software, optional memory Tag memory map, Microsoft .NET web services framework, USB to Serial drivers, and this manual.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 5 of 35 Figure 1 - Evaluation Kit Components 11..22.. Evaluation Kit Functional Description The Active RFID Systems Evaluation Kit is a fully functional RFID system that includes a Reader, Tag Trigger, Active RFID Tags, and PC Software that can be used to read, write, and display Tag data. The Kit components are described below. Custom Serial Cable Easy-Trak Reader Active Tags Easy-Trak Trigger
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 6 of 35 11..33.. EZ Reader Software The EZ Reader Software provides a user interface and display and is used to trigger, read, write, and configure Tags by controlling the Trigger and Reader. 11..44.. Active Tags Active Tags incorporate the unique (patent pending) ability to communicate via dual mode Radio Frequency (RF) and Infrared (IR). Tags are triggered (i.e. forced to respond) via IR using an Easy-Trak Trigger or Reader. Tags can be configured to respond to a trigger with IR, RF, or both. Tags can also be set to 'beacon', i.e. transmit RF at fixed intervals without a trigger. Active RFID Systems Tags incorporate anti-collision technology that optimizes the successful reception when more than one Tag is triggered. See Section 1.7. 11..55.. Easy-Trak Trigger Easy-Trak Trigger has two modes of operation, as a manual IR trigger, and for two-way IR communication when connected to a PC via the supplied, custom, serial cable. 11..66.. Easy-Trak Reader Easy-Trak Readers are Ethernet-enabled and can be directly connected to a PC with the supplied crossover cable. Readers receive data from Tags via RF and can trigger Tags via IR. (note: industrial readers can both “read” and “write” data to and from tags via the infra-red mode) The Reader includes an audible enunciator that will chirp on the first RF reception of any particular ID value. 11..77.. Anti-Collision Tags Explained The term Anti-collision refers to the communications protocol/scheme that is utilized in order to optimize the successful reception of multiple Tags. Because Tags can interfere with each other if they respond to a Trigger at the same time, an anti-collision algorithm is used to randomize Tag responses within 'windows' of time. This increases the likelihood of all Tag responses getting through intact. The exact number, size, and timing of windows are chosen based on the number of Tags that are expected to respond to a Trigger. The Anti-collision algorithm data are sent within the IR Trigger signal to the Tags and the Tags use that to calculate when to respond. Of course the larger the expected number of Tags, the longer the time required to guarantee 100% reception. 2. System Requirements
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 7 of 35 The Active RFID Systems Evaluation Kit requires the following:  A PC running Windows 2000 or XP.  An Ethernet port on the PC.  A Serial or USB port on the PC.  Access to a standard 120 volt outlet for the Reader power adapter. 3. Installation and Configuration Instructions The following sections describe installation and configuration of the hardware and software components of the Evaluation Kit. The steps should be executed in the order shown. 33..11.. Hardware Installation 3.1.1. Connecting the Easy-Trak Reader to the PC 1. If the supplied Antenna is not attached to the Easy-Trak Reader, gently screw the right angle connector into the Reader and then screw the antenna onto the connector. Orient the antenna so it is 'vertical', e.g. perpendicular to the Reader if the Reader is sitting on a table. See Figure 1. 2. Plug the Power Adapter into a standard outlet and plug the power cable into the Easy-Trak Reader. The Red “Power” LED should light. 3. Plug the Crossover cable into the PC and into the Reader. The Green “Ethernet” LED should light. 4. The Reader is ready for use. 3.1.2. Connecting the Easy-Trak Trigger to the PC Note that the Easy-Trak Trigger can also be used as a handheld device. Section 4.1.2 reviews the Software functionality and the various Trigger modes available. 1. Plug the Custom Serial Cable into to the 9-pin Serial connector on the PC. If the PC does not have a Serial Port, the optional USB/Serial Cable Adapter must be used. See Appendix 1 for USB/Serial Cable Adapter and Driver installation instructions. 2. If the USB/Serial Cable is being used, plug the 9-pin Serial Cable connector into the USB/Serial Cable and plug the USB connector into the PC. Always plug the USB cable into the same USB port on the PC. As noted in the installation instructions, the Serial Port (Com Port) will change if a different USB port is used. Refer to Sections 3.2.3 and 3.2.5 to determine which Serial Port is being used and how to configure the EZ Reader Software for a different Serial Port. 3. Plug the Serial Cable into the Easy-Trak Trigger. All three Red LEDs on the trigger assembly should light.