TransCore MPRX Multiprotocol Reader Extreme User Manual

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User Manual

Multiprotocol

Reader Extreme (MPRX)

System Guide

Trusted Transportation Solutions

16-0079-001 Rev A 11/16

TransCore’s Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) is a radio frequency

identiﬁcation (RFID) reader that is speciﬁcally designed for harsh

environment applications.

Purpose of This Guide

This guide provides site planning and testing, installing, and operating instructions for

TransCore’s Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) System, which reads Association of

American Railroads (AAR) formatted tags and TransCore Super eGo® (SeGo) protocol tags.

Before you begin installing the MPRX, TransCore recommends that you familiarize yourself

with this manual.

Intended Audience

This document is intended for use by authorized TransCore MPRX dealers, installers,

and service personnel. Because the MPRX has no operator or end-user serviceable

components or features, no end-user manual or operator guide exists. Once the system

is set up and tested by the authorized installer, MPRX operation requires no end-user

intervention. Information in this document is subject to change and does not represent a

commitment on the part of TransCore, LP.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

registered trademarks and are used under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective

owners. Contents are subject to change. Printed in the U.S.A.

For further information, contact:

TransCore

8600 Jeerson Street NE

Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113 USA

TransCore Technical Support

Web: www.transcore.com/rﬁdsupport

Phone: (505) 856-8007

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary iii

WARNING TO USERS IN THE UNITED STATES

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION FCC

LOCATION AND MONITORING SERVICE STATEMENT

47 CFR §90.351

NOTE: The user is required to obtain a Part 90 site license from the Federal Communications

Commission (FCC) to operate this radio frequency identiﬁcation (RFID) device in the United States.

The FCC ID number is FIHMPRX. Access the FCC website at www.fcc.gov 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 STATEMENT

47 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 eect, the user may be required to correct the interference

at their own expense.

NO UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS

47 CFR §15.21

CAUTION: This equipment may not be modiﬁed, altered, or changed in any way without

permission. Unauthorized modiﬁcation may void the equipment authorization from the FCC and

will

void the warranty.

USE OF SHIELDED CABLES AND GROUNDING

47 CFR §15.27A

NOTE: Shielded cables and earth grounding the unit is recommended for this equipment to comply

with FCC regulations.

TRANSCORE, LP

USA

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

AVERTISSEMENT À L’ATTENTION DES

UTILISATEURS AUX ÉTATSUNIS

DÉCLARATION 47 CFR §90.351 CODE DES

RÈGLEMENTS FÉDÉRAUX DE LA FEDERAL

COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION FCC SUR LES

SERVICES DE LOCALISATION ET DE CONTRÔLE

REMARQUE : L’utilisateur est tenu d’obtenir une licence d’utilisation sur site Partie 90 auprès de

la Federal Communications Commission (FCC) aﬁn de pouvoir utiliser ce dispositif RFID (radio-

identiﬁcation) aux États-Unis ou au Canada. Le numéro d’identiﬁcation de la FCC est FIHMPRX.Pour

obtenir de plus amples informations concernant les exigences relatives aux licences, prière de

consulter le site web de la FCC à www.fcc.gov.

REMARQUE : Il est recommandé à tous les utilisateurs, quel que soit leur pays, de consulter les

autorités locales compétentes sur les exigences de licence.

DÉCLARATION 47 CFR §15.105A DE LA FCC SUR

LES INTERFÉRENCES DES FRÉQUENCES RADIO

REMARQUE : Cet appareil a été testé et déclaré conforme à la catégorie d’un appareil numérique

de classe A en accord avec la partie 15 des directives de la FCC. Ces normes visent à assurer

une protection raisonnable contre les interférences nuisibles lorsque l’appareil est utilisé dans

un environnement commercial. Cet appareil génère, utilise et peut émettre de l’énergie RF et

peut être à l’origine d’interférences nuisibles aux communications radio s’il n’est pas installé et

utilisé en suivant les directives du manuel d’instructions. Si cet appareil est utilisé dans une zone

résidentielle, il est probable qu’il cause des interférences nuisibles. Dans ce cas, l’utilisateur

pourrait être amené à remédier aux interférences à ses propres frais, selon les lois du pays en

vigueur.

AUCUNE MODIFICATION NON AUTORISÉE

47 CFR §15.21

MISE EN GARDE : Il est interdit de modiﬁer, d’altérer ou d’apporter des changements à cet appareil

de quelque manière que ce soit sans autorisation. Toute modiﬁcation non autorisée peut annuler

l’autorisation d’utilisation accordée par la FCC et annulera la garantie.

UTILISATION DE CÂBLES BLINDÉS ET MISE À LA TERRE

47 CFR §15.27A

REMARQUE : Il est recommandé d’utiliser des câbles blindés et une mise à la terre avec cet

appareil aﬁn de répondre aux réglementations de la FCC

TRANSCORE, LP

ÉTATSUNIS

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary v

WARNING TO USERS IN CANADA

INDUSTRY CANADA IC INDUSTRY CANADA’S RADIO STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS RSS137 LOCATION

AND MONITORING SERVICE IN THE BAND 902928 MHZ SECTION 2.1

NOTE: The user is required to obtain a license from Industry Canada (IC), to operate this radio

frequency identiﬁcation (RFID) device in Canada. The IC ID number is 1584A-MPRX, access the IC

website at www.ic.gc.ca to obtain additional information concerning licensing requirements.

Industry Canada (IC) Industry Canada’s Radio Standard Speciﬁcations General Requirements

(RSS-GEN) for Compliance of Radio Apparatus Statement Section 8.4

This device complies with Industry Canada’s license-exempt RSSs. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions:

1 ) This device may not cause interference; and

2 ) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause

undesired operation of the device.

AVERTISSEMENT AUX UTILISATEURS AU CANADA

INDUSTRIE CANADA IC INDUSTRIE CANADA RADIO STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS CNR137

EMPLACEMENT ET SERVICE DE SURVEILLANCE DANS LA BANDE 902928 MHZ, SECTION 2.1

Remarque : L’utilisateur est tenu d’obtenir une licence d’Industrie Canada (IC), aﬁn d’exploiter

ce dispositif d’identiﬁcation par radiofréquence au Canada. Le numéro d’identiﬁcation d’IC est

1584A-MPRX. Pour obtenir de plus amples informations concernant les exigences relatives aux

licences, prière de consulter le site web de d’IC à www.ic.gc.ca .

Radio Standard Spéciﬁcations exigences générales Industrie Canada (IC) Industrie Canada

(CNR-GEN) pour s’acquitter du Radio appareil déclaration article 8.4

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio

exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes :

1 ) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et

2 ) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le

brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

RADIO FREQUENCY HEALTH LIMITS FOR MPRX READER

USING AN EXTERNAL ANTENNA IN FREQUENCY BAND

OF 902.25 TO 903.75 AND 910.00 TO 921.50 MHZ

Several agencies (OSHA, FCC, IC) have environmental guidelines regulating maximum permissible

exposure (MPE) or “safe” exposure levels that this product falls under. To ensure that proper safety

guideline for the end users of this product, i.e. Occupational (Controlled) and General Population/

Public (Uncontrolled), the recommended levels for each of the agencies are presented in the next

sections with TransCore’s recommendations for safety in the last section.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

OSHA (an agency of The United States of America) legislates in the Code of Federal Regulations

(CFR) Title 29 Part 1910 Subpart G 1910.97 titled “Nonionizing radiation”, a maximum safe exposure

limit of 10 milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm2) during any 0.1-hour period (i.e. 6 minutes).

Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment) of 915 MHz and the

highest antenna gain that this equipment is certiﬁed for use in a ﬁnal installation, the minimum safe

distance was calculated to be 8in (20cm).

FCC (Federal Communication Commission)

FCC (an agency of The United States of America) legislates in the Code of Federal Regulations

(CFR) Title 47 Chapter I Subchapter A Part 1 Subpart I Section 1.1310 titled “Radiofrequency radiation

exposure limits” that the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) is the following:

Occupational/Controlled Exposure

Power density = frequency (in MHz)/300 mW/cm2 with an Averaging time of 6 Min

General Population/Uncontrolled Exposure

Power density = frequency (in MHz)/1500 mW/cm2 with an Averaging time of 30 Min

Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment) of 915MHz and the

highest antenna gain that this equipment is certiﬁed for use in a ﬁnal installation, the minimum

safe distance was calculated. The MPE minimum distances are 14in (36cm) for the Occupational/

Controlled environment, and 31.5in (80.5cm) for the General Population/Uncontrolled environment.

Industry Canada (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada)

Industry Canada (a Department of the Government of Canada) sets out the requirements in Radio

Standards Speciﬁcation RSS-102, Issue 5 guidelines, recommending a maximum safe

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary vii

Occupational/Controlled Environment

Agency Power Density (mW/cm2) MPE minimum distance Time (min)

in cm

OSHA 10 7 18 6

FCC 3.05 13 32 6

IC 1.95 16 40 6

General Population/Public/Uncontrolled Environment

Agency Power Density (mW/cm2) MPE minimum distance Time (min)

In cm

OSHA 10 7 18 6

FCC 0.61 28 72 30

IC 0.28 42 106 6

power density in W/m2. Thus, the maximum permissible exposure for general population/

uncontrolled exposure at 915MHz is 2.77 W/m2. The average time is 6 minutes. The maximum

permissible exposure (MPE) is the following:

Controlled Environment

Power density = 0.6455*frequency (in MHz)0.5 W/m2 with a Reference Period time of 6 Min

General Public/Uncontrolled Environment

Power density = 0.02619*frequency (in MHz)0.6834 W/m2 with a Reference Period time of 6 Min

Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment) of 915MHz and the

highest antenna gain that this equipment is certiﬁed for use in a ﬁnal installation, the minimum

safe distance was calculated. The MPE minimum distances are 18in (45cm) for the Controlled

environment and 47in (120cm) for the General Public/Uncontrolled environment.

TransCore Recommendation on MPE (Maximum Permissible Exposure)

The calculated power densities and MPE distance for each of the agencies respective to the

environment is shown below.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

viii

With the equipment installed and running at the maximum transmit power of 1.6W (32dBm),

0dB transmit attenuation, using the highest gain antenna that the equipment is certiﬁed for, the

recommendation for each of the operation environments is as follows:

1 ) The antenna should be installed at least 42in (106cm) from the General Population/

Public i.e. Uncontrolled Environment.

2 ) Maintenance personnel (i.e. Occupational/Controlled Environment) must remain at least

16in (40cm) from the antenna and limit their time in the environment to 6 minutes when

the system is operating.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary ix

LIMITES D’EXPOSITION AUX RADIOFRÉQUENCES POUR LE LECTEUR MPRX

UTILISANT UNE ANTENNE EXTERNE SUR LA BANDE

DE FRÉQUENCES DE 902.25 À 903.75 ET DE 910.00 À 921.50 MHZ

Plusieurs organismes (OSHA, FCC, IC) publient des directives environnementales qui

recommandent des limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) ou des niveaux

d’exposition «sûrs» auxquels cet appareil se conforme. Pour faire en sorte que chaque utilisateur

ﬁnal ait connaissance des directives de sécurité qui le concerne, que ce soit dans son travail

(accès contrôlé) ou pour la population générale/le grand public (accès non contrôlé), TransCore

présente les niveaux recommandés par chaque organisme dans ses recommandations sécuritaires

détaillées dans la dernière section.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

Dans le Code des réglementations fédérales (CFR), Titre 29, Partie 1910, Sous-partie G 1910.97,

intitulée «Nonionizing radiation» (Rayonnements non ionisants), l’OSHA (organisme américain)

recommande un plafond d’exposition maximale de 10 milliwatts par centimètre carré (mW/cm2)

pendant une période de 0,1 heure (soit 6 minutes). En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz (milieu de

la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet appareil a

reçu une certiﬁcation d’utilisation dans une installation ﬁnale, la distance minimale sécuritaire est

de 20 cm (8 po).

FCC (Federal Communication Commission)

Dans le Code des réglementations fédérales (CFR), Titre 47, Chapitre I, Sous-chapitre A, Partie

1, Sous-partie I, Section 1.1310 intitulée «Radiofrequency radiation exposure limits» (Limites

d’exposition aux rayonnements de radiofréquence), la FCC (organisme américain) établit les limites

d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) comme suit :

Exposition professionnelle/contrôlée

Densité de puissance = fréquence (en MHz)/300 mW/cm2 avec une durée moyenne de 6 min.

Exposition de la population générale/non contrôlée

Densité de puissance = fréquence (en MHz)/1500 mW/cm2 avec une durée moyenne de 30 min.

En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz (milieu de la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le

gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet appareil a reçu une certiﬁcation d’utilisation dans une

installation ﬁnale, la distance minimale sécuritaire est la suivante : les distances MPE minimales

sont de 36 cm (14 po) pour l’environnement professionnel/contrôlé et de 80,5 cm (31,5 po) pour la

population générale/environnement non contrôlé.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

Industrie Canada (Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada)

Le Cahier des charges sur les normes radioélectriques 102, 5e édition, d’Industrie Canada (un

ministère du Gouvernement du Canada) établit des recommandations pour une densité de

puissance maximale sécuritaire en W/m2. Ainsi, l’exposition maximale admissible pour la population

générale/non contrôlée à 915 MHz est calculée à 2,77 W/m2. La durée moyenne est de 6 minutes.

