TransCore 05716 LOCATION MONITORING SERVICE TRANSMITTER User Manual MPRR SG

TransCore LOCATION MONITORING SERVICE TRANSMITTER MPRR SG

Users Manual

TransCore8600 Jefferson Street NEAlbuquerque, New Mexico 87113October 2010P/N 412123Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide This version of the MPRR guide is preliminary information, which was provided to Rogers Lab to satisfy FCC licensing submittal requirements. This document can be used for internal review only. Please forward any review comments to john.stikar@transcore.com. DO NOT DISTRIBUTE THIS DOCUMENT OUTSIDE OF TRANSCORE.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideInformation in this document is subject to change and does not represent a commitment on the part of TC License, Ltd. © 2010 TC License, Ltd. All rights reserved. TRANSCORE, AMTECH, and EGO are registered trademarks of TC License, Ltd. All other trademarks listed are the property of their respective owners. Contents are subject to change. Printed in the U.S.A.For further information, contact:TransCore3410 Midcourt Road, Suite 102Carrollton, Texas 75006 USA Phone: (214) 461-4031Fax: (214) 461-6478Technical SupportWeb: transcore.com/rfidsupportFor comments or questions about this document, e-mail tech.pubs@transcore.com.
WARNING TO USERS IN THE UNITED STATESFEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)LOCATION AND MONITORING SERVICE STATEMENT47 CFR §90.351NOTE: The user is required to obtain a Part 90 site license from the FCC to operate this radio frequency identification (RFID) device in the United States. See product label for FCC ID number. Access the FCC Web site at www.fcc.gov/Forms/Form601/601.html or at wireless.fcc.gov/index.htm?job=online_filing to obtain additional information concerning licensing requirements.NOTE: Users in all countries should check with the appropriate local authorities for licensing requirements.FCC RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT47 CFR §15.105(a)NOTE: 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 RF energy and may cause harmful interference to radio communications if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual. Operating this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case, depending on the laws in effect, the user may be required to correct the interference at their own expense.NO UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS47 CFR §15.21CAUTION: This equipment may not be modified, altered, or changed in any way without permission from TransCore, LP. Unauthorized modification may void the equipment authorization from the FCC and will void the TransCore warranty.USE OF SHIELDED CABLES IS REQUIRED47 CFR §15.27(a)NOTE: Shielded cables must be used with this equipment to comply with FCC regulations.TransCore, LPUSA
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideHealth Limits for Multiprotocol Rail Reader Using Exter-nal Antenna (902 to 928 MHz)Within the United States, environmental guidelines regulating safe exposure levels are issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).Section 1910.97 of OSHA Safety and Health Standards 2206 legislates a maximum safe exposure limit of 10 milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm2) averaged over 6 minutes at 902 MHz.Although not binding, other organizations such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) have issued similar guidelines that are more restrictive than the OSHA limits (ANSI C95.1). ANSI guidelines recommend a maximum safe power density in mW/cm2 of:Frequency (in MHz) 1500Thus, the maximum permissible exposure for general population/uncontrolled expo-sure at 902 MHz is 0.60 mW/cm2. The power limit is a six-minute average.The RF power density generated by the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) was cal-culated using a maximum antenna gain of 9.5 dBd, equivalent to the antenna gain of the external antenna.WarningAt 2 W conducted into the antenna and a distance of 30 inches (77 cm) from the antenna, the maximum power density calculated was less than 0.60 mW/cm2. Install the antenna at least 30 inches (77 cm) from the general public. Maintenance per-sonnel must remain at least 14 inches (35 cm) from antenna when system is operat-ing.The data confirms that the TransCore MPRR effectively meets OSHA requirements and thus does not represent an operating hazard to either the general public or mainte-nance personnel.
Contents
ContentsHealth Limits for Multiprotocol Rail Reader Using External Antenna(902 to 928 MHz). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv1 IntroductionPurpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3Audience. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3System Guide Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3Typographical Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5Licensing Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-62 Developing the Site PlanSystem Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3Reader. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3How It Works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3Overview of Site Planning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4Reading of Mixed Population Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4Antenna and Tag Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4Polarization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 Unobstructed Line of Sight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5Antenna Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6AA3100 Yagi (without radome) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6AA3101 Yagi (with radome) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6AA3110 Parapanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7AA3140 PCB Log Periodic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7Site Layout and Traffic Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7The MPRR Read Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7Other MPRRs in the Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8Reflection, Refraction, and Diffraction of RF Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8Existing Interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
viiElectrical and Communications Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Junction Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Power and Communications Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Electrical Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10Host Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10Input/Output Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11Antenna Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-123 Choosing, Installing, and Removing TagsCompatible Tag Types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3Reader and Tag Model Interoperability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3Recommended Mounting Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3Required Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3Mounting Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4Tag Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4Surface Installation Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6Rivet/Bolt Mounting Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6Locomotive Mounting Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7Tag Placement Window Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7Tag Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8Rail Car Mounting Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9Tag Placement Window Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9Tag Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10Tank Car Mounting Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11Tag Placement Window Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11Tag Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-114 Installing the Multiprotocol Rail ReaderInstallation Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3Materials Supplied by TransCore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3Contents of Shipping Carton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3Installation Accessory Options (TBD). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4Additional Materials Needed for Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4Pre-installation Testing of the MPRR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4Testing the MPRR Using an Audible Circuit Tester. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4Connecting the Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5Connecting the MPRR to a Power Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6Mounting the MPRR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7Mounting to an Enclosure Wall or Flat Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8Required Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideviiiMounting the Antenna Rail-Side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8Connecting the Power Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8Connecting Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9Required Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9Connecting the MPRR to the Host . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9Connecting Sense Input and Sense Output Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9Sense Input Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9Sense Output Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10Marking the Read Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10Required Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-105 General Software InformationCommand Entry Conventions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3Command Response Conventions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4Operating Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4Power Fail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Program Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Download Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Download Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Startup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Sign-On Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6Boot Failure Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6Tag/Message Buffer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-66 Communications ProtocolsIntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3Basic Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4Error Correcting Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4Basic Protocol and ECP Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5Reader Transmissions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5ECP Host ACK/NAK Response. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6Switch to Command Mode Request . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7Host Transmission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7Reader Command Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8Sample Messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
ContentsixReader Transmissions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9Host Command Transmissions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9Timing and Synchronization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10Reader-Addressed Failure Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Illegal Sequence Number (not in the range 0–9, A–F) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Wrong Sequence Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Incorrect CRC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Illegal Command. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Transmission Timeout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Receive Timeout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Asynchronous Message/Command Message Collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Host-Addressed Failure Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Illegal or Wrong Sequence Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Incorrect CRC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13Transmission Timeout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13Receive Timeout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13Asynchronous Message/Command Message Collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13ECP Reliability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13CRC Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13Manually Disabling ECP for Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-167 CommandsIntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3Operating Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3Data Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3Command Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3Download Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4Command List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4Reader Mode Control — Command Group 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-500 Switch to Data Mode (Factory Default) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-501 Switch to Command Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5Communications Port Control — Command Group 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5100N Select Baud Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5101N Select Stop Bits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6102N Select Parity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6Command Group 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-620 Set Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-621 Set Date. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-722 Display Time and Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7Append Information — Command Group 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-830N Append Time and Date Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-831N Append Auxiliary Information Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuidexID Filtering — Command Group 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-940 Transmit All ID Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9410N Select Unique ID Code Criteria (Anti-passback Feature) . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10420N Select Valid ID Code Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1043 Buffer All ID Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11440 Reset Uniqueness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1144N Set Uniqueness Timeout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11452 Disable Tag Translation Mode (Factory Default). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12453 Enable Tag Translation Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12454 Disable Multi-tag Sort (Factory Default). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12455 Enable Multi-tag Sort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12456 Enable SeGo Protocol Tag Initialization During Multi-tag Sort(Factory Default). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13457 Disable SeGo Protocol Tag Initialization During Multi-tag Sort . . . . . . . . . 7-13480 Disable ATA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13481 Enable ATA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13484 Disable SeGo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13485 Enable SeGo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13488 Disable eATA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13489 Enable eATA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13496 Disable Alternate Group Select (Factory Default) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13497 Enable Alternate Group Select . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14Reader Status — Command Group 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14505 Display Software Version. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14506 Display Hardware Configuration Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14510 Display RF Transceiver FPGA Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14511 Display RF Transceiver I Filter Chip Version. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14512 Display RF Transceiver Q Filter Chip Version. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14513 Display DSP Board Actel Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14520 Display Power Fail Bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15521 Display Reader ID Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15522 Display Communications Port Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15524 Display Appended Information Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16525 Display Communications Protocol Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17527 Display RF Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17529 Display Presence Input Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-18530 Display RF0 Filter Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20534 Display Tag Translation Mode Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20537 Display Echo Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20540 Display Flash Checksum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21543 Display Boot Checksum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21552 Display Antenna Multiplexing Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21560 Request Sensor Status Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-22570 Display Operating Mode Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-22577 Report Buffered Handshakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-22Reader Control Functions — Command Group 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2360NN Set Reader ID Number. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23610 Select Basic Communication Protocol (Factory Default). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23611 Select Error Correcting Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23612NN Select Error Correcting Protocol Timeout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23
Contentsxi613 Enable Data Inquiry Protocol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-24614N Select Flow Control Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-246170 Disable Echo Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-246171 Enable Echo Mode (Factory Default). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2563 Reset Reader. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25640N RF Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25641 Select RF-by-Input Control (Factory Default) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26643NN Select ATA Operating Range (Distance) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26644NN Set RF Attenuation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26645NN Set SeGo Protocol Operating Range (Distance) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27647XXX Select RF Operating Frequency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2765 Reset Power Fail Bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2866F Load Default Operating Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29690N Select Presence Without Tag Report Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29692N Select RF Control Algorithm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29693N Select RF Timeout Period. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-30694N Select Input Inversion Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31695S...S Set Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31696S...S Store Hardware Configuration String. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32Auxiliary Reader Control — Command Group 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-328110 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-328111 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-328112 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-328113 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-328142X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-328143X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-338150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-338151 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-338152 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-338153 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33830 Disable Automatic Periodic RF Status Report (Factory Default) . . . . . . . . 7-33831 Enable Automatic Periodic RF Status Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33836 Disable MPRR Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33837 Enable MPRR Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33850 MUX RF Port 0 (Factory Default). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34851 MUX Between RF Port 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34852 MUX Between RF Ports 0 and 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34853 MUX Between RF Ports 0, 1, and 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34891 MUX RF Port 1 Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34892 MUX RF Port 2 Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34893 MUX RF Port 3 Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34Check Tag Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-35MUX Operational Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-35MUX Test Modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guidexii8 Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader Configuring the Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3General Configuration Labeling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3Default Operating Parameter Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4Configuring Parameters with Terminal Emulation Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5Starting the Terminal Emulation Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5Verifying Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8Verifying Tag Read Capability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10Configuring MPRR Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12Appended Tag Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12ID Separation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13Reset Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14Radio Frequency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14RF Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15Vehicle Detector Controlling RF Transmission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15Host Controlling RF Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16Sense Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16Sense Output Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16Serial Port Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16Port Configuration Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17Communications Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17Software Flow Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-18Fine-Tuning and Verifying the Read Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-18Physically Orienting the MPRR Antenna(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-19Fine-Tuning the Read Zone by Lowering Output Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-19Fine-tuning the Read Zone by Adjusting Sensitivity Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-209 Troubleshooting and MaintenanceError Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4MPRR Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6Marketing Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7Find a Problem with the MPRR or Have Suggestions? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-710 Interface to Train Recording UnitTBD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Contentsxiii11 AT5270 Check Tag-to-MPRR AssemblyRequired Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3A GlossaryB Reader SpecificationsCommunications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3Hardware Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3Physical Attributes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3Environmental Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4C Communications InterfacesD Command SyntaxFactory Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3Numerical Command List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-5Alphabetical Command List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-16E Tag ConfigurationsTag Data Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guidexiv
ContentsxvList of FiguresFigure 2-2 Antenna Location Relative to Tag Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6Figure 2-3 Location of Communications/Power Port on MPRR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11Figure 2-4 Pin Assignments for Communications Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11Figure 3-1 Clear Zone - Side View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5Figure 3-2 Clear Zone - End View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5Figure 3-3 Mounting Location Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6Figure 3-4 Tag Placement Window for Locomotives -- Right Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7Figure 3-5 Tag Placement Window Location for Locomotives -- Left Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8Figure 3-6 Optimal Tag Placement for Locomotives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8Figure 3-7 Tag Placement Window Location for Rail Cars -- “A” Right Side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9Figure 3-8 Tag Placement Window Location for Rail Cars -- “B” Left Side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10Figure 3-9 Optimal Tag Placement for Rail Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10Figure 3-10 Tag Placement Window Location for Tank Cars -- “B” Left Side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11Figure 3-11 Optimal Tag Placement for Tank Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12Figure 4-2 MPRR Showing Antenna Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6Figure 4-3 Location of Communications/Power Port on MPRR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7Figure 4-4 Pin Assignments for Signal to Host Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7Figure 4-5 Sample Read Zone Marking Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12Figure 8-2 Phone Number Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6Figure 8-3 COM 1 Properties Dialog Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7Figure 8-4 Hyper Terminal Main Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8Figure 8-5 Sign-on Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9Figure 8-6 Successful Tag Read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11Figure 8-7 Second Successful Tag Read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11Figure 8-8 MPRR RF Control Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15Figure 11-1 Place Nut and Grommet Over Exposed Check Tag Wires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4Figure 11-2 Feed Check Tag Wires through Plastic Housing Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4Figure 11-3 Connect Check Tag Wires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4Figure 11-4 Two Check Tag Assemblies Connected to Terminal Strip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5Figure 11-5 Securing Terminal Strip into Connector Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5Figure 11-6 Plastic Nuts with Grommets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6Figure 11-7 Nylon Cap Securely Fastened in Unused Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6Figure 11-8 Check Tag Assembly Secured to MPRR Port(single check tag assembly shown) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guidexvi
ContentsxviiList of TablesTable 2-1 Examples of Staggered Reader Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8Table 2-2 Connector Cabling Accessory Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10Table 2-3 Power Supply Current Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10Table 2-4 Reader to Antenna Cable Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12Table 3-1 Tags Read by the MPRR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3Table 4-2 Commands for Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11Table 5-2 Sample Command Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4Table 7-2 Select Stop Bits Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6Table 7-3 Select Parity Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6Table 7-4 Append Time and Date Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8Table 7-5 Append Auxiliary Information Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9Table 7-6 Unique ID Code Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10Table 7-7 Select Valid Code Commands and Frames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11Table 7-8 Flow Control Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-24Table 7-9 RF Control Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25Table 7-10 RF Attenuation Command Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26Table 7-11 Select RF Frequency Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27Table 7-12 Presence Without Tag Report Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29Table 7-13 RF Control Algorithm Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29Table 7-14 Timeout Period Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-30Table 7-15 Input Inversion Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31Table 8-2 MPRR Default Configuration Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4Table 8-3 Command Sequence to Verify Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10Table 9-2 Symptoms and Remedies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4Table 11-1 Check Tag Kit Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3Table 11-2 Check Tag 0 Wire Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4Table 11-3 Check Tag 1 Wire Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guidexviii
1Introduction
1-3Chapter 1IntroductionThis chapter is the introduction to this manual and provides information pertaining to the audience, organization, document conventions, system description, and license information for the Multiprotocol Rail Reader System. PurposeThis guide provides site planning and testing, installing, and operating instructions for TransCore’s Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) System, which reads TransCore Super eGo® (SeGo) and American Trucking Associations (ATA)/International Orga-nization for Standardization (ISO) protocols. Before you begin installing the MPRR, TransCore recommends that you read this entire manual.AudienceThis document is intended to be used by authorized TransCore MPRR dealers, install-ers, and service personnel. Because the MPRR has no operator- or end-user service-able components or features, no end-user manual or operator guide exists. Once the system is set up and tested by the authorized installer, MPRR operation requires no end-user intervention.System Guide OrganizationThe chapters of this guide and a description of the contents are listed below. •Chapter 1, “Introduction,” explains the purpose and describes the audience for the guide, outlines the manual’s organization, provides a brief description of the MPRR, and discusses Federal Communications Commission (FCC) licensing requirements.•Chapter 2, “Developing the Site Plan,” discusses factors to be considered when developing the site plan and before ordering equipment and installing the MPRR. These considerations include antenna and tag alignment, site layout and traffic flow, and electrical and communications requirements.•Chapter 3, “Choosing, Installing, and Removing Tags,” contains information on compatible tag models and provides procedures for installing tags onto, and removing tags from, railcars where the MPRR is installed.•Chapter 4, “Installing the MPRR,” lists the materials needed and provides proce-dures to install the MPRR. Steps include:
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide1-4• Pre-testing• Installing the MPRR in a railside hut or NEMA enclosure (TBD)• Connecting power and communications• Connecting to TransCore’s Train Recording Unit (TRU)• Marking the read zone•Chapter 5, “General Software Information,” and Chapter 6, “Communications Protocols,” provide reference information on various software-related topics and communications protocols.•Chapter 7, “Commands,” discusses the host-transmitted commands that are used to control MPRR configuration and operation.•Chapter 8, “Configuring the MPRR,” provides procedures for configuring and fine-tuning the MPRR after installing it at the site.•Chapter 9, “Troubleshooting and Maintenance,” answers the most commonly asked questions about installing and maintaining the MPRR.•Chapter 10, "Interfacing with Train Recording Unit," describes the interoperabil-ity between the MPRR and TRU.•Chapter 11, "Assembling and Connecting AT5720 Check Tags to the MPRR," explains how to connect one or two check tags to the MPRR.•Appendix A, “Glossary,” contains frequently used terms.•Appendix B, “Technical Specifications,” provides the MPRR specifications.•Appendix C, “Wiring Tables,” shows the wiring connections for the communica-tions interfaces, electrical cable connections, and the external interface signal wir-ing.•Appendix D, “Command Quick Reference,” lists the MPRR factory default con-figuration settings and provides host software commands in numerical and alpha-betical order.•Appendix E, “Compatible Tag Information,” provides helpful information about tags that are compatible with the MPRR.•Index provides an alphabetical listing of guide topics. (To be provided in the final version of the guide)
Introduction1-5Typographical ConventionsThe conventions listed in Table 1-1 are used in this manual:Licensing RequirementsAn FCC license provides the user with the legal authorization to operate the MPRR on the licensed frequencies at the site specified in the license. Only an authorized installer or service technician can set the RF frequency of the MPRR to the frequency specified in the FCC site license. No end-user-operated controls exist on the MPRR.The FCC license may provide the user with protection and authorization to maintain the system should any other RFID product be used in the licensed area after the MPRR equipment is installed. Users of the MPRR in the United States must obtain a license from the FCC. In the United States, the authorized modulated frequency band for this product is 911.75 to Table 1-1 Typographical ConventionsConvention IndicationConcerns about a procedure.Code Code, including keywords and variables within text and as separate paragraphs, and user-defined program elements within text appear in courier typeface.Dialog Box Title Title of a dialog box as it appears on screen.Menu Item Appears on a menu. Capitalization follows the interface.Note Auxiliary information that further clarifies the current discussion. These important points require the user’s attention. The paragraph is in italics and the word Note is bold.NUL Zero-value ASCII character or a zero-value byte.NULL Zero-value pointers. Null-terminated string refers to strings of printable ASCII characters with a zero-value byte placed in memory directly after the last printable character of the string.This procedure might cause harm to the equipment and/or the user.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide1-6919.75 MHz and the authorized continuous wave frequency band is 902.25 to 903.75 MHz and 910.00 to 921.50 MHz.The user is responsible for filing the FCC license according to FCC regulations, but the TransCore dealer will provide assistance and support as necessary to complete these forms. Forms are available online at the FCC internet site http://wire-less.fcc.gov/uls. For further information on obtaining the license contact TransCore.Technical SupportAuthorized dealers and distributors are responsible for the direct support of all customers. Authorized dealers and distributors needing technical support can contact:Technical SupportWeb: transcore.com/rfidsupportorTransCore3410 Midcourt Road, Suite 102Carrollton, Texas 75006 USA Phone: (214) 461-4031Fax: (214) 461-6478Please be prepared to answer a series of questions that are designed to direct you to the best support resource available.