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 8 of 35 4. Follow the instructions in Section 3.2.5.1 to configure the EZ Reader Software for use with the Easy-Trak Trigger connected to the Serial Port. 33..22.. Software Installation and Configuration The CD provided with the Evaluation Kit contains the following files:  EZ Reader Application (EZ Reader Vxx.exe)  Tag Memory Map (memmapsm.xml)  Microsoft .NET web services framework (DOTNETFX.EXE)  USB to Serial Adapter drivers  Evaluation Kit Manual (Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual 0805.1.pdf) 3.2.1. Installing the .NET Framework on the PC The PC must have the .NET Framework installed. Execute the following steps to install .NET on the PC. Note that the most recent version of the .NET Framework can also be downloaded from the Microsoft website. 1. Put the CD in the PC and access the files. 2. Run DOTNETFX.EXE by double clicking on the filename. The installer should start. 3. A dialog box will ask if you want to install the .NET Framework. Click the 'YES' button to proceed. 4. The dialog boxes will disappear when the installation is complete. 3.2.2. Configuring the Network Connection Open the 'Network Connections' folder by either of the following methods: 1. Right Click on the 'My Network Places' icon on the Desktop and selecting 'Properties' Or Open 'Control Panel' by clicking on the 'Start' button and selecting 'Settings', then double click on 'Control Panel'. Double click on 'Network Connections'. 2. Right click on 'Local Area Connections' and select 'Properties'. 3. Under the 'General' tab double click 'Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)'. 4. Select 'Use the following IP address'. 5. Enter the IP Address as 10.0.0.164. 6. Enter the Subnet mask as 255.255.0.0. 7. The Internet Properties dialog should look like Error! Reference source not found. when you are finished. 8. Click OK to accept the changes and click OK again to close the Local Area Connection Properties dialog.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 9 of 35 Figure 2 - TCP/IP Properties 3.2.3. Determining Which Serial Port is Being Used The EZ Reader Software must be configured to use the appropriate serial port (i.e. to establish communications with the Easy-Trak Trigger). The following procedure should be used to determine which serial port is connected to the Trigger. The EX Reader Software will be configured in Section 3.2. 1. Open Control Panel (Click on the 'Start' button and select 'Settings' and 'Control Panel'). 2. Open 'System' and click on the 'Hardware' tab. The 'System Properties' Dialog should appear and look like Error! Reference source not found. 3. Click the 'Device Manager' button. Then click on the 'plus sign' next to 'Ports'. The Device Manager screen should look like Error! Reference source not found.. 4. Note which 'Communications Port' number is displayed (e.g. COM1 is port 1). This number will be used to configure the EZ Reader software. 5. If the USB/Serial Adapter is being used, the number displayed on the 'ATEN USB to Serial Bridge' should be used instead. 6. Close the 'Device Manager' window, click 'OK' in the 'System Properties' Dialog and close the 'Control Panel' window if necessary.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 10 of 35 Figure 3 - System Properties Figure 4 - Device Manager Window 3.2.4. Installing the EZ Reader Software on the PC
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 11 of 35 Access the CD files and copy the EZ Reader application (EZ Reader Vxx.exe) to the Desktop. The EZ Reader application includes a default Tag Memory Map. If an alternative Memory Map file (memmapsm.xml) is supplied, copy that file to the Desktop. Note that it is convenient to copy the files to the Desktop, but they can be put in any appropriate folder. 3.2.5. Configuring the EZ Reader Software Settings 3.2.5.1. Configuring the Serial Port for the Trigger The EZ Reader Software must be configured to communicate with the Easy Trak Trigger via the appropriate Serial Port. Follow the steps outlined below to configure the software. 1. Open the EZ Reader Software (double click on the ARS EZ Reader icon). 2. Click on the Configuration Tab. 3. Change the number of the Com Port to the number of the Serial (Com) port determined in Section 3.2.3. 4. Pull down the Trigger Address menu and select Serial. 5. The rest of the Configuration Settings should be the same as those shown in Error! Reference source not found..