Les limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) sont les suivantes :

Environnement contrôlé

Densité de puissance = 0,6455*fréquence (en MHz)0,5 W/m2 avec une durée de référence de 6 min.

Grand public/environnement non contrôlé

Densité de puissance = 0,02619*fréquence (en MHz)0,6834 W/m2 avec une durée de référence de 6 min.

En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz (milieu de la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le

gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet appareil a reçu une certiﬁcation d’utilisation dans une

installation ﬁnale, la distance minimale sécuritaire est la suivante : les distances MPE minimales

sont de 45 cm (18 po) pour l’environnement professionnel/contrôlé et de 120 cm (47 po) pour le

grand public/environnement non contrôlé.

Recommandations de TransCore sur les limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE)

Les densités de puissance et la distance MPE calculées par chaque organisme pour un

environnement donné sont présentées ci dessous.

Exposition professionnelle/environnement contrôlé

Organisme Densité de puissance (mW/

cm2)

Distance MPE minimale Durée (en min.)

po cm

OSHA 10 7 18 6

FCC 3,05 13 32 6

IC 1,95 16 40 6

Population générale/environnement non contrôlé

Organisme Densité de puissance (mW/

cm2)

Distance MPE minimale Durée (en min.)

po cm

OSHA 10 7 18 6

FCC 0,61 28 72 30

IC 0,28 42 106 6

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary xi

Avec l’appareil installé et fonctionnant à la puissance de transmission maximale de 1,6W (32dBm),

0dB d’atténuation de transmission, et en utilisant le gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel l’appareil

a reçu une certiﬁcation, les recommandations pour chaque environnement d’exploitation sont les

suivantes :

1 ) L’antenne devrait être installée à au moins 106 cm (42 po) de la population générale/du

grand public, c’est-à-dire d’un environnement non contrôlé.

2 ) Le personnel d’entretien (c’est-à-dire dans un environnement professionnel/contrôlé)

doit rester à au moins 40 cm (16 po) de l’antenne et limiter son temps d’exposition à 6

minutes lorsque l’appareil est en fonctionnement.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary i–i

Table of Contents

Purpose of This Guide ................................................i

Intended Audience .................................................... i

Chapter 1 Introduction ..........................................1–2

Licensing Requirements ........................................... 1–4

Technical Support................................................. 1–4

Chapter 2 Developing the Site Plan ...............................2–2

System Description ...............................................2–2

Overview of Site Planning..........................................2–3

Reading of Mixed Population Tags .......................................2–3

Antenna and Tag Alignment ........................................2–4

Antenna Selection ................................................2–6

Site Layout and Trac Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–6

Electrical and Communications Requirements.........................2–9

Chapter 3 Choosing, Installing, Removing Tags .....................3–2

Compatible Tag Types ................................................3–2

Recommended Mounting Locations .................................3–2

Locomotive Mounting Guidelines ...................................3–6

Rail Car Mounting Guidelines.......................................3–8

Tank Car Mounting Guidelines .....................................3–10

Chapter 4 Installing the MPRX.............................................4–2

Installation Process ...............................................4–2

Pre-installation Testing of the MPRX .................................4–3

Mounting the MPRX...............................................4–9

Mounting the Antenna Rail-Side ....................................4–11

Connecting the Power Supply ......................................4–11

Connecting Communications ......................................4–12

Connecting Sense Input and Sense Output Circuits................... 4–12

Marking the Read Zone ........................................... 4–13

Chapter 5 General Software Information ..........................5–2

Command Entry Conventions........................................ 5–2

Command Response Conventions ................................... 5–3

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

Operating Parameters .............................................. 5–3

Power Fail ......................................................... 5–4

Program Download ...............................................5–4

Startup ..........................................................5–4

Tag/Message Buer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–5

Chapter 6 Communications Protocols .............................6–2

Introduction......................................................6–2

Basic Protocol ....................................................6–3

Error Correcting Protocol...........................................6–3

Data Inquiry Protocol ..............................................6–4

Basic Protocol and ECP Format .....................................6–4

Host-Addressed Failure Conditions..................................6–11

ECP Reliability...................................................6–12

CRC Calculation .................................................6–12

Manually Disabling ECP for Maintenance............................6–15

Chapter 7 Commands ...........................................7–2

Introduction......................................................7–2

Operating Modes .................................................7–2

Command List....................................................7–4

Chapter 8 Conﬁguring the MPRX..................................8–2

Conﬁguring the Reader ............................................8–2

Conﬁguring Parameters with Terminal Emulation Software..............8–3

Conﬁguring MPRX Parameters.......................................8–11

Chapter 9 Troubleshooting and Maintenance ......................9–1

Error Messages ................................................... 9–1

MPRX Repair .....................................................9–4

Technical Support .................................................9–4

Marketing Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9–5

Chapter 10 Interface to Train Recording Unit ..................... 10–2

TRU System Overview............................................10–2

MPRX to TRU Connection.........................................10–3

Chapter 11 AT5720 Check Tag-to-MPRX Assembly.................. 11–2

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary iii

Required Supplies ................................................11–2

Appendix A Glossary............................................A–2

Appendix B Technical Speciﬁcations...............................B–2

Reader Speciﬁcations .............................................B–2

Appendix C Wiring Information ...................................C–2

Appendix D Command Quick Reference ...........................D–2

Command Syntax .................................................D–2

Factory Default Settings ...........................................D–2

Numerical Command List ..........................................D–3

Alphabetical Command List .......................................D–14

Appendix E Compatible Tag Information ...........................E–2

Tag Conﬁgurations ...............................................E–2

Tag Data Formats .................................................E–4

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

List of Figures

Figure 2 – 1 MPRX End Views ........................................................................................................ 2–2

Figure 2 – 2 Tag and Antenna Orientation (horizontal polarization) .....................................2–4

Figure 2 – 3 Horizontally Polarized Tag ........................................................................................................2–5

Figure 2 – 4 Antenna Location Relative to Tag Position ..........................................................2–6

Figure 2 – 5 Location of Host Port on MPRX..............................................................................2–11

Figure 2 – 6 Pin Assignments for Host Connector ...................................................................2–11

Figure 2 – 7 Location of Sense Port on MPRX .......................................................................... 2–12

Figure 2 – 8 Pin Assignments for Sense Connector ............................................................... 2–12

Figure 3 – 9 Clear Zone –Side View .............................................................................................3–4

Figure 3 – 10 Clear Zone –End View ............................................................................................ 3–4

Figure 3 – 11 Mounting Location Examples ..................................................................................3–5

Figure 3 – 12 Tag Placement Window for Locomotives – Right Front .....................................3–6

Figure 3 – 13 Right Front Placement of Tag on Locomotive .................................................... 3–7

Figure 3 – 14 Tag Placement Window Location for Locomotives — Left Rear ...................... 3–7

Figure 3 – 15 Optimal Tag Placement for Locomotives ...........................................................3–8

Figure 3 – 16 Tag Placement Window Location for Rail Cars –“A” Right Side ...................3–9

Figure 3 – 17 Tag Placement Window Location for Rail Cars -“B” Left Side ...........................3–9

Figure 3 – 18 Optimal Tag Placement for Rail Cars ................................................................... 3–10

Figure 3 – 19 Tag Placement Window Location for Tank Cars –“B” Left Side ...................3–11

Figure 3 – 20 Optimal Tag Placement for Tank Cars ..............................................................3–11

Figure 4 – 1 Wiring for Audible Circuit Tester ........................................................................... 4–4

Figure 4 – 2 Connect RF N-type Load or Attenuator to Reader Cable End .......................4–5

Figure 4 – 3 Short Load to Earth Ground .....................................................................................4–5

Figure 4 – 4 MPRX Showing Antenna Ports ................................................................................ 4–6

Figure 4 – 5 Location of MPRX Ground Stud .............................................................................. 4–7

Figure 4 – 6 Location of Communications/Power Port on MPRX .........................................4–8

Figure 4 – 7 MPRX Outer Dimensions and Mounting Hole Locations (not to scale) ....... 4–10

Figure 4 – 8 Sample Read Zone Marking Pattern ..................................................................... 4–15

Figure 8 – 1 Connection Description Dialog Box ........................................................................... 8–4

Figure 8 – 2 Phone Number Dialog Box ........................................................................................... 8–4

Figure 8 – 3 COM 1 Properties Dialog Box ........................................................................................ 8–5

Figure 8 – 4 Hyper Terminal Main Screen....................................................................................8–6

Figure 8 – 5 Sign-on Message ........................................................................................................ 8–7

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TransCore Proprietary v

Figure 8 – 6 Tag and Antenna Orientation (horizontal polarization) ..................................... 8–9

Figure 8 – 7 Successful Tag Read ................................................................................................. 8–10

Figure 8 – 8 Second Successful Tag Read ................................................................................ 8–10

Figure 8 – 9 MPRX RF Control Options ....................................................................................... 8–14

Figure 10 – 1 TRU Front Panel Showing Operational LEDs.................................................. 10–2

Figure 10 – 2 TRU-MPRX Communications Interface Cable Port (bottom of TRU) .......... 10–3

Figure 10 – 3 MPRX-TRU Communications Interface Cable .................................................. 10–4

Figure 11 – 1 Place Nut and Grommet Over Exposed Check Tag Wires .............................11–3

Figure 11 – 2 Feed Check Tag Wires through Plastic Housing Connector ........................... 11–3

Figure 11 – 3 Connect Check Tag Wires ........................................................................................11–3

Figure 11 – 4 Two Check Tag Assemblies Connected to Terminal Strip .................................11–4

Figure 11 – 5 Securing Terminal Strip into Connector Housing .............................................. 11–5

Figure 11 – 6 Plastic Nuts with Grommets ....................................................................................11–5

Figure 11 – 7 Nylon Cap Securely Fastened in Unused Port ..................................................11–6

Figure 11 – 8 Check Tag Assembly Secured to MPRX Port .....................................................11–6

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

List of Tables

Table 1 – 1 MPRX System Guide Overview .................................................................................. 1–2

Table 1 – 2 Typographical Conventions .........................................................................................1–3

Table 2 – 1 Staggered Reader Frequencies for AAR-formatted Tag Operation .................2–8

Table 2 – 2 Staggered Reader Frequencies for Tag Operation Outside the U.S. ..............2–8

Table 2 – 3 Connector Cabling Accessory Kits ........................................................................ 2–10

Table 2 – 4 Power Supply Current Requirements ...................................................................... 2–10

Table 2 – 5 Reader to Antenna Cable Performance ................................................................. 2–13

Table 3 – 1 Tags Read by the MPRX ................................................................................................3–2

Table 4 – 1 Installation Accessories................................................................................................4–3

Table 4 – 2 MPRX-to-Host Communications Cable Pin Designations ..................................4–8

Table 4 – 3 Commands for Testing RF Port-0 ............................................................................. 4–14

Table 4 – 4 Commands for Testing RF PORT-1 ......................................................................................4–16

Table 4 – 5 Commands for Testing RF PORT-2 ....................................................................................4–16

Table 4 – 6 Commands for Testing RF PORT-3 ......................................................................... 4–16

Table 5 – 1 Four-Character Command Structure ........................................................................ 5–1

Table 5 – 2 Sample Command Sequence....................................................................................5–2

Table 7 – 1 Select Baud Rate Commands ..................................................................................... 7–6

Table 7 – 2 Select Stop Bits Commands ...................................................................................... 7–6

Table 7 – 3 Select Parity Commands ............................................................................................. 7–7

Table 7 – 4 Append Time and Date Commands .......................................................................7–9

Table 7 – 5 Append Auxiliary Information Commands ............................................................. 7–10

Table 7 – 6 Unique ID Code Criteria ..............................................................................................7–11

Table 7 – 7 Select Valid Code Commands and Frames ........................................................... 7–12

Table 7 – 8 Flow Control Commands ...........................................................................................7–25

Table 7 – 9 RF Control Commands ...............................................................................................7–26

Table 7 – 10 RF Attenuation Command Variables .....................................................................7–27

Table 7 – 11 Select RF Frequency Commands ............................................................................7–29

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary vii

Table 7 – 12 Presence Without Tag Report Commands .......................................................... 7–30

Table 7 – 13 RF Control Algorithm Commands .......................................................................... 7–31

Table 7 – 14 Timeout Period Values ..................................................................................................... 7–32

Table 7 – 15 Input Inversion Options .............................................................................................7–33

Table 8 – 1 MPRX Default Conﬁguration Settings .....................................................................8–2

Table 8 – 2 Command Sequence to Verify Communications ................................................8–8

Table 9 – 1 Error Messages ............................................................................................................. 9–1

Table 9 – 2 Symptoms and Remedies ..........................................................................................9–2

Table 10 – 1 MPRX-to-TRU Interface Cable Pin and Signal Designations ......................... 10–4

Table 11 – 1 Check Tag Kit Parts List ...............................................................................................11–2

Table 11 – 2 Check Tag 0 Wire Assignments ................................................................................ 11–4

Table 11 – 3 Check Tag 1 Wire Assignments .................................................................................11–4

Table C – 1 Communications Interfaces and Conductor Requirements ...............................C–2

Table C – 2 MPRX Host Communications Cable Pin Designations ......................................C–2

Table C – 3 MPRX SENSE Communications Cable Pin Designations ..................................C–4

Table D – 1 MPRX Default Conﬁguration Settings ...................................................................... D–2

Table D – 2 MPRX Commands Listed Numerically ....................................................................D–4

Table D – 3 MPRX Commands Listed Alphabetically ...............................................................D–14

Table E – 1 SeGo Protocol Tags ......................................................................................................E–2

Table E – 2 AAR-formatted Tags ..................................................................................................................E–3

Chapter 1

Introduction

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

1–2

Chapter 1 Introduction

This chapter presents an overview of the MPRX System Guide.