2Developing the Site Plan
2-3Chapter 2Developing the Site PlanThis chapter provides a brief description of the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) and discusses site plan development for installing the MPRR System.System DescriptionThe MPRR is a reader that supports the low-cost, high-performance SeGo radio fre-quency identification (RFID) technology. The MPRR also supports TransCore ATA/ISO tag types.The MPRR is a high-power unit that can read both half- and full-frame tags. The reader output power can be adjusted using reader commands.ReaderThe MPRR consists of an input/output (I/O) module, a power supply, a reader logic board (also called a tag decoder), and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter/receiver (called the RF module) in a compact enclosure. These MPRR components are con-tained in a highly reliable, compact, and easy-to-install package. Figure 2-1 shows the end views of an MPRR.Figure 2-1 MPRR End ViewsTagsThe MPRR has the capability to read TransCore SeGo protocol tags and TransCore ATA/AAR protocol read-only full- and half-frame tags.How It WorksThe MPRR directs the RF module to generate an RF signal, which is broadcast through the external antenna mounted railside. Entering the MPRR’s reading range, a TransCore RFID tag installed on a railcar or other asset to be tracked adds its pro-
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide2-4grammed identification information to the signal and reflects the signal back to the MPRR. The MPRR receives this modified, or modulated signal, and decodes the tag data carried by the reflected signal and transmits this data to a local host computer for processing.Overview of Site PlanningDeveloping a site plan provides the foundation for the site’s system design and estab-lishes the following system configuration parameters:•Number and general location of primary components•Number of different radio frequencies requiredGathering relevant site information is crucial before applying for Federal Communi-cations Commission (FCC) approval and ordering and installing MPRR(s) and tags. Also, consider the following factors when developing a site plan:•Type of tags used•Antenna and tag alignment•Site layout and rail traffic flow•MPRR and/or antenna mounting requirements•MPRR electrical requirements•MPRR communications requirementsThese factors provide relevant information regarding each site’s physical and electro-magnetic environment and the conditions under which the system must perform.Reading of Mixed Population TagsThe MPRR reads TransCore’s Super eGo® (SeGo) protocol tags and the American Trucking Association (ATA) and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) read-only tags, whether powered by battery or beam, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)-based tags with Intellitag technology.The factors that influence the readability include, but are not limited to physical orien-tation and configuration, type of read-only tag, ratio of backscatter cross-section of the tags, and whether the tag is battery- or beam-powered.Antenna and Tag AlignmentThe position of the antenna and placement of the tag on the vehicle must be compati-ble.Two primary criteria must be satisfied to achieve the highest read reliability:
Developing the Site Plan2-5•Polarization of the tag and the antenna must be aligned in the same direction — both horizontal.•The installed tag must be in a direct, unobstructed line of sight to the antenna.CautionA tag may not be reliably read unless the preceding criteria are met.PolarizationThe polarization of the tag must be aligned in the same direction as the antenna, as shown in Figure 2-1.Note: Matching the tag and antenna polarization is critical to obtain optimal system performance.Figure 2-1 Tag and Antenna Orientation Unobstructed Line of SightFor optimum readability, install the MPRR and antenna(s) and the railcar’s tag so that when the railcar approaches the antenna(s), the tag is directly facing the antenna and the line of sight is clear between the antenna and the tag. If there is a physical obstruc-tion between the tag and the antenna(s), the MPRR cannot reliably read the tags. Fig-ure 2-2 illustrates possible installation locations of an antenna in relation to a tag’s mounting location on a railcar. If the tags are not in the recommended location, reli-able optimum operation requires lower train speeds.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide2-6Figure 2-2 Antenna Location Relative to Tag PositionAntenna SelectionThis section contains guidelines that assist in antenna selection for an MPRR installa-tion that uses an external antenna. The following antennas are compatible with the MPRR installation.AA3100 Yagi (without radome)Appropriate for installations with the following requirements and conditions:•902 to 928 MHz operation•Non-icing environments•Relatively symmetrical reading range•Antenna profile not a major considerationAA3101 Yagi (with radome)Appropriate for installations with the following requirements and conditions:•902 to 928 MHz operation•Exposure to harsh environments•Relatively symmetrical reading range•Antenna profile not a major consideration
Developing the Site Plan2-7AA3110 ParapanelAppropriate for installations with the following requirements and conditions:•902 to 928 MHz operation•Exposure to harsh environments•Broad radiation pattern in one dimension, narrow in the other•Low antenna profile•Horizontal polarizationAA3140 PCB Log PeriodicAppropriate for installations with the following requirements and conditions:•845 to 950 MHz operation•Exposure to harsh environments•Maximum coverage at close range (<20 ft [6.1 m])•Vertical or horizontal polarizationSite Layout and Traffic FlowThe following site layout and traffic flow considerations are critical when determining MPRR installation locations:•The MPRR read zone•Other MPRR units and antennas in the area•Reflection, refraction, and diffraction of RF signals •Existing signal interference at the siteThe MPRR Read ZoneThe MPRR must be able to read the tag data properly within a specified area, called the read zone, without reading other nearby tags or interfering with other MPRRs at the site. The following are some of the factors that affect the size and shape of the read zone:•Mounting method used for the antenna•Mounting location of the antenna•Height from the ground and mounting angle of the antenna
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide2-8•RF output attenuation•Range discrimination setting•Other sources of interference and reflection The railside antenna must be positioned so that the RF signal travels to and return from the tags within the designated range and must be placed in an area where it is not likely to be bumped out of alignment. If the antenna becomes misaligned or some nearby structure is added or removed, system operation can be seriously affected. For instructions on setting the read zone, see “Fine-Tuning and Verifying the Read Zone” on page 8-18.Other MPRRs in the AreaSites with more than one MPRR in proximity should have them configured with a fre-quency separation of at least 2 MHz from adjacent readers. If more than one MPRR is in a side-by-side or multiple track application, the frequencies should be staggered. MPRR antennas can face each other across a rail track as long as they are multiplexed and controlled by the same MPRR. Table 2-2 shows examples of staggered reader fre-quencies in a site with up to 5 readers.Reflection, Refraction, and Diffraction of RF SignalsRF signals can be reflected, refracted, or diffracted by metal objects, walls, and even wet pavement or ice. Any of these factors can alter or degrade system performance. When designing your site plan, you must consider permanent structures and transient factors in the vicinity that may affect RF signals being generated by the MPRR. Per-manent structures include buildings, chain link fences, guard shacks, and gates. Tran-sient factors include passing traffic and local weather conditions, such as rain or snow. Symptoms of reflection, refraction, and diffraction include reading tags that are out of the desired read zone or tags being read from another track.The most common RF reflectors are metallic surfaces. RF signals may also be par-tially reflected by nonconducting materials such as dirt, wood, ice, asphalt, and con-crete. When nonconducting materials in the system environment become wet, they increase reflection of RF signals.Table 2-1 Examples of Staggered Reader FrequenciesRail Number Reader Frequency Rail Number Reader Frequency1 911.75 2 913.753 915.75 4 917.755919.75
Developing the Site Plan2-9The antenna mounting location, aiming, and range control adjustment, and use of presence detectors can reduce interference from RF reflections. When these actions cannot adequately control reflections, other techniques such as shielding, absorbing, range sensitivity adjustment, or barriers can also be used. See Chapter 9, “Trouble-shooting and Maintenance” for more information.Existing InterferenceInterference from RF and electrical sources can degrade system performance and must also be considered in the site design. Fluorescent lights, neon signs, nearby radio sta-tions, or power lines can interfere with the optimal operation of the system. The mag-netic impulse noise from relays that control gate opening and closing can also disrupt the RF signal.Interference may degrade both reader and tag performance. Existing interference at the site may be shielded, removed, or positioned further from the antenna. In some cases, changing the operating frequency of the MPRR may provide a simple solution. Readers in proximity should have at least a 2 MHz frequency separation. See “Other MPRRs in the Area” on page 2-8. Strong RF sources of any frequency, in proximity to the tag, can preclude the tag receiving the reader interrogation. See Chapter 9, “Trou-bleshooting and Maintenance.”Electrical and Communications RequirementsAll construction work at the site must be completed before installing the MPRR. Elec-trical and communications cables should be installed according to all applicable local and federal building code requirements. Specific instructions for positioning and installing the MPRR are discussed in Chapter 4, “Installing the MPRR.”Junction BoxUse a watertight junction box that meets applicable local and national building codes for connecting power and communications wiring. The junction box houses the termi-nal strip for power and communications connections. TransCore recommends a NEMA Type-4 junction box with a back mounting panel. Power and Communications CablesCable length for power and communications depends on the physical characteristics of the MPRR installation site. Table 2-2 lists accessory kits available for cabling options based on your site’s requirements.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide2-10Electrical PowerA dedicated electrical power supply must be present at the site and available to the MPRR at all times. The power must be 16-20V AC or 16-28V DC. A step-down trans-former is available (North America only) to convert a 120V AC duplex wall outlet with ground to 18V AC, as is a step-up transformer to convert a low-voltage 12V AC outlet to 18V AC. Consult your local and national electrical codes for installation and safety requirements.Note: MPRRs installed outside North America require a locally supplied transformer. If 18V AC or 18V DC power is available, the transformer option is unnecessary.TransCore offers a Class C transformer accessory kit (part number 76-1620-005) for sites where 110V AC is available. It is the installer’s responsibility to supply conver-sion equipment and wiring for other voltages. Table 2-3 contains power supply current requirements.Power circuits are protected internally against power surges. Host CommunicationsYour site design must include communications between the MPRR and a host device. The MPRR communicates with the host device through an asynchronous serial line. This serial line is an RS–232 interface. Figure 2-3 shows the MPRR communications port and Figure 2-4 shows the connector pin designations.Table 2-2 Connector Cabling Accessory KitsPart Number Description58-7001-001 MPRR-to-TRU six-foot cable assembly58-7001-002 MPRR-to-TRU 20-foot cable assembly58-7001-003 MPRR cable assembly, no TRUTable 2-3 Power Supply Current RequirementsSupply(RF On)Worst Case Maximum Current at 68°F (20°C)(RF Off)Standby Operating Current at 68°F (20°C)16 to 20V AC 1.7 A at 18V AC 1 A at 18V AC16 to 28V DC 1.7 A at 18V DC 1 A at 18V DC
Developing the Site Plan2-11Figure 2-3 Location of Communications/Power Port on MPRRFigure 2-4 Pin Assignments for Communications ConnectorsThe standard RS–232 connection maximum distance depends on the baud rate, cable type, and the RS–232 device at the other end.Input/Output CircuitsThe MPRR’s two RF sense input circuits are designed to connect to dry contact clo-sures. The MPRR’s tag lock output circuit is a single-pole, double-throw relay provid-ing a dry contact closure. These contacts are rated at 42.2V AC peak (30Vrms) or 60V DC, at 1 A maximum with noninductive load.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide2-12Output circuit is not intended for the direct control of electromechanical devices such as motorized barrier arms. For such applications, the MPRR output circuit should be used to drive a secondary, appropriately rated high-power relay.Antenna InterfaceThe site design must include interface cable(s) between the MPRR and the compatible antenna(s) chosen for the site. The antenna interface is RF coaxial cable with male Type N sockets on each end.Table 2-4 is a summary of coaxial cable performance. Figures indicate maximum lengths of cable in feet.a. Suffixes 50, 50A, and 50B indicate 50-ohm cables available from the Andrew Corporation.b. These cable lengths ensure optimal system performance (1 dB loss).c. These cable lengths ensure adequate, but not optimal, system performance (3 dBloss).Table 2-4 Reader to Antenna Cable PerformanceCable TypeaOverall Diameter (in.) 915MHz Low MediumLossb LosscRG–223 0.216 6 18RG–214 0.425 12 37FHJ1–50 0.250 16 48FSJ1–50 0.250 15 45LDF2–50 0.375 28 85FSJ4–50B 0.500 27 83LDF4–50A 0.500 42 128LDF5–50A 0.875 76 229LDF6–50 1.125 103 310LDF7–50A 1.625 122 366
3Choosing, Installing, and RemovingTags
3-3Chapter 3Choosing, Installing, and Removing TagsThis chapter describes the various tag types compatible with the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) and the procedures for installing and removing compatible internal and external tags. Compatible Tag TypesThe MPRR provides the capability to read the various TransCore tags employing Super eGo (SeGo) protocol. Depending on options ordered, the MPRR can read SeGo protocol, ATA-protocol, and ISO-compliant tags.See Appendix E for information about the numerous tag models.Reader and Tag Model InteroperabilityTable 3-1 lists the tags that are read by the MPRR. See www.transcore.com/pdf/Tag-Reader-Matrix.pdf for most current information concerning readers and supported tag protocols.Recommended Mounting LocationsEach piece of rail equipment has a specific area or window for optimum tag place-ment. Tag positioning in the tag placement window is based on the center of the tag in reference to window physical specifications.Required Materials•Torque wrench (in/lb. range)•Bolts and nuts (#10-24 NC threaded studs and nuts)•Aluminum pop rivets•Pop rivet gunTable 3-1 Tags Read by the MPRRReader Beam Tags Battery TagsMPRR AT5110; AT5112; AT5113; AT5118; AT5125; AT5133; AT5114; AT5510; AT5541; AT5549
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide3-4Mounting SurfaceThe mounting surface must be metal, vertical, and smooth within the area of the tag. If the mounting area does not meet this requirement, you must use a metal mounting bracket.If the mounting surface is irregular or non-metal (e.g., fiberglass), the tag must be attached to a metal bracket to provide an electrical reflector for the tag. Use a 1/8-inch (0.32-cm) or thicker smooth metal bracket whose dimensions are at least equal to those of the tag. Mounting brackets are preferred for application of the tag such that the tag and the bracket are in intimate contact to avoid interference with transmission of radio waves.Tag PositioningEach piece of equipment has a specific area or tag placement window for optimum tag placement. Tag positioning in the tag placement window is based on the center of the tag in reference to window physical parameters.The tag placement window is on opposite ends and opposite sides of the equipment. The front and rear ends of the equipment are referred to as the “A” end and “B” end. The “B” end represents the hand brake end and the “A” end represents the opposite end looking forward. To determine left and right sides, stand at the “B” end and look toward the front end of the equipment.Refer to the appropriate section for tag placement window location rail cars and locomotive devices. Where possible, tags should be mounted in locations to minimize the likelihood of damage from equipment such as forklifts, cranes, and other hazards.Mount the tag on a plane perpendicular to the rail (back of the tag against the equipment) with the long edge of the tag horizontal to the rail.There is a clear zone surrounding the tag and toward the wayside that allows for unobstructed transmission of data. This zone must not be obstructed by any metallic objects or protrusions.
Choosing, Installing, and Removing Tags3-5As Figure 3-1 illustrates, there should be no obstructions in the area extending 45º from the center line of the tag to one inch outside either narrow side of the tag. The side view depicts the tag as viewed from the top of the equipment.Figure 3-1 . Clear Zone - Side ViewFigure 3-2 illustrates that there should be no obstructions in the area extending 60º from the center line of the tag to 1 inch outside either long side of the tag. The end view depicts the tag as viewed from the end of the equipment.Figure 3-2 . Clear Zone - End ViewFigure 3-3 shows examples of acceptable and unacceptable mounting locations based on the clear zone. Any obstructions in the clear zone may introduce reading problems
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide3-6with the tag. Refer to the mounting specifications chapters for each type of equipment for tag placement window locations.Figure 3-3 . Mounting Location ExamplesSurface Installation TechniquesBacking plates are preferred for attaching tags to equipment, but tags may be mounted directly to the car at the owner’s discretion. Aluminum material is permitted a s a substitute for the mounting plate material specified, when required for compatibility with the car surface.When painting the backing plates, protect the studs from paint.Two approved methods for mounting tags and backing plates on locomotives and railcars are rivet and bolt mounting.Note: Weld the backing plate to the freight car side sheet, but be certain the backing plate is kept flat. If the car side sheet is deformed, spacing of welds may vary to accommodate waviness of the freight car side.Note: Allow the backing plate to cool after welding before applying the tag.Rivet/Bolt Mounting GuidelinesSelect a means for mounting the tag that secures the tag but does not compromise the tag case.
Choosing, Installing, and Removing Tags3-7Aluminum pop rivets are permissible, but TransCore advises against using high-pressure rivets for mounting the tag.If using bolts and nuts to mount the tag, avoid using excessive torque, which may crack or break the tag case. Tighten the nut until snug, then tighten an additional 1/2 turn only.Locomotive Mounting GuidelinesInstall two tags on each locomotive on opposite ends and opposite sides of the equipment. Install one on the right front (engineer’s side) and another on the left rear (fireman’s side).Tag Placement Window LocationHorizontally, the tag placement window extends from the center line of the truck to 2to feet from the center line of the inside axle (measure toward the center of the vehicle). Vertically, the tag placement window begins two feet above the top of the rail and extends to a maximum of five feet above the top of the rail.Figure 3-4 illustrates the tag placement window on the right front portion (engineer’s side) of the locomotive.Figure 3-4 . Tag Placement Window for Locomotives -- Right Front
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide3-8Figure 3-5 illustrates the tag placement window on the left rear portion (brakeman’s side) of the locomotive.Figure 3-5 . Tag Placement Window Location for Locomotives -- Left RearTag PlacementOptimal tag placement centers the tag on the left boundary line of the tag placement window (Figure 3-6). Alternately, the center of the tag may be mounted anywhere within the tag placement window, provided there are no obstructions to the tag’s clear zone.Figure 3-6 . Optimal Tag Placement for Locomotives
Choosing, Installing, and Removing Tags3-9Rail Car Mounting GuidelinesInstall two tags on each rail car on opposite ends and opposite sides of the equipment. Install one on the right front (“A” end) and another on the left rear (“B” end).Tag Placement Window LocationHorizontally, the tag placement window extends from the center line of the truck to two feet from the center line of the inside axle (measure toward the center of the vehicle). Vertically, the tag placement window begins at two feet above the top of the rail end and extends to a maximum of five feet above the top of the rail. The tag should not cover car stenciling.Figure 3-7 illustrates the tag placement window on the right front portion (“A” end) of the rail car.Figure 3-7 . Tag Placement Window Location for Rail Cars -- “A” Right Side
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide3-10Figure 3-8 illustrates the tag placement window on the left rear portion (“B” end) of the rail car.Figure 3-8 . Tag Placement Window Location for Rail Cars -- “B” Left SideTag PlacementOptimal tag placement centers the tag on the left boundary line of the tag placement window (Figure 3-9). Alternately, the tag may be mounted so that the center of the tag falls anywhere within the tag placement window, provided there are no obstructions of the tag’s clear zone.Figure 3-9 . Optimal Tag Placement for Rail Cars
Choosing, Installing, and Removing Tags3-11Tank Car Mounting GuidelinesTank car mounting is essentially the same as that for rail cars, except that the tag placement window area has been expanded 18 inches to the right of the center of the truck.Tag Placement Window LocationHorizontally, the tag placement window extends from 18 inches to the right of the center line of the truck to two feet from the center line of the inside axle (measured toward the center of the vehicle). Vertically, the tag placement window begins at two feet above the top of the rail and extends to a maximum of five feet above the top of the rail. The tag should not cover car stenciling.Figure 3-10 illustrates the tag placement window on the left rear portion (“B” end) of the tank car.Figure 3-10 . Tag Placement Window Location for Tank Cars -- “B” Left SideTag PlacementOptimal tag placement positions the tag on the center line of the truck on the body bolster (Figure 3-11). Alternately, the tag may be mounted so that the center of the tag
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide3-12falls anywhere within the tag placement window, provided there are no obstructions of the tag’s clear zone.Figure 3-11 . Optimal Tag Placement for Tank Cars
4Installing the Multiprotocol Rail Reader
4-3Chapter 4Installing the Multiprotocol Rail ReaderThis chapter lists the materials needed and presents the procedures to pre-test and install the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR).Installation ProcessAfter you have developed the site plan and identified the location to install the MPRR and antennas1, if required, you are ready to install the equipment. Installation involves the following tasks:•Pre-installation testing of MPRR power and tag read capability•Mounting the MPRR in a railside shack•Mounting the railside antenna(s)•Connecting the antenna(s)•Connecting the MPRR power•Marking the read zone•Connecting the MPRR host and sense input/sense output and communicationsMaterials Supplied by TransCoreYou need the following materials to pre-test and install the MPRR. TransCore supplies some of the materials; other materials must be obtained from other sources.Contents of Shipping CartonEnsure that you have received all parts before beginning your pre-installation MPRR tests. Your MPRR is packaged with the following materials:•One MPRR•One MPRR Quick Start Guide•Any accessories ordered as options as shown in Table 4-1Required accessories are a power/communications cable harness and a 110V AC-to-18V AC wall transformer, a 12 to 18V AC step-up transformer, or a 16 to 28V DC power source. You also require at least one MPRR-compatible antenna and an antenna RF cable. These may be ordered as accessories from TransCore or obtained from other sources.1. The MPRR is designed with RF cable connectors for use with N-type RF cables.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide4-4Installation Accessory OptionsTable 4-1 lists optional TransCore MPRR installation accessory items. Additional Materials Needed for TestingYou need these additional materials to perform the pre-tests on the MPRR:•Test tags, supplied by the TransCore dealer or distributor•Suitable 16 to 20V AC or 16 to 28V DC power wiring for the MPRR •Audible circuit tester and 9V DC battery for circuit tester power •Wire stripper•At least one MPRR-compatible antenna•Suitable RF interface coaxial cablePre-installation Testing of the MPRRBefore installing the MPRR permanently at the site, you should use an audible circuit tester to confirm that the MPRR has power and can read a tag presented in the tag read zone.Testing the MPRR Using an Audible Circuit TesterAn audible circuit tester is also called a buzz box. These boxes are available at some electronic parts supply stores, or you can make a buzz box, as shown in Figure 4-1. The buzz box is powered by a 9V DC battery and is equipped with two alligator-clip leads. When you touch the leads together, the box makes an audible sound.Table 4-1 Installation AccessoriesPart No. Description58-7001-001 MPRR-to-Train Recording Unit (TRU) six-foot cable assembly58-7001-002 MPRR-to-TRU 20-foot cable assembly58-7001-003 MPRR cable assembly, no TRU20-7001-001 MPRR check tag accessory kit
Installing the Multiprotocol Rail Reader4-5 Figure 4-1 Wiring for Audible Circuit TesterTo test the MPRR, connect the antenna and power supply as described in the appropri-ate section below.Connecting the AntennaThis section explains the connection between the MPRR and antenna(s).CautionTo avoid damage to the MPRR•During shipping and installation, an external antenna can build up a very high voltage charge. The voltage needs to be discharged before connecting the antenna to the reader.•Connect the MPRR to ground before powering up the reader or connecting the antennas.•Connect the antenna(s) before applying power to the reader.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide4-6Figure 4-2 MPRR Showing Antenna PortsTo connect the reader and antenna1. Ensure the reader is turned off and unplugged.2. Connect one end of the RF interface cable to the antenna.3. Connect the other end of the RF interface cable to the appropriate antenna port on the side of the MPRR. See Figure 4-2.4. For consistent performance, terminate unused antenna ports using a 50-Ohm, N-type terminator.Connecting the MPRR to a Power SupplyCautionTo avoid damage to the MPRR•Connect the MPRR to ground before powering up the reader or connecting the antennas.•Connect the antenna before applying power to the reader.To connect the MPRR to a power supply1. Connect the MPRR to a power supply using the interface cable (P/N TBD).The pin assignments for the signals on the reader DB15 connector (Figure 4-3) is shown in Figure 4-4. If the MPRR is connected directly to a TransCore Train Record-ing Unit (TRU), all power supply connections are made through the MPRR-to-TRU cable assembly.
Installing the Multiprotocol Rail Reader4-7Figure 4-3 Location of Communications/Power Port on MPRRFigure 4-4 Pin Assignments for Signal to Host ConnectorsMounting the MPRRThis section lists procedures and materials required for mounting the MPRR on a wall or other flat surface based on the site’s requirements.In permanent installations the MPRR should be positioned as close as possible to the antenna. Long cable runs increase system sensitivity to noise. See Table 2-4 on page 2-12 for maximum RF cable lengths.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide4-8Mounting to an Enclosure Wall or Flat SurfaceRequired MaterialsYou need the following materials to install the MPRR on an enclosure wall or flat sur-face. Ensure the use of high-quality, corrosion-resistant anchor hardware.•Anchor hardware suitable for the surface on which you mount the MPRRThe MPRR weighs 5.1 lbs (2.31 kg) so choose mounting hardware that is adequate to secure the unit to a wall.CautionConnect the reader bracket to earth ground using a ground cable and stake. TransCore recommends that you follow the National Electric Code or equivalent code for lightning protection for the locale where you are installing the MPRR.After mounting the MPRR, you must connect it to a dedicated 16 to 20V AC or 16 to 28V DC power supply.CautionTo avoid damage to the MPRR•Connect the MPRR to ground before powering up the reader or connecting the antenna(s).•Connect the antenna(s) before applying power to the reader.Mounting the Antenna Rail-SideThe antenna should be positioned as close as possible to the MPRR. Long cable runs increase system sensitivity to noise. See Table 2-4 on page 2-12 for maximum RF cable lengths (TBD). This section provides guidelines for mounting antennas.After mounting the antenna, you must connect it to the MPRR. Follow the procedures described previously in the section “Connecting the Antenna” on page 4-5.Note: Adjust the antenna(s) to provide the most direct line of sight to the tags.Connecting the Power SupplyAfter mounting the MPRR and antenna, connect the reader to a dedicated 16 to 20V AC or 16 to 28V DC power supply. If the MPRR is connected directly to a TRU, all power supply connections are made through the MPRR-to-TRU cable assembly.CautionTo avoid damage to the MPRR•During shipping and installation, an external antenna can build up a very high voltage charge. The voltage needs to be discharged before connecting the antenna to the reader.