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 12 of 35 Figure 5 - Serial Port Settings 3.2.5.2. Configuring the IP Address for the Reader Used as a Trigger The Easy-Trak Reader includes an IR emitter that can function as a Trigger. To use the Reader as a Trigger the EZ Reader Software must be configured to communicate with the Reader as a Trigger. Note that the Reader will function as a receiver for RF returned by the Tags even if it is not configured or used as a Trigger. Follow the steps outlined below to enable the Reader as a Trigger. 1. Be sure the Network Connection is configured as described in Section 3.2.2. 2. Connect the Easy-Trak Reader to the PC with the network cable and apply power to the Reader. 3. Note the IP Address listed on the label on the Reader (e.g. 10.0.0.30).
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 13 of 35 4. Open the EZ Reader Software (double click on the ARS EZ Reader icon). 5. Click on the Configuration Tab. 6. Click the 'Look for Readers' button. 7. Pull down the Trigger Address menu and select the IP Address that corresponds to the label on the Reader. 8. The rest of the Configuration Settings should be the same as those shown in Error! Reference source not found.. Figure 6 - IP Address 3.2.6. Loading the Optional Tag Memory Map The EZ Reader Software incorporates a default Tag Memory Map. However, some Evaluation Kits may include Tags that require a different Memory Map. Follow the
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 14 of 35 procedure outlined below to load the optional Memory Map. This procedure only needs to be done one time. Note that EZ Reader Software will use the default Memory Map if it can not find the optional Map file. If the Map does not correspond to the Tag type data may be displayed incorrectly. 1. Copy the Tag Memory Map file (memmapxx.xml) to the PC. It can be stored in any folder, but it is convenient to keep it in the same folder as the EZ Reader application file. 2. Open the EZ Reader Software and click the 'Configuration' tab. 3. Click the 'Load Tag Memory Map' button. 4. Browse to the appropriate folder and select the Memory Map file. Click Open. 5. The Memory Map location will be stored in the System Registry and the EZ Reader Software will load the appropriate Map each time it is opened. 4. Using the Evaluation Kit The Hardware and Software Installation and Configuration must be completed before attempting to use the Evaluation Kit. The Easy Reader Software demonstrates the capabilities of the Active RFID Systems Evaluation Kit by controlling and communicating with the Tags. Tags will transmit data when triggered by an IR signal sent from a Reader or a Trigger. Triggers can be connected to a PC and controlled by the Easy Reader Software or they can be used as a handheld unit. Tag data can be read by a Trigger via IR or by a Reader via RF. The Easy Reader Software will display data received from Tags and provides data entry fields that can be used to write data to Tags. Figure 7 shows a typical desktop setup that can be used to test and evaluate the functionality of the Evaluation Kit. Note all components are shown in close proximity for convenience. The distance between Tags, Triggers, and Readers is one parameter that can be changed as part of the evaluation procedure. Note that the Reader is on edge to facilitate using the built-in IR Trigger. The Reader IR Trigger is low power and has shorter range than the Easy-Trak Trigger.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 15 of 35 Figure 7 - Typical Desktop Setup 44..11.. Evaluation Kit Configurations The Evaluation Kit can be configured and used in a number of unique ways. The various combinations of Trigger, Communications, and Data Transfer Modes are summarized in Error! Reference source not found.. Note that the last column refers to the Tag TX Mode Setting on the Easy Reader Software Configuration Screen (see Error! Reference source not found. and Error! Reference source not found.). Note that the Trigger Address is also different if a Reader or a Trigger is being used to receive data. An example of one System Setup is described in Section 4.1.1. Table 1 - Evaluation Kit Configurations Trigger Mode Data Receive Mode Tag Activated by Connected to Communications Mode Data Received by Communications Mode Tag TX Mode Setting Trigger PC Serial IR Reader RF RF