Table 1 – 1 describes the contents of each chapter.

Table 1 – 1 MPRX System Guide Overview

Chapter Number

and Title Description

Chapter 1 – Introduction Outlines the manual’s organization, provides a brief description of the

MPRX, 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 MPRX. These considerations include

antenna and tag alignment, site layout and trac ﬂow, and electrical and

communications requirements.

Chapter 3 – Choosing,

Installing, and Removing

Tags

The MPRX has the capability to read TransCore AAR formatted read-only full frame tags and

TransCore SeGo protocol tags, for example, the AT5118 Harsh Environment Transportation

Tag and the AT5120 Transportation Tag.

How It Works

The MPRX directs the RF module to generate an RF signal, which is broadcast through

the external antenna mounted railside. Entering the MPRX’s reading range, a TransCore

RFID tag installed on a railcar or other asset to be tracked adds its programmed

identiﬁcation information to the signal and reﬂects the signal back to the MPRX. The

MPRX receives this modiﬁed, or modulated signal, and decodes the tag data carried by

the reﬂected signal and transmits this data to the Train Recording Unit (TRU) or local host

computer for processing.

Overview of Site Planning

Developing a site plan provides the foundation for the site’s system design and

establishes the following system conﬁguration parameters:

• Number and general location of primary components

• Number of dierent radio frequencies required

Gathering relevant site information is crucial before applying for Federal Communications

Commission (FCC) or regulatory agency approval from the country where the equipment

is to be used and ordering and installing MPRX(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 trac ﬂow

• MPRX and/or antenna mounting requirements

• MPRX electrical requirements

• MPRX communications requirements

These factors provide relevant information regarding each site’s physical and

electromagnetic environment and the conditions under which the system must perform.

Reading of Mixed Population Tags

The MPRX reads AAR-formatted tags and TransCore’s SeGo protocol tags. The factors

that inﬂuence the readability include, but are not limited to, physical orientation and

conﬁguration, type of read-only tag, ratio of backscatter cross-section of the tags, and

whether the tag is battery powered or beam powered.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

2–4

Antenna and Tag Alignment

The position of the antenna and placement of the tag on the vehicle must be compatible.

Two primary criteria must be satisﬁed to achieve the highest read reliability:

• Tag and the antenna polarization, they must be aligned in the same direction —

both horizontal.

• The installed tag must be in a direct, unobstructed line of sight to the antenna.

Caution

A tag may not be reliably read unless the preceding criteria are met.

Polarization

The polarization of the tag must be aligned in the same direction as the antenna.

Figure 2 – 2 shows a horizontally polarized antenna and tag.

Note: Matching the tag and antenna polarization is critical to obtain optimal system

performance.

Figure 2 – 2 Tag and Antenna Orientation (horizontal polarization)

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 2–5

Figure 2 – 3 shows a tag in correct polarization for the antenna.

Figure 2 – 3 Horizontally Polarized Tag

Unobstructed Line of Sight

For optimum readability, install the MPRX 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 obstruction between

the tag and the antenna(s), the MPRX cannot reliably read the tags. Figure 2 – 4 illustrates

possible installation locations of an antenna in relation to a tag’s mounting location on a

railcar.

System Guide

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2–6

Figure 2 – 4 Antenna Location Relative to Tag Position

Antenna Selection

This section contains guidelines to assist in antenna selection for an MPRX installation. The

following antennas are compatible with the MPRX installation.

AA3110 Parapanel

Appropriate 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 polarization

AA3140 PCB Log Periodic

Appropriate 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 polarization

Site Layout and Trac Flow

The following site layout and trac ﬂow considerations are critical when determining MPRX

installation locations:

• The MPRX read zone

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 2–7

• Other MPRXs and antennas in the area

• Reﬂection, refraction, and diraction of RF signals

• Existing signal interference at the site

The MPRX Read Zone

The MPRX 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 MPRXs at the site.

The following are some of the factors that aect 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

• 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 aected.

For instructions on setting the read zone, refer to “Fine-Tuning and Verifying the Read

Zone” on page 8–17

Other MPRXs and Antennas in the Area — AAR-Formatted Tag

Operation

For AAR-formatted (continuous wave) tag operation, sites with more than one MPRX in

proximity should be conﬁgured with a frequency separation of at least 2 MHz from adjacent

readers. If more than one MPRX is in a multiple track application, the frequencies should

be staggered. MPRX antennas can face each other across a rail track as long as they are

multiplexed and controlled by the same MPRX. For installations where multiple antennas

are controlled by a host processor with multiple MPRXs, or where multiple MPRXs are

used in close proximity, ensure that there is adequate frequency separation between the

antennas. Contact TransCore Technical Support with any questions. Table 2 – 1 shows

examples of staggered reader frequencies in a site with up to seven readers.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

2–8

Caution

TransCore advises locating antennas controlled by an MPRX at least 24 feet (7.3

meters) away from antennas that are controlled by another MPRX. There is no

minimum spacing for antennas connected to the same MPRX.

Table 2 – 1 Examples of Staggered Reader Frequencies for AAR-formatted Tag Operation

Table 2 – 2 shows examples of staggered reader frequencies in a site outside the U.S. with

up to four readers.

Table 2 – 2 Examples of Staggered Reader Frequencies for Tag Operation Outside the U.S.

Reﬂection, Refraction, and Diraction of RF Signals

RF signals can be reﬂected, refracted, or diracted 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 aect RF signals being generated by the MPRX. Permanent structures

include buildings, chain link fences, guard shacks, and gates. Transient factors include

passing trac and local weather conditions, such as rain or snow. Symptoms of reﬂection,

Rail Number Reader Frequency

1 911.50

2 918.50

3 913.00

4 915.00

5 921.50

6 917.00

7 910.00

Rail Number Reader

Frequency*

1 865.25

2866.25

3865.50

4 866.50

5865.75

6866.75

7 866.00

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 2–9

refraction, and diraction 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 partially

reﬂected by nonconducting materials such as dirt containing high concentrations of

metallic rail dust, wood, ice, asphalt, and concrete. When nonconducting materials in the

system environment become wet, they increase reﬂection of RF signals.

The 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. Refer to “Chapter 9 Troubleshooting

and Maintenance” for information about troubleshooting and maintenance.

Existing Signal Interference at the Site

Interference from RF and electrical sources can degrade system performance and also

must also be considered in the site design. Fluorescent lights, neon signs, nearby radio

stations, or power lines can interfere with the optimal operation of the system.

Interference may degrade both reader and tag performance. Existing sources of

interference at the site should be shielded, removed, or positioned farther from the

antenna. In some cases, changing the operating frequency of the MPRX may provide a

simple solution. Readers in proximity should have at least a 2 MHz frequency separation.

Refer to “Other MPRXs and Antennas in the Area — AAR-Formatted Tag Operation” on

page 2–7. Strong RF sources of any frequency, in proximity to the tag, can preclude

the tag receiving the reader interrogation. Refer to “Chapter 4 Installing the MPRX” for

information about troubleshooting and maintenance.

Electrical and Communications Requirements

All construction work at the site must be completed before installing the MPRX. Electrical

and communications cables should be installed according to all applicable local and

federal building code requirements. Speciﬁc instructions for positioning and installing the

MPRX are discussed in “Chapter 4 Installing the MPRX”.

Power and Communications Cables

Cable length for power and communications depends on the physical characteristics of the

MPRX installation site. Table 2 – 3 lists accessory kits available for cabling options based

on your site’s requirements.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

2–10

Table 2 – 3 Connector Cabling Accessory Kits

Part Number Description

MPRX-to-TRU™ six-foot (1.8-m) cable assembly

MPRX-to-TRU 20-foot (6.1-m) cable assembly

MPRX cable assembly six feet (1.8 m), no TRU

MPRX cable assembly 20 feet (6.1 m), no TRU

Electrical Power

When connecting the MPRX to a TRU in a trackside hut, the MPRX draws its power directly

from the TRU. A dedicated power supply is only required when a MPRX is not connected to

a TRU.

The dedicated power must be 24-110VDC (Option 1) or 12-24VDC (Option 2). Consult your

local and national electrical codes for installation and safety requirements.

It is the installer’s responsibility to supply conversion equipment and wiring. Table 2 – 4

contains power supply current requirements.

Table 2 – 4 Power Supply Current Requirements

Supply

(RF On)

Worst Case

Maximum Current

at 68°F (20°C)

(RF O)

Worst Case

Maximum Current

at 68°F (20°C)

24 to 110VDC (Option 1) 1.7A at 24VDC 1A at 24VDC

12-24VDC (Option 2) 2.1A at 12VDC 1.4A at 12VDC

Power circuits are protected internally against power surges (±30%).

Host Communications

Your site design must include communications between the MPRX and the TRU or other

host device. The MPRX communicates with the TRU or other host device through an

asynchronous RS-232, RS-422, or Ethernet interface. Figure 2 – 5 shows the MPRX

communications ports and Figure 2 – 6 shows the connector pin designations.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 2–11

Figure 2 – 5 Location of Host Port on MPRX

Figure 2 – 6 Pin Assignments for Host Connector

The standard RS-232/RS-422/Ethernet connection maximum distance depends on the

baud rate, cable type, and the receiving device at the other end.

Pin Number Operation

1RS232_TX

2RS232_RX

3 LOCK (Mechanical

Relay)

4LOCK_RTN

5RS422_TX+

6RS422_TX-

7RS422_RX+

8RS422_RX-

9 COM_GND (RS232

GND)

10 COM_GND (RS422

GND)

11 +V In

12 +V Return

System Guide

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2–12

Sense Connections

Figure 2 – 7 Location of Sense Port on MPRX

Figure 2 – 8 Pin Assignments for Sense Connector

The MPRX’s two RF sense input circuits are TTL (Logic Level, 0V/5V), designed to be

shorted to I/O Ground (0V) to provide sense.

Pin Number Operation

1+12VDC

2OUT1

3I/O GROUND

4I/O GROUND

5PULSE OUT

6OUT0

7CTAG 0

8CTAG 1

9I/O GROUND

10 I/O GROUND

11 SENSE 1

12 SENSE 0

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 2–13

The MPRX’s tag lock output circuit is a single-pole, double-throw relay providing a dry

contact closure. These contacts are rated at 42.2V AC peak (30Vrms) or 60V DC, at 1A

maximum with non-inductive load.

Output circuit is not intended for the direct control of electromechanical devices such as

motorized barrier arms. For such applications, the MPRX output circuit should be used to

drive a secondary, appropriately rated high-power relay.

Antenna Interface

The site design must include interface cable(s) between the MPRX 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 – 5 is a summary of coaxial cable performance. Figures indicate maximum

lengths of cable in feet.

Note: 1.1dB of cable loss is required for proper FCC operation.

Table 2 – 5 Reader to Antenna Cable Performance

Cable Typea

Overall

Diameter

(in.)

Cable Length (ft.)

915 MHz

Cable Length (ft.)

870MHz

Minimum

Lengthb

Maximum

Lengthc

Minimum

Lengthb

Maximum

Lengthc

RG–223 0.216 7.9 21.6 8.2 22.5

RG–214 0.425 14.4 39.3 14.9 41.1

FSJ1–50 0.25 19.4 52.8 19.9 54.6

LDF2–50 0.375 32.8 89.4 33.7 92.7

FSJ4–50B 0.5 32.1 87.6 33.1 90.6

LDF4–50A 0.5 52 141.9 53.4 146.7

LDF5–50A 0.875 92.2 251.4 94.8 260.4

LDF6–50 1.125 135.6 369.6 139.5 383.1

LDF7–50A 1.625 156.4 426.3 161.1 442.2

a. Suxes 50, 50A, and 50B indicate 50-ohm cables available from the Andrew Corporation.

b. These cable lengths ensure optimal system performance (1.1 dB loss).

c. These cable lengths ensure adequate, but not optimal, system performance (3 dB loss).

Choosing, Installing and

Removing Tags

Chapter 3

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

3–2

Chapter 3 Choosing, Installing, Removing Tags

This chapter describes the various tag types compatible with the

Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) and the procedures for installing

and removing compatible external tags.

Compatible Tag Types

The MPRX provides the capability to read Association of American Railroads (AAR)

formatted tags and TransCore Super eGo (SeGo) protocol tags. Refer to “Appendix E

Compatible Tag Information” on page E–2 for information about the numerous tag

models.

Reader and Tag Model Interoperability

Table 3 – 1 lists the tags that are read by the MPRX. Refer to www.transcore.com/pdf/

Tag- Reader-Matrix.pdf for most current information concerning readers and supported

tag protocols.