Installing the Multiprotocol Rail Reader4-9•Connect the MPRR to ground before powering up the reader or connecting the antenna(s).•Connect the antenna(s) before applying power to the reader.Connecting CommunicationsThe MPRR communicates through RS–232 protocol.Required MaterialsYou need the following materials to connect the communications cable to the host device:•Host device•Any terminal emulation program such as Procomm Plus™ or Hyper Terminal™ running on a PC•If the MPRR is connected directly to a TRU, all communications connections are made through the MPRR-to-TRU cable assembly.Connecting the MPRR to the HostMPRR communications and customer interface signals are supplied from the MPRR to the host through a multiwire cable. The connector for this cable is located on the end of the MPRR. Plug one end of the MPRR communications/power interface connector into the DB15 connector at the MPRR and the other end, using the customer-supplied wiring, into the host device.Connecting Sense Input and Sense Output CircuitsThe MPRR has two sense input circuits and a tag lock output circuit available. Sense0 is used to enable RF on antenna ports 0 and 1 if enabled, and Sense1 is used to enable RF on antenna ports 2 and 3. The sense input circuits can be used to notify the MPRR of train presence and are designed to be connected to a free-of-voltage dry contact. The tag lock output circuit is a single-pole, double-throw relay that provides a normally closed and normally open dry contact. The relay contact is rated at 42.2V AC peak (30 Vrms) or 60V DC at 1 A maximum. If controlling an external gate or device requiring high current, an isolation transformer is required.Sense Input CircuitsThe MPRR supports two sense inputs – sense input0 and sense input1 – which require two sense input lines (SENSEx and GND) for each loop sense or a total of four sense input connections. Sense input0 is the presence detection and is used to control RF
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide4-10power. As shown in Figure 4-4, the sense inputs are wired through the reader DB15 connector. The MPRR expects the sense input0 circuit to close when a railcar is present (on the track with antennas connected to ports 0 and 1). Sense1 must be closed when a railcar is present on the track connected to antenna ports 2 and 3. The mini-mum presence true period is fixed at 0 ms, which indicates that no delay occurs in closing the circuit when a railcar is present.Sense Output CircuitThe sense output is dedicated for testing and set up of the reader. It is defined as the TAG_LOCK signal, which indicates a valid tag is in the read field.This sense output is a dry contact that provides a normally open and normally closed sense output. The relay contacts are rated at 42.2V AC peak (30 Vrms) or 60V DC at 1 A maximum. If controlling an external gate or device requiring high current, an iso-lation transformer is required.Marking the Read ZoneCautionBe sure to follow all applicable rail safety regulations when marking the read zone.The area where the MPRR reads tags at the current RF range is called the read zone. The antenna pattern, or read zone, of the MPRR would look roughly like a pear-shaped balloon if you were able to see it. When installing the MPRR, you should first mark the unit’s read zone using the RF range set at the factory-default maximum. You can later adjust the read zone using the techniques discussed in “Fine-Tuning and Ver-ifying the Read Zone” on page 8-18.If two MPRRs are installed near each other, TransCore recommends that you fine-tune each reader for the ideal read zone before connecting it permanently to sense input/sense output and communications cables. A minimum of 2 MHz frequency separation and 40 feet (12.2 m) of antenna separation between the two adjacent readers is required for correct operation.Required MaterialsYou need the following materials to mark the read zone:•Test tags, supplied by the TransCore dealer or distributorTo mark the read zone1. Confirm that you have correctly connected the power supply/communications cable as described in this chapter.2. Start the terminal emulation application Microsoft HyperTerminal by selecting Programs>Accessories>Communications>HyperTerminal and press ENTER.
Installing the Multiprotocol Rail Reader4-113. In the HyperTerminal dialog boxes choose the com port to which the communications interface is attached and set the properties as:• Bits per second: 9600 baud• Data bits: 8• Parity: none• Stop bits: 1• Flow control: none4. Cycle the power on the MPRR and ensure that the sign-on message displays.5. Input the commands listed in Table 4-2.You can now connect the outer marks to draw the outer boundary of the read zone.Figure 4-5 is a view of a sample read zone. The outer X marks show the outside edges of the read zone.Table 4-2 Commands for TestingEntry Reader Response Notes#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches MPRR to command mode#647XXX #Done <CR/LF> Sets frequency#6401 #Done <CR/LF> Turns on RF#00 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Returns MPRR to data
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide4-12Figure 4-5 Sample Read Zone Marking Pattern6. Place the MPRR in single-antenna operation using the antenna of interest. Standing at the edge of the rail sleepers closest to the antenna walk the test tag along the track to determine the farthest read point in both directions (see D in Figure 4-5). Record the distance.7. In a multiple track installation, walk the tag toward the adjacent track in a line with the antenna (see Figure 4-5) to determine whether the MPRR reads tags from the adjacent track. Record that distance (Y). If the MPRR reads tags on the adjacent track, reduce the range control value, or increase RF attenuation until the MPRR cannot read tags on the adjacent track.
5General Software Information
5-3Chapter 5General Software InformationThis chapter provides software-related information for the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) System. This chapter presents various software-related topics arranged in alphabetical order by subject. In addition to this chapter, see Chapter 6, “Communications Protocols,” and Chapter 7, “Commands,” for more information.Command Entry ConventionsAll MPRR commands are preceded by the start-of-message character (#). The end-of-message sequence expected from the host is a carriage return (CR). The MPRR termi-nates messages with a return and a line-feed (CR/LF). For example, the command #01 Switch To Command Mode is typed as follows:#01<ENTER>where <ENTER> is the Enter or Return key.Some command characters may be represented by the letter N. This letter indicates you are to supply a value. Maximum valid entries are the numbers 0 through 9 and the uppercase letters A through F. These letters allow for as many as 16 available user responses and are based on the hexadecimal numbering system. Commands have at least two characters following the # character. Table 5-1 shows the basic structure of a four-character command.Table 5-1 Four-Character Command Structure#1005 Set Baud Rate To 9600 Baud# All commands are preceded by the # character.1 Indicates the command group. This command is in Group 1- Communications Port Control.0 Indicates the command subgroup. In this example, all commands with a second digit of 0 apply to the main port.0 The command digit. In this example, the 0 indicates that this command affects the baud rate.5 Indicates the setting. Normally this is a variable and is usually a hexadecimal value from 0 through F. In this example, 5 sets the baud rate to 9600, the factory setting. In some commands, this digit may be a four-place hexadecimal string or a character string.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide5-4Command Response ConventionsLike the MPRR commands, responses are preceded by the # character. Many MPRR commands respond with #Done or #Error indicating the command was or was not recognized and completed. Other commands respond with a four-character identifier followed by one or more values.Table 5-2 shows an example of a command/reply sequence. This example assumes that an MPRR with serial number SN97001P running version X.XX software is con-nected to a PC running a terminal emulation software package such as Windows Hyper Terminal or Procomm Plus. The command sequence verifies that communica-tions are working correctly.In command discussions, MPRR response characters may be shown in brackets < >. The use of brackets indicates that the response is a value in the range of characters. The brackets are not part of the response. For example, the response to command #520 Display Power Fail Bit is either a 0 or a 1. In the command discussion, the response is shown as:#PWRB <0-1>with actual MPRR response being one of the following:#PWRB 0#PWRB 1In this example, PWRB is the four-character identifier for power fail bit, and the 0 or 1 is the value. All spaces shown in the response are actual spaces sent from the MPRR. In this example, one space is between the letter B and the number. Operating ParametersThe MPRRs maintain their operating parameters in non-volatile memory (NVRAM) so that the parameters are preserved after a power-down sequence.Table 5-2 Sample Command SequenceEntry MPRR Response Notes#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches MPRR to command mode.#505 <CR> #Model E4 Series Ver X.XX SN08001P <CR/LF> Reports the software version and serial number.#00 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Returns MPRR to data mode.
General Software Information5-5Power FailThe system maintains a power fail flag. The host transmits command #520 Display Power Fail Bit to determine if a power down has occurred. This flag is cleared by both command #63 Reset Reader and command #65 Reset Power Fail Bit.Program DownloadProgram download stores the MPRR applications software into the reader’s flash memory. Program download is used to install program upgrades, add features, and to recover from corrupted program data.Note: Program download is a hosted process. Exercise caution so that you don’t inad-vertently enter download mode.Download ConsiderationsYou should consider the following factors when performing program download:•The MPRR does not process tags while in download mode.•The MPRR does not accept any program data unless a successful erase of flash memory has been performed before transmitting the data. Erasing the flash mem-ory typically takes two seconds.•Exiting from download mode re-executes startup. If the new software has been loaded without errors, the MPRR comes up in data mode. If a flash checksum error is detected, the MPRR reenters download mode and transmits a sign-on mes-sage with a boot version of 0.00x and without a serial number.Note: The MPRR uses default communications parameters when operating in down-load mode – 38400 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, basic protocol – and does not echo commands.Download ProceduresIf TransCore releases a new version of the MPRR software or if the MPRR seems not to be working properly, you may need to download the software to the MPRR. Con-tact technical support or your TransCore MPRR sales representative.StartupUpon startup, MPRR transmits a sign-on message or a boot ROM failure message.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide5-6Sign-On MessageIf startup is successful, the sign-on message appears as follows: Model E4 Series [software version] SNYYYYYY[Copyright notice]where YYYYYY is the serial number assigned to the MPRR unit being used.Serial number 000000 is the default setting and is not a valid number. If this number appears in the sign-on message, the serial number has never been stored into reader memory. The serial number must be assigned by factory-authorized personnel using command #695S...S Set Serial Number. Because only six digits are allowed in the software, when setting the serial number skip the fourth (middle) digit of the seven-digit number shown on the reader label.If the flash memory checksum does not indicate verification, the sign-on message appears as follows:Model [E4] Ver 0.00x[Copyright notice]Boot Failure MessageThe software performs a checksum function on itself. The function returns a specific value for the particular version of software. If the value returned is not correct, the boot ROM checksum assumes that locations have been corrupted and a failure condi-tion exists. If the boot ROM checksum is not correct, a boot failure message is trans-mitted. If the failure message does not transmit, a communications error has occurred or the boot failed to the extent that it cannot transmit the failure message.If the failure message version number equals 0.00 and no serial number exists, the flash memory checksum has failed, and the MPRR is operating out of boot ROM. In this case, the MPRR automatically enters download mode and waits for a new pro-gram to be loaded into the flash memory. Follow the instructions in “Program Down-load” on page 5-5 to download a new program.Tag/Message BufferIn basic communication protocol, the MPRR does not provide tag memory storage beyond the quantity required for uniqueness checking. This feature allows adequate buffering of tag data under normal operating conditions. The MPRR cannot operate as a stand-alone component. When the buffer fills, subsequent tag IDs will be lost. In error correcting protocol (ECP), a buffer of up to three additional tag reads will be held in case a host system is unable to acknowledge tag reads in real time.
6Communications Protocols
6-3Chapter 6Communications ProtocolsThis chapter describes the communications protocols for the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR).IntroductionThe MPRR supports the following communications protocols:•Basic•Error correcting protocol (ECP)The following protocol information provides reference information relevant to devel-oping host software.Communications are performed using the 7-bit ASCII code with optional parity, thus providing easy setup, testing, and diagnostics with standard ASCII terminals and serial printers. Parity must be enabled to achieve the specified undetected error rate.Each message is framed within the start-of-message (som) and end-of-message (eom) characters so that the host computer can detect the beginning and end of each mes-sage. This convention is most important under marginal communications conditions during which the host may receive extraneous noise-induced characters between reader transmissions. In such instances, the host is capable of ignoring any messages that do not conform to the som...eom frame sequence.Both data mode and command mode require a two-way message interchange is when using ECP. This interchange is completed by the message recipient returning a mes-sage acknowledgement to the message sender.With ECP, all transmissions require a message. If a message is not received, the sender will time out with the same effect as if it had received a negative acknowledgment (from the host) or an Error message from the MPRR.Software (XON/XOFF) flow control is optionally supported. Be careful in the use of XON/XOFF since noise-induced characters may be interpreted by the MPRR as the XOFF character, which would suspend reader output without information reaching the host computer. For more information see “Software Flow Control” on page 8-18.Note: TransCore recommends that XON/XOFF flow control be disabled while using ECP.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide6-4Basic ProtocolWith basic protocol, messages sent to and from the MPRR and the host are transmitted without error checking. For each host transmission, the MPRR returns a Done or Error message to the host.When the host computer is physically close to the MPRR and no sources of interfer-ence exist, the basic protocol provides reliable communications.The host must be ready to receive reader-transmitted messages because in basic proto-col the MPRR does not wait for the host to acknowledge a message before transmit-ting the next message. If necessary, the host may halt reader transmissions by using software or hardware flow control. Refer to Chapter 8 for flow control information.Error Correcting ProtocolWhen the quality of data communications is imperative or may be suspect, you can invoke ECP to ensure the integrity of data transmitted between the MPRR and the host. Note: TransCore recommends that basic protocol (not ECP) be used when commands are entered manually at the keyboard.Error correction is accomplished with the use of a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) value that is based on the message data. The originator (reader or host) calculates the CRC value of a message and includes it in the transmitted message.The recipient (reader or host) also calculates a CRC value for the received message. If the transmitted message data is correct, the CRC value calculated by the recipient will agree with the CRC value calculated by the originator. If the CRC values do not agree, the recipient rejects the message.Message sequence numbers are also included when using ECP. These sequence num-bers are checked to determine if the message received has the correct sequence num-ber; if not, the recipient rejects the message.Since the seven-bit ASCII code is used and there are eight data bits per character, the eighth bit can optionally be used to support parity. Where parity is selected, the CRC value calculation includes the parity of each character in the calculation of the CRC value.Parity is required to achieve the most reliable communications. If parity is enabled, both the MPRR and the host must issue a message if any received character has a par-ity error. However, the message must not be transmitted before receipt of the eom character. In this case, the MPRR will issue an Error message, and the host com-puter will issue a negative acknowledgment message.
Communications Protocols6-5Basic Protocol and ECP FormatNote: In the following text, the symbols < and > are used to represent required vari-able message data, and the symbols [and] are used to represent optional data. These symbols are not part of the message syntax.Reader TransmissionsThe basic protocol format and the data inquiry protocol format are as follows:<som><data><eom>The ECP format is as follows:<som><seq><data><crc><eom>where<som> Start-of-message (ASCII # character)<seq> Sequence number (ASCII hex) that represents an even number in the range 0–9, A–F (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, A, C, E). The MPRR maintains the number. The host must acknowledge reader transmissions by sending an ACK message with the same sequence number received from the MPRR. The MPRR updates its sequence number upon receipt of a valid host ACK. If an ACK is not received, the MPRR retransmits the message. A reader transmission sequence is not considered complete until the MPRR receives an ACK and updates its sequence number.<data> An ASCII string up to 72 characters long. This string may contain tag data, a presence without tag report; an input status change report; an Error06, Error07, Error08, or Error11 message; or a sign-on message. Auxiliary data may also be included.<crc> Field containing four ASCII digits that represent the 16-bit CRC value calculated on the message. The CRC value is calculated on bytes between the som character and the first <crc> byte.When the host receives a properly framed message, it can calculate a 16-bit CRC value. The calculation is applied to the character string that immediately follows the <som> and that ends with the character immediately preceding the first <crc> character.The transmitted CRC value can then be compared with the binary equivalent of the received <crc> characters. If the transmitted and received CRC values do not match, the recipient assumes the
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide6-6message was received in error, and transmits a NAK message response.<eom> End-of-message characters (ASCII CR and LF). The system includes both a carriage return (CR) and line feed (LF) to facilitate the use of terminals and printers.If the host receives a <som> character in the middle of a data message, the message in progress is aborted. The assumption is that an <eom> was lost and the MPRR is in the process of retransmitting the previous message.ECP Host ACK/NAK ResponseWith ECP, the host computer responds to all data message transmissions from the MPRR using the following acknowledgment or negative acknowledgment response format.<som><seq><ack/nak><crc><eom>where<som> Start-of-message (ASCII # character)<seq> An echo of the sequence number received from the MPRR. The sequence number should correspond to the data message that is being positively or negatively acknowledged by the host. If the MPRR receives an ACK message with the incorrect sequence number, the data message is retransmitted.The host computer resets the anticipated data message sequence number to that of the MPRR before communications can resume without error.<ack/nak> ASCII @ character for ACK response; ASCII ? character for NAK response<crc> CRC value for the message<eom> End-of-message character (ASCII CR)The MPRR sets a user-programmable timeout delay at the time each message is trans-mitted based on command #612NN Set Error Correcting Protocol Timeout, where NN = timeout delay. To disable the timeout delay for diagnostic purposes, issue the com-mand #612FF Disable Error Correcting Protocol Timeout.If the timeout delay expires before the MPRR receives an ACK or NAK message from the host, a logical NAK condition will be declared. If the MPRR receives a NAK or timeout, the reader retransmits the data message.When the MPRR receives an ACK message, the system software treats the message as having been properly received by the host. The software increments the sequence
Communications Protocols6-7number, and advances pointers to the next message in the MPRR’s message queue to prepare for sending the next message.Switch to Command Mode RequestThe host computer may issue command #01 Switch to Command Mode while in data mode.The basic protocol format is as follows:<som><cmd><eom>The ECP format is as follows:<som><seq><cmd><crc><eom>where<som> Start-of-message (ASCII # character)<seq> Sequence number generated by the host computer separately from that appearing in data messages transmitted by the MPRR <cmd> Switch to command mode (ASCII characters 01)<crc> CRC value for the message<eom> End-of-message character (ASCII CR)Host TransmissionThe host computer initiates synchronous communications between the MPRR and the host. The host begins a sequence by issuing a command; the MPRR responds accord-ingly.The basic protocol format is as follows:<som><cmd>[<data>]<eom>The ECP format is as follows:<som><seq><cmd>[<data>]<crc><eom>where<som> Start-of-message (ASCII # character)<seq> Sequence number (ASCII hex digit) that represents an odd number in the range 0–9, A–F (1, 3, 5, 7, 9, B, D, F). The host should use odd sequence numbers in its command since the MPRR uses even sequence numbers in its transmissions. This method eliminates the possibility of a synchronous host command and an asynchronous reader transmission having the same sequence number.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide6-8Upon receiving a host command, the MPRR echoes the command’s sequence number in its response. Therefore, the host computer updates its sequence number upon receipt of a valid reader message. If the sequence number is not updated before transmission of the next command, the MPRR will not service the new command; it will retransmit its previous message. A command/message sequence is not complete until the host updates its sequence number.<cmd> Command code, a string that contains from two to four ASCII hex characters[<data>] Optional data field, an ASCII string of as many as 20 characters in length. For example, the store hardware configuration string command is #696S...S or command #696 Store Hardware Configuration String followed by the data string S...S.<crc> CRC value for the message<eom> End-of-message character (ASCII CR)Reader Command ResponseThe basic protocol format is<som><resp><eom>The ECP format is<som><seq><resp><crc><eom>where<som> Start-of-message (ASCII # character)<seq> Echo of sequence number received in host command message<resp> Response string. The MPRR returns Done, Error, or another ASCII string depending on the host transmission. This string can be up to 72 characters long.<crc> CRC value for the message<eom> End-of-message character (ASCII CR and LF)Sample MessagesThis section contains examples of typical messages transmitted between the MPRR and the host computer.
Communications Protocols6-9Reader TransmissionsBasic protocol reader transmission #KING 1302<eom>Host responseNo host response for non-ECPECP reader transmission #4KING 1302 <crc><eom>where#Start-of-message character4Message sequence numberKING 1302 Message data: Tag ID is shown. Other sample message data could be as follows:IOST C0 O2 I0 D24 (display I/O status)Error06 (frequency not set)<crc> CRC value for the message<eom> End-of-message characterHost response#4@<crc><eom>where#Start-of-message character4Message sequence number@ ACK (acknowledgment character)(? returned for a negative acknowledgment)<crc> CRC value for the message<eom> End-of-message characterHost Command TransmissionsBasic protocol host transmission#647XXX<eom>Reader response#Done<eom> or #Error<eom> #Error<eom> is returned if the host transmission is not a legal command with legal data.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide6-10ECP host transmission#7647XXX<crc><eom>where#Start-of-message character7Message sequence number647XXX Select RF Operating Frequency command where 647XXX is the command and XXX is a hexadecimal value from 000 to 118. In this example, XXX sets the RF frequency to 903 MHz.<crc> CRC value for the message<eom> End-of-message characterDone Command has been invoked by the MPRR Reader response#7Done<crc><eom> or #7Error<eom>For some commands, the MPRR responds with data that relates to the command, such as T0F 0, to indicate (TBD) mode enabled for a #XXX Display (TBD) Mode Status command.#7Error<eom> will be returned if host transmission is not a legal command with legal data.Timing and SynchronizationThe ECP is largely independent of baud rate. The timeout delays previously described are a function of baud rate.The MPRR supports an ECP timeout, which applies equally to both transmit and receive. The receiver’s minimum timeout delay equals the time to transmit/receive the longest anticipated message at the current baud rate setting. Additional margin should be included for idle periods between characters; for example, processing overhead, if any. The timeout delay period can be expressed as follows:Τrec (ms) = L x [Τchar + Τidle]whereΤchar (ms) 1000 x [ Bc / Rb ]BcBits per character, typically 10
Communications Protocols6-11RbBaud rate, 1200–38.4 KLLength of message in charactersΤidle Maximum idle period between characters (ms)Note: The MPRR supports baud rates between 1200 and 38.4 K.Likewise, the sender must set a timeout delay equal to the delay of nine characters at the current baud rate setting. For example, the time required to shift out the <eom> character plus the time to shift in the ACK or NAK message to be received plus a pro-cessing allowance for the receiver to process the message and check for error condi-tions.Thus, the sending timeout delay can be expressed as follows:Τsend (ms) = 9 * Τchar + ΤerrchkwhereΤerrckh (ms) Processing period to perform error checking by receiverThe host computer can remotely set the MPRR’s communications parameters while in the command mode, but TransCore does not recommend this action if communica-tions conditions are marginal.After the MPRR receives new communications parameters, the MPRR issues the Done message and switches to the new configuration immediately. The host computer switches its communications parameters immediately after the transaction is com-plete.As noted, the message initiator, such as the MPRR in data mode and the host computer in command mode, starts a timeout counter at the time a message is transmitted. If the timeout expires before receiving an acknowledgement message, a logical NAK condi-tion is declared, and the initiator assumes the message was received in error. In this instance, the message is retransmitted until an acknowledgement message is received.The message recipient, such as the host computer in data mode and the MPRR in com-mand mode, starts a timeout counter when a <som> character is received. If the time-out expires without the receipt of an <eom>, the message acquisition is aborted (reset), and the receiver waits for the next <som> character.If the message recipient receives a second <som> character before an <eom> charac-ter, the message acquisition is aborted (reset), and retransmission of the previous mes-sage is assumed to be underway.These strategies allow for recovery during periods when communications are marginal or completely lost.Note: It is important that the host computer limit the period during which the MPRR remains in command mode to avoid losing tag IDs. RF is off in command mode and no tags can be read.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide6-12Reader-Addressed Failure ConditionsThe MPRR addresses the following failure conditions.Illegal Sequence Number (not in the range 0–9, A–F)If the MPRR detects an illegal sequence number in a host command message, it dis-cards the received message and sends no response. If it receives an illegal sequence number in an ACK message, it responds as if a NAK had been received and retransmits the data.Wrong Sequence NumberIf the MPRR receives the wrong sequence number in an ACK message, it responds as if a NAK had been received, and it retransmits the data.Incorrect CRCIf the MPRR detects an incorrect CRC value in a host command message, it discards the received message. No response is sent. If it receives an incorrect CRC value in an ACK message, it responds as if a NAK had been received, and it retransmits the data.Illegal CommandIf the MPRR receives an illegal command, it returns its standard Error message.Transmission TimeoutIf the MPRR transmits an asynchronous message and the host does not send an ACK before the ECP timeout occurs, the MPRR retransmits the message.Receive TimeoutIf the MPRR receives a <som> but does not receive a matching <eom> before the ECP timeout occurs, it discards the incomplete message and resets its receiver.Asynchronous Message/Command Message CollisionIf the MPRR transmits asynchronous data at the same time that the host sends a com-mand, the MPRR gives priority to receiving the command. It processes the command and sends a message before it retransmits the asynchronous data.Host-Addressed Failure ConditionsThe host computer addresses the following failure conditions.Illegal or Wrong Sequence NumberIf the host detects an illegal or wrong sequence number in a reader response, it retrans-mits the command with the same sequence number. If the host detects an illegal sequence number in an asynchronous reader transmission, it sends a NAK message.