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 16 of 35 Response Trigger PC Serial IR Trigger IR IR to Trigger Trigger Handheld IR Reader RF RF Response Trigger Handheld IR Reader IR Reader PC Network IR Reader RF RF Response Reader PC Network IR Reader IR Beacon N/A N/A Reader RF RF Response Shaded Rows show functionality that will be available in the future versions of the EZ-Trak Reader. 4.1.1. Example. Functionality of One System Configuration Reading across a row in Error! Reference source not found. summarizes the functionality of a system configuration. For example, the first row shows a system where Tags are activated by the Easy-Trak Trigger, connected via the Serial Cable to the PC. Tags are Triggered with IR. Tag data are received by a Reader via RF. The last column shows the Tag TX setting on the software Configuration Tab. 4.1.2. Easy-Trak Trigger Handheld Modes When used as a handheld device, the Easy-Trak Trigger can be configured to operate in a number of different modes. The various Modes are described below and summarized in Table 2.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 17 of 35 Table 2 - Trigger Handheld Modes Mode Number LED Sequence Function Description Duration of transmit signal Power level 1 0 0 1 Last command memory mode 5 seconds High 2 0 1 0 Low power Single tag Mode 1 seconds Low 3 0 1 1 High Power scan Mode 1 seconds High 4 1 0 0 24 tag anti-collision Mode 5 seconds High 5 1 0 1 Beacon ”On” 5 seconds High 6 1 1 0 Beacon “off” 5 seconds High 4.1.2.1. Mode 1 - Last Command Memory Mode. The last command sent to the Trigger by the EZ Reader Software via the Serial Cable is stored in the Trigger. The Trigger can then be detached from the PC and used as a Handheld device. When set to Mode 1, the Trigger can be used to repeatedly send the stored command. Note that all settings on the EZ Reader Configuration screen are stored in the Trigger (i.e. # of Tags for Anti-Collision, Trigger Power, Trigger Duration). 4.1.2.2. Mode 2 - Low Power Singe Tag Mode This Mode sets the IR power to a low setting in order to facilitate communication with single Tags in close proximity to other Tags (i.e. as opposed to broadcasting high power to cover a large area and multiple Tags). Mode 3 - High Power Scan Mode This Mode sets the IR power to the maximum setting in order to increase the chances of triggering multiple Tags at greater distances. 4.1.2.3. Mode 4 - 24 Tag Anti-Collision Mode This Mode transmits a Trigger that includes an anti-collision algorithm. This is the preferred Mode when multiple Tags may respond to the same Trigger. The anti-collision algorithm is used by the Tags to stagger their response in order to optimize the chances of receiving all Tags. 4.1.2.4. Mode 5 - Beacon On
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 18 of 35 This Mode commands the Tags to go into Beacon Mode and Transmit periodically. Beacon parameters are stored in each Tag and can be changed by writing new configuration data to a Tag with a Trigger or Reader and the EZ Reader software. Tags remain in Beacon Mode until they receive a Beacon Off Trigger. 4.1.2.5. Mode 6 - Beacon Off Turns Beacon Mode off. 4.1.3. Changing the Easy-Trak Trigger Modes To change the Trigger Mode follow the procedure outlined below. 1. Push blue On button once to power or wake the Trigger. 2. Push black Mode button until the LED combination corresponding to the desired Mode is displayed. 3. Push the blue On button to transmit a Trigger as defined by the Mode. 44..22.. Examples. Running the Evaluation Kit The following examples describe a few of the Evaluation Kit configurations and the procedure for running the System. For a review of all configurations see Table 1. Note that the examples are meant to illustrate the functionality of the System only. Not all configurations or functionality is described. 4.2.1. Reading Data From Tags 4.2.1.1. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as Serial Device - Tags Respond with RF to Reader 1. The Easy-Trak Trigger should be attached to the PC with the Serial Cable 2. Open the EZ Reader Software. 3. Select the Configuration Tab and verify that Trigger Address is set to 'Serial' and verify that the Tag TX Mode is RF Response. 4. Select the Responses Tab and click the 'Look for Tags' Button. 5. The Tags indicate when they are responding by blinking an LED and the Reader will chirp when it receives a Tag transmission. 6. Data from each Tag are displayed on the Response Screen. 4.2.1.2. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as a Handheld Device - Tags Respond with RF to Reader 1. The Easy-Trak Trigger should be detached from the Serial Cable. 2. Open the EZ Reader Software. 3. Select the Configuration Tab and verify that the Tag TX Mode is RF Response.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 19 of 35 4. Select the Responses Tab. 5. Point the Easy-Trak Trigger toward the Tags. 6. Press the Mode button on the Easy-Trak Trigger. 7. The Tags indicate when they are responding by blinking an LED and the Reader will chirp when it receives a Tag transmission. 