Table 3 – 1 Tags Read by the MPRX

Recommended Mounting Locations

Each piece of rail equipment has a speciﬁc area or 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 speciﬁcations.

Beam Tags Battery Tags External Power Tags

AT5110, AT5112, AT5118, AT5120*,

AT5125, AT5133, AT5412, AT5413,

AT5415

AT5114, AT5510, AT5414,

AT5549, AT5707, AT5910

AT5117, AT5119, AT5704

*The AT5120 Transportation Tag is used for applications in the 860 to 880 MHz frequency range.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 3–3

Required Materials

• Torque wrench (in/lb. range)

• Bolts and nuts (#10-24 NC threaded studs and nuts)

• Aluminum pop rivets

• Pop rivet gun

Mounting Surface

The 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 that is the same size or larger than the tag.

The mounting bracket and tag must be in contact with each other to avoid interference

with transmission of radio waves.

Tag Positioning

Each 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 on rail cars and

locomotive devices. Where possible, tags should be mounted in locations that 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 data transmission. This zone must not be obstructed by any metallic

objects or protrusions.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

3–4

As Figure 3 – 9 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 – 9 Clear Zone –Side View

Figure 3 – 10 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 – 10 Clear Zone –End View

Figure 3 – 11 shows examples of acceptable and unacceptable mounting locations based

on the clear zone. Any obstructions in the clear zone may introduce reading problems

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 3–5

with the tag. Refer to the mounting speciﬁcations chapters for each type of equipment for

tag placement window locations.

Figure 3 – 11 Mounting Location Examples

Surface Installation Techniques

Backing 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 as 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 mounting the tag.

Rivet/Bolt Mounting Guidelines

Select a means for mounting the tag that secures the tag but does not compromise the

tag case.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

3–6

Aluminum 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 Guidelines

Install 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 Location

Horizontally, 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 two feet above the top of the rail and extends

to a maximum of ﬁve feet above the top of the rail.

Figure 3 – 12 illustrates the tag placement window on the right front portion (engineer’s

side) of the locomotive.

Figure 3 – 12 Tag Placement Window for Locomotives – Right Front

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 3–7

Figure 3 – 13 shows the right front location of a tag on a locomotive.

Figure 3 – 13 Right Front Placement of Tag on Locomotive

Figure 3 – 14 illustrates the tag placement window on the left rear portion (brakeman’s

side) of the locomotive.

Figure 3 – 14 Tag Placement Window Location for Locomotives — Left Rear

Tag Placement

Optimal tag placement centers the tag on the left boundary line of the tag placement

window (Figure 3 – 15). 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.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

3–8

Figure 3 – 15 Optimal Tag Placement for Locomotives

Rail Car Mounting Guidelines

Install 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 Location

Horizontally, 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.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 3–9

Figure 3 – 16 illustrates the tag placement window on the right front portion (“A” end) of the

rail car.

Figure 3 – 16 Tag Placement Window Location for Rail Cars –“A” Right Side

Figure 3 – 17 illustrates the tag placement window on the left rear portion (“B” end) of the

rail car.

Figure 3 – 17 Tag Placement Window Location for Rail Cars -“B” Left Side

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

3–10

Tag Placement

Optimal tag placement centers the tag on the left boundary line of the tag placement

window (Figure 3 – 18). 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 – 18 Optimal Tag Placement for Rail Cars

Tank Car Mounting Guidelines

Tank 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 Location

Horizontally, 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.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 3–11

Figure 3 – 19 illustrates the tag placement window on the left rear portion (“B” end) of the

tank car.

Figure 3 – 19 Tag Placement Window Location for Tank Cars –“B” Left Side

Tag Placement

Optimal tag placement positions the tag on the center line of the truck on the body bolster

(Figure 3 – 20). 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 – 20 Optimal Tag Placement for Tank Cars

Installing the MPRX

Chapter 4

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

4–2

Chapter 4 Installing the MPRX

This chapter lists the materials needed and presents the procedures to

pre-test and install the Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX).

Installation Process

After you have developed the site plan and identiﬁed the location to install the MPRX

and antennas1, if required, you are ready to install the equipment. Installation involves the

following tasks:

• Power and tag read capability testing prior to ﬁnal installation of the MPRX

• Mounting the MPRX in a railside hut

• Mounting the railside antenna(s)

• Connecting the antenna(s)

• Connecting the MPRX to Earth Ground and power source

• Marking the read zone

• Connecting the MPRX host and sense input/sense output and communications

Materials Supplied by TransCore

You need the following materials to pre-test and install the MPRX. TransCore supplies

some of the materials; other materials must be obtained from other sources.

Contents of Shipping Carton

Ensure that you have received all parts before beginning your pre-installation MPRX tests.

Your MPRX is packaged with the following materials:

• One MPRX

• One Multiprotocol Reader Extreme Quick Start Guide

• Any accessories ordered as options as shown in Table 4 – 1

Required accessories are a power/communications cable harness and an AC/DC Converter

or a 24 to 110VDC/12 to 24VDC power source. You also require at least one MPRX-

compatible antenna and an antenna RF cable. These may be ordered as accessories from

TransCore or obtained from other sources.

For MPRX installation with TransCore’s Train Recording Unit (TRU™), refer to “Chapter 10

Interface to Train Recording Unit” on page 10–2.-

Installation Accessory Options

Table 4 – 1 lists optional TransCore MPRX installation accessory items.

1 The MPRX is designed with RF cable connectors for use with N-type RF Cables

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 4–3

Table 4 – 1 Installation Accessories

Additional Materials Needed for Testing

You need these additional materials to perform the pre-tests on the MPRX:

• Test tags, supplied by the TransCore dealer or distributor.

Note: The test tag must be mounted ﬂush against a metal backplane.

• Suitable 24 to 110VDC or 12 to 24VDC power wiring for the MPRX

• Audible circuit tester and 9V DC battery for circuit tester power

• Wire stripper

• At least one MPRX-compatible antenna

• Suitable RF interface coaxial cable

Pre-installation Testing of the MPRX

Before installing the MPRX permanently at the site, you should use an audible circuit

tester to conﬁrm that the MPRX has power and can read a tag that is in the tag read

zone.

Testing the MPRX Using an Audible Circuit Tester

An 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.

Part No. Description

MPRX Cable

20-7001-001 MPRX check tag accessory kit

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

4–4

Figure 4 – 1 Wiring for Audible Circuit Tester

To test the MPRX, connect the antenna and power supply as described in the appropriate

sections that follow.

Discharging Voltage from the Antenna

Use these instructions to discharge high voltage from the antenna before proceeding with

further pre-installation testing of the reader connected to an antenna.

Required Equipment

This procedure requires the following equipment.

• MPRX

• External antenna

• Grounding RF cable (long enough to reach Earth Ground source)

• N-type load (e.g., 50 Ω) or RF attenuator (e.g., 20 dB)

Caution

During shipping and installation, an antenna can build up a very high voltage charge.

The voltage needs to be discharged before connecting the antenna to the reader.

1. Terminate the reader end of the grounding RF cable with any N-type load or RF

attenuator (Figure 4 – 2).

9VDC

Battery

6-12VDC

Buzzer

+ -

Pin 4 on

Host Connector

Pin 3 on

Host Connector

- +

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 4–5

Figure 4 – 2 Connect RF N-type Load or Attenuator to Reader Cable End

2. Connect the grounding RF cable to the antenna (refer to Item 1 in Figure 4 – 3.

Figure 4 – 3 Short Load to Earth Ground

3. Short the outer metal case of the load or attenuator to Earth Ground for approximately

10 seconds (refer to Item 2 in Figure 4 – 3). In this example, the operator is using the

mounting pole that has been properly connected to Earth Ground.

System Guide

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4–6

4. Disconnect the grounding RF cable from the antenna and connect the permanent RF

cable to reader.

Once the antenna is discharged and properly connected to the reader, the reader

circuitry provides a DC path to keep any further charge from building up in the antenna.

Caution

TransCore does not recommend using a screwdriver or other tool to short the RF cable

center conductor to the outer ground of the cable. This grounding method can damage

the center pin or the threads of the connector.

TransCore strongly advises that you use adequate Earth Ground for this voltage

discharge procedure in accordance with the National Electric Code for the locale

where you are installing the MPRX.

Connecting the Antenna

This section explains the connection between the MPRX and antenna(s) (Figure 4 – 4).

Figure 4 – 4 MPRX Showing Antenna Ports

To connect the reader and antenna

1. Ensure the reader is turned o 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

end of the MPRX (Figure 4 – 4).

4. For consistent performance, terminate unused antenna ports using a 50-Ohm, N–type

terminator.

Antenna Ports

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 4–7

Connecting the MPRX to a Power Supply

Caution

To avoid damage to the MPRX, ﬁrst connect the reader to Earth Ground using a

ground cable and stake before powering up the reader or connecting to an antenna.

TransCore recommends that you follow the National Electric Code or equivalent code

for surge protection for the locale where you are installing the MPRX.

Connect any antenna(s) or terminate the antenna ports before applying power to the

reader.

To connect the MPRX to a power supply

1. Connect the MPRX to Earth Ground. Figure 4 – 5 shows the location of the MPRX

ground stud.

Figure 4 – 5 Location of MPRX Ground Stud

2. Connect the MPRX to a power supply using the interface cable.

The pin numbers for the reader M23 connector (Figure 4 – 6) are shown in Figure 4 – 7

and the pin assignments and corresponding wire numbers and colors are listed in

Ensure proper Earth

Ground for MPRX in

accordance with National

Electric Code for reader

installation locale.

Ground

Stud

System Guide

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4–8

Table 4 – 2. The TransCore part number (P/N) for the communication cable is 58-7001-

003 or 58-7001-004.

Figure 4 – 6 Location of Communications/Power Port on MPRX

Table 4 – 2 MPRX-to-Host Communications Cable Pin Designations

Host Cable

Pair Color Pin Number Name

Pair 1 White 9 SIG_GND

Black 1 RS232 TX

Pair 2 White 10 SIG_GND

Brown 2 RS232 RX

Pair 3 White 12 +V Return

Red 11 +V In

Pair 4 White 12 +V Return

Orange 11 +V In

Pair 5 White 12 +V Return

Yellow 11 +V In

Pair 6 White 3 Lock

Green 4 Lock Return

Pair 7 White 6 RS422 TX-

Blue 5 RS422 TX+

Pair 8 White 8 RS422 RX-

Violet 7 RS422 RX+

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 4–9

Sense Cable

Pair Color Pin Number Name

Pair 1 White 3 I/O GND

Black 7 CTAG 0

Pair

White 3 I/O GND

Brown 8 CTAG 1

Pair

White 4 I/O GND

Red 1 +12V

Pair

White 4 I/O GND

Orange 1 +12V

Pair

White 6 OUT 0

Yellow 7 OUT 1

Pair

White 11 I/O GND

Green 5 PULSE OUT

Pair

White 9 I/O GND

Blue 12 SENSE 0

Pair

White 10 I/O GND

Violet 11 SENSE 1

If the MPRX is connected directly to a TRU, all power supply connections are made through

the MPRX-to-TRU cable assembly. Refer to Chapter 10, “Interface to Train Recording Unit”

on page 10–1 for wiring assignments.

Mounting the MPRX

This section lists procedures and materials required for mounting the MPRX on a wall or

other ﬂat surface based on the site’s requirements.

In permanent installations the MPRX should be positioned as close as possible to the

antenna. Long cable runs increase system sensitivity to noise. Refer to Table 2 – 5 on page

2–13 for maximum RF cable lengths.

TransCore advises that for optimum heat dissipation, the MPRX should be mounted

vertically with the RF antenna ports at the bottom (refer to Figure 4 – 5). Figure 4 – 8

shows the outer dimensions and mounting hole locations for preparing to install the MPRX.

System Guide

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4–10

Figure 4 – 7 MPRX Outer Dimensions and Mounting Hole Locations (not to scale)

Mounting to an Enclosure Wall or Flat Surface

Required Materials

You need the following materials to install the MPRX on an enclosure wall or ﬂat surface.

Ensure the use of high-quality, corrosion-resistant anchor hardware.

Anchor hardware suitable for the surface on which you mount the MPRX

The MPRX weighs 5.7 lbs (2.6 kg) so choose mounting hardware that is adequate to secure

the unit to a wall.

After mounting the MPRX, you must connect it to a dedicated 12 to 24VDC or 24 to 110VDC

power supply.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 4–11

Caution

To avoid damage to the MPRX, connect the antenna(s) before applying power

to the reader

Mounting the Antenna Rail-Side

Position the antenna as close as possible to the MPRX. Long cable runs increase system

sensitivity to noise. Refer to Table 2 – 5 on page 2–13 for maximum RF cable lengths.

After mounting the antenna, you must connect it to the MPRX. Follow the procedures

described previously in the section “Connecting the Antenna” on page 4–6.

Note: Adjust the antenna(s) to provide the most direct line of sight to the tags.

Connecting the Power Supply

After mounting the MPRX, connect the reader to a dedicated 12 to 24VDC or 24 to

110VDC power supply. If the MPRX is connected directly to a TRU, all power supply

connections are made through the MPRX-to-TRU cable assembly.

Caution

To avoid damage to the MPRX, connect the MPRX to ground before powering up the

reader or connecting the antenna(s).

Connect the antenna(s) before applying power to the reader.