Communications Protocols6-13Incorrect CRCIf the host detects an incorrect CRC value in a reader message, it retransmits the com-mand with the same sequence number. If the host detects an incorrect CRC value in an asynchronous reader transmission, it transmits a NAK message.Transmission TimeoutIf the MPRR does not respond to a host command within a specified interval, the host software retransmits the command with the same sequence number.Receive TimeoutIf the host receives a <som> but does not receive a matching <eom> within a specified timeout interval, it discards the incomplete message and resets its receiver.Asynchronous Message/Command Message CollisionIf the host receives an asynchronous reader transmission at the same time it transmits a command, it ignores the asynchronous message and waits for the MPRR’s response. The MPRR retransmits asynchronous data after it transmits the command message.ECP ReliabilityAn undetected error is defined as a message having incorrect data or status but no par-ity or CRC errors. An error transaction is defined as a message having either a parity or CRC error. Laboratory testing indicates an undetected error rate of less than one undetected error per 1,000,000 error transactions with parity enabled.To ensure this error rate is not exceeded, the host must enable parity and adhere closely to the timing specifications discussed previously in this chapter in the “Timing and Synchronization” section.CRC CalculationThe CRC used by the ECP is based on a 16-bit algorithm. The algorithm, as imple-mented, operates on eight-bit characters, for example, seven-bit ASCII character plus one optional parity bit. The 16-bit result is converted to four ASCII hex characters and is appended to messages transmitted by the MPRR.The MPRR accepts four ASCII < ` > characters (60 hex) as a wild card CRC value in lieu of a valid four-character CRC value to facilitate testing and diagnostic checkout.The MPRR implements the algorithm with a 512-byte lookup table to reduce the pro-cessing overhead requirements. To simplify the implementation of the CRC algorithm by host software developers, several examples of the calculation are provided in C source code on the following pages. The calculation may be performed with or without a lookup table, depending on the trade-off between code memory and processing overhead.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide6-14Example 3 contains an example of UPDCRC that does require a lookup table. Example 1 presents an example of a function (CALCCRC) that calculates the CRC value through a call to a separate function (UPDCRC).unsigned short calccrc(char *message){unsigned short crc = 0;for ( ; *message != (char)0;message++) crc = updcrc(*message & 0xff, crc);return (crc)}Example 2 shows an example of UPDCRC that does not require a lookup table.#define BITS_PER_CHAR 8unsigned short updcrc (unsigned short ch, unsigned short crc){register short counter = BITS_PER_CHAR;register short temp = crc;while (--counter >= 0) if (temp & 0x8000) {temp <<= 1;temp += (((ch <<= 1) & 0x0100) != 0);temp ^= 0x1021; } else {temp <<= 1;temp += (((ch <<= 1) & 0x0100) != 0); }return(temp);}#define updcrc(cp, crc)( crctab[((crc >> 8) & 255)]^ (crc << 8) ^ cpstatic unsigned short crctab [256] = {0x0000, 0x1021, 0x2042, 0x3063, 0x4048, 0x50a5, 0x60c6, 0x70e7,0x8108, 0x9129, 0xa14a, 0xb16b, 0xc18c, 0xd1ad, 0xe1ce, 0xf1ef,0x1231, 0x0210, 0x3273, 0x2252, 0x52b5, 0x4294, 0x72f7, 0x62d6,0x9339, 0x8318, 0xb37b, 0xa35a, 0xd3bd, 0xc39c, 0xf3ff, 0xe3de,0x2462, 0x3443, 0x0420, 0x1401, 0x64e6, 0x74c7, 0x44a4, 0x5485,0xa56a, 0xb54b, 0x8528, 0x9509, 0xe5ee, 0xf5cf, 0xc5ac, 0xd58d,
Communications Protocols6-15Example 4 shows an example of a function that creates the lookup table.#include <stdio.h>#define MAX_CHAR 256#define BITS_CHAR 8#define SIGN_BIT 0x8000#define POLY 0x1021unsigned short crctab [MAX_CHAR];main (){unsigned short ch;unsigned short workval;unsigned short bit;0x3653, 0x2672, 0x1611, 0x0630, 0x76d7, 0x66f6, 0x5695, 0x46b4,0xb75b, 0xa77a, 0x9719, 0x8738, 0xf7df, 0xe7fe, 0xd79d, 0xc7bc,0x48c4, 0x58e5, 0x6886, 0x78a7, 0x0840, 0x1861, 0x2802, 0x3823,0xc9cc, 0xd9ed, 0xe98e, 0xf9af, 0x8948, 0x9969, 0xa90a, 0xb92b,0x5af5, 0x4ad4, 0x7ab7, 0x6a96, 0x1a71, 0x0a50, 0x3a33, 0x2a12,0xdbfd, 0xcbdc, 0xfbbf, 0xeb9e, 0x9b79, 0x8b58, 0xbb3b, 0xab1a,0x6ca6, 0x7c87, 0x4ce4, 0x5cc5, 0x2c22, 0x3c03, 0x0c60, 0x1c41,0xedae, 0xfd8f, 0xcdec, 0xddcd, 0xad2a, 0xbd0b, 0x8d68, 0x9d49,0x7e97, 0x6eb6, 0x5ed5, 0x4ef4, 0x3e13, 0x2e32, 0x1e51, 0x0e70,0xff9f, 0xefbe, 0xdfdd, 0xcffc, 0xbf1b, 0xaf3a, 0x9f59, 0x8f78,0x9188, 0x81a9, 0xb1ca, 0xa1eb, 0xd10c, 0xc12d, 0xf14e, 0xe16f,0x1080, 0x00a1, 0x30c2, 0x20e3, 0x5004, 0x4025, 0x7046, 0x6067,0x83b9, 0x9398, 0xa3fb, 0xb3da, 0xc33d, 0xd31c, 0xe37f, 0xf35e,0x02b1, 0x1290, 0x22f3, 0x32d2, 0x4235, 0x5214, 0x6277, 0x7256,0xb5ea, 0xa5cb, 0x95a8, 0x8589, 0xf56e, 0xe54f, 0xd52c, 0xc50d,0x34e2, 0x24c3, 0x14a0, 0x0481, 0x7466, 0x6447, 0x5424, 0x4405,0xa7db, 0xb7fa, 0x8799, 0x97b8, 0xe75f, 0xf77e, 0xc71d, 0xd73c,0x26d3, 0x36f2, 0x0691, 0x16b0, 0x6657, 0x7676, 0x4615, 0x5634,0xd94c, 0xc96d, 0xf90e, 0xe92f, 0x99c8, 0x89e9, 0xb98a, 0xa9ab,0x5844, 0x4865, 0x7806, 0x6827, 0x18c0, 0x08e1, 0x3882, 0x28a3,0xcb7d, 0xdb5c, 0xeb3f, 0xfb1e, 0x8bf9, 0x9bd8, 0xabbb, 0xbb9a,0x4a75, 0x5a54, 0x6a37, 0x7a16, 0x0af1, 0x1ad0, 0x2ab3, 0x3a92,0xfd2e, 0xed0f, 0xdd6c, 0xcd4d, 0xbdaa, 0xad8b, 0x9de8, 0x8dc9,0x7c26, 0x6c07, 0x5c64, 0x4c45, 0x3ca2, 0x2c83, 0x1ce0, 0x0cc1,0xef1f, 0xff3e, 0xcf5d, 0xdf7c, 0xaf9b, 0xbfba, 0x8fd9, 0x9ff8,0x6e17, 0x7e36, 0x4e55, 0x5e74, 0x2e93, 0x3eb2, 0x0ed1, 0x1ef0,};
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide6-16unsigned short carry;for (ch = 0; ch != MAX_CHAR; ch++) {workval = ch << BITS_CHAR;for (bit = BITS_CHAR; bit != 0; bit--) {carry = (workval & SIGN_BIT);workval <<= 1;if (carry)workval ^= POLY;}crctab[ch] = workval;}for (ch = 0; ch != MAX_CHAR; ch++)printf("0x%04x\n", crctab[ch]);}Manually Disabling ECP for MaintenanceUnder certain conditions, communications between the host and MPRR may be lost temporarily and maintenance may be required. The reader or host is sending out a message and waiting for an acknowledgment. When the acknowledgment is not received, the message is sent again. Additional messages are also buffered. Often the first indication that the MPRR software is in an ECP “loop” is when the user/techni-cian sees a recurring display of the same message repeated over and over again on the monitor. The procedure described in the following paragraphs enables the mainte-nance technician to change configuration or test tag reading manually.Assuming that the ECP timeout is at the factory default of 12.7 seconds (or other value that allows enough time for the commands to be manually entered) the following com-mand sequence may be used to break out of an ECP loop. This command sequence uses four ASCII < ` > characters (60 hex) as wild card CRC values.Note: The ASCII <`> character (60 hex) is commonly located on the ~ key.You must acknowledge existing messages by issuing commands with the generic for-mat:#x@‘‘‘‘<eom>where#Start-of-message characterxMessage sequence number. This must be the same as the sequence number of the message being acknowledged@ACK (acknowledgment character)<‘‘‘‘> Wild card CRC value for the message<eom> End-of-message character
Communications Protocols6-17The following is a typical sequence after power-on limiting buffered messages.Note: Ensure that no tags are in the field when you are performing this troubleshoot-ing procedure.CautionTo avoid damage to the MPRR, ensure that you have connected the antenna or a dummy load to the reader before applying power to the reader.Reader transmission on power-up:#0 Model …. SN <crc><eom>Manually enter: #0@````<eom>Reader transmission #2 Copyright 2008 TransCore <crc><eom>Manually enter: #2@````<eom>Manually enter: #101‘‘‘‘<eom> this puts reader into command modeReader response: #1Done<crc><eom>Manually enter: #3610‘‘‘‘<eom> this puts reader into basic protocol,disabling ECPreader response: DoneEnter any other desired diagnostic or directive commands in basic protocol. After maintenance is complete enter the command: #00 to return the reader to data modeor#611 to return to error correcting protocol,and then either cycle power or issue#100````<eom> command to returnreader to data mode
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide6-18
7Commands
7-3Chapter 7CommandsThis chapter discusses the host-transmitted commands that are used to control the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) configuration and operation.IntroductionThe MPRR is delivered from the factory with specified default settings that determine how the reader operates. Commands transmitted by the host computer can change the default settings and control additional features. The commands can be transmitted by manually entering the commands at the host keyboard if the host is in terminal emula-tion mode. The MPRR can also communicate with ASCII terminals.Operating ModesThe MPRR has three modes of operation: data mode, command mode, and download mode. The software for the MPRR contains two separate programs — boot and appli-cation. The boot program has control of the MPRR on startup and when operating in download mode. The application program has control of the MPRR during data mode and command mode operation and holds the application code. Together, they control the MPRR in the three modes of operation.Data ModeThe MPRR is in the data mode upon power-up. While in the data mode, the MPRR sends all communications as data messages, such as tag IDs and reports, to the host computer. Reports provide information on input status changes (input0 and input1), a presence without tag report, and buffer overflow information. The host computer can send only two commands to the MPRR while in data mode: •Command #01 Switch To Command Mode changes the MPRR from the data mode to the command mode. See “01 Switch to Command Mode” on page 7-5.Note: The MPRR transmits ID codes to the host computer when the MPRR is in data mode. If the MPRR remains in the command mode with tags passing through the read zone, all tag IDs are not reported.Command ModeWhile the MPRR is in the command mode, the host computer sends commands to the MPRR that can be used to control the operation and configuration of the reader. After the MPRR receives a command, it transmits a command response message. Typically,
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-4the command message contains Error, Done, or data relating specifically to the command request. These messages may be of variable length since some commands require information as part of the message; for example, Display ATA Mode Status. Communications can be lost if the host computer attempts to send certain commands under marginal communications conditions. For example, if the host computer trans-mits the command request to change the baud rate and the MPRR properly receives the request and transmits the Done message, one of the two following conditions may occur:•If the host computer receives the Done message, then both the host and the MPRR switch to the new baud rate, and communications are maintained. Note: In many applications, the host must be set to the new baud rate as it will not change automatically.Note: The MPRR changes the baud rate immediately after issuing the Done message.•However, if the host does not receive the Done message transmitted by the MPRR, the host assumes that the command was not properly sent and does not switch to the new baud rate, causing a loss of communications. CautionThe host computer should not attempt to change communications parameters or protocols during marginal communications conditions; otherwise, a loss of commu-nications can result.Download ModeIn download mode, the MPRR allows the host to download new software.While in download mode, the reader communications port parameters are fixed at the following factory-default settings: 38400 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, soft-ware flow control (XON/XOFF), basic protocol.While in download mode, the MPRR turns RF off, does not process tags, and does not echo host commands.Command ListReader commands are divided into groups based on primary function. The following sections provide information about each command in command number order. Refer to Appendix D for listings of commands in numerical and alphabetical order.In the following text, the symbols < and > represent variable message data. These symbols are not part of the message syntax.Hex digits (0–9, A–F) in either uppercase or lowercase characters may be used in data strings and for hex digits A–F.
Commands7-5Reader Mode Control — Command Group 0Group 0 commands control reader mode. The mode determines whether the reader is transmitting data to or receiving data from a host computer or terminal.00 Switch to Data Mode (Factory Default)Command #00 switches the reader to data mode, which allows the reader to transmit tag data (ID codes) to the host. The reader enters data mode on power up.While operating in data mode, the reader accepts the following commands: •Command #01 Switch to Command Mode Reader response:Done01 Switch to Command ModeCommand #01 switches the reader to command mode, which allows the reader to accept commands from a host or terminal. While in command mode, the reader turns RF off and does not acquire tags.Reader response:DoneCommunications Port Control — Command Group 1Group 1 commands configure the parameters used by the MPRR to communicate with a host computer or terminal. These commands set baud rate, stop bits, parity, and end-of-line delay.100N Select Baud RateCommand #100N selects the reader baud rate. The factory-default setting is 9600 baud. The N variable specifies the baud rate shown in Table 7-1.Table 7-1 Select Baud Rate CommandsCommand Baud Rate Selected1002 12001003 24001004 48001005 9600 (factory default)1006 19.2 K1007 38.4 K
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-6CautionIf ECP is enabled, ensure that the ECP timeout is sufficient for the new baud rate.Reader response:Done 101N Select Stop BitsCommand #101N selects the number of stop bits for reader character transmission. The factory default setting is 1 stop bit. The N variable specifies the number of stop bits as indicated in Table 7-2.Reader response:Done102N Select ParityCommand #102N selects the reader parity setting. The factory-default setting is par-ity disabled. The N variable specifies parity as shown in Table 7-3.Reader response:DoneCommand Group 2Group 2 commands control the real-time clock which maintains the MPRR internal time and date. This time and date can be appended to IDs, error messages, and sensor input reports. An internal battery supports the clock, so time and date are preserved if main power is lost.20 Set TimeCommand #20 sets the time. Enter the time in the proper format: two-digit decimal entries with no spaces between characters and using colons as delimiters.Table 7-2 Select Stop Bits CommandsCommand Stop Bits Selected1010 1 (factory default)1011 2Table 7-3 Select Parity CommandsCommand Data Bits Parity Selected1020 8 Disable parity (factory default)1021 7 Select even parity1022 7 Select odd parity
Commands7-7The entry format is as follows:20HH:MM:SS or 20HH:MM:SS:hhwhereHH represents hours (00 to 23).MM represents minutes (00 to 59).SS represents seconds (00 to 59).hh represents hundredths of a second (00 to 99).:is the time delimiter.If hundredths of a second is not specified, the reader sets the hundredths register to 00.Reader response:Done21 Set DateCommand #21 sets the date. Enter the date in the proper format: two-digit decimal entries with no spaces between characters and using forward slashes “/” as delimiters. The entry format is as follows:21MM/DD/YYwhereMM represents the month (01 to 12).DD represents the day (01 to 31).YY represents the last two digits of the year (00 to 99)./is the date delimiter.Reader response:Done22 Display Time and DateCommand #22 displays the reader’s current time and date. One space separates the time and the date output.Reader response:HH:MM:SS.hh MM/DD/YYwhereHH represents hours.MM represents minutes.SS represents seconds.hh represents hundredths of seconds.
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-8:is the time delimiter.MM represents the month.DD represents the day.YY represents the last two digits of the year./is the date delimiter.Append Information — Command Group 3Group 3 commands append useful information to reader transmissions, such as IDs, error messages, and sensor input reports. Auxiliary information such as reader num-ber, antenna number (or manual entry code), number of times the previous tag was read, and sensor input status can be appended to the ID using the Group 3 commands.30N Append Time and Date SelectionCommand #30N selects the option of appending the time and date to transmitted IDs, error messages, presence without tag reports, and input status change reports. The factory default setting is time and date appended (command #302).The reader returns an Error message if its tag buffer contains data. The reset reader command #63 may be transmitted to clear the buffer; however, tag ID data will not be reported. If this is unacceptable, allow the buffer to empty before re-issuing append time and date command #30N. Append Time and Date commands are shown in Table 7-4 The reader transmits messages with time and date appended as follows. One space separates the time from the date.<string>&<HH:MM:SS.hh MM/DD/YY>wherestring is a tag ID, error message, or report.& separates <string> from the time and date.HH:MM:SS is the time delimiter.MM/DD/YY is the date delimiter.Reader response:DoneTable 7-4 Append Time and Date CommandsCommand Append Option300 No time and date appended302 Time and date appended (factory default)
Commands7-931N Append Auxiliary Information SelectionCommand #31N selects the option of appending auxiliary information to transmitted IDs, presence-without-tag reports, and input status change reports. Auxiliary informa-tion is not appended to error messages. The factory-default setting is no auxiliary information appended. The N variable specifies whether or not auxiliary information is to be appended. Append Auxiliary Information commands are shown in Table 7-5. The reader transmits messages with auxiliary information appended as:<message data>%<xx-y-zz-q>where%separates the auxiliary information and signals the hostcomputer that auxiliary information is appended.xx reader ID. Value can be set with command #60NN.-auxiliary information delimiteryantenna number. Value fixed at 0.zz number of reads (00 to FF hexadecimal) of the previous tagqcurrent status of input0 and input1 (0 to 3). Not applicable to the MPRR.Reader response:Done ID Filtering — Command Group 4Group 4 commands set criteria for filtering (buffering or discarding) ID codes. These commands are useful for eliminating duplicate ID codes and selecting the type of tags read by the MPRR.40 Transmit All ID CodesCommand #40 instructs the reader to transmit all IDs without regard for uniqueness. This command can be useful when tuning the read zone and mapping the footprint or performing diagnostics.After diagnostics are complete, you may want to reinstate the uniqueness check using command #410N Select Unique ID Code Criteria.Table 7-5 Append Auxiliary Information CommandsCommand Append Option310 No auxiliary information appended (factory default)311 Auxiliary information appended
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-10Reader response:Done410N Select Unique ID Code Criteria (Anti-passback Feature)Command #410N instructs the reader to buffer and transmit ID codes according to the following test: an ID is read if previously decoded IDs have changed value at least N+1 times since the new ID was last received. IDs that do not pass the test are not read. The factory-default setting is command #4100, which selects a separation of one ID. Variable N specifies ID separation as shown in Table 7-6.Each time the reader receives a tag ID, it compares the ID with the contents of a com-parison register. This register contains the following two items:Item 1 Most recently acquired ID (different from Item 2)Item 2 Second-most recently acquired ID (different from Item 3)Item 3 Third-most recently acquired ID (different from Item 4)Item 4 Fourth-most recently acquired IDWhen the uniqueness filter is set to separation of one ID, the newly acquired ID is transmitted only if it is different from the first item. Separation of two IDs allows transmission if the new ID is different from Items 1 and 2 in the comparison register. Separation of three and four IDs transmit the new ID only if it is different from the first three and the first four items, respectively.Note: A new ID can fail the filter test and not be transmitted; however, it remains stored in the comparison register.The uniqueness test has a two-minute time limit. If an ID is buffered, it will not be accepted again unless it arrives at the reader more than two minutes from the previous arrival or until the receipt of one or more other IDs reset the uniqueness. Reader response:Done420N Select Valid ID Code CriteriaCommand #420N directs the reader to validate an ID received only after it has been Table 7-6 Unique ID Code CriteriaCommand Uniqueness Criteria4100 Separation of 1 ID (factory default)4101 Separation of 2 IDs4102 Separation of 3 IDs4103 Separation of 4 IDs
Commands7-11obtained a specified number of times in sequence. Values for N are 0 through 3 (Table 7-7). The factory setting is one acquisition (N = 0).The validation procedure is executed before the unique ID test (Select Unique ID Code Criteria [#410N] commands). IDs that do not pass the validation test are not reported.For example, command #4203 specifies that the same ID must be obtained from the antenna/RF module 4 times in succession before it is considered for the uniqueness test. This feature is useful in installations where RF reflections may cause a single tag to be read multiple times or where an occasional ID might be read from fringe areas43 Buffer All ID CodesCommand #43 buffers all acquired ID codes. It effectively cancels any uniqueness criteria previously set by select unique ID code criteria command 410N. Note: Command #43 is for diagnostic purposes only.After diagnostics are complete, reset the select unique ID code criteria using command 410N.Reader response:Done440 Reset UniquenessCommand 440 causes the ID filtering process set by Select Unique ID Code Criteria (#410N) to restart. It is used in conjunction with the Variable Timeout #44N) com-mands. This command provides a one-time reset at which point the previously set time-out interval resumes. This command can be sent in data or command mode.44N Set Uniqueness TimeoutPlaces a time limit on the uniqueness criterion set by Select Unique ID Code Criteria (#410N). The parameter N sets the number of minutes on the time-out clock. The factory setting is two minutes (N = 1).Command Time-Out Clock#441 2 minutes (factory setting)Table 7-7 Select Valid Code Commands and FramesCommand Valid Code Frames4200 1 (factory default)4201 24202 34203 4
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-12#442 15 seconds#443 30 secondsEntering these commands effectively expires the time-out clock, which erases all cur-rent IDs in the comparison register. In effect, the first ID that is acquired after the clock expires always appears to be new and is stored. Newly acquired IDs are only tested against IDs that are registered after the clock resets.The time-out clock is continually reset (does not expire) as long as the reader receives the same tag ID. For example, assume that the time-out clock is set for 2 minutes and there is a railcar parked on a siding in front of the reader. Without this reset feature, the railcar’s ID would be reported every 2 minutes (each time the time-out clock expired).452 Disable Tag Translation Mode (Factory Default)Command #452 disables tag translation mode. Incoming full-frame tags will be directly converted to ASCII. They will not be translated from Association of American Railroads (AAR) and American Trucking Associations (ATA) format to ASCII.Reader response:Done453 Enable Tag Translation ModeCommand #453 enables the translation of tags in AAR and ATA formats. Specific data fields, such as owner ID and car number, will be extracted from these tags, translated according to AAR or ATA standards, and converted to ASCII. Tags that are not programmed in AAR or ATA format will be directly converted to ASCII. The reader will not attempt to translate data from half-frame or dual-frame tags. Reader response:Done454 Disable Multi-tag Sort (Factory Default)Command #454 is a default set in the factory to disable the multi-tag sort function. Reader response:Done455 Enable Multi-tag SortCommand #455 enables the multi-tag sort function that allows the reader to identify unique tags within a group of Intellitag-based tags. Multi-tag sort allows full operation of the tags and reader to be carried out with any number of tags in the presence of the reader.Reader response:Done Note: Enabling the multi-tag sort function adversely affects the vehicle speed at which tags may be read. If there is only one Intellitag-based tag in the vehicles of the target population, multi-tag sort should be disabled.