8. Data from each Tag are displayed on the Response Screen. 4.2.1.3. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as a Serial Device - Tags Respond with IR to Trigger 1. Attach the Easy-Trak Trigger to the PC with the Serial Cable. 2. Open the EZ Reader Software. 3. Select the Configuration Tab and verify that Trigger Address is set to 'Serial' and verify that the Tag TX Mode is IR to Trigger Response. 4. Select the Responses Tab and click the 'Look for Tags' Button. 5. The Tags indicate when they are responding by blinking an LED. 6. Data from each Tag are displayed on the Response Screen. 4.2.2. Writing Data to Tags 4.2.2.1. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as Serial Device - Read/Write to Tags With IR 1. Attach the Easy-Trak Trigger to the PC with the Serial Cable. 2. Open the EZ Reader Software. 3. Select the Configuration Tab and verify that Trigger Address is set to 'Serial' and verify that the Tag TX Mode is IR to Trigger Response. 4. Load the Memory Map if it has not been done previously. 5. Select the Tag Data Screen. 6. Type a Tag ID in the Pull Down Data Entry Field 7. Click the 'Read Tag' Button. 8. The Tags indicate when they are responding by blinking an LED. 9. Data from the Tag will be read and displayed in the data fields on the Data Screen. 10. Change data in one or more fields. 11. Click the 'Write Changes' Button. 12. Click the 'Clear Cache' Button. 13. Repeat Steps 6-7 and verify the new data is read from the Tag. 4.2.2.2. Easy-Trak Trigger Used as Serial Device - Read RF and Write IR 1. Attach the Easy-Trak Trigger to the PC with the Serial Cable. 2. Open the EZ Reader Software. 3. Select the Configuration Tab and verify that Trigger Address is set to 'Serial' and verify that the Tag TX Mode is RF Response.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 20 of 35 4. Load the Memory Map if it has not been done previously. 5. Select the Tag Data Screen. 6. Type a Tag ID in the Pull Down Data Entry Field 7. Click the 'Read Tag' Button. 8. The Tags indicate when they are responding by blinking an LED and the Reader will chirp when it receives a Tag transmission. 9. Data from the Tag will be read and displayed in the data fields. 10. Change data in one or more fields. 11. Click the 'Write Changes' Button. 12. Click the 'Clear Cache' Button. 13. Repeat Steps 6-7 and verify the new data is read from the Tag. 44..33.. Review of Easy Reader Software Screens and Functionality The following sections show examples of each screen from the EZ Reader software and descriptions of each feature, button, or field. Note that some features may not be available due to different configurations of Tags and Memory Maps included with different Evaluation Kits.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 21 of 35 4.3.1. Responses Screen The Responses Screen displays data received by the Reader or Trigger. Buttons, Data Fields, and Settings are described below. Note that Tags can be triggered from other Screens or from a Handheld Trigger. Data will be displayed on this screen any time it is received by the Reader, regardless of the source of the Trigger. Figure 8 - Responses Screen Table 3 - Responses Screen Clear Responses Button Clears Data Display Save Responses Button Saves Data in a .csv
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 22 of 35 formatted file. Look for Tags Button Sends a Trigger and Waits for a Response. Trigger and Response methods are determined by the settings on the Configuration Screen. Filter Responses Setting/Check Box Filters duplicate responses (i.e. more than one per Tag). When this box is unchecked every response is displayed. Reception Order Data Field Numerical order of responses. Receptions Data Field Shows number of receptions for each Tag. If Filter Response is checked total receptions is displayed. Time Stamp Data Field Time and Date that data was received. ID Data Field Tag ID Reader Data Field Displays how data was received. Serial = Trigger. IP Address = Reader. Trigger Data Field ID of Trigger Command Data Field Command Sent to Tags by Trigger Payload Data Field
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 23 of 35 4.3.2. Tag Data Screen The Tag Data Screen displays data entries as defined in the Tag Memory Map. Figure 9 - Tag Data Screen Table 4 - Tag Data Screen Clear Responses Button Clears Data Display Save Responses Button Saves Data in a .csv formatted file. Look for Tags Button Sends a Trigger and Waits for a Response. Trigger and Response methods are