Interface Selection Switch

The MPRX incorporates a communications interface selection switch, which allows on-

the-ﬂy changes to the communications mode. This switch allows selecting the reader’s

receive communications interface. All communications interfaces are conﬁgured

for simultaneous transmit, but only the interface selected by the switch is active for

commands transmitted into the reader.

System Guide

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4–12

Connecting Communications

The MPRX communicates through RS-232, RS-422, or Ethernet protocols.

Required Materials

You 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 operating

on a PC

• If the MPRX is connected directly to a TRU, all communications connections are

made through the MPRX-to-TRU cable assembly.

Connecting the MPRX to the Host

MPRX communications and customer interface signals are supplied from the MPRX to the

host through a multiwire cable. The connector for this cable is located on the end of the

MPRX (Figure 4 – 6).

Plug one end of the MPRX communications/power interface connector into the M23

Host connector at the MPRX and the other end into the customer-supplied host device

connector. Refer to Figure 4 – 7 and Table 4 – 2for the pin assignments, numbers, and

wire colors.

Connecting Sense Input and Sense Output Circuits

The MPRX 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 are used to notify the MPRX 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 Circuits

The MPRX supports two sense inputs – SENSE0 and SENSE1 – which require two

sense input lines (SENSEx and GND) for each loop sense or a total of four sense input

connections. SENSE0 is used to control RF power for the track that has antennas

connected to RF Ports 0 and 1. As shown in Figure 4 – 7, the sense inputs are wired through

the reader M23 Sense connector. The MPRX expects the SENSE0 circuit to close when a

railcar is present (on the track with antennas connected to MPRX ports 0 and 1).

SENSE1 must be closed when a railcar is present on the track connected to MPRX

antenna ports 2 and 3. The reader RF switches on to the appropriate RF ports

immediately upon detecting SENSEx.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 4–13

Sense Output Circuit

The sense output is dedicated for testing and reader setup. 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 isolation

transformer is required.

Antenna Mux Channel Identiﬁcation

With the MPRX in MPRX mode, it is possible to identify the tags read on the 4 channel

mux individually through the output I/O. Of course, it is still possible to enable antenna

stamping for the data transmissions on the selected communications interface as well.

Marking the Read Zone

Caution

Be sure to follow all applicable rail safety regulations when marking the read zone.

The area where the MPRX reads tags at the current RF range is called the read zone.

The antenna pattern, or read zone, of the MPRX would look roughly like a pearshaped

balloon if you were able to see it. When installing the MPRX, 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 Verifying the

Read Zone” on page 8–17 .

If two MPRXs 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 Materials

You need test tags, which can be supplied by your TransCore dealer or distributor to mark

the read zone. The test tag must be mounted ﬂush against a metal backplane.

To mark the read zone

1. 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.

3. 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

System Guide

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4–14

• Data bits: 8

• Parity: none

• Stop bits: 1

• Flow control: none

4. Cycle the power on the MPRX and ensure that the sign-on message displays.

5. To test the antenna connected to RF PORT-0, input the commands listed in Table 4-3.

Note: For testing purposes, the MPRX should not be in MPRX mode and should not

be multiplexing between multiple antennas.MPRX mode is used for rail track smart

multiplexing.

Note: Settings for RF, ATA range, SeGo range, and output power are the same for all

antennas.

Table 4 – 3 Commands for Testing RF Port-0

Entry Reader Response Notes

#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches MPRX to command mode

#647XXX #Done <CR/LF> Sets operating frequency

#836 #Done <CR/LF> Disables MPRX mode

#850 #Done <CR/LF> Disables antenna multiplexing

#644XX #Done <CR/LF> Set desired RF power

#643XX #Done <CR/LF> Set desired ATA range control

#645XX #Done <CR/LF> Set desired SeGo range control

#6401 #Done <CR/LF> Turns on RF

#00 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Returns MPRX to data mode

You can now connect the outer marks to draw the outer boundary of the read zone.

Figure 4 – 8 is a view of a sample read zone. The outer X marks show the outside edges

of the read zone.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 4–15

Figure 4 – 8 Sample Read Zone Marking Pattern

6. Place the MPRX in single-antenna operation using the antenna of interest. Standing

at the edge of the rail sleepers closest to the antenna walk the metal- backed test tag

along the track to determine the farthest read point in both directions (Refer to item D in

Figure 4 – 8). Record the distance.

7. In a multiple track installation, walk the tag toward the adjacent track in a straight line

from the antenna face (refer to Figure 4 – 8) to determine whether the MPRX reads tags

from the adjacent track. Record that distance (item Y). If the MPRX reads tags on the

adjacent track, reduce the range control value, or increase RF attenuation until the

MPRX cannot read tags on the adjacent track.

To continue testing other antennas, ensure that the reader conﬁgurations used for RF

PORT-0 antenna (Table 4 – 3) are maintained. The following tables list the required

commands for testing PORT-1, PORT-2, and PORT-3.

System Guide

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4–16

Table 4 – 4 Commands for Testing RF PORT-1

Entry Reader Response Notes

#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches MPRX to command mode

#891 #Done <CR/LF> Test mode, RF PORT-1 only

#6401 #Done <CR/LF> Turns on RF

#00 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Returns MPRX to data mode

Table 4 – 5 Commands for Testing RF PORT-2

Entry Reader Response Notes

#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches MPRX to command mode

#892 #Done <CR/LF> Test mode, RF PORT-2 only

#6401 #Done <CR/LF> Turns on RF

#00 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Returns MPRX to data mode

Table 4 – 6 Commands for Testing RF PORT-3

Entry Reader Response Notes

#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches MPRX to command mode

#893 #Done <CR/LF> Test mode, RF PORT-3 only

#6401 #Done <CR/LF> Turns on RF

#00 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Returns MPRX to data mode

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 4–17

General Software Information

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

5–2

Chapter 5 General Software Information

This chapter provides software-related information for the Multiprotocol

Reader Extreme (MPRX) System.

This chapter presents various software-related topics arranged in alphabetical order by

subject. In addition to this chapter, refer to “Chapter 6 Communications Protocols” on

page 6–2 and “Chapter 7 Commands” on page 7–2 ,” for more information.

Command Entry Conventions

All MPRX commands are preceded by the start-of-message character (#). The end-of-

message sequence expected from the host is a carriage return (CR). The MPRX terminates

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.

1Indicates the command group. This command is in Group 1-

Communications Port Control.

0Indicates the command subgroup. In this example, all commands

with a second digit of 0 apply to the main port.

0The command digit. In this example, the 0 indicates that this

command aects the baud rate.

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.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 5–3

Command Response Conventions

Like the MPRX commands, responses are preceded by the # character. Many MPRX

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 MPRX with serial number SN97001P running version X.XX software is connected

to a PC running a terminal emulation software package such as Windows Hyper Terminal

or Procomm Plus. The command sequence veriﬁes that communications are working

correctly.

Table 5 – 2 Sample Command Sequence

In command discussions, MPRX 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 MPRX response being one of the following:

#PWRB 0

#PWRB 1

In 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 MPRX. In this

example, one space is between the letter B and the number.

Operating Parameters

The MPRXs maintain their operating parameters in nonvolatile memory (NVRAM) so that

the parameters are preserved after a power-down sequence.

Entry MPRX Response Notes

#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches MPRX 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 MPRX to data

mode

System Guide

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5–4

Power Fail

The 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 Download

Program download stores the MPRX application 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 custom TransCore utility hosted process.

Download Considerations

You should consider the following factors when performing program download:

• The MPRX does not process tags while in download mode.

• The MPRX does not accept any program data unless a successful erase of ﬂash

memory has been performed before transmitting the data. Erasing the ﬂash memory

typically takes two seconds.

• Cycling reader power after exiting from download mode re-executes startup. If

the new software has been loaded without errors, the MPRX comes up in data

mode. If a ﬂash checksum error is detected, the MPRX reenters download mode

and transmits a sign-on message with a boot version of 0.00x and without a serial

number.

Note: The MPRX uses default boot communications parameters when operating in

download mode – 38400 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, basic protocol – and

does not echo commands.

Download Procedures

If TransCore releases a new version of the MPRX software or if the MPRX does not

appear to be working properly, you may need to download the software to the MPRX.

Contact technical support or your TransCore MPRX sales representative.

Startup

Upon startup, MPRX transmits a sign-on message or a boot ROM failure message.

Sign-On Message

If startup is successful, the sign-on message appears as follows:

Model E4 Series [software version] SNSSSSSS [Copyright

notice]

where SSSSSS is the serial number assigned to the MPRX unit being used.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 5–5

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 at a baud rate ﬁxed at 38,400 bps:

Model [E4] Ver 0.00x

[Copyright notice]

Boot Failure Message

Upon powering up, the software performs a checksum veriﬁcation on itself. The function

returns a speciﬁc value for the particular version of software. If the value returned is not

correct, the boot code assumes that the application code has been corrupted and a

failure condition exists. If the failure message does not transmit, a communications

error has occurred or the boot has 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 MPRX is operating out of boot ROM. In this

case, the MPRX automatically enters download mode and waits for a new program to

be loaded into the ﬂash memory. Contact TransCore Technical Support at 505-856-

8007 for assistance.

Tag/Message Buer

MPRXs maintain a tag buer in battery backed RAM to save tag IDs acquired when data

inquiry protocol is used. This buer holds up to 500 time-stamped messages.

When the buer ﬁlls, subsequent tag IDs will be lost.

System Guide

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5–6

Communication Protocols

Chapter 6

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

6–2

Chapter 6 Communications Protocols

This chapter describes the communications protocols for the

Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX).

Introduction

The MPRX supports the following communications protocols:

• Basic

• Error correcting

• Data inquiry

The following protocol information provides reference information relevant to developing

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.

Each message is framed within the start-of-message (som) and end-of-message (eom)

characters so that the host device can detect the beginning and end of each message.

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 when using

error correcting protocol (ECP). This interchange is completed by the message recipient

returning a message acknowledgment 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 eect as if it had received a negative acknowledgment (from the

host) or an Error message from the MPRX.

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 MPRX as the XOFF

character, which would suspend reader output without information reaching the host

device. For more information, refer to “Software Flow Control” on page 8–16.

Note: TransCore recommends that XON/XOFF ﬂow control be disabled while using ECP.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 6–3

Basic Protocol

With basic protocol, messages sent to and from the MPRX and the host are transmitted

without error checking. For each host transmission, the MPRX returns a Done or Error

message to the host.

When the host device is physically close to the MPRX and no sources of interference

exist, the basic protocol provides reliable communications.

The host must be ready to receive reader-transmitted messages because in basic

protocol the MPRX does not wait for the host to acknowledge a message before

transmitting the next message. If necessary, the host may halt reader transmissions by

using software ﬂow control. Refer to “Chapter 8 Conﬁguring the MPRX” on page 8–2

for ﬂow control information.

Error Correcting Protocol

When the quality of data communications is imperative or may be suspect, you can

invoke ECP to ensure the integrity of data transmitted between the MPRX 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 numbers

are checked to determine if the message received has the correct sequence number; if

not, the recipient rejects the message.

Because 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 MPRX and the host must issue a message if any received character has a parity error.

However, the message must not be transmitted before receipt of the eom character. If the

message is transmitted prematurely, the MPRX will issue an Error message, and the

host device will issue a negative acknowledgment message.

System Guide

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6–4

Data Inquiry Protocol

Data inquiry protocol is a basic protocol option that allows the host to control transmission

of reader tag data. The selection of data inquiry protocol aects data mode operation. As

MPRX acquires tags, it buers them but does not transmit them. Instead, the host must

poll MPRX for each tag by sending a CTRL-E character (hex 5 digit). MPRX transmits one

message (tag ID or report data) for each CTRL-E it receives until the buer is empty.

Each tag request message sent by the host consists only of the CTRL-E character; no som

or eom characters are sent. MPRX data transmission (tag ID and report data) format is the

same as for basic protocol.

Selection of data inquiry protocol does not aect command mode operation.

Basic Protocol and ECP Format

Note: In the following text, the symbols < and > are used to represent required variable

message data, and the symbols [and] are used to represent optional data. These

symbols are not part of the message syntax.

Reader Transmissions

The basic protocol format and the data inquiry protocol format are as follows:

The ECP format is as follows:

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 MPRX maintains the number.

The host must acknowledge reader transmissions by sending an ACK

message with the same sequence number received from the MPRX. The

MPRX updates its sequence number upon receipt of a valid host ACK.

If an ACK is not received, the MPRX retransmits the message. A reader

transmission sequence is not considered complete until the MPRX

receives an ACK and updates its sequence number.

<data> 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.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 6–5

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.

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 message 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 MPRX is in the process of retransmitting the previous message.

ECP Host ACK/NAK Response

With ECP, the host device responds to all data message transmissions from the MPRX

using the following acknowledgment or negative acknowledgment response format.

where

<som> Start-of-message (ASCII # character)

<seq> Echo of the sequence number received from the MPRX. The sequence

number should correspond to the data message that is being positively

or negatively acknowledged by the host. If the MPRX receives an ACK

message with the incorrect sequence number, the data message is

retransmitted.