Commands7-13456 Enable SeGo Protocol Tag Initialization During Multi-tag Sort (Factory Default)Command #456 enables the reader to send the SeGo protocol tag initialize command as part of the multi-tag sort function. When the reader sends the SeGo protocol tag ini-tialize command, all tags in the RF field reenter the sort process.Reader response:Done 457 Disable SeGo Protocol Tag Initialization During Multi-tag SortCommand #457 disables the reader from sending the SeGo protocol tag initialize command as part of the multi-tag sort function. Any SeGo protocol tags already iden-tified by the reader during the sort process will not be re-identified as long as they remain powered in the RF field. The reader will only identify new tags that come into the RF field or tags that do not remain powered in the RF field.Reader response:Done480 Disable ATACommand #480 disables the reader from reading ATA protocol tags.481 Enable ATACommand #481 enables the reader to read ATA protocol data from tags if the reader is programmed to read this tag protocol.484 Disable SeGoCommand #484 disables the reader from reading SeGo protocol data from tags.485 Enable SeGoCommand #485 enables the reader to read SeGo protocol data from tags if the reader is programmed to read this tag protocol.488 Disable eATACommand #488 disables the reader from reading factory-programmed eATA data from tags.489 Enable eATACommand #489 enables the reader to read factory-programmed eATA data from SeGo protocol tags.496 Disable Alternate Group Select (Factory Default)Command #496 disables the alternate group select function that allows the reader to distinguish tags meeting specific criteria pre-programmed into the tags.Reader response:
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-14Done497 Enable Alternate Group SelectCommand #497 enables the alternate group select function that allows the reader to distinguish tags meeting specific criteria pre-programmed into the tags.Reader response:Done Reader Status — Command Group 5Group 5 commands provide status reports on the parameters and operation of the reader.505 Display Software VersionCommand #505 displays the reader model number, software version information, and assigned serial number. Reader response:Model E4 Series Ver X.XX SNYYYYYYwhereX.XX Version numberYYYYYY Serial number of the unit, skipping the fourth character printed on the reader product label506 Display Hardware Configuration InformationCommand #506 displays hardware configuration information stored in the reader memory by the user. Hardware configuration information is empty by default until you set the information to any 20 character ASCII string desired using command #696S...S.Reader response: An ASCII string from 1 to 20 characters in length510 Display RF Transceiver FPGA VersionCommand #510 displays RF FPGA VER = XX.XX511 Display RF Transceiver I Filter Chip VersionCommand #511 displays FIL IC I VER = XX.XX512 Display RF Transceiver Q Filter Chip VersionCommand #512 displays FIL IC Q VER = XX.XX513 Display DSP Board Actel VersionCommand #513 displays DSP FPGA VER = XX.XX
Commands7-15520 Display Power Fail BitCommand #520 displays the value of the reader power fail bit. The power fail bit changes from 0 to 1 when power to the reader is interrupted. To reset the bit, use com-mand #63 Reset Reader or command #65 Reset Power Fail Bit. On initial power-up, the host should transmit one of these two commands to clear the power fail bit.Reader response:PWRB P<0 to 1>R0whereP0 No power failure detectedP1 Power failure detectedR0 Not applicable to the MPRR 521 Display Reader ID NumberCommand #521 displays the reader ID that is sent in the auxiliary data field. Reader response:RDID xx where xx = 01 to FF (hexadecimal)522 Display Communications Port ParametersCommand #522 displays the selected communications port parameters, including the baud rate (#100N), the number of stop bits (#101N), the parity scheme (#102N), and the end-of-line delay.Reader response:MAIN B<2 to 7> S<0 to 1> P<0 to 2> D0whereB2 1200 baudB3 2400 baudB4 4800 baudB5 9600 baud (factory default)B6 19.2 kbpsB7 38.4 kbpsS0 one stop bit (factory default)S1 two stop bits
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-16P0 no parity (factory default)P1 even parityP2 odd parityD0 00 ms end-of-line delay (fixed)One space is required between each value. For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message isMAIN B5 S0 P0 D0indicating 9600 baud, one stop bit, no parity, and 0 ms end-of-line delay.Note: The information transmitted in response to command #522 applies to data and command mode operation only. While operating in download mode, default communi-cations parameters are always used.524 Display Appended Information StatusCommand #524 displays the information being appended to the reader transmissions. Command #31N appends information.Reader response:IDAP T<0 to 1> D<0 to 1> X<0 to 1>whereT0 Time not appendedT1 Time appendedD0 Date not appendedD1 Date appendedX0 Auxiliary information not appended (factory default)X1 Auxiliary information appendedOne space is required between each value. For example, if factory-default settings are assigned, the reader response isIDAP T1 D1 X0indicating time and date appended, and auxiliary information not appended.Note: Time and date may be appended to ID codes, error messages, presence without tag reports, and input status change reports. Auxiliary information may only be appended to ID codes, presence without tag reports, and input change reports.
Commands7-17525 Display Communications Protocol StatusCommand #525 displays the status of command #61N Selected Communications Protocol, command #614N Selected Mode of Flow Control, and command #612NN ECP Timeout.Reader response:ECPS P<0 to 1> T<01 to FF> X<0 to 2> S0whereP0 Basic protocol enabled (factory default)P1 ECP enabledTxx ECP timeout where xx = 01 to FE (hexadecimal)Timeout (ms) = 50 * xxIf xx = FF timeout disabledX0 Flow control disabledX1 Software flow control enabled (factory default)X2 Hardware flow control enabledS0 start of message character is #For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message is:ECPS P0 TFE X1 S0which means basic protocol enabled, an ECP timeout of 254 (12,700 ms, 12.7 sec), software flow control enabled, and start of message character is #.527 Display RF StatusCommand #527 displays the current status of the RF module. The reader response indicates whether RF is controlled externally by the host, set by command #640N RF Control, or internally by input set by command #641 (not applicable to the MPRR). RF always controlled by Sense0 and Sense1 when reader is in MPRR mode. See “MUX Operational Modes” on page 7-35. Command #527 also displays the current RF status and the uniqueness timeout.Note: If you enter RF settings using command #642NN, the display command for RF output frequency, F is “Fxx” and indicates use of the backward-compatible frequency entry method.Reader response:RFST C<0 to 1> O<0 to 1> T<1 to 3> Fxxx Rxx Gxx Axx IxxwhereC0 RF controlled by hostC1 RF controlled by presence sensor on input0, the red/green pair (factory default)O0 RF off
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-18O1 RF onT1 Uniqueness timeout of two minutesT2 Uniqueness timeout of 15 secondsT3 Uniqueness timeout of 30 secondsFxxx RF output frequency, xxx = 000 to 118 hexadecimal offset in 250 kHz from 860 MHz. If an invalid frequency value is stored (corrupted NVRAM), then xxx = “XXX” to indicate an error in the frequency setting.Rxx Tag decoder range (distance) for ATA tags, xx = 00 to 1F hexadecimal range value Gxx Tag decoder range (distance) for SeGo protocol tags, xx = 00 to 1F hexadecimal range valueAxx RF power attenuation, where 00 is maximum output power and 0A is minimum output power (10dB less than maximum power).Ixx IAG RF power attenuation, where 00 is maximum output power and 0F is minimum output power (15 dB less than maximum power)For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message isRFST C1 O0 T1 Fxx R1F G1F A00 I04which means that RF is enabled by presence sensor on input0, RF signal off, unique-ness timeout of two minutes, RF output frequency has not been set, maximum RF out-put range for ATA tags, maximum RF output range for eGo and eGo Plus tags, full RF power, and IAG power set at 4 dB attenuation.529 Display Presence Input StatusCommand #529 displays the parameters associated with presence detection and RF control. The reader’s message indicates if presence without tag reports are enabled/disabled (#690N Select Presence without Tag Report Option), if input inversion is enabled/disabled (#694N Select Input Inversion Option), and the minimum presence true period (always true). The reader’s message also reports the selected RF timeout (#693N Select RF Timeout Period) and the selected means of RF-off control (#692N Select RF Control Algorithm). If presence without tag reports is enabled (#6901 Enable Presence without Tag Reports), the reader transmits a report if a presence is detected without the subsequent acquisition of a valid tag.Note: RF timeout values vary depending on the operative tag read mode and the type of tag in the read field. All times are approximate.Reader response:PRST P<0 to 1> D0 A<0 to 2> T<0 to F> I<0 to 1>
Commands7-19whereP0 Presence without tag reports disabled (factory default)P1 Presence without tag reports enabledD0 Minimum presence true period of 0 ms (fixed)A0 RF off on timeout onlyA1 RF off on timeout or tag A2 RF off on timeout or presence condition false (factory default)T0 RF timeout of 0 ms (always expired)T1 4 msT2 8 msT3 12 msT4 20 msT5 24 msT6 32 msT7 48 msT8 60 msT9 92 msTA 152 msTB 300 msTC 452 msTD 600 msTE 752 msTF RF timeout infinite, never expires (factory default)I0 input inversion disabled (factory default)I1 input inversion enabledFor example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message is
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-20PRST P0 D0 A2 TF I0which means that presence without tag reports is disabled, minimum presence true period is 0, RF off control on timeout or presence false, infinite RF timeout, and input inversion disabled.530 Display RF0 Filter StatusCommand #530 displays the parameter set for the RF input, including the selected unique ID code criteria (#410N Select Unique ID Code Criteria) and the valid ID code criteria, which are fixed at one acquisition.Reader response:RF0S U<0 to 2> V0whereU0 One ID separation (factory default)U1 Two ID separationsU2 Transmit all IDsV0 Valid ID code criteria of one acquisition (fixed)For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message isRF0S U0 V0which means separation of one ID for uniqueness filtering and a valid ID code criteria of one acquisition.534 Display Tag Translation Mode StatusCommand #534 displays tag translation mode status, enabled or disabled. If tag translation mode is enabled, incoming full-frame tags in AAR or ATA format are translated according to ISO standards. Refer to “452 Disable Tag Translation Mode (Factory Default)” on page 7-12 and “453 Enable Tag Translation Mode” on page 7-12 for more information.Reader response:TT <0 to 1>where0tag translation mode disabled1tag translation mode enabled537 Display Echo StatusCommand #537 displays echo mode status. In basic protocol (#610 Select Basic Protocol), the reader may be configured to enable (#6171 Enable Echo Mode) or dis-able (#6170 Disable Echo Mode) the echo of received commands. Refer to sections 6170 Disable Echo Mode and “6171 Enable Echo Mode (Factory Default)” on page 7-25 for more information.
Commands7-21Reader response:ECHO <0 to 1>where0Echo status disabled (factory default)1Echo status enabled540 Display Flash ChecksumCommand #540 displays the flash memory checksum.Reader response:PCKS I0000 Exxxxwhere0000 Not applicable to the MPRR xxxx Represents the four-byte ASCII representation of the flash memory checksum543 Display Boot Checksum Command #543 displays the boot ROM checksum.Reader response:BCKS xxxxwhere xxxx represents the four-byte ASCII representation of the boot ROM check-sum.552 Display Antenna Multiplexing ModeCommand #552 displays the antenna multiplexing mode When the MPRR mode is enabled, the response is Reader response:MUX <x>wherex = 0 antenna multiplexing disabled, RF on port 0 onlyx = 1 antenna multiplexing between RF ports 0 and 1 when sense0 activex = 2 antenna multiplexing between RF ports 0 and 1 when sense0 active andRF port 2 when sense1 activex = 3 antenna multiplexing between RF ports 0 and 1 when sense0 active andRF ports 2 and 3 when sense1 active
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-22560 Request Sensor Status ChangeCommand #560 displays the sensor status change reporting. Not applicable to the MPRR Reader response:SSTC E<0 to 1>M<0 to 3>whereE0 Input status change reports disabled (factory default)E1 Input status change reports enabledM0 Reporting disabled (factory default)M1 Changes on input0 reportedM2 Changes on input1 reportedM3 Changes on either input reportedFor example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message isSSTC E0 M0which means that input status change reports are disabled on both input0 and input1.570 Display Operating Mode StatusCommand #570 displays the currently selected tag read mode.Reader response:ATA:<E, D> eGo:<I, F, D> SeGo:<I, F, D> IAG:<E, D> Sort:<E, D>whereI ID (64 bits)E EnabledF Full transaction (eATA)D Disabled577 Report Buffered HandshakesCommand #577 reports the buffered handshakes. When in MPRR mode and/or if antenna multiplexing is enabled, the response isReader response:HDSH C0 <ww> C1 <xx> C2 <yy> C3 <zz> whereww is count from part 0, xx is count from part 1, yy is count from part 2, and zz is count from part 3.
Commands7-23Reader Control Functions — Command Group 6Group 6 commands set reader control functions such as reader ID, communication protocol, output pulse, and RF control.60NN Set Reader ID NumberCommand #60NN sets the reader ID that will be sent in the auxiliary data field (com-mand #311). Uppercase or lowercase characters are allowed for NN; for example, hex digits A though F or a through fwhere NN = 00 to FF (hex for 0 to 255, factory default = 00).Reader response:Done610 Select Basic Communication Protocol (Factory Default)Command #610 enables the basic communications protocol.Reader response:Done 611 Select Error Correcting ProtocolCommand #611 enables the error correcting protocol. Reader response:DoneCautionDo not switch to ECP (command #611 Select Error Correcting Protocol) unless the host is prepared to acknowledge each reader transmission.612NN Select Error Correcting Protocol TimeoutCommand #612NN selects the timeout interval for ECP. This timeout applies to the transmission of tag, report, and error messages and to the receipt of host commands. The transmit timeout is initiated immediately after the end-of-message sequence CR/LF is transmitted. If the host does not acknowledge the message within the specified interval, the reader times out and retransmits the message.The receive timeout is initiated upon receipt of the start-of-message character (#). If the end-of-message character (CR) is not received within the specified interval, the reader discards the partially received message and resets its receiver.Uppercase or lowercase characters are allowed for NN; for example, hex digits A through F or a through f.The value for NN specifies the timeout interval as follows:ms 50 * NN for NN = 01 to FE (1–254)FE Factory default (12,700 ms, 12.7 seconds)
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-24FF Disables the ECP timeoutReader response:Done CautionEnsure that the ECP timeout is sufficient for a given baud rate.613 Enable Data Inquiry ProtocolCommand #613 enable the data inquiry protocol. Reader response:Done 614N Select Flow Control OptionCommand #614N selects the flow control option for reader-to-host communications. The factory default setting is software flow control (XON/XOFF) enabled. In down-load mode, flow control is not host-selectable; it is fixed at the default setting. How-ever, during data mode and command mode operation, the following flow control options are available. The N variable specifies flow control as shown in Table 7-8. Reader response:DoneIf the reader is configured for software flow control (XON/XOFF), it stops transmit-ting if it receives an XOFF character (host software command 13H). It does not resume transmitting until it receives an XON character (host software command 11H). If the reader is configured for hardware flow control (RTS/CTS, request to send/clear to send), it stops transmission if it detects that the CTS line is no longer asserted. It resumes transmission when this line is asserted again.Note: TransCore recommends that XON/XOFF flow control be disabled while using the ECP.6170 Disable Echo ModeCommand #6170 disables the reader’s echo of received host commands. If operating in basic protocol or data inquiry protocol, the reader echoes by default. As the reader receives a host command, it echoes each character of the command. Once the entire command has been received and processed, the reader transmits its response. If echo-Table 7-8 Flow Control CommandsCommand Flow Control Option6140 Disable flow control6141 Enable software flow control (factory default)6142 Enable hardware flow control
Commands7-25ing is disabled with command #6170, the reader does not echo the command, but only transmits its response. The reader never echoes while in ECP or download mode operation.Reader response:Done6171 Enable Echo Mode (Factory Default)Command #6171 enables the reader to echo received host commands. Command #6170 disables echo mode.Reader response:Done 63 Reset ReaderCommand #63 resets the power fail bit, clears all buffers, resets tag uniqueness, turns off both output lines, transmits the sign-on message, and returns to the data mode.Note: This command does not reset any other configuration parameters. Reader response:Model E4 Series Ver X.XX SNYYYYYYCopyright 2008 TransCorewhereX.XXD Version numberYYYYYY Serial number of the unit, skipping the fourth character printed on the reader product label.640N RF ControlCommand #640N directly controls the RF module. The N value controls the RF power as shown in Table 7-9.Note: These commands only have an effect when the reader is not in MPRR mode. See commands #836 and #837.Command #6400 disables RF-by-input control command #641 Select RF-by-Input Control.Table 7-9 RF Control CommandsCommand RF Power6400 Turns off RF6401 Turns on RF6402 Turns on continuous wave (CW) RF until command 6400 or 641 is received by the reader.
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-26Reader response:Done641 Select RF-by-Input Control (Factory Default)Command #641 configures the reader for RF-by-input control. The reader automati-cally turns on RF when it detects a presence through sense0. The reader turns off RF according to the selected RF control algorithm (#692N Select RF Control Algorithm).Note: This command only has an effect when the reader is not in MPRR mode. Reader response:Done643NN Select ATA Operating Range (Distance)Command #643NN selects the read range for ATA tags where NN is a hexadecimal value from 00 to 1F; the range increases with increasing NN value. The range can be adjusted for 32 discrete values where 00 is the shortest range and 1F is the longest range. The default range value is 1F.Reader response:Done644NN Set RF AttenuationCommand #644NN sets the attenuation control for the output RF power where NN is a hexidecimal value from 00 to 0A. Settings for attenuation are 1.0 dB increments over a range of 10 dB of attenuation from the maximum power setting of 2 watts at 0-dB attenuation to a minimum power level of 200 milliwatts at 10-dB attenuation.The Set RF Attenuation command NN variables and corresponding attenuation set-tings are shown in Table 7-10. Table 7-10 RF Attenuation Command VariablesVariable (NN) Attenuation Setting (dB)00 0 (factory default)01 102 203 304 405 506 607 7
Commands7-27Reader response:Done645NN Set SeGo Protocol Operating Range (Distance)Command #645NN sets the read range for SeGo protocol tags where NN is a hexadec-imal value from 00 to 1F; the range increases with increasing NN value. The range can be adjusted for 32 discrete values where 00 is the shortest range and 1F is the longest range. The default range value is 1F.Reader response:Done647XXX Select RF Operating FrequencyCommand #647XXX sets the reader RF from 860 to 930 MHz in 250-kHz steps, where XXX is a hexadecimal value from 000 to 118. After the reader’s frequency is set, the value is stored in non-volatile RAM (NVRAM). This value is not altered by power-down.If the NVRAM becomes corrupted, the correct operating frequency cannot be guaran-teed. In this circumstance, the RF section shuts down and the reader sends an Error06 message to the host. Until the frequency is reset using command #647XXX, the unit displays the same error message every time it is powered up or if an attempt is made to enable the RF by host or by external sensor.The commands to set the RF frequency are presented in Table 7-11.08 809 90A 10Table 7-11 Select RF Frequency CommandsCommand RF Frequency (MHz)647000 860.00.....6470CF 911.756470D0 912.00Table 7-10 RF Attenuation Command Variables (continued)Variable (NN) Attenuation Setting (dB)
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-28Reader response:Done65 Reset Power Fail BitCommand #65 resets the power fail bit to 0. The bit changes from 0 to 1 when power is restored to the reader. Upon reader power-up, the host transmits either command #65 or #63 Reset Reader to properly initialize this bit. The current state of the power fail bit may be displayed. Refer to “520 Display Power Fail Bit” on page 7-15 for more information.6470D1 912.256470D2 912.506470D3 912.756470D4 913.00......6470EA 918.506470EB 918.756470EC 919.006470ED 919.256470EE 919.506470EF 919.75.....657113 928.75647114 929.00647115 929.25647116 929.50647117 929.75647118 930.00Table 7-11 Select RF Frequency Commands (continued)Command RF Frequency (MHz)
Commands7-29Reader response:Done66F Load Default Operating ParametersCommand #66F loads all the factory default operating parameters except RF operat-ing frequency. Refer to Table 8-2, MPRR Default Configuration Settings” for a listing of the defaults.Reader response:Done All parameters loaded OKError A parameter load failed690N Select Presence Without Tag Report OptionCommand #690N enables or disables the presence without tag report option. If the presence without tag reporting option is enabled using command #6901, input reports are transmitted when a tag presence is detected without the subsequent acqui-sition of a valid tag. The value for N specifies the reports as shown in Table 7-12.Note: These commands only have an effect when the reader is not in MPRR mode. Reader response:DoneRefer to “Basic Protocol and ECP Format” on page 6-5 for message format informa-tion.692N Select RF Control AlgorithmCommand #692N selects the algorithm for turning off RF power when RF-by-input control is enabled using command #641 Select RF-by-Input Control. The values for N specify the RF control algorithms as shown in Table 7-13.Note: These commands only have an effect when the reader is not in MPRR mode. Table 7-12 Presence Without Tag Report CommandsCommand Report Option6900 Disable presence without tag reports (factory default)6901 Enable presence without tag reportsTable 7-13 RF Control Algorithm CommandsCommand RF Power Off6920 On timeout only 6921 Timeout or tag ID acquired
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-30Command #6920 turns off RF power based on the timeout established by command #693N Set RF Timeout Period.Command #6921 allows RF power to be turned off either after the timeout period or upon acquisition of a valid tag ID, whichever occurs first.Command #6922 turns off RF power either after the timeout period or upon the pres-ence false condition, whichever occurs first.Reader response:Done693N Select RF Timeout PeriodCommand #693N selects the RF timeout period used by command #692N Select RF Control Algorithm. Values for N range from 0 through F.Command #693F disables the RF timeout. The reader turns off the RF immediately following the acquisition of a valid tag, whether or not it is unique.Uppercase or lowercase characters are allowed for N; for example, hex digits A through F or a through f. The commands and corresponding timeouts are shown in Table 7-14.Note: These commands only have an effect when the reader is not in MPRR mode. 6922 Timeout or presence false (factory default)Table 7-14 Timeout Period ValuesCommand Timeout (ms)6930 0 (always expired)6931 46932 86933 126934 206935 246936 326937 486938 606939 92693A 152Table 7-13 RF Control Algorithm CommandsCommand RF Power Off
Commands7-31Reader response:Done or Error.The reader returns an Error message if a valid hexadecimal digit is not substituted for N in command #693N.694N Select Input Inversion OptionCommand #694N enables or disables input inversion. When inversion is enabled, an open circuit input is interpreted as a closed circuit, and a closed circuit input is inter-preted as an open circuit. This feature allows greater flexibility in the attachment of external equipment to the reader inputs. For example, some proximity sensors indicate presence with an open circuit. In this instance, command #6941 can enable input inversion so that an open circuit input indicates a presence. The values for N represent the two inversion options as shown in Table 7-15. Reader response:Done695S...S Set Serial NumberCommand #695 assigns the reader serial number according to the format:695SSSSSSwhere SSSSSS is the serial number.The serial number may contain as many as six uppercase or lowercase ASCII alphanu-meric characters. Note: The factory-assigned serial number of the reader contains seven characters. However, to maintain backward compatibility, the reader software allows only six 693B 300693C 452693D 600693E 752693F Infinite (never expires, factory default)Table 7-15 Input Inversion OptionsCommand Option6940 Disable input inversion (factory default)6941 Enable input inversionTable 7-14 Timeout Period Values (continued)Command Timeout (ms)
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-32characters to be entered. When setting the serial number, skip the fourth (middle) character of the seven-character number shown on the reader product label.Note: Once assigned, the serial number is preserved during power-down and the loading of default parameters.Reader response:Done696S...S Store Hardware Configuration StringCommand #696S...S stores hardware configuration information into reader mem-ory.The hardware configuration string is assigned according to the following format:696S...Swhere S...S is the hardware configuration string that may contain as many as 20 uppercase or lowercase ASCII alphanumeric characters.Note: Once assigned, configuration information is preserved during power-down and the loading of default parameters.Reader response:DoneAuxiliary Reader Control — Command Group 8Group 8 commands provide control of reader functions, such as the sense input lines.8110 Command #8110 turns on RF port0, sends the command on Ctag pin 0 to fire off Ctag address 0.8111Command #8111 turns on RF port1 and sends the command on Ctag pin 0 to fire off Ctag address 1.8112Command #8112 turns on RF port2 and sends the command on Ctag pin 1 to fire off Ctag address 0.8113Command #8113 turns RF port3 and sends the command on Ctag pin 1 to fire off Ctag address 1.8142XCommand #8142X sends the command on Ctag pin 0 to set the Ctag character.