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 24 of 35 determined by the settings on the Configuration Screen. Filter Responses Setting/Check Box Filters duplicate responses (i.e. more than one per Tag). When this box is unchecked every response is displayed. Reception Order Data Field Numerical order of responses. Receptions Data Field Shows number of receptions for each Tag. If Filter Response is checked total receptions is displayed. Time Stamp Data Field Time and Date that data was received. ID Data Field Tag ID Reader Data Field Displays how data was received. Serial = Trigger. IP Address = Reader. Trigger Data Field ID of Trigger Command Data Field Command Sent to Tags by Trigger Payload Data Field
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 25 of 35 4.3.3. Search Screen The Search Screen can be used to search for specific data stored in a Tag or group of Tags, Table 5 - Search Screen Pull Down Menu Lists Data Fields from Memory Map Data Field Alphanumeric Data Entry Field. Data to be searched for in Tag Memory entered here.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 26 of 35 Search Button Initiates Search Command Search Off Button Ends Search
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 27 of 35 4.3.4. Tag Configuration Screen The Tag Configuration Screen displays Tag Configuration data, i.e. settings stored in the Tag. Tag Configuration data should not be modified.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 28 of 35 4.3.5. Beacon Ctrl Screen The Beacon Control Screen can be used to turn the Tag(s) Beacon Mode on and Off. Table 6 - Beacon Control Screen ID Data Entry Field Enter ID of Tag in this field. Beacon ON Button Initiates Beacon Mode in Tag (or Tags) Beacon Off Button Turns off Beacon Mode in Tag (or Tags)
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 29 of 35 4.3.6. Temperature Screen The Temperature Screen is used to read and display the temperature measured by a Tag. Note that not all Tags are temperature enabled. Table 7 - Temperature Screen ID Data Entry Field Enter ID of Tag in this field. Read Temperature Button Initiates Reading of Tag Temperature
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 30 of 35 4.3.7. Debugger Screen Functionality reserved for future use or Technical Support. Figure 10 - Debugger Screen
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 31 of 35 4.3.8. Configuration Screen The EZ Reader Configuration Screen contains settings used to control Tag and System (i.e. Reader and Trigger) behavior. Figure 11 - Configuration Screen Table 8 - Configuration Screen Tag TX Mode Check Box Select Modes related to Tag response to a Trigger.# Tags Exp Numeric Field Sets the number of Tags expected to respond to a
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 32 of 35 Trigger. Used for anti-collision algorithm. Trigger Mode Radio Button Selects Trigger Software Version Trigger Address Pull Down Menu Selects Trigger as on of the following: Serial = Easy-Trak Trigger IP Address = Easy-Trak Reader Com Port Numeric Field Sets Communications (Serial) Port connected to Easy-Trak Reader Trigger Power Numeric Field Sets IR Power Level of Trigger Trigger TX Duration Numeric Field Sets length of Trigger in Seconds Look For Readers Button Initiates search on serial Ports for Easy-Trak Triggers Load Tag Memory Map Button Opens File Dialog box to allow Tag Memory Map file to be loaded into EZ Reader software
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 33 of 35 A.1 Installing the USB/Serial Cable Adapter and Driver (Optional) The Easy-Trak Trigger connects to the PC via the custom serial cable. If the PC does not have a serial port the USB/Serial Cable Adapter must be used. The required drivers are supplied on the CD. The following procedure should be used to install the driver on the PC. Connect the supplied Serial Cable to the USB/Serial Adapter. Plug the USB/Serial Adapter into any USB port on the PC. NOTE! The USB/Serial Adapter should be plugged into the SAME USB PORT every time. Otherwise the PC will automatically select a different serial port number and the settings in the EZ Reader software will have to be changed. Windows should recognize that new hardware has been connected to the PC and the 'Found New Hardware Wizard' dialog box should open. See Figure A1. Figure A1 Select 'No, not this time' and click 'Next'. The Dialog box shown in Figure A2 should appear.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 34 of 35 Figure A2 Be sure the supplied CD is in the PC and click 'Install the software automatically'. Click Next. The Dialog box shown in Figure A3 should appear. Figure A3 The driver should be loaded from the CD and installed on the PC. The balloon shown in Figure A4 should be displayed. Driver installation is complete.
ARS - Active RFID Systems, Inc. Active RFID Systems - Evaluation Kit Instruction Manual - Version 103105 Page 35 of 35 Figure A4

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