The host device resets the anticipated data message sequence number to

that of the MPRX 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 MPRX sets a user-programmable timeout delay at the time each

message is transmitted based on command #612NN Set Error Correcting

Protocol Timeout, where NN = timeout delay. To disable the timeout delay

for diagnostic purposes, issue the command #612FF Disable Error

Correcting Protocol Timeout.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

6–6

If the timeout delay expires before the MPRX receives an ACK or NAK

message from the host, a logical NAK condition will be declared. If the

MPRX receives a NAK or timeout, the reader retransmits the data message.

When the MPRX receives an ACK message, the system software treats

the message as having been properly received by the host. The software

increments the sequence number, and advances pointers to the next

message in the MPRX’s message queue to prepare for sending the next

message.

Switch to Command Mode Request

The host device may issue command #01 Switch to Command Mode while in data

mode.

The basic protocol format is as follows:

The ECP format is as follows:

where

<som> Start-of-message (ASCII # character)

<seq> Sequence number generated by the host device separately from

that

appearing in data messages transmitted by the MPRX

<cmd> Switch to command mode (ASCII characters 01)

<crc> CRC value for the message

<eom> End-of-message character (ASCII CR)

Host Transmission

The host device initiates synchronous communications between the MPRX and the host. The

host begins a sequence by issuing a command; the MPRX responds accordingly.

The data inquiry protocol format is as follows:

<CTRL-E>

The basic protocol format is as follows:

The ECP format is as follows:

where

<CTRL-E> ASCII Control E (hex 5 digit). When in data inquiry mode, each

transmission

of a CTRL-E by the host causes the MPRX to transmit one tag ID.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 6–7

<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 MPRX 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.

Upon receiving a host command in ECP, the MPRX replies using the

command’s sequence number in its response. Therefore, the host device

updates its sequence number upon receipt of a valid reader response.

If the sequence number is not updated before transmission of the next

command, the MPRX 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 Response

The basic protocol format is

The ECP format is

where

<som> Start-of-message (ASCII # character)

<seq> Echo of sequence number received in host command message

<resp> Response string. The MPRX 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 Messages

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

6–8

This section contains examples of typical messages transmitted between the MPRX and

the host device.

Reader Transmissions

Basic protocol reader transmission

#KING 1302<eom>

Host response

No host response for non-ECP

ECP reader transmission

#4KING 1302 <crc><eom>

where

Start-of-message character

Message sequence number

KING 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 character

Host response

#4@<crc><eom>

where

Start-of-message character

Message sequence number

ACK (acknowledgment character)

(? returned for a negative acknowledgment)

<crc> CRC value for the message

<eom> End-of-message character

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 6–9

Host Command Transmissions

Basic 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.

ECP host transmission

#7647XXX<crc><eom>

where

Start-of-message character

Message sequence number

647XXX 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 character

Done Command has been invoked by the MPRX

Reader response

#7Done<crc><eom> or #7Error<eom>

For some commands, the MPRX responds with data that relates to the command, such

as T0F 0, to indicate the mode enabled for a #570 Display Operating Mode Status

command.

#7Error<eom> will be returned if host transmission is not a legal command with legal

data.

Timing and Synchronization

The ECP is largely independent of baud rate. The timeout delays previously described are

a function of baud rate.

The MPRX 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]

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

6–10

where

Τchar (ms) 1000 x [ Bc / Rb ]

Bits per character, typically 10

Baud rate, 1200–38.4 K

Length of message in characters

Τidle Maximum idle period between characters (ms)

Note: The MPRX 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 processing

allowance for the receiver to process the message and check for error conditions.

Thus, the sending timeout delay can be expressed as follows:

Τsend (ms) = 9 * Τchar + Τerrchk

where

Τerrckh (ms) Processing period to perform error checking by receiver

The host device can remotely set the MPRX’s communications parameters while in the

command mode, but TransCore does not recommend this action if communications

conditions are marginal.

After the MPRX receives new communications parameters, the MPRX issues the Done

message and switches to the new conﬁguration immediately. The host device switches its

communications parameters immediately after the transaction is complete.

As noted, the message initiator, such as the MPRX in data mode and the host device

in command mode, starts a timeout counter at the time a message is transmitted. If the

timeout expires before receiving an acknowledgment message, a logical NAK condition is

declared, and the initiator assumes the message was received in error. In this instance, the

message is retransmitted until an acknowledgment message is received.

The message recipient, such as the host device in data mode and the MPRX in command

mode, starts a timeout counter when a <som> character is received. If the timeout 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> character,

the message acquisition is aborted (reset), and retransmission of the previous message is

assumed to be underway.

These strategies allow for recovery during periods when communications are marginal or

lost completely.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 6–11

Reader-Addressed Failure Conditions

The MPRX addresses the following failure conditions.

Illegal Sequence Number (not in the range 0–9, A–F)

If the MPRX detects an illegal sequence number in a host command message, it discards

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 Number

If the MPRX receives the wrong sequence number in an ACK message, it responds as if a

NAK had been received, and it retransmits the data.

Incorrect CRC

If the MPRX 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 Command

If the MPRX receives an illegal command, it returns its standard Error message.

Transmission Timeout

If the MPRX transmits an asynchronous message and the host does not send an ACK

before the ECP timeout occurs, the MPRX retransmits the message.

Receive Timeout

If the MPRX 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 Collision

If the MPRX transmits asynchronous data at the same time that the host sends a command,

the MPRX gives priority to receiving the command. It processes the command and sends

a message before it retransmits the asynchronous data.

Host-Addressed Failure Conditions

The host device addresses the following failure conditions.

Illegal or Wrong Sequence Number

If the host detects an illegal or wrong sequence number in a reader response, it retransmits

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.

Incorrect CRC

If the host detects an incorrect CRC value in a reader message, it retransmits the command

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

6–12

with the same sequence number. If the host detects an incorrect CRC value in an

asynchronous reader transmission, it transmits a NAK message.

Transmission Timeout

If the MPRX does not respond to a host command within a speciﬁed interval, the host

software retransmits the command with the same sequence number.

Receive Timeout

If 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 Collision

If the host receives an asynchronous reader transmission at the same time it transmits a

command, it ignores the asynchronous message and waits for the MPRX’s response. The

MPRX retransmits asynchronous data after it transmits the command message.

ECP Reliability

An undetected error is deﬁned as a message having incorrect data or status but no parity

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 “Timing and Synchronization” on page

6–9.

CRC Calculation

The CRC used by the ECP is based on a 16-bit algorithm. The algorithm, as implemented,

operates on eight-bit characters, for example, a 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 MPRX.

The MPRX 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 MPRX implements the algorithm with a 512-byte lookup table to reduce the processing

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-o

between code memory and processing overhead.

Example 1 presents an example of a function (CALCCRC) that calculates the CRC value

through a call to a separate function (UPDCRC).

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 6–13

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.

#dene BITS_PER_CHAR 8

unsigned short updcrc (unsigned short ch, unsigned short 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);

}

Example 3 contains an example of UPDCRC that does require a lookup table.

#dene updcrc(cp, crc)( crctab[((crc >> 8) & 255)]^ (crc << 8) ^ cp static

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,

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,

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

6–14

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,

};

Example 4 shows an example of a function that creates the lookup table.

#include <stdio.h>

#dene MAX_CHAR 256

#dene BITS_CHAR 8

#dene SIGN_BIT 0x8000

#dene POLY 0x1021

unsigned short crctab [MAX_CHAR]; main

()

{

unsigned short ch; unsigned

short workval; unsigned

short bit; unsigned 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;

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 6–15

}

crctab[ch] = workval;

}

for (ch = 0; ch != MAX_CHAR; ch++)

printf(“0x%04x\n”, crctab[ch]);

}

Manually Disabling ECP for Maintenance

Under certain conditions, communications between the host and MPRX 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 buered. Often the ﬁrst indication

that the MPRX software is in an ECP “loop” is when the user/technician sees a recurring

display of the same message repeated on the monitor. The procedure described in the

following paragraphs enables the maintenance 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 command

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 format:

#x@‘‘‘‘<eom>

where

Start-of-message character

Message 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

The following is a typical sequence after power-on limiting buered messages.

Note: Ensure that no tags are in the ﬁeld when you are performing this troubleshooting

procedure.

Caution

To avoid damage to the MPRX, ensure that you have connected the antenna or a

dummy load to the reader before applying power to the reader.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

6–16

Reader transmission on power-up:

#0 Model …. SN <crc><eom>

Manually enter: #0@````<eom>

Manually enter: #2@````<eom>

Manually enter: #101‘‘‘‘<eom>

this puts reader into command mode

Reader response: #1Done<crc><eom>

Manually enter: #3610‘‘‘‘<eom> this puts reader into basic protocol,

disabling ECP

reader response: Done

Enter any other desired diagnostic or directive commands in basic protocol. After

maintenance is complete enter the commands:

#00 to return the reader to data mode

#611 to return to error correcting protocol

#100````<eom>

to return reader to data mode

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 6–17

Chapter 7

Commands

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–2

Chapter 7 Commands

This chapter discusses the host-transmitted commands that are used

to control the Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) conﬁguration and

operation.

Introduction

The MPRX is delivered from the factory with speciﬁed default settings that determine how

the reader operates. Commands transmitted by the host device 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 emulation mode.

The MPRX can also communicate with ASCII terminals.

Operating Modes

The MPRX has three modes of operation: data mode, command mode, and download

mode. The software for the MPRX contains two separate programs — boot and

application. The boot program has control of the MPRX on startup and when operating

in download mode. The application program has control of the MPRX during data mode

and command mode operation and holds the application code. Together, they control

the MPRX in the three modes of operation.

Data Mode

The MPRX is in the data mode upon power-up. While in the data mode, the MPRX sends

all communications, such as tag IDs and reports, as data messages to the host device.

Reports provide information on input status changes (input0 and input1), a presence

without tag report, and buer overﬂow information. When MPRX mode has been enabled

(#837) and while the MPRX is in data mode, the host device can send the following

commands the MPRX:

• Command #01 changes the MPRX from the data mode to the command mode.

• Command #440 provides a one-time reset of all tag uniqueness timers at which

point the previously set timeout interval resumes.

• Command #8110 turns on RF port0 and sends the command on Ctag pin 0 to ﬁre o

Ctag address 0.

• Command #8111 turns on RF port1 and sends the command on Ctag pin 0 to ﬁre o

Ctag address 1.

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–3

• Command #8112 turns on RF port2 and sends the command on Ctag pin 1 to ﬁre o

Ctag address 0.

• Command #8113 turns on RF Port 3 and sends the command on Ctag pin 1 to ﬁre o

Ctag address 1.

• Command #8150 sets the check tag address to 0 on check tag pin 0.

• Command #8151 sets the check tag address to 1 on check tag pin 0.

• Command #8152 sets the check tag address to 0 on check tag pin 1.

• Command #8153 sets the check tag address to 1 on check tag pin 1.

Note: The MPRX transmits ID codes to the host device when the MPRX is in data mode.

Command Mode

While the MPRX is in the command mode, the host device sends commands to the MPRX

that can be used to control the reader operation and conﬁguration. After the MPRX

receives a command, it transmits a command response message. Typically, the 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, #570 Display Operating Mode Status.

Communication can be lost if the host device attempts to send certain commands under

marginal communication conditions. For example, if the host device transmits the command

request to change the baud rate and the MPRX properly receives the request and transmits

the Done message, one of the two following conditions may occur:

1. If the host device receives the Done message, then both the host and the MPRX 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 does not

change automatically.

Note: The MPRX changes the baud rate immediately after issuing the Done message.

2. However, if the host does not receive the Done message transmitted by the MPRX, the

host assumes that the command was not properly sent and does not switch to the new

baud rate, causing a loss of communications.

Caution

The host device should not attempt to change communications parameters

or protocols during marginal communications conditions; otherwise, a loss of

communication can result.

Download Mode

In download mode, the host can download new software to the MPRX.

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, software

ﬂow control (XON/XOFF), basic protocol.

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–4

While in download mode, the MPRX turns RF o, does not process tags, and does not

echo host commands.

Typically, TransCore trained personnel download new application code using a custom

ﬁrmware loader program.

Command List

Reader commands are divided into groups based on a primary function. The following

sections provide information about each command in command number order. Refer to

“Command Quick Reference” on page D–1 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.

Reader Mode Control — Command Group 0

Group 0 commands control reader mode. The mode determines whether the reader is

transmitting data to or receiving data from a host device 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. In addition to switching the reader to data

mode, command #00 automatically saves to non-volatile memory (NVRAM) any user

parameters that had been changed during the command mode session. The reader

enters data mode on power up.

Caution

To save user parameter changes to non-volatile memory (NVRAM), you must send

command #00 before powering down the reader.

When MPRX mode has been enabled (#837) and while the MPRX is in data mode, the host

device can send the following commands to the MPRX:

• Command #01 Switch to Command Mode

Reader response:

Done

• Command #440 Reset Uniqueness

Reader response:

Done

• Command #8110 Switch on RF Port 0, Fire O Check Tag Address 0 on Check Tag

Pin 0

Reader response:

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–5

Done

• Command #8111 Switch on RF Port 1, Fire O Check Tag Address 1 on Check Tag Pin

Reader response:

Done

• Command #8112 Switch on RF Port 2, Fire O Check Tag Address 0 on Check Tag

Pin 1

Reader response:

Done

• Command #8113 Switch on RF Port 3, Fire O Check Tag Address 1 on Check Tag

Pin 1

Reader response:

Done

• Command #8150 Set Check Tag Address to 0 on Check Tag Pin 0.