Commands7-338143XCommand #8143X sends the command on Ctag pin 1 to set the Ctag character.8150Command #8150 sets the check tag address to 0 on check tag pin 0.8151Command #8151 sets the check tag address to 1 on check tag pin 0.8152Command #8152 send the command on Ctag pin 1 to set the Ctag address to 0.8153Command #8153 send the command on Ctag pin 1 to set the Ctag address to 1.830 Disable Automatic Periodic RF Status Report (Factory Default)Command #830 is a default set in the factory to disable the automatic periodic RF status report.Reader response:Done831 Enable Automatic Periodic RF Status ReportCommand #831 enables the automatic periodic RF status report. This function sends out a periodic RF status report if no other message (a tag read) is sent from the reader for a period of time. This message is the same message that would be sent in response to the #527 Display RF Status command. Enabling this function is helpful in some sites where there may not be much tag activity, and the user wants an automatic way to ensure the communication channel with the reader is still intact. With this function enabled, the host system will get a message from the reader at least every three min-utes.Reader response:Done 836 Disable MPRR ModeCommand #836 disables the MPRR mode.Reader response:Done 837 Enable MPRR ModeCommand #837 enables the MPRR mode.
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-34Reader response:Done 850 MUX RF Port 0 (Factory Default)Command #850 enables RF port 0.Reader response:Done 851 MUX Between RF Port 0Command #851 multiplexes between RF port 0.Reader response:Done 852 MUX Between RF Ports 0 and 1Command #852 multiplexes between RF ports 0 and 1.Reader response:Done 853 MUX Between RF Ports 0, 1, and 2Command #853 multiplexes between RF ports 0, 1, and 2.Reader response:Done 891 MUX RF Port 1 OnlyCommand #891 multiplexes RF port 1 only.Reader response:Done 892 MUX RF Port 2 OnlyCommand #892 multiplexes RF port 2 only.Reader response:Done 893 MUX RF Port 3 OnlyCommand #893 multiplexes RF port 3 only.Reader response:Done
Commands7-35Check Tag OperationTo enable check tag 0, issue the following commands#8110 – turn on RF port0, send the command on Ctag pin 0, to fire off Ctag address 0.#8111 – turn on RF port1, send the command on Ctag pin 0, to fire off Ctag address 1.#8142X – send the command on Ctag pin 0 to set the Ctag character.#8150 – send the command on Ctag pin 0 to set the Ctag address to 0.#8151 – send the command on Ctag pin 0 to set the Ctag address to 1.To enable check tag 1, issue the following commands#8112 – turn on RF port2, send the command on Ctag pin 1, to fire off Ctag address 0.#8113 – turn on RF port3, send the command on Ctag pin 1, to fire off Ctag address 1.#8143X – send the command on Ctag pin 1 to set the Ctag character.#8152 – send the command on Ctag pin 1 to set the Ctag address to 0.#8153 – send the command on Ctag pin 1 to set the Ctag address to 1.MUX Operational ModesTo enable antenna multiplexing (muxing) operational modes, issue the following commands#836/#837 – Disable/enable MPRR mode#850 – RF port 0 only (factory default)#851 – mux between RF port 0#852 – mux between RF port 0, 1#853 – mux between RF port 0, 1, 2#552 – Display mux setting. This display message will include “MPRR” if MPRR mode is enabled (#837).When MPRR mode is disabled, the reader will continuously step through each port that has been enabled with #85X, running through whichever tag protocols are enabled on each port, in order. The reader turning RF on will be qualified “RF on by sense” setting. Command #6401 is used to turn RF on continuously and bypass the RF on by sense. Sense0 is used for all antennas that are enabled, if RF is turned on by sense, #641.When MPRR mode is enabled, you must use Sense0 and Sense1 to turn on RF and read tags. Sense0, when shorted to reader signal ground, will enable tag reads on RF ports 0 and 1 (if enabled with #851) and Sense1 will enable tag reads on Ports 2 and 3 (if enabled with #853). For example, if commands #837 and #853 have been entered, Sense0 is open, Sense1 shorted, and the reader is in data mode, the reader will attempt tag reads toggling between RF ports 2 and 3 only. Smart muxing, ATA tag data sniff-
Encompass 4 Reader System Guide7-36ing and ATA dwell of two handshakes per antenna is automatic in MPRR mode.MUX Test ModesTo enable antenna muxing test modes, issue the following commands#891 – RF port 1 only#892 – RF port 2 only#893 – RF port 3 onlyTo use these test modes, MPRR mode must be disabled (#836) and muxing must be disabled (#850). These command modes are not saved to non volatile memory, and will be cleared by a power cycle of the reader, or by enabling either MPRR mode or muxing. When these modes are enabled, the reader will continually run through whichever tag protocols have been enabled, but only on the selected RF port. These test mode commands are qualified by the RF on by sense settings. Use #6401 to dis-able RF on by sense, if desired.
8Configuring the Multiprotocol RailReader
8-3Chapter 8Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail ReaderThis chapter provides instructions for configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR), including factory configuration parameter defaults and instructions for using terminal emulation software to check and change the MPRR factory configuration defaults.Configuring the ReaderAfter installing the MPRR, you need to configure its operating parameters. Terminal settings should be initially set at 9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, and no flow control.General Configuration LabelingEach MPRR and its shipping carton are labeled to indicate the unit’s general configu-ration. Table 8-1 contains explanations of the MPRR label fields.Table 8-1 MPRR Configuration Label FieldsField Description1st TransCore reader designator (10-)2nd Model numberTo be provided in the final version of the guide (7032-)3rd InterfaceTo be provided in the final version of the guide (TBD-)4th To be provided in the final version of the guide (TBD-)
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-4Default Operating Parameter SettingsTable 8-2 contains the factory default configuration settings for the MPRR operating parameters.The default configuration settings may not be the correct operating config-uration settings for a specific site. Changes to the configuration settings may have to be made, depending on the site plan, as described in Chapter 2 “Developing the Site Plan.”Review the default configurations shown in Table 8-2 to determine which parameters, in addition to operating frequency and operating range, need to be adjusted. Refer to Chapter 7, “Commands,” for a complete list of parameters and the corresponding commands.Note: The dual-protocol MPRR internal timing varies depending on the operative tag read mode and the type of tag in the read field. Table 8-2 MPRR Default Configuration Settings Parameter Setting CommandOperating mode Data 00Baud rate 9600 1005Stop bits 1 1010Parity None 1020Time and data appended Enabled 302Auxiliary information appended Disabled 310Unique ID code criteria Separation of 1 ID 4100Tag translation mode Disabled 452Multi-tag sort Disabled 454SeGo protocol tag initialization during multi-tag sort Enabled 456Alternate group select Disabled 496Reader ID number 00 6000Communications protocol Basic 610Error correcting protocol (ECP) timeout 12.7 sec 612FEFlow control Software (XON/XOFF) 6141Echo mode Enabled 6171ATA operating range Maximum 6431F
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-5a. Local laws apply. The authorized frequency band for the TransCore MPRR in the United States is 911.75 MHz to 919.75 MHz. Contact TransCore if your application requires a frequency outside of this range.Configuring Parameters with Terminal Emulation SoftwareTo configure the MPRR using a PC and terminal emulation software to manually enter MPRR host commands, follow the instructions in the section “Connecting the MPRR to the Host” on page 4-9. Then, enter the appropriate configuration commands through the terminal emulation software on the host. See Chapter 7, “Commands,” for a detailed description of all available configuration commands.Starting the Terminal Emulation SoftwareYou can use a PC and any terminal emulation software to enter the host commands to download flash software, configure reader operating parameters, perform diagnostics, and retrieve tag data. The following procedures show examples using Hyper Termi-nal™, an application included with Microsoft Windows. Most terminal emulation applications have a similar sequence for launching.To start the terminal emulation software1. At the command prompt, type your terminal emulation start command; or if using Windows Hyper Terminal, select: RF attenuation Full power 64400SeGo protocol tag operating range Maximum 6451FSense output pulse duration 228 ms 67CPresence without tag reports Disabled 6900RF-off control Timeout or no presence 6922RF timeout Never true 693FInput inversion Disabled 6940Serial number NNNNNN 695Store hardware configuration Hardware configuration not known 696Input status change reports Disabled 820Automatic periodic RF status report Disabled 830Table 8-2 MPRR Default Configuration Settings (continued)Parameter Setting Command
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-6Programs>Accessories>Hypertermand press ENTER.The application displays the Connection Description dialog box as shown in Figure 8-1.Figure 8-1 Connection Description Dialog Box2. Enter a name for the session and click OK.The application displays the Phone Number dialog box as shown in Figure 8-2.Figure 8-2 Phone Number Dialog Box3. From the Connect using pull-down list, choose the Com 1 option (or whichever com port on the PC to which the RS-232 cable is attached) and click OK.
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-7The application displays the COM1 Properties dialog box as shown in Figure 8-3.Figure 8-3 COM 1 Properties Dialog Box4. In the pull-down lists on the COM1 Properties dialog box, choose the following values:•Bits per second: 9600 baud•Data bits: 8 •Parity: None•Stop bits: 1•Flow control: NoneClick OK.The application displays the configparms - Hyper Terminal main screen as shown in Figure 8-4.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-8Figure 8-4 Hyper Terminal Main ScreenVerifying CommunicationsYou must verify that the MPRR and the PC or laptop are communicating.To verify communications1. Start the terminal emulation application as described previously in “Starting the Terminal Emulation Software” on page 8-5.Note: When testing the MPRR using a laptop, TransCore recommends that you con-figure laptop communication parameters to match those of the host computer to which the MPRR will be connected after testing and configuration are completed.2. Cycle the power on the MPRR.Upon startup, the MPRR transmits a sign-on message, displayed on the terminal emulation screen as shown in Figure 8-5, or a boot ROM failure message.
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-9Figure 8-5 Sign-on MessageThe sign-on message appears as follows: Model [software version] SNYYYYYY[Copyright notice]where YYYYYY is the serial number assigned to the MPRR skipping the fourth character printed on the reader product label.Serial number 000000 is the default setting and is not a valid number. If this number appears in the sign-on message, the serial number has never been stored into reader memory. Contact TransCore Technical Support.If the flash memory checksum is not verifiable, the sign-on message appears as follows:Model [E4 BOOT] Ver 0.00 A[Copyright notice]If the failure message version number equals 0.00 E and no serial number exists, the flash memory checksum has failed, and the MPRR is operating out of boot ROM. In this case, the MPRR automatically enters download mode and waits for a new program to be loaded into the flash memory. Follow the instructions in “Program Download” on page 5-5.Communications can also be verified by using the command sequence in Table 8-3.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-10Table 8-3 Command Sequence to Verify Communications3. If a successful sign-on message is not returned, check connections and communications factors and correct any errors.To check connections and communications factors1. Confirm that the MPRR has power.2. Verify the connections between the PC and the MPRR.3. Verify the receive (Rx) and transmit (Tx) connections.4. If using handshaking, verify the RTS and CTS connections. 5. Verify the COM port settings for the MPRR using the instructions in “Serial Port Communications” on page 8-16. Repeat the procedures in “Verifying Communications” on page 8-8.If you still cannot verify the MPRR and PC communications, use the information in “Technical Support” on page 9-6 to contact TransCore. Verifying Tag Read CapabilityAfter verifying communications between the MPRR and the PC, verify the capability to read tags.Note: The default tag read mode of the reader is the protocol(s) programmed into the reader. Table 8-1 shows how to determine which tag protocol(s) your MPRR supports. Use only those test tags programmed with the correct protocol(s) for the reader.CautionTo avoid damage to the MPRR using an external antenna, you must connect the antenna before applying power to the reader.To verify tag read capability 1. Once communications are verified as described in “Verifying Communications” on page 8-8, enter the following sequence of commands to turn on continuous RF:• #01• #6401• #40• #00Entry MPRR Response Notes#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches the MPRR to command mode.#505 <CR> #Model E4 Series Ver X.XX SN97001P <CR/LF> Reports the software version and serial number.#00 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Returns the MPRR to data mode.
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-112. Pass one test tag in front of the unit. If the MPRR reads the tag, the terminal emulation application displays the tag information on the screen as shown in Figure 8-6.Figure 8-6 Successful Tag ReadIf the tag ID is not displayed, perform the following actions:•Verify that the MPRR is in data mode (command #00 Switch to Data Mode).•Ensure that the tag you are using is compatible with the MPRR. The MPRR can read tag types that are compatible with the reader model.•An MPRR displays the tag read for any tag that is compatible with the reader programming. Table 8-1 shows how to determine which tag protocol(s) your MPRR supports.•Using the audible circuit tester as described in “Testing the MPRR Using an Audible Circuit Tester” on page 4-4, verify that the reader is capable of reading the tag in the read zone. If it is, the problem is probably in the communications between the MPRR and the host.3. Pass a different reader-compatible test tag in front of your MPRR.4. When the MPRR reads the second tag successfully, the terminal emulation application displays that tag’s information in the main screen below the information for the first tag, as shown in Figure 8-7. Figure 8-7 Second Successful Tag ReadSuccessfulTag Read
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-12 If the read is unsuccessful, perform the following actions:•Ensure the tag you are using is compatible with the MPRR.•Using the audible circuit tester as described in “Testing the MPRR Using an Audible Circuit Tester” on page 4-4, verify that the reader is capable of reading the tag in the read zone. If it is, the problem is probably in the communications between the MPRR and the host computer. Configuring MPRR ParametersFollow the procedures in this section to configure MPRR parameters using a PC, lap-top, or terminal emulator. The PC or laptop must be connected to and communicating with the MPRR, and the terminal emulation application must be configured correctly, as described in the section “Verifying Communications” on page 8-8.To configure parameters1. Switch to command mode by typing #01 at the prompt on the terminal emulation screen, and pressing ENTER. Note: All MPRR commands are preceded by the start-of-message character (#).2. To meet requirements of your site, make changes to default operating parameters as described in the following sections.The following sections contain procedures to set some of the parameters that are commonly changed to meet the requirements of a specific site. Procedures are listed in alphabetical order by parameter.Appended Tag DataUse this procedure to set appended tag data parameters using the terminal emulation application. See “31N Append Auxiliary Information Selection” on page 7-9 for more information. To set appended tag data parameters1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #311 to append auxiliary information or command #310 to have no auxiliary information appended (factory default). Press ENTER.ID SeparationThe host can select a unique ID separation of one ID or two IDs. The reader default operation is for a unique ID separation of one ID and a uniqueness timeout of two minutes. You can disable the uniqueness check using command #40 Transmit All ID Codes. In this case, every tag ID received is transmitted without regard to unique-ness. You can reinstate uniqueness checking with commands #4100 or #4101 Select ID Separation.
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-13Note: The MPRR internal timing varies depending on the operative tag read mode and the type of tag in the read field. See section “40 Transmit All ID Codes” on page 7-9 and section “410N Select Unique ID Code Criteria (Anti-passback Feature)” on page 7-10.To set ID separation parameters1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #4100 to select a separation of one ID; enter command #4101 to select a separation of two IDs. Press ENTER.ReportsThe MPRR can be configured to transmit presence without tag reports and input status change reports. A presence without tag report is transmitted in data mode only, and only if the system has a presence detector. This report is sent if a presence is detected without the detection of a valid tag ID. See sections “529 Display Presence Input Sta-tus” on page 7-18 and “690N Select Presence Without Tag Report Option” on page 7-29.If configured with command #82N Select Input Status Change Report Option to transmit input status change reports, the reader will transmit a message to the host computer any time the inputs change state. Input status change reports are transmitted in data mode only. Input status change reporting is disabled by default. See “560 Request Sensor Status Change” on page 7-22. Also refer to Chapter 6, ”Communica-tions Protocols” for information on message formats.To set presence reporting1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #529 to display presence input status and press ENTER. P0 indicates presence without tag reports disabled (factory default), and P1 indicates presence without tag reports enabled.3. Enter command #6901 to enable presence without tag reports, or enter command #6900 to disable presence without tag reports (factory default). Press ENTER.To set input status change reporting1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #560 to display input status change report options and press ENTER.• EO = input status change reports disabled (factory default)• E1 = input status change reports enabled• M0 = reporting disabled (factory default)• M1 = changes on input0 reported• M2 = changes on input1 reported• M3 = changes on either input reported
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-143. Enter command #821 to report any change on input0, command #822 to report any change on input 1, command #823 to report changes on input0 and input1, or command #820 to disable status change reports (factory default). Press ENTER.Reset ReaderCommand #63 Reset Reader resets uniqueness, clears the power fail bit, and trans-mits the sign-on message. The reader returns to data mode following the completion of this command.Note: This command does not reset any of the configuration parameters.See “63 Reset Reader” on page 7-25. To reset the reader1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #63. Press ENTER.The terminal emulation screen displays the sign-on message as shown in Figure 8-5 on page 8-9.Radio FrequencyCautionThe authorized continuous wave (CW) frequency band for the MPRR in the U.S. is 902.25 to 903.75 MHz and 910.00 to 921.50 MHz. The authorized modulated fre-quency band for the MPRR in the U.S. is 911.75 to 919.75 MHz. The RF for each MPRR at the site must be set according to the frequency specified in the FCC site license. Only trained, authorized installation and maintenance personnel are per-mitted by FCC to set the RF.By using the MPRR an authorized person can set the frequency within the range from 902 to 928 MHz in 0.25 MHz steps. You can set the frequency by using a terminal emulation program and issuing the frequency command, as discussed in section “647XXX Select RF Operating Frequency” on page 7-27.Note: For backward compatibility to existing controllers, you can set the RF operat-ing frequency in 500-kHz steps using command #642NN.To set the frequency range1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #647XXX – where XXX is a hexadecimal value from 000 to 118 – and press ENTER. See command “647XXX Select RF Operating Frequency” on page 7-27 for a complete listing of the hexadecimal values and the corresponding frequencies.3. To verify that the RF has been changed to the proper setting, type in command #527 to see the current frequency setting.
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-15CautionContact TransCore if your application requires a frequency outside of the autho-rized frequency range.RF TransmissionThe RF transmission can be controlled by one of the following methods:•Connecting a vehicle detector to the sense input0 circuit•The host device sending software commands to the MPRR As a factory default, the MPRR is configured to control the RF power with a vehicle detector. Figure 8-8 illustrates the methods of controlling RF sense output.Figure 8-8 MPRR RF Control OptionsVehicle Detector Controlling RF TransmissionThe vehicle detector can be a loop detector, an infrared sensor, or an ultrasonic detec-tor that is connected to sense input0 to turn on the MPRR RF transmitter. In Figure 8-8, Option A shows a vehicle detector controlling the RF transmitter. This operation is preferred because the RF transmits only when a vehicle is in the MPRR read zone. Command #641 Select RF-by-Input Control (factory default) must be enabled.To set the option of the vehicle detector controlling the MPRR Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.Enter command #641. Press ENTER.Leave the setting on RF-by-input control for normal operation.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-16Host Controlling RF TransmissionIn Figure 8-8, Option B shows the host controlling the RF transmitter. If the vehicle detector is connected to the host computer, as shown in Option B, com-mands #6400 RF Off and #6401 RF On sent from the host computer turn on and off the MPRR RF transmitter. Sense InputsThe RS–232 configuration used by the MPRR has two sense inputs — sense input0 and sense input1. Sense0 is used to enable RF on antenna ports 0 and 1 if enabled, and Sense1 is used to enable RF on antenna ports 2 and 3. The sense input circuits can be used to notify the MPRR of train presence and are designed to be connected to a free-of-voltage dry contact. The MPRR sense inputs are designed to connect to a dry con-tact closure.You can configure the MPRR to generate input status change reports, which are trans-mitted like tag IDs. The host can then respond based on the true/false (closed/open) status of the sense inputs. See the section “Reports” on page 8-13.The following procedures describe how to set sense inputs using the terminal emula-tion software. See command “694N Select Input Inversion Option” on page 7-31 for more information.To set sense inputs1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #6940 to disable input inversion (factory default) or command #6941 to enable input inversion, and press ENTER. Sense Output DeviceThe sense output is dedicated for testing and set up of the reader. It is defined as the TAG_LOCK signal, which indicates a valid tag is in the read field.This sense output is a dry contact that provides a normally open and normally closed sense output. The relay contacts are rated at 42.2V AC peak (30 Vrms) or 60V DC at 1 A maximum. If controlling an external gate or device requiring high current, an iso-lation transformer is required.Serial Port CommunicationsThe MPRR supports one RS–232 communications port. For the RS–232 communica-tions specification, the MPRR maintains the following three sets of parameters that affect serial port communications:•Port configuration parameters (baud rate, data bits, stop bits, parity)•Communications protocols (basic, error correcting)
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-17•Flow control scheme (none, software, hardware) The default serial port configuration for each of these three parameters is as follows:•9600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity•Basic communications protocol•Software flow control (XON/XOFF)You can change these parameters in data mode and command mode operation by issu-ing commands with the host device. Use the following procedures to set serial port communications parameters using the terminal emulation program.Port Configuration ParametersUse this procedure to set port configuration parameters using the terminal emulation program. Consult sections “100N Select Baud Rate" through “102N Select Parity” on page 7-6.To set baud rate 1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #100N and press ENTER.To set stop bits1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #101N and press ENTER.To set parity1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #102N and press ENTER.Communications ProtocolUse the following procedures to set communications protocol. Consult sections “610 Select Basic Communication Protocol (Factory Default)" through “612NN Select Error Correcting Protocol Timeout” on page 7-23 for more information.CautionDo not switch to ECP (command #611) unless the host is prepared to acknowledge each reader transmission.To select a communications protocol1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #610 to select basic protocol (factory default) or command #611 to select ECP and press ENTER.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-18Software Flow ControlTwo modes of flow control are supported — software (XON/XOFF) and hardware (CTS - clear to send). The host can enable or disable flow control with command #614N Select Flow Control Option.The host can use software control characters (XON/XOFF) or the hardware CTS handshake line to interrupt reader transmissions. When the reader is configured for software flow control, it stops transmitting if it receives the XOFF character from the host (host software command 13H). It resumes transmitting only when it receives the XON character (host software command 11H) from the host. Likewise, when the reader is configured for hardware flow control, it stops transmitting if it detects that the CTS line is no longer asserted. It resumes transmitting when this line is asserted. If flow control is not needed, the reader should be configured for no flow control (#6140 Disable Flow Control).Note: TransCore recommends that XON/XOFF flow control be disabled while using the error correcting protocol.Use the following procedure to set flow control parameters using the terminal emula-tion program. See section “614N Select Flow Control Option” on page 7-24. To select flow control1. Ensure that the host computer is in command mode.2. Enter command #6140 to disable flow control, command #6141 to enable software flow control (factory default), or command #6142 to enable hardware flow control and press ENTER.Fine-Tuning and Verifying the Read ZoneIf the read zone is too wide or too deep for your application, it can be fine-tuned by physically adjusting the MPRR or external antenna mounting orientation, reprogram-ming the actual RF power output (#644NN Set RF Attenuation), and/or reprogram-ming the RF sensitivity range (#643NN Set ATA Operating Range and #645NN Set SeGo Protocol Tag Operating Range). The combination of these adjustments allows you to confine the read zone to the area where tagged vehicles pass.See sections “643NN Select ATA Operating Range (Distance)” on page 7-26, “645NN Set SeGo Protocol Operating Range (Distance)” on page 7-27, and “644NN Set RF Attenuation” on page 7-26 for more information.Note: As described in “Marking the Read Zone” on page 4-10, marking the read pat-tern using test tags that are not mounted to vehicles give a general idea of the read pattern but the pattern will vary somewhat when actual vehicles with tags are tested. Final adjustments must be made with tags properly mounted on a variety of vehicles.
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-19Physically Orienting the MPRR Antenna(s)You can manually adjust the location of the read zone by loosening the antenna(s) mounting hardware and pointing the antenna in the desired direction. The unit should be aligned to point directly at the tag as it enters the desired read zone.Fine-Tuning the Read Zone by Lowering Output PowerYou can make the read zone smaller by adjusting the MPRR RF power output from a maximum of 2 watts to a minimum of 200 milliwatts using command #644NN Set RF Attenuation.To adjust the read zone by lowering output power1. Ensure that your PC is communicating with the MPRR using a terminal emulation program as described in section “Verifying Communications” on page 8-8.2. Mark the current read zone as described in section “Marking the Read Zone” on page 4-10.CautionTest tags should be compatible with your MPRR. Test tags can be ATA-protocol, ISO-compliant, or SeGo-protocol tags.3. Enter command #01 to switch to command mode. You are prompted with #DONE from the reader and can now enter reader commands.4. Enter in command #64401 to lower the RF power by 1 dB below 2 watts (default). Press ENTER.Note: In the command #644NN, NN can be any hexadecimal value from 00 to 0A. Settings for attenuation are 1.0 dB increments over a range of 10 dB of atten-uation from the maximum power setting of 2 watts at 0 dB attenuation to a mini-mum power level of 200 milliwatts at 10 dB attenuation. Increasing the attenuation lowers the output RF power. 5. Switch to data mode by entering command #00 and pressing ENTER.6. Verify that the read zone has decreased by moving the tag through the desired read area. If the read zone is still too large, switch to command mode and enter the command #64402 to lower the output RF power another 1 dB. Continue increasing the NN value until the read zone matches the desired read zone.When the desired read zone is established, test the read zone with simulated and real traffic by performing the following procedures:To test the read zone1. Ensure that the MPRR is in data mode.2. With the MPRR running, place one tag behind your back while you hold another tag in the new read zone. If a valid read, the data from the tag held in the read zone displays on the PC screen.3. Switch tags, placing the other tag behind your back and holding the first tag in the read zone. If a valid read, the data from this tag held in the read zone displays
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-20on the PC screen. If both tags are read, you have successfully adjusted the read range.4. If one or both tags did not read, follow the suggestions in “Verifying Tag Read Capability” on page 8-10.5. As a last test, attach test tags to vehicles and simulate traffic going through the read zone to verify that the system performs accurately in a live environment. Fine-tuning the Read Zone by Adjusting Sensitivity RangeThe MPRR read zone can be fine-tuned by using command #643NN for ATA tag read mode or #645NN for SeGo protocol tag read mode to reprogram the RF sensi-tivity range. Sensitivity range adjustments have less impact on the read pattern than RF power adjustment, thus RF power adjustment should be used as the main read pat-tern adjustment tool. Sensitivity range control may be helpful in stopping some tag reads on the very edges of the read pattern. To produce a noticeable change in the read pattern, you must decrease the range sensitivity by more than one increment.To adjust the read zone by adjusting sensitivity range1. Ensure that your PC is communicating with the MPRR using a terminal emulation program as described in “Verifying Communications” on page 8-8.2. Mark the current read zone as described in “Marking the Read Zone” on page 4-10.3. Enter command #01 to switch to command mode. You are prompted with #DONE from the reader and can now enter reader commands.4. Enter command #64318 or #64518 to decrease the range sensitivity seven increments below the maximum (default). Press ENTER.Note: In the command #643NN or #645NN,NN can be any hexadecimal value from 00 to 1F. The reader’s receiver becomes less sensitive to tag signals as the value of NN is lowered from the maximum sensitivity of 1F to the mini-mum sensitivity of 00. 5. Verify that the read zone has decreased by moving the tag through the desired read area. If the read zone is still too large, switch to command mode and enter the command #64317 or #64517 to decrease the range another increment. Continue increasing the NN value until the read zone matches the desired read zone.When the desired read zone is established, test the read zone with simulated and real traffic by performing the following procedures.To test the read zone1. Ensure that the MPRR is in data mode.2. With the MPRR running, place one tag behind your back while you hold another tag in the new read zone. If a valid read, the data from the tag held in the read zone displays on the host device screen.3. Switch tags, placing the other tag behind your back and holding the first tag in the read zone. If a valid read, the data from this tag held in the read zone displays on the host device screen.
Configuring the Multiprotocol Rail Reader8-214. If both tags are read, you have successfully adjusted the read range. If one or both tags did not read, follow the suggestions in “Verifying Tag Read Capability” on page 8-10.5. As a last test, attach test tags to vehicles and simulate traffic going through the read zone to verify that the system performs accurately in a live environment.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide8-22
9Troubleshooting and Maintenance
9-3Chapter 9Troubleshooting and MaintenanceThis chapter contains information for troubleshooting a Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) and performing minimal maintenance checks. It also includes information for returning products for repair, obtaining support, and contact information for providing feedback and suggestions to TransCore. Error MessagesThe MPRR transmits an error message if a command received from the host is not a recognized command or if information supplied with the command is not correct. The reader sends this message to diagnostic commands if the reader fails the specified test.Table 9-1 contains a list of error messages. Table 9-1 Error Messages Error Message Description Corrective ActionError06 NVRAM parameters have been lost. The MPRR will not function properly because the RF section is shut off until the frequency is reset.Reset the frequency using command #647XXX.Error07 The RF phase locked loop (PLL) has lost lock and is unable to operate at its intended frequency. RF output is disabled while the MPRR attempts to reset the PLL.Reset the RF frequency. Refer to “Radio Frequency” on page 8-14 for instructions. Error08 The RF PLL has successfully regained lock and has been reset to its proper operating frequency. The RF section is returned to its state prior to losing lock (enabled/disabled). Error08 will only be issued after Error07 has been issued.No action necessary; the previous error has been corrected.ErrorRF1 Warning message that the RF board did not return an update acknowledge signal If the reader indicates a single ErrorRF1 event and recovers from the error, no corrective action is required. You may want to track this error message if it should occur again. If the reader indicates repeated ErrorRF1 warning messages then return the reader to the factory.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide9-4TroubleshootingYou can use the following table for troubleshooting. Should problems continue, con-tact TransCore for return and replacement procedures. If you contact Technical Sup-port, use the symptom number in Table 9-2 to reference the problem that you are having with the MPRR. ErrorRF2 Warning message that the RF module did not return an INIT DONE signal If the reader indicates a single ErrorRF2 event and recovers from the error, no corrective action is required. You may want to track this error message if it should occur again. If the reader indicates repeated ErrorRF2 warning messages then return the reader to the factory.ErrorRF3 Warning message of unexpected status read, including status byte, from RF moduleIf the reader indicates a single ErrorRF3 event and recovers from the error, no corrective action is required. You may want to track this error message if it should occur again. If the reader indicates repeated ErrorRF3 warning messages then return the reader to the factory.Table 9-1 Error Messages (continued)Error Message Description Corrective ActionTable 9-2 Symptoms and RemediesSymptom NumberaSymptom Remedy1 When performing a quick test of the MPRR, the buzz box does not buzz.Check all your wiring connections and antenna connections (if using external antenna), and ensure that your buzz box is functioning. The wires from the MPRR are grouped in pairs. You could find more than one red wire, more than one black wire, and so on. You must connect the correct red and white wire pair to the leads from the battery. Verify that RF is on. Using a terminal emulation program, you may switch to command mode and issue command #527 to determine RF status. See page 7-17 for more information.2 The baud rate is selected correctly but nothing happens.The MPRR is not communicating with your PC. Check the power supply to your PC, and check the connections between the PC and the MPRR. Try reversing the receive and transmit connections.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance9-53 When testing the MPRR, all the wires are connected correctly but the unit does not respond. The MPRR may not have the software loaded inside the unit. Contact Technical Support as described on page 9-6. If you are using a terminal emulation program, check that the terminal emulation setting on the MPRR is VT100.Check that the MPRR communication cable is connected to the correct COM port.Verify that the external antenna is connected correctly.4 Strange signal responses come from the MPRR when tested with the PC.Ensure that the reader is in the correct interface mode for the test tag, i.e., ATA mode for an ATA tag. Check the system defaults using a terminal emulation program. Both PC and reader should be set to 9600 baud, 8 bits, 1 stop bit, and no parity.5 When a tag is moved in front of the antenna, a clicking sound comes from the MPRR.The MPRR works. The sound is the relay inside the MPRR that is controlled by a lock signal. The relay is actuated when a tag is in the read zone. (TBD)6 Nothing happens when the test tag is passed in front of the MPRR or external antenna.Ensure that the MPRR is powered on and is in predefined output mode. (#621)Verify that the reader is set to RF ON (#6401).Verify that the external antenna is connected correctly.7 The MPRR came from another site and does not work the way the factory defaults indicate that it should.Different commands were probably used to support the other site’s specific configuration. You can restore the factory defaults by using a terminal emulation program to switch to command mode and issuing command #66F Load Default Operating Parameters. All factory defaults except RF frequency will be restored.8 When connected to a PC that is running terminal communications software, a just-powered up MPRR displays one of the following messages: #Model E4 Series X.XX SNYYYYYY#[Copyright notice]The MPRR works. The software is now loaded. YYYYYY is the TransCore-assigned serial number for this MPRR. However, if YYYYYY = 000000, a serial number has never been assigned. If a serial number has not been assigned to your MPRR, contact TransCore Technical Support.Table 9-2 Symptoms and Remedies (continued)Symptom NumberaSymptom Remedy
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide9-6aUse this number to reference the problem you are having with the MPRR if you contact Transcore for Tech-nical Support. MPRR RepairThe MPRR is designed for whole-unit replacement and is manufactured with surface-mounted components. It requires sophisticated testing and repair equipment. All test-ing and repairs are performed at TransCore’s factory. Please contact TransCore to obtain a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) for returning the reader.Technical SupportAuthorized dealers and distributors are responsible for the direct support of all cus-tomers. Authorized dealers and distributors needing support can locate the appropriate contact phone number at www.transcore.com/rfidsupport. Send faxes to (214) 461-6478 ATTN: Technical Support. Please be prepared to answer a series of questions that are designed to direct you to the best TransCore support resource available. These questions will relate to symptoms, configuration, model, and tags used.9 The read zone is too small, even before the RF power and range control have been adjusted.If another MPRR is in the same area, ensure that it is operating on another frequency that is at least 2 MHz different.Check for possible interference from another nearby RF source: fluorescent lights, neon signs, high voltage power lines, nearby cellular telephone, or radio stations. Lights will need to be removed or shielded. Point the MPRR or external antenna in a different direction to see if interference comes from only one direction. You may require a different MPRR that uses another frequency. (TBD)Verify that the RF power is set to an appropriate value.Verify that the range adjustment is set to the maximum.Verify that the reader is getting at least 16V. 10 The perimeter of the read zone has been defined, but there is a “hollow” spot in the center of the zone that does not read tags.The angle of the MPRR or external antenna may need adjustment. Slightly tilt the MPRR or external antenna to a different angle to change either the length or width of the read zone.Check the range control adjustment. See “Radio Frequency” on page 8-14. 11 The MPRR is reading tags out of the desired read zone. Some interference from other RF or electrical sources may be occurring. See “Reflection, Refraction, and Diffraction of RF Signals” on page 2-8. Verify that the read zone has been properly set up. See “Fine-Tuning and Verifying the Read Zone” on page 8-18.Table 9-2 Symptoms and Remedies (continued)Symptom NumberaSymptom Remedy
Troubleshooting and Maintenance9-7Note: End users and facility operators contacting Technical Support will be referred to the dealer responsible for the system sale.Marketing SupportDealers requiring marketing support may call TransCore Marketing at (214) 461-4031, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Standard Time, Monday through Fri-day. Send faxes to (214) 461-6478 ATTN: TransCore Marketing.Find a Problem with the MPRR or Have Suggestions?Send faxes to (214) 461-6478 ATTN: MPRR product manager.
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide9-8
10Interface to Train Recording Unit
10-3Chapter 10Interface to Train Recording UnitThis chapter will describe the interface between the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) and the Train Recording Unit (TRU).TBDTBD
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide10-4
11AT5720 Check Tag-to-MPRR Assembly
11-3Chapter 11AT5270 Check Tag-to-MPRR AssemblyThis document describes the procedures to assemble and connect a check tag assembly to a Multiprotocol Rail Reader.Required SuppliesBefore assembling the check tag antenna kit, make sure you have the necessary sup-plies and tools. Check Tag Kit (TransCore P/N 20-7001-001). Table 11-1 lists the kit parts.You need the following additional materials and/or tools to complete the installation.•AT5720 Check Tag(s)•Jeweler flat-blade screwdriver•Standard tools (Phillips screwdriver, wire stripper, crescent wrench)•Multiprotocol Rail ReaderProceduresTo assemble the kit for two check tags1. Strip the cable insulation to expose the three check tag wires. Strip wire insulation approximately 1/4 inch to expose bare wire. Slide the plastic nut and rubber grommet over the wires (Figure 11-1).Table 11-1 Check Tag Kit Parts ListQuantity Description1 Terminal connector strip (9 position)2 Self-tapping screw1 Plastic connector housing sleeve2 Plastic nut cap with rubber insert1 Nylon closing cap1 Check Tag Assembly Instructions
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide11-4Figure 11-1 Place Nut and Grommet Over Exposed Check Tag Wires2. Pull the check tag wires through the connector housing (Figure 11-2).Figure 11-2 Feed Check Tag Wires through Plastic Housing Connector3. For Check Tag 0, insert and tighten the check tag wires to the terminal strip as shown in Figure 11-3 and Table 11-2.Figure 11-3 Connect Check Tag WiresTable 11-2 Check Tag 0 Wire AssignmentsWire Color Pin No.Ground Black 3Power Red 4Data White 5
AT5270 Check Tag-to-MPRR Assembly11-54. If connecting two check tags, repeat steps 1 through 3. Connect Check Tag 1 to the terminal strip as listed in Table 11-3.Figure 11-4 shows both check tags connected to terminal strip.Figure 11-4 Two Check Tag Assemblies Connected to Terminal Strip5. Insert and tighten the two self-tapping screws to secure the terminal strip (Figure 11-5).Figure 11-5 Securing Terminal Strip into Connector HousingTable 11-3 Check Tag 1 Wire AssignmentsWire Color Pin No.Ground Black 7Power Red 8Data White 9
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide11-66. To complete the connector assembly, tighten the nuts on the cable end snugly (Figure 11-6).Figure 11-6 Plastic Nuts with GrommetsAs the nut is tightened, the connector compresses the grommet around the check tag cable.To assemble the kit for one check tag1. Follow the procedure steps described above in steps 1 through 6, but connect only one check tag cable.CautionIf connecting only one check tag, you must insert and secure the nylon closing cap into the unused terminal connector to protect the terminal strip from possible contamination.2. To cover the unused terminal connector, insert the nylon closing cap into the plastic cap with rubber grommet and tighten snugly (Figure 11-7).Figure 11-7 Nylon Cap Securely Fastened in Unused PortTo connect the check tag assembly to the Multiprotocol ReaderRemove the dust cover from the Check Tag port of the MPRR and plug in the check tag cable assembly (Figure 11-8). Be sure that the two handles snap into place on the MPRR. This ensures a solid connection.
AT5270 Check Tag-to-MPRR Assembly11-7Figure 11-8 Check Tag Assembly Secured to MPRR Port (single check tag assembly shown)
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System Guide11-8
AGlossary
A-3Appendix AGlossaryAAAR Association of American RailroadsAC alternating currentACK acknowledge (data valid)ANSI American National Standards Instituteantenna passive device that converts RF energy into magnetic energy (RF signal)ASCII American Standard Code for Information InterchangeASIC application-specific integrated circuitATA American Trucking Associationaux auxiliaryAWG AWG (American Wire Gauge) is a U.S. standard set of non-ferrous wire conductor sizesBbackscatter portion of an RF signal that is modulated by a tag and radiated back to the readerbaud measure of number of bits per second of a digital signal; for example, 9600 baud = 9600 bits per secondBCKS boot checksumBCM buffer control modebps bits per secondbyte a binary character; for example, one 8-bit ASCII characterCcheck tag tag mounted inside a reader assembly, inside or in close proximity to an external antenna that is used to check operation of the reader
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideA-4cmd commandcomm communicationscommand data set that is recognized by the receiving device as intending to elicit a specific responseconduit flexible steel pipe use for electrical wiringcps characters per secondCR carriage returnCRC cyclic redundancy checkCTRL controlCTS clear to sendDdata information that is processed by a computing deviceDC direct currentDIAG diagnosticEECP error correcting protocolECPS error correcting protocol statuseol end of lineeom end of messageEPROM erasable programmable read-only memoryFfield physical area/space in which a tag can be read by the reader; also, an element of a data record/frame. For example, division within a tag's data frame.frames consecutive bits of data in memory that are read and written as a groupfrequency bands a range of RF frequencies assigned for transmission by an RF device
GlossaryA-5Hhex hexadecimalhexadecimal base 16 numbering system that uses the characters 0 though 9 and A through F to resent the digits 0 through 16host device, generally a computer, that is connected to the Multiprotocol Rail Reader through the communications portII/O or IO circuits input/output circuitsIAG E-ZPass® Interagency Group, North American RFID tag protocolID identification; encoded information unique to a particular tagINCITS American National Standards Institute International Committee for Information Technology standardsinterface connection point for communication with another deviceIOST I/O statusISO International Standardization Organization LLF line feedMmmeterMHz megahertzmode method of operationMPRR Multiprotocol Rail Readerms milliseconds
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideA-6NNAK negative acknowledgment (data not valid)Ppassback used to refer to a tag ID that is not passed on to the tag bufferPC personal computerPCKS EPROM flash checksumprotocol specified convention for the format of data messages communicated between devicesPRST presence statusPWRB power fail bitRRAM random access memoryRDID reader IDread process of acquiring data from a device; for example, from a tag or from computer memoryreader controlled interrogating device capable of acquiring data from a device; for example, acquiring and interrupting data from a tagread zone the physical area in which a tag can be read by the readerRF radio frequencyRFID radio frequency identificationRFST RF statusROM read-only memoryRTC real-time clock RTS request-to-sendSSCTS status of check tag statusSeGo Super eGo (SeGo) is a superset of the eGo protocol
GlossaryA-7SN serial numbersom start of messageSSTC input status change reporting optionsTtag small self-contained device acting as an identifying transponderTau timeout delayTRU Train Recording UnitTT tag translationVVvoltsVer version (software)Wwrite process of recording data; for example, writing to computer memory or to a tag’s memory. Writing writes over (erases) previous data stored at the specified memory locations.XXON/XOFF protocol for controlling the flow of data between computers and other devices on an asynchronous serial connection. X/ON and X/OFF are signals to turn a transmitter on or off. The actual signal for X/ON is the same bit configuration as the ASCII Ctrl-Q keyboard combination (11 hexadecimal). The X/OFF signal is the Ctrl-S character (13 hexadecimal).
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideA-8
BTechnical Specifications
B-3Appendix BTechnical SpecificationsReader Specifications CommunicationsHardware FeaturesPower RequirementsPhysical AttributesFrequency Selection 860 to 930 MHz capableReading Range Read performance varies depending on tag, reader, and external antenna (if required) config-uration and environment.Typical read range should be 12 to 17 ft (3.7 to 5.2 m).aa. Reading range depends on reader or external antenna configu-ration, tag type, tag read mode, and operating environment.Integrated system with connector for external antennaRF module, tag decoder, power supply, I/O ports, and serial communications interface all housed in a single package.Case (TBD)Input Voltage 16 to 20V AC, 47 to 63 Hz or16 to 28V DCSize 13 x 5 x 2.49 inches (33 x 7.62 x 6.32 cm)Weight 5.1 pounds (2.31 kg)
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideB-4Environmental ParametersOptionsOperating Temperature -40°F to +158°F (-40°C to +70°C)Humidity 95% noncondensingVibration Tolerance 0.5 Grms, 10 to 500 Hz TBDCommunications Interface RS–232 or RS–422Cable Accessory Kits 58-7001-001: MPRR-to-TRU cable assembly, 6 ft (1.8 m)58-7001-002: MPRR-to-TRU cable assembly, 20 ft (6.1 m)58-7001-003: MPRR cable assembly, no TRUTransformer A Class C transformer is available to allow 110V AC to 18V AC conversion. Include the part number 76-1620-005 when ordering.A Class C transformer (part number 76-1620-008) to allow 220V AC to 18V AC conversion is available by special request.