Reader response:

Done

• Command #8151 Set Check Tag Address to 1 on Check Tag Pin 0.

Reader response:

Done

• Command #8152 Set Check Tag Address to 0 on Check Tag Pin 1.

Reader response:

Done

• Command #8153 Set Check Tag Address to 1 on Check Tag Pin 1.

Reader response:

Done

Note: The MPRX transmits ID codes to the host device when the MPRX is in data mode.

01 Switch to Command Mode

Command #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 o and

does not acquire tags.

Reader response:

Done

Communications Port Control — Command Group 1

Group 1 commands conﬁgure the parameters used by the MPRX to communicate with a

host device or terminal. These commands set baud rate, stop bits, parity, and end-of- line

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–6

delay.

100N Select Baud Rate

Command #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 Commands

Caution

If ECP is enabled, ensure that the ECP timeout is sucient for the new baud rate.

Refer to “Timing and Synchronization” on page 6–9.

Reader response:

Done

101N Select Stop Bits

Command #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.

Table 7 – 2 Select Stop Bits Commands

Reader response:

Done

102N Select Parity

Command #102N selects the reader parity setting. The factory-default setting is parity

disabled. The N variable speciﬁes parity as shown in Table 7 – 3.

Command Baud Rate Selected

1002 1200

1003 2400

1004 4800

1005 9600 (factory default)

1006 19.2 K

1007 38.4 K

Command Stop Bits Selected

1010 1 (factory default)

1011 2

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–7

Table 7 – 3 Select Parity Commands

Reader response:

Done

Command Group 2

Group 2 commands control the real-time clock which maintains the MPRX 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 Time

Command #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.

The entry format is as follows:

20HH:MM:SS or 20HH:MM:SS:hh

where

represents hours (00 to 23).

represents minutes (00 to 59).

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:

Done

Command Data Bits Parity Selected

1020 8 Disable parity (factory default)

1021 7 Select even parity

1022 7 Select odd parity

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–8

21 Set Date

Command #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/YY

where

represents the month (01 to 12).

represents the day (01 to 31).

represents the last two digits of the year (00 to 99).

is the date delimiter.

Reader response:

Done

22 Display Time and Date

Command #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/YY

where

represents hours.

represents minutes.

represents seconds.

hh represents hundredths of seconds.

is the time delimiter.

represents the month.

represents the day.

represents the last two digits of the year.

is the date delimiter.

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–9

Append Information — Command Group 3

Group 3 commands append useful information to reader transmissions, such as IDs, error

messages, and sensor input reports. Auxiliary information such as reader number, 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 Selection

Command #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 buer contains data. The reset reader

command #63 may be transmitted to clear the buer; however, tag ID data will not be

reported. If this is unacceptable, allow the buer to empty before reissuing append time

and date command #30N. Append Time and Date commands are shown in Table 7 – 4.

Table 7 – 4 Append Time and Date Commands

The reader transmits messages with time and date appended as follows. One space

separates the time from the date.

where

string

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:

Done

31N Append Auxiliary Information Selection

Command #31N selects the option of appending auxiliary information to transmitted IDs,

presence-without-tag reports, and input status change reports. Auxiliary information 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.

Command Append Option

300 No time and date appended

302 Time and date appended (factory default)

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–10

Table 7 – 5 Append Auxiliary Information Commands

The reader transmits messages with auxiliary information appended as:

where

separates the auxiliary information and signals the host

computer that

auxiliary information is appended.

reader ID. Value can be set with command #60NN.

auxiliary information delimiter

antenna number.

number of reads (00 to FF hexadecimal) of the previous tag on

this antenna

current status of input0 and input1 (0 to 3)

sss

relative to tag read strength

Note: If the MPRX mode is enabled (#837) and you are using the Train Recording Unit

(TRU™) as a host, a relative tag strength is appended to the end of the auxiliary data.

Reader response:

Done

ID Filtering — Command Group 4

Group 4 commands set criteria for ﬁltering (buering or discarding) ID codes. These

commands are useful for eliminating duplicate ID codes and selecting the type of tags read

by the MPRX.

40 Transmit All ID Codes

Command #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.

Command Append Option

310 No auxiliary information appended (factory default)

311 Auxiliary information appended

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–11

After diagnostics are complete, you may want to reinstate the uniqueness check using

command #410N Select Unique ID Code Criteria.

Reader response:

Done

410N Select Unique ID Code Criteria (Anti-passback Feature)

Command #410N instructs the reader to buer 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 reported. 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.

Table 7 – 6 Unique ID Code Criteria

Each time the reader receives a tag ID, it compares the ID with the contents of a

comparison register. This register contains the following two items:

Item 1 Most recently acquired ID

Item 2 Second-most recently acquired ID

Item 3 Third-most recently acquired ID

Item 4 Fourth-most recently acquired ID

When the uniqueness ﬁlter is set to separation of one ID, the newly acquired ID is

transmitted only if it is dierent from the ﬁrst item. Separation of two IDs allows transmission

if the new ID is dierent from Items 1 and 2 in the comparison register. Separation of three

and four IDs transmit the new ID only if it is dierent 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 time limit as set by command #44N. If an ID is buered, it will

not be accepted again unless it arrives at the reader more than the timeout value from the

previous arrival or until the receipt of one or more other IDs reset the uniqueness.

Command Uniqueness Criteria

4100 Separation of 1 ID (factory default)

4101 Separation of 2 IDs

4102 Separation of 3 IDs

4103 Separation of 4 IDs

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–12

Reader response:

Done

420N Select Valid ID Code Criteria

Command #420N directs the reader to validate an ID received only after it has been

obtained a speciﬁed number of times in sequence. Values for N are 1 through 4 (Table 7 – 7).

The factory setting is one acquisition (N = 0).

Table 7 – 7 Select Valid Code Commands and Frames

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 areas

440 Reset Uniqueness

Command 440 causes the ID ﬁltering process set by Select Unique ID Code Criteria

(#410N) to restart. It is used in conjunction with the Set Uniqueness Timeout

#44N) commands. This command provides a one-time reset at which point the previously set

timeout interval resumes. This command can be sent in data or command mode.

44N Set Uniqueness Timeout

Places 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 timeout clock. The factory

setting is two minutes (N = 1).

Command Timeout Clock

#441 2 minutes (factory setting)

#442 15 seconds

#443 30 seconds

Entering these commands eectively expires the timeout clock, which erases all current

IDs in the comparison register. In eect, the ﬁrst ID that is acquired after the clock expires

Command Valid Code Frames

4200 1 (factory default)

4201 2

4202 3

4203 4

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–13

always appears to be new and is stored. Newly acquired IDs are only tested against IDs

that are registered after the clock resets.

The timeout clock is continually reset (does not expire) as long as the reader receives the

same tag ID. For example, assume that the timeout clock is set for two 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 two minutes (each time the timeout clock expired).

452 Disable Tag Translation Mode (Factory Default)

Command #452 disables tag translation mode. Incoming full-frame tags will be converted

directly to ASCII. They will not be translated from Association of American Railroads (AAR)

and American Trucking Associations (ATA) format to ASCII.

Reader response:

Done

453 Enable Tag Translation Mode

Command #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 converted directly to ASCII. The reader will not attempt to

translate data from half-frame or dual-frame tags.

Reader response:

Done

456 Enable SeGo Protocol Tag Initialization During Multi-tag Sort

(Factory Default)

Command #456 enables the reader to send the Super eGo® (SeGo) protocol tag initialize

command as part of the multi-tag sort function. When the reader sends the SeGo protocol

tag initialize command, all tags in the RF ﬁeld reenter the sort process.

Reader response:

Done

457 Disable SeGo Protocol Tag Initialization During Multi-tag Sort

Command #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 identiﬁed

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:

Done

480 Disable ATA

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–14

Command #480 disables the reader from reading ATA protocol tags.

481 Enable ATA

Command #481 enables the reader to read ATA protocol data from tags if the reader is

programmed to read this tag protocol.

484 Disable SeGo

Command #484 disables the reader from reading SeGo protocol data from tags.

485 Enable SeGo

Command #485 enables the reader to read SeGo protocol data from tags if the reader is

programmed to read this tag protocol.

488 Disable eATA

Command #488 disables the reader from reading factory-programmed eATA data from

tags.

489 Enable eATA

Command #489 enables the reader to read factory-programmed eATA data from

SeGo protocol tags.

Reader Status — Command Group 5

Group 5 commands provide status reports on the parameters and operation of the reader.

505 Display Software Version

Command #505 displays the reader model number, software version information, and

assigned serial number.

Reader response:

Model E4 Series Ver X.XX SNSSSSSS

where

X.XX Version number

SSSSSS Serial number of the unit, skipping the fourth character printed on

the reader

product label

506 Display Hardware Conﬁguration Information

Command #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:

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–15

An ASCII string from 1 to 20 characters in length

520 Display Power Fail Bit

Command #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 command #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> R0

where

No power failure detected

Power failure detected

Not applicable to the MPRX

521 Display Reader ID Number

Command #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 Parameters

Command #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> D0

where

1200 baud

2400 baud

4800 baud

9600 baud (factory default)

19.2 kbps

38.4 kbps

one stop bit (factory default)

two stop bits

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–16

no parity (factory default)

even parity

odd parity

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 is

MAIN B5 S0 P0 D0

indicating 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 communications parameters

are always used.

524 Display Appended Information Status

Command #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>

where

Time not appended

Time appended

Date not appended

Date appended

Auxiliary information not appended (factory default)

Auxiliary information appended

One space is required between each value. For example, if factory-default settings are

assigned, the reader response is

IDAP T1 D1 X0

indicating time and date appended, and auxiliary information not appended.

525 Display Communications Protocol Status

Command #525 displays the status of command #610 Select Basic Communications

Protocol, command #611 Select Error Correcting Protocol, or #613 Enable Data Inquiry

Protocol, command #614N Selected Mode of Flow Control, and command

#612NN Error Correcting Protocol Timeout.

Reader response:

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–17

ECPS P<0 to 2> T<01 to FF> X<0 to 2> S0

where

Basic protocol selected (factory default)

ECP enabled

data inquiry protocol enabled

Txx

ECP timeout where xx = 01 to FE (hexadecimal)

Timeout (ms) = 50 * xx

If xx = FF timeout disabled

Flow control disabled

Software ﬂow control enabled (factory default)

start of message character is #

For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message is:

ECPS P0 TFE X1 S0

which means basic protocol selected, an ECP timeout of 254 (12,700 ms or 12.7 sec),

software ﬂow control enabled, and start of message character is #.

527 Display RF Status

Command #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 MPRX). RF always

is controlled by Sense0 and Sense1 when reader is in MPRX mode. Sense0 enables RF on

antenna ports 0 and 1, and Sense1 enables RF on antenna ports 2 and 3. Refer to “MUX

Operational Modes” on page 7–38. 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 Ixx

where

RF controlled by host

RF controlled by presence sensor on input0, the red/green pair

(factory

default)

RF o

RF on

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–18

Uniqueness timeout of two minutes

Uniqueness timeout of 15 seconds

Uniqueness timeout of 30 seconds

Fxxx RF output frequency, xxx = 000 to 118 hexadecimal oset 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

hexadecimal range value

Axx

RF power attenuation, where 00 is maximum output power and

0A is

minimum output power (10dB less than maximum power).

I04

Fixed

For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message is

RFST C1 O0 T1 Fxxx R1F G1F A00 I04

which means that RF is enabled by presence sensor on input0, RF signal o, uniqueness

timeout of two minutes, RF output frequency has not been set, maximum RF output 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 Status

Command #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-o control (#692N Select RF Control

Algorithm). If presence without tag reports is enabled (#6901 Enable Presence without

Tag Report Option), 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>

where

Presence without tag reports disabled (factory default)

P1 Presence without tag reports enabled

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–19

D0 Minimum presence true period of 0 ms (ﬁxed)

A0 RF o on timeout only

A1 RF o on timeout or tag

A2 RF o on timeout or presence condition false (factory default)

T0 RF timeout of 0 ms (always expired)

T1 4 ms

T2 8 ms

T3 12 ms

T4 20 ms

T5 24 ms

T6 32 ms

T7 48 ms

T8 60 ms

T9 92 ms

TA 152 ms

TB 300 ms

TC 452 ms

TD 600 ms

TE 752 ms

TF RF timeout inﬁnite, never expires (factory default)

I0 input inversion disabled (factory default)

I1 input inversion enabled

For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message is

PRST P0 D0 A2 TF I0

which means that presence without tag reports is disabled, minimum presence true period

is 0, RF o control on timeout or presence false, inﬁnite RF timeout, and input inversion

disabled.

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–20

530 Display RF0 Filter Status

Command #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 4> V<0 to 3>

where

One ID separation (factory default)

Two ID separations

Three ID separations

Four ID separations

Transmit all IDs

Valid ID code criteria of one acquisition (factory default)

Valid ID code criteria of two acquisitions

V2 Valid ID code criteria of three acquisitions

Valid ID code criteria of four acquisitions

For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message is

RF0S U0 V0

which means separation of one ID for uniqueness ﬁltering and a valid ID code criteria of one

acquisition.

534 Display Tag Translation Mode Status

Command #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 7–13 and “453 Enable Tag Translation Mode” on page 7–13 for more

information.

Reader response:

TT <0 to 1>

where

tag translation mode disabled

tag translation mode enabled

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–21

537 Display Echo Status

Command #537 displays echo mode status. In basic protocol (#610 Select Basic

Communication Protocol) and data inquiry protocol (#613 Enable Data Inquiry Protocol), the

reader may be conﬁgured to enable (#6171 Enable Echo Mode) or disable (#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 7-26 for more information.

Reader response:

ECHO <0 to 1>

where

Echo status disabled (factory default)

Echo status enabled

540 Display Flash Checksum

Command #540 displays the ﬂash memory checksum. Reader response:

PCKS I0000 Exxxx

where

0000 Not applicable to the MPRX

xxxx Represents the four-byte ASCII representation of the ﬂash

memory

checksum

543 Display Boot Checksum

Command #543 displays the boot ROM checksum. Reader response:

BCKS xxxx

where xxxx represents the four-byte ASCII representation of the boot ROM checksum.

549 Get User-Programmable Group Select Equals (GSE) Filter Data

Command #549 queries the reader for the user-programmable GSE ﬁlter data programmed

in the reader using command #697. The response data is formatted similar to the data in the

conﬁguration command.

For example, if the command string shown in command #697 (refer to “697 Set User-

Programmable Group Select Equals (GSE) Filter” on page 7–34) was sent to a given

reader, the response to the #549 query command would be:

#A4 0A 0005014202024133

The reader response contains all the data ﬁelds repeated in the same sequence as

displayed in the User-Programmable GSE conﬁguration command.

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–22

552 Display Antenna Multiplexing Mode

Command #552 displays the antenna multiplexing mode When the MPRX mode is enabled,

the response is

Reader response:

MUX x<0 to 3> <MPRX>

where

x = 0 antenna multiplexing disabled, RF on port 0 only

x = 1 antenna multiplexing between RF ports 0 and 1 when sense0 active

x = 2 antenna multiplexing between RF ports 0 and 1 when sense0 active and RF

port 2 when sense1 active

x = 3 antenna multiplexing between RF ports 0 and 1 when sense0 active and RF

ports 2 and 3 when sense1 active

MPRX = MPRX mode selected

560 Request Sensor Status Change

Command #560 displays the sensor status change reporting. Not applicable to the MPRX

Reader response:

SSTC E<0 to 1> M<0 to 3>

where

Input status change reports disabled (factory default)

Input status change reports enabled

Reporting disabled (factory default)

Changes on input0 reported

Changes on input1 reported

Changes on either input reported

For example, if factory default settings are assigned, the reader message is

SSTC E0 M0

which means that input status change reports are disabled on both input0 and input1.

570 Display Operating Mode Status

Command #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>

TMM0

where

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–23

I ID (64 bits)

E Enabled

F Full transaction (eATA)

D Disabled

TMM0 Fixed

577 Report Buered Handshakes

Command #577 reports the buered handshakes. When in MPRX mode and/or if antenna

multiplexing is enabled, the response is

Reader response:

HDSH C0 <ww> C1 <xx> C2 <yy> C3 <zz>

where

count from port 0

count from port 1

count from port 2

count from port 3.

Reader Control Functions — Command Group 6

Group 6 commands set reader control functions such as reader ID, communication

protocol, output pulse, and RF control.

60NN Set Reader ID Number

Command #60NN sets the reader ID that will be sent in the auxiliary data ﬁeld (command

#311). Uppercase or lowercase characters are allowed for NN; for example, hex digits A

though F or a through f

where NN = 00 to FF (hex for 0 to 255, factory default = 00). Reader

response:

Done

610 Select Basic Communication Protocol (Factory Default)

Command #610 enables the basic communications protocol.

Reader response:

Done

611 Select Error Correcting Protocol

Command #611 enables the error correcting protocol.

Reader response:

Done

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–24

Caution

Do 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 Timeout

Command #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:

50 * NN for NN = 01 to FE (1–254)

Factory default (12,700 ms or 12.7 seconds)

Disables the ECP timeout

Reader response:

Done

Caution

Ensure that the ECP timeout is sucient for a given baud rate. Refer to “Timing and

Synchronization” on page 6–9.

613 Enable Data Inquiry Protocol

Command #613 enable the data inquiry protocol. Refer to “Data Inquiry Protocol” on page

6–4 “ for more information.

Reader response:

Done

614N Select Flow Control Option

Command #614N selects the ﬂow control option for reader-to-host communications. The

factory default setting is software ﬂow control (XON/XOFF) enabled. In download mode,

ﬂow control is not host-selectable; it is ﬁxed at the default setting. However, during data

mode and command mode operation, the following ﬂow control options are available. The

N variable speciﬁes ﬂow control as shown inTable 7 – 8.

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–25

Table 7 – 8 Flow Control Commands

Done

If the reader is conﬁgured for software ﬂow control (XON/XOFF), it stops transmitting 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).

Note: TransCore recommends that XON/XOFF ﬂow control be disabled while using the

ECP.

6170 Disable Echo Mode

Command #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 echoing

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:

Done

6171 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 Reader

Command #63 resets the power fail bit, clears all buers, resets tag uniqueness, turns o

both output lines, transmits the sign-on message, and returns to the data mode.

Note: This command does not reset any other conﬁguration parameters.

Command Flow Control Option

6140 Disable ﬂow control

6141 Enable software ﬂow control (factory default)

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–26

Reader response:

Model E4 Series Ver X.XX SNSSSSSS

where

X.XXD Version number

SSSSSS Serial number of the unit, skipping the fourth character printed on

the reader

product label.

640N RF Control

Command #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 eect when the reader is not in MPRX mode.

Refer to commands #836 and #837.

Table 7 – 9 RF Control Commands

Command #6400 disables RF-by-input control command #641 Select RF-by-Input

Control.

Reader response:

Done

Command RF Power

6400 Turns o RF

6401 Turns on RF

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–27

641 Select RF-by-Input Control (Factory Default)

Command #641 conﬁgures the reader for RF-by-input control. The reader automatically

turns on RF when it detects a presence through sense0. The reader turns o RF

according to the selected RF control algorithm (#692N Select RF Control Algorithm).

Note: This command only has an eect when the reader is not in MPRX mode.

Reader response:

Done

643NN 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:

Done

644NN Set RF Attenuation

Command #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 0dB

attenuation to a minimum power level of 200 milliwatts at 10-dB attenuation.

The Set RF Attenuation command NN variables and corresponding attenuation settings

are shown in Table 7 – 10.

Table 7 – 10 RF Attenuation Command Variables

Variable (NN) Attenuation Setting (dB)

00 0 (factory default)

01 1

02 2

03 3

04 4

05 5

06 6

07 7

08 8

09 9

0A 10

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–28

Reader response:

Done

645NN Set SeGo Protocol Operating Range (Distance)

Command #645NN sets the read range for SeGo protocol 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:

Done

647XXX Select RF Operating Frequency

Command #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 NVRAM. This value is not altered by power-down.

If the NVRAM becomes corrupted, the correct operating frequency cannot be guaranteed. 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 each time it is powered up or if an

attempt is made to enable the RF by host or by external sensor.

Note: The authorized continuous wave (CW) frequency band for the MPRX in the U.S.

is 902.25 to 903.75 MHz and 910.00 to 921.50 MHz and the authorized modulated

frequency band for the MPRX in the U.S. is 911.75 to 919.75 MHz. The RF for each MPRX

at the site must be set according to the frequency speciﬁed in the FCC site license. Only

trained, authorized installation and maintenance personnel are permitted by FCC to set

the RF.

The commands to set the RF frequency are presented in Table 7 – 11.

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–29

Table 7 – 11 Select RF Frequency Commands

Command RF Frequency (MHz)

647000 860.00

. .

6470CF 911.75

6470D0 912.00

6470D1 912.25

6470D2 912.50

6470D3 912.75

6470D4 913.00

. .

6470EA 918.50

6470EB 918.75

6470EC 919.00

6470ED 919.25

6470EE 919.50

6470EF 919.75

. .

657113 928.75

647114 929.00

647115 929.25

647116 929.50

647117 929.75

647118 930.00

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–30

Reader response:

Done

65 Reset Power Fail Bit

Command #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 7-16 for more

information.

Reader response:

Done

66F Load Default Operating Parameters

Command #66F loads all the factory default operating parameters except RF operating

frequency. Refer to Table 8-1, MPRX Default Conﬁguration Settings” for a listing of the

defaults.

Reader response:

Done

All parameters loaded OK

Error

A parameter load failed

690N Select Presence Without Tag Report Option

Command #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 acquisition of a valid

tag. The value for N speciﬁes the reports as shown in Table 7 – 12.

Note: These commands only have an eect when the reader is not in MPRX mode.

Table 7 – 12 Presence Without Tag Report Commands

Reader response:

Done

Refer to “Basic Protocol and ECP Format” on page 6-5 for message format information.

Command Report Option

6900 Disable presence without tag reports (factory default)

6901 Enable presence without tag reports

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–31

692N Select RF Control Algorithm

Command #692N selects the algorithm for turning o 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.

Table 7 – 13 RF Control Algorithm Commands

Command #6920 turns o RF power based on the timeout established by command

#693N Select RF Timeout Period.

Command #6921 allows RF power to be turned o either after the timeout period or upon

acquisition of a valid tag ID, whichever occurs ﬁrst.

Command #6922 turns o RF power either after the timeout period or upon the presence

false condition, whichever occurs ﬁrst.

Reader response:

Done

693N Select RF Timeout Period

Command #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 o 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.

Command RF Power O

6920 On timeout only

6921 Timeout or tag ID acquired

6922 Timeout or presence false (factory default)

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–32

Table 7 – 14 Timeout Period Values

Reader response:

Done or Error.

The reader returns an Error message if a valid hexadecimal digit is not substituted for N in

command #693N.

Note: This command only has an eect when the reader is not in MPRX mode.

694N Select Input Inversion Option

Command #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 interpreted 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.

Command Timeout (ms)

6930 0 (always expired)

6931 4

6932 8

6933 12

6934 20

6935 24

6936 32

6937 48

6938 60

6939 92

693A 152

693B 300

693C 452

693D 600

693E 752

693F Inﬁnite (never expires,

factory default)

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–33

Table 7 – 15 Input Inversion Options

Reader response:

Done

695S...S Set Serial Number (Factory Default)

Command #695 assigns the reader serial number according to the format:

695SSSSSS

where SSSSSS is the serial number.

The serial number may contain as many as six uppercase or lowercase ASCII alphanumeric

characters.

Note: The factory-assigned serial number of the reader contains seven characters.

However, to maintain backward compatibility, the reader software allows only six

characters 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:

Done

696S...S Store Hardware Conﬁguration String (Factory Default)

Command #696S...S stores hardware conﬁguration information into reader memory.

The hardware conﬁguration string is assigned according to the following format:

696S...S

where 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:

Done

Command Option

6940 Disable input inversion (factory default)

6941 Enable input inversion

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–34

697 Set User-Programmable Group Select Equals (GSE) Filter

Command #697 sets the user-programmable GSE ﬁlter.

The command string is assigned according to the following format:

697 MM AA DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

where

MM = The tag uses this mask to determine which of the eight Comparison Data bytes are to

be compared for the Group Select ﬁlter.

AA = This ﬁeld is used by the tag to determine the start address in the tag memory for the

comparison data.

DD…DD = Comparison Data: an 8-byte ﬁeld (16 characters) used by the tag as the

comparison data for the Group Select ﬁlter. The tag compares the data in this ﬁeld to data

in tag memory beginning at the Start Address to determine if the tag will respond to a reader

Group Select request. Only the bytes having the corresponding bit set in the GSE Mask is

used for this comparison.

As an example, to conﬁgure a reader to have only tags with data in byte locations 10, 12,

and 15 (decimal) with hexadecimal values “00,” “01,” and “02,” the following command is

used:

#697 A4 0A 0005014202024133

To understand how the data is interpreted, it is necessary to break down the GSE Mask ﬁeld,

A4, into binary:

A4 = 1010 0100

This mask equates to the tag comparing the ﬁrst, third, and sixth bytes of the Comparison

Data to data in the tag beginning at address location 0A (10 decimal).

The Comparison Data ﬁeld is broken down in bytes with the bytes corresponding to the

mask underlined in bold (for clariﬁcation):

Address: 0A 0B 0C 0D 0E 0F 10 11

Data: 00 05 01 42 02 02 41 33

where

0A (10 decimal) must be equal to “00” hexadecimal, the ﬁrst byte in the Comparison Data

ﬁeld

0C (12 decimal) must be equal to “01” hexadecimal, the third byte in the Comparison Data

ﬁeld

0F (15 decimal) must be equal to “02” hexadecimal, the sixth byte in the Comparison Data

ﬁeld

Reader response:

Done

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–35

Auxiliary Reader Control — Command Group 8

Group 8 commands provide control of reader functions, such as the sense input lines.

8110 Switch on RF Port 0, Fire O Check Tag Address 0 on Check Tag

Pin 0

Command #8110 turns on RF Port 0 and sends the command on Ctag pin 0