CWiring Information
C-3Appendix CWiring InformationThis appendix will contain a graphical representation that shows the wiring connections as well as any wiring signal tables that may be needed used to test and install the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR). Communications InterfacesTable C-1 lists the interfaces available with the MPRR.Table C-1 Communications Interfaces and Conductor RequirementsInterface Number of ConductorsRS–232 3RS–232 with RTS and CTS hardware handshake signals 5
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideC-4Figure C-1 shows the pin assignments for the RS–232 interface signal to the host male DB9 and DB15 connectors. Figure C-1 DB9 and DB25 Connector Pin Assignments for Signal to Host
DCommand Quick Reference
D-3Appendix DCommand Quick ReferenceThis appendix lists the default configuration settings for the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR) and its commands. Commands are listed both numerically and alphabetically.Command SyntaxThe command numbers consist of from 2 to 4 hex digits. The letters N or S may follow a command number. The letter N indicates that part of the command number is vari-able. The letter S indicates the requirement for an alphanumeric data string that is to be included immediately following the command number. Hex digits (0–9, A–F) in either uppercase or lowercase characters may be used in data strings and for hex digits A–F. For more information see Chapter 5, “General Software Information” .Table D-1 lists factory default settings. Table D-2 on page D-5 lists, in numerical order, all of the commands available to users. Table D-3 on page D-16 lists the same commands by command name.Factory Default SettingsNote: Table D-1 lists the factory default settings for the MPRR.Table D-1 MPRR Default Configuration SettingsParameter Setting CommandOperating mode Data 00Baud rate 9600 1005Stop bits 1 1010Parity None 1020Time and data appended Enabled 302Auxiliary information appended Disabled 310Unique ID code criteria Separation of 1 ID 4100Valid ID code criteria Acquisition of 1 ID 4200Uniqueness time-out 2 minutes 441Tag translation mode Disabled 452
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-4Multi-tag sort Disabled 454SeGo protocol tag initialization during multi-tag sort Enabled 456Second alternate group select Disabled 458Third alternate group select Disabled 490Fourth alternate group select Disabled 492Fifth alternate group select Disabled 494Alternate group select Disabled 496Reader ID number 00 6000Communications protocol Basic 610Error correcting protocol (ECP) timeout 12.7 sec 612FEFlow control Software (XON/XOFF) 6141Buffer control mode Disabled 6160Echo mode Enabled 6171Set output control Turn on both outputs 6203Sense output control Predefined 621RF-by-input control Enabled 641ATA operating range Maximum 6431FRF attenuation Full power 64400SeGo protocol operating range Maximum 6451FSense output pulse duration 228 ms 67CPresence without tag reports Disabled 6900RF-off control Timeout or no presence 6922RF timeout Never true 693FInput inversion Disabled 6940Serial number NNNNNN 695Store hardware configuration Hardware configuration not known 696Input status change reports Disabled 820Table D-1 MPRR Default Configuration Settings (continued)Parameter Setting Command
Command Quick ReferenceD-5Numerical Command ListThe following conventions are used in Table D-2: •Items in bold italics identify factory default settings.•Only the command-related data portion of the reader message is shown.Refer to Chapter 6, “Communication Protocols,” for the complete syntax of com-mands and messages. Automatic periodic RF status report Disabled 830Table D-1 MPRR Default Configuration Settings (continued)Parameter Setting CommandTable D-2 MPRR Commands Listed NumericallyNumber Command Name Reader Message00 Switch to data mode Done01 Switch to command mode Done06 Transmit buffer entry Done, error, or tag dataDone = buffer emptyError = not in buffer control modeTag data = highest priority tag ID1002 Set baud rate = 1200 baud Done1003 Set baud rate = 2400 baud Done1004 Set baud rate = 4800 baud Done1005 Set baud rate = 9600 baud Done1006 Set baud rate = 19.2 K baud Done1007 Set baud rate = 38.4 K baud Done1010 Use one stop bit Done1011 Use two stop bits Done1020 Disable parity Done1021 Select even parity Done1022 Select odd parity Done20 Set time Done
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-621 Set date Done22 Display time and date Time and date300 No time and date appended Done302 Time and date appended Done310 Disable aux info append Done 311 Enable aux info append Done 40 Transmit all IDs Done 4100 Select one ID separation Done4101 Select two ID separation Done4102 Select three ID separation Done4103 Select four ID separation Done4200 Select 1 valid ID code Done4201 Select 2 valid ID codes Done4202 Select 3 valid ID codes Done4203 Select 4 valid ID codes Done43 Buffer all ID codes Done440 Reset uniqueness Done441 Set uniqueness time-out to 2 minutes Done442 Set uniqueness time-out to 15 seconds Done443 Set uniqueness time-out to 30 seconds Done454 Disable multi-tag sort Done455 Enable multi-tag sort Done 456 Enable SeGo protocol tag initialization during multi-tag sortDone 457 Disable SeGo protocol tag initialization during multi-tag sort DoneTable D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-7458 Disable second alternate group select Done459 Enable second alternate group select Done 480 Disable ATA Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.481 Enable ATA Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.484 Disable SeGo Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.485 Enable SeGo Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.488 Disable eATA Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.489 Enable eATA Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.490 Disable third alternate group select Done491 Enable third alternate group select Done 492 Disable fourth alternate group select Done493 Enable fourth alternate group select Done 494 Disable fifth alternate group select Done495 Enable fifth alternate group select Done 496 Disable alternate group select Done497 Enable alternate group select Done505 Display version Model [model] Ver [version no.] SN [serial no.]Table D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-8506 Display hardware configuration information S...S S...S = ASCII string(maximum length of 20 characters)510 Display RF transceiver FPGA version RF FPGA VER = XX.XX511 Display RF transceiver I filter chip version FIL IC I VER = XX.XX512 Display RF transceiver Q filter chip version FIL IC Q VER = XX.XX513 Display DSP board Actel version DSP FPGA VER = XX.XX520 Display power fail bit PWRB Px R0 P0 = no power fail has occurredP1 = power fail has occurredR0 = not applicable521 Display reader ID number RDID xx xx = 00–FF522 Display comm port parameters MAIN Bx Sx Px D0 B2 = 1200B3 = 2400B4 = 4800B5 = 9600B6 = 19.2B7 = 38.4S0 = one stop bitS1 = two stop bitsP0 = no parityP1 = evenP2 = oddD0 = EOL delay of 0 ms524 Display appended info status IDAP T0 D0 Xx T0 = time not appendedT1 = time appendedD0 = date not appendedD1 = date appendedX0 = aux info not appendedX1 = aux info appendedTable D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-9525 Display comm protocol ECPS Px Txx Xx S0 P0 = basicP1 = ECPP2 = echo InquiryTxx = ECP timeoutms = 50 * xxFF = disabled ECP timeoutX0 = no flow controlX1 = software flow controlX2 = hardware flow controlS0 = som character is #526 Display I/O status IOST Cx Ox Ix DxC0 = host controls outputsC1 = predefined output modeO0 = both outputs offO1 = output0 onO2 = output1 onO3 = both outputs onI0 = both inputs falseI1 = input0 trueI2 = input1 trueI3 = both inputs trueD0 - DF = output pulse durationwhereD0 = 4 msD1 = 8 msD2 = 12 msD3 = 16 msD4 = 20 msD5 = 24 msD6 = 32 msD7 = 40 msD8 = 48 msD9 = 60 msDA = 76 msDB = 152 msDC = 228 msDD = 300 msDE = 376 msDF = 752 msTable D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-10527 Display RF status RFST Cx Ox Tx Fxxx Rxx Gxx Axx IxxC0 = RF controlled by hostC1 = RF-by-presence sensorO0 = RF offO1 = RF onT1 = uniqueness timeout of 2 minT2 = uniqueness timeout of 15 secT3 = uniqueness timeout of 30 secFxxx = RF output frequency,xxx = 000 to 118Rxx = Tag decoder range (distance) for ATA tags, 00 to 1F hexadecimal range valueGxx = Tag decoder range (distance) for eGo Plus Tags, 00 to 1F hexadecimal range valueAxx = RF power attenuation, 00 max to 0A min (10 dB less than max)Ixx = IAG RF power attenuation, 00 max to 0F min (15 dB less than max)Note If you enter RF settings using command #642NN, the display command for RF output frequency, F is "Fxx" and indicates use of the backward-compatible frequency entry method.Table D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-11529 Display presence input status PRST Px D0 Ax Tx IxP0 = disable presence w/o tag reportsP1 = enable presence w/o tag reportsD0 = min presence true period of 0 msA0 = RF off on timeoutA1 = RF off on timeout or tagA2 = RF off on timeout or no presenceT0: RF timeout of 0 ms (always expired)T1: RF timeout of 4 msT2: RF timeout of 8 msT3: RF timeout of 12 msT4: RF timeout of 20 msT5: RF timeout of 24 msT6: RF timeout of 32 msT7: RF timeout of 48 msT8: RF timeout of 60 msT9: RF timeout of 92 msTA: RF timeout of 152 msTB: RF timeout of 300 msTC: RF timeout of 452 msTD: RF timeout of 600 msTE: RF timeout of 752 msTF: RF timeout infinite, never expires (factory default)I0 = Input inversion disabled (factory default)I1 = Input inversion enabled530 Display RF0 filter status RF0S Ux V0 U0 = one ID separationU1 = two ID separationU2 = transmit all IDsU3 = buffer all IDsV0 = valid ID code criteria of one acquisition (fixed)534 Display tag translation mode status TT <0 to 1>0 = tag translation mode disabled1 = tag translation mode enabled535 Display buffer control status BCM <0 to 1>0 = buffer control mode disabled1 = buffer control mode enabledTable D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-12536 Display dual-frame processing mode DUAL <0 to 3>0 = reset uniqueness on A, transmit A1 = reset uniqueness on B, transmit B2 = reset uniqueness on A, transmit both A and B3 = reset uniqueness on B, transmit both A and B537 Display echo status ECHO x0 = disabled1 = enabled540 Display flash checksum PCKS I0000 Exxxxxxxx = 4-byte ASCII checksum543 Display boot checksum BCKS xxxx xxxx = 4-byte ASCII checksum550 Display periodic check tag status SCTS M0 (fixed)551 Display selected check tag option CTAG 0 (fixed)560 Display input status change SSTC Ex Mx E0 = status change reports disabledE1 = status change reports enabledM0 = no reportingM1 = report change on input0M2 = report change on input1M3 = report change on either input570 Display operating mode status ATA:<E, D> eGo:<I, F, D> SeGo:<I, F, D> IAG:<E, D> Sort:<E, D>I = ID (64 bits)E = EnabledF = Full transaction (eATA)D = Disabled577 Report buffered handshakes XX = number of handshakes60NN Set reader ID number NN = 00–FF(00 = factory default)Done610 Select basic protocol Done 611 Select ECP protocol Done Table D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-13612NN Set ECP timeoutNN = 01–FE (1–255)timeout = 50 ms * NN(if NN = FF, timeout isdisabled)Done 612FE Set ECP timeout = 12.7 sec Done 613 Enable data inquiry protocol Done6140 Disable flow control Done6141 Enable software flow control Done6142 Enable hardware flow control Done6160 Disable buffer control mode Done6161 Enable buffer control mode Done6170 Disable echo Done6171 Enable echo Done 6200 Turn both outputs off Done6201 Turn output0 on Done6202 Turn output1 on Done6203 Turn both outputs on Done621 Select predefined output mode Done63 Reset reader Model [model] Ver [version no.] SN [serial no.]Copyright [date]TransCore 6400 Turn off RF Done6401 Turn on RF Done6402 Turns on continuous wave RF until commands 6400 or 641 are received by the readerDone641 Select RF-by-input control Done642NN Select RF operating frequency Done643NN Set ATA operating rangeNN = 00 (shortest) to 1F (longest)1F = defaultDoneTable D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-14644NN Set RF attenuationNN = 00 to 0A Done645NN Set SeGo protocol operating range NN = 00 (shortest) to1F (longest)Done647XXX Select RF operating frequency from 860 to 930 in 250 kHz stepsXXX = 000 - 118 (hexadecimal)Done65 Reset power fail bit Done66F Load default operating parameters (except RF operating frequency)Done 67C Output pulse duration = 228 ms set Done 67N Set output pulse duration N = 0–F(4,8,12,16,20,24,32,40,48,60,76,152, 228,300,376,752 ms)Done 6900 Disable presence without tag reports Done6901 Enable presence without tag reports Done6920 Turn RF off on timeout Done6921 Turn RF off on timeout/tag Done6922 Turn RF off ontimeout/no presence Done693N Set RF timeoutN = 0–F(always expired, 4,8,12,20,24,32,48,60,92,152, 300,452,600,752, infinite)Done 693F Set RF timeout = infinite Done6940 Disable input inversion Done6941 Enable input inversion Done695S...S Set serial numberS...S = ASCII string(maximum length of 6characters)DoneTable D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-15696S...S Store hardwareconfiguration stringS...S = ASCII string(maximum length of 20characters)Done820 Disable status changereports Done821 Report change on input0 Done822 Report change on input1 Done823 Report changes on both Done830 Disable automatic periodic RF status report Done831 Enable automatic periodic RF status report Done Table D-2 MPRR Commands Listed Numerically (continued)Number Command Name Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-16Alphabetical Command ListThe following conventions are used in Table D-3:•Items in bold italics identify factory default settings.•Only the command-related data portion of the reader message is shown.Refer to Chapter 7 for the complete syntax of commands and messages.Table D-3 MPRR Commands Listed AlphabeticallyCommand Name Code Reader MessageAll IDs buffer 43 DoneAll IDs transmit 40 DoneAlternate fifth group select disable 494 DoneAlternate fifth group select enable 495 Done Alternate fourth group select disable 492 DoneAlternate fourth group select enable 493 Done Alternate group select disable 496 Done Alternate group select enable 497 Done Alternate second group select disable 458 DoneAlternate second group select enable 459 Done Alternate third group select disable 490 DoneAlternate third group select enable 491 Done Appended info status display 524 IDAP T0 D0 Xx T0 = time not appendedT1 = time appendedD0 = date not appendedD1 = date appendedX0 = aux info not appendedX1 = aux info appended ATA disable 480 Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.
Command Quick ReferenceD-17ATA enable 481 Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.ATA operating range setNN = 00 (shortest) to 1F (longest)1F = default643NN DoneAutomatic periodic RF status report disable 830 DoneAutomatic periodic RF status report enable 831 DoneAux info append disable 310 Done Aux info append enable 311 Done Basic protocol select 610 Done Baud rate = 1200 baud set 1002 Done Baud rate = 19.2 K baud set 1006 Done Baud rate = 2400 baud set 1003 Done Baud rate = 38.4 K baud set 1007 Done Baud rate = 4800 baud set 1004 Done Baud rate = 9600 baud set 1005 Done Boot checksum display 543 BCKS xxxx xxxx = 4-byte ASCII checksumBuffer control mode disable 6160 DoneBuffer control mode enable 6161 DoneBuffer control status display 535 BCM <0 to 1>0 = buffer control mode disabled1 = buffer control mode enabledBuffer entry transmit 06 Done, error, or tag dataDone = buffer emptyError = not in buffer control modeTag data = highest priority tag IDBuffered handshake report 577 XX = number of handshakesTable D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-18Comm port parameters display 522 MAIN Bx Sx Px D0 B0 = 110B1 = 300B2 = 1200B3 = 2400B4 = 4800B5 = 9600B6 = 19.2B7 = 38.4S0 = one stop bitS1 = two stop bitsP0 = no parityP1 = evenP2 = oddD0 = EOL delay of 0 msComm protocol display 525 ECPS Px Txx Xx S0 P0 = basicP1 = ECPP2 = data inquiryTxx = ECP timeoutms = 50 * xxTFF = disabled ECP timeoutX0 = no flow controlX1 = software flow controlX2 = hardware flow controlS0 = SOM character is #Command mode switch 01 DoneData inquiry protocol enable 613 DoneData mode switch 00 DoneDate set 21 DoneDefault operating parameters load (except RF operating frequency)66F Done DSP board Actel version display 513 DSP FPGA VER = XX.XXDual-frame processing mode display 536 DUAL <0 to 3>0 = reset uniqueness on A, transmit A1 = reset uniqueness on B, transmit B2 = reset uniqueness on A, transmit both A and B3 = reset uniqueness on B, transmit both A and BeATA disable 488 Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.Table D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-19eATA enable 489 Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.Echo disable 6170 DoneEcho enable 6171 Done Echo status display 537 ECHO x0 = disabled1 = enabledECP protocol select 611 Done ECP timeout set = 12.7 sec 612FE Done ECP timeout setNN = 01–FE (1–255)timeout = 50 ms * NN(if NN = FF, timeout is disabled)612NN Done SeGo protocol operating range set NN = 00 (shortest) to 1F (longest)645NN DoneSeGo protocol tag initialization during multi-tag sort 456 Done SeGo protocol tag initialization during multi-tag sort disable 457 Done Even parity select 1021 DoneFlash checksum display 540 PCKS I0000 Exxxxxxxx = 4-byte ASCII checksumFlow control disable 6140 DoneHardware configuration information display 506 S...S S...S = ASCII string(maximum length of 20 characters)Hardware configuration string storeS...S = ASCII string(maximum length of 20 characters)696S...S DoneHardware flow control enable 6142 DoneTable D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-20I/O status display 526 IOST Cx Ox Ix DxC0 = host controls outputsC1 = predefined output modeO0 = both outputs offO1 = output0 onO2 = output1 onO3 = both outputs onI0 = both inputs falseI1 = input0 trueI2 = input1 trueI3 = both inputs trueD0 - DF = output pulse durationwhereD0 = 4 msD1 = 8 msD2 = 12 msD3 = 16 msD4 = 20 msD5 = 24 msD6 = 32 msD7 = 40 msD8 = 48 msD9 = 60 msDA = 76 msDB = 152 msDC = 228 msDD = 300 msDE = 376 msDF = 752 msInput inversion disable 6940 DoneInput inversion enable 6941 DoneInput status change display 560 SSTC Ex Mx E0 = status change reports disabledE1 = status change reports enabledM0 = no reportingM1 = report change on input0M2 = report change on input1M3 = report change on either inputInput0 change report 821 DoneInput1 change report 822 DoneMulti-tag sort disable 454 DoneMulti-tag sort enable 455 Done Odd parity select 1022 DoneTable D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-21Operating mode status display 570 ATA:<E, D> eGo:<I, F, D> SeGo:<I, F, D> IAG:<E, D> Sort:<E, D>I = ID (64 bits)E = EnabledF = Full transaction (eATA)D = DisabledOutput pulse duration = 228 ms set 67C Done Output pulse duration setN = 0–F(4,8,12,16,20,24,32,40,48,60,76,152, 228,300,376,752 ms)67N Done Output0 turn on 6201 DoneOutput1 turn on 6202 DoneOutputs turn off both 6200 DoneOutputs turn on both 6203 DoneParity disable 1020 DonePeriodic check tag status display 550 SCTS M0 (fixed)Power fail bit display 520 PWRB Px R0 P0 = no power fail has occurredP1 = power fail has occurredR0 = not applicablePower fail bit reset 65 DonePredefined output mode select 621 DoneTable D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-22Presence input status display 529 PRST Px D0 Ax Tx IxP0 = disable presence w/o tag reportsP1 = enable presence w/o tag reportsD0 = min presence true period of 0 msA0 = RF off on timeoutA1 = RF off on timeout or tagA2 = RF off on timeout or no presenceT0: RF timeout of 0 ms (always expired)T1: RF timeout of 4 msT2: RF timeout of 8 msT3: RF timeout of 12 msT4: RF timeout of 20 msT5: RF timeout of 24 msT6: RF timeout of 32 msT7: RF timeout of 48 msT8: RF timeout of 60 msT9: RF timeout of 92 msTA: RF timeout of 152 msTB: RF timeout of 300 msTC: RF timeout of 452 msTD: RF timeout of 600 msTE: RF timeout of 752 msTF: RF timeout infinite, never expires (factory default)I0 = Input inversion disabled (factory default)I1 = Input inversion enabledPresence without tag reports disable 6900 DonePresence without tag reports enable 6901 DoneReader ID number display 521 RDID xx xx = 00–FFReader ID number setNN = 00-FF(00 = factory default)60NN DoneReader reset 63 Model [model] Ver [version no.] SN [serial no.]Copyright [date]TransCore Report changes both 823 DoneRF attenuation setNN = 00 to 0A 644NN Done Table D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-23RF CW turns on until commands 6400, 6401, or 641 are received by reader6402 DoneRF off on timeout 6920 DoneRF off on timeout/no presence 6922 DoneRF off on timeout/tag 6921 DoneRF turn off 6400 DoneRF turn on 6401 DoneRF on by input control 641 DoneRF operating frequency from 860 to 930 in 250 kHz steps selectXXX = 000 - 118 (hexadecimal)647XXX DoneRF operating frequency select 642NN DoneRF status display 527 RFST Cx Ox Tx Fxxx Rxx Gxx Axx IxxC0 = RF controlled by hostC1 = RF-by-presence sensorO0 = RF offO1 = RF onT1 = uniqueness timeout of 2 minT2 = uniqueness timeout of 15 secT3 = uniqueness timeout of 30 secFxxx = RF output frequency,xxx = 000 to 118Rxx = Tag decoder range (distance) for ATA tags, 00 to 1F hexadecimal range valueGxx = Tag decoder range (distance) for eGo Plus Tags, 00 to 1F hexadecimal range valueAxx = RF power attenuation, 00 max to 0A min (10 dB less than max)Ixx = IAG RF power attenuation, 00 max to 0F min (15 dB less than max)If you enter RF settings using command #642NN, the display command for RF output frequency, F is "Fxx" and indicates use of the backward-compatible frequency entry method.Table D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-24RF timeout = infinite set 693F DoneRF timeout setN = 0–F(always expired, 4,8,12,20,24,32, 48,60,92,152,300,452,600,752 ms, infinite)693N Done RF transceiver FPGA version display 510 RF FPGA VER = XX.XXRF transceiver I filter chip version display 511 FIL IC I VER = XX.XXRF transceiver Q filter chip version display 512 FIL IC Q VER = XX.XXRF0 filter status display 530 RF0S Ux V0 U0 = one ID separationU1 = two IDU2 = transmit allSeGo disable 484 Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.SeGo enable 485 Done if MPRR model supports this tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is unsupported.Selected check tag option display 551 CTAG 0 (fixed)Serial number setS...S = ASCII string(maximum length of 6 characters)695S...S DoneSoftware flow control enable 6141 DoneStatus change reports disable 820 DoneStop bit use one 1010 DoneStop bit use two 1011 DoneTag ID separation select four 4103 DoneTag ID separation select one 4100 DoneTag ID separation select three 4102 DoneTag ID separation select two 4101 DoneTable D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Command Quick ReferenceD-25Tag translation mode status display 534 TT <0 to 1>0 = tag translation mode disabled1 = tag translation mode enabledTime and date appended 302 DoneTime and date display 22 Time and dateTime and date not appended 300 DoneTime set 20 DoneUniqueness reset 440 DoneUniqueness time-out set to 2 minutes 441 DoneUniqueness time-out set to 15 seconds 442 DoneUniqueness time-out set to 30 seconds 443 DoneValid ID code select four 4203 DoneValid ID code select one 4200 DoneValid ID code select three 4202 DoneValid ID code select two 4201 DoneVersion display 505 Model [model] Ver [ver no.] SN [serial no.]Table D-3 MPRR Commands Listed Alphabetically (continued)Command Name Code Reader Message
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideD-26
ECompatible Tag Information
E-3Appendix ECompatible Tag InformationThis appendix gives helpful information about the tags that are compatible with the Multiprotocol Rail Reader (MPRR).Tag ConfigurationsTable E-1 lists the TransCore Super eGo® (SeGo) protocol tags that are compatible with the MPRR.Table E-2 lists most ATA tag models that are compatible with the MPRR. Table E-1 SeGo Protocol TagsTag Tag Type Power SourceNumber of 6-bit ASCII CharactersaNumber of 128-Bit FramesaSpecial FeaturesAT5118Rail Beam20 1 Very thin, flexible, multi-layer lamination10 1/2AT5133 20 1 Very thin, flexible, multi-layer lamination, tamper detection10 1/2AT5549 20 1 Water-resistant, exterior-mounted10 1/2a. These fields apply to eATA-programmed tags only. Contact TransCore for information regarding tags programmed with these features.Table E-2 ATA Protocol TagsTag Model Number TagType Power SourceNumber of 6-Bit ASCIICharactersNumber of 128-Bit Frames Special FeaturesAT5110 Trans-portation Beam 20 1 915 MHz frequency, metal external installAT5112 Access control, transpor-tationBeam 10 1/2 915 MHz frequency, metal external install
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideE-4a. If desired, in place of 40 six-bit ASCII characters, the AT5707 can support up to 34 seven-bit ASCII characters.Tag Data FormatsTags are programmed at the TransCore factory with the tag model number, date of manufacture, and data format. Contact TransCore for special order entry procedures for the format that applies to your system. The following four tag data formats can be used: •10-character alphanumeric ASCII — Four alphanumeric characters are fixed and can be used to identify either the dealer or the user. The remaining six positions are numeric and should be unique for each tag issued. For example, the entry ACME000001 might be specified as the first tag on the order entry form from ACME Rail Lines.•20-character alphanumeric ASCII — Four alphanumeric characters are typically fixed and the remaining 16 positions are numbered sequentially.•AAR/ISO — For requirements for this format, refer to ISO 10374 and the most recent version of Association of American Railroads Standard for Automatic Equipment Identification.AT5114 Access control, transpor-tation10-yr battery 10 1/2 Multifrequency, metal external installAT5125 Trans-portation Beam 20 1 915 MHz frequency; high-temperature chemical-resistant case, metal external installAT5510 Trans-portation 10-yr battery 20 1 Multifrequency, metal external installAT5704 Trans-portation External 4608 256 Multifrequency, dynamic tag, metal external installAT5707 Trans-portation 8-yr battery 40a2 915 MHz frequency, dynamic tag, metal external installTable E-2 ATA Protocol Tags (continued)Tag Model Number TagType Power SourceNumber of 6-Bit ASCIICharactersNumber of 128-Bit Frames Special Features
Compatible Tag InformationE-5
Multiprotocol Rail Reader System GuideE-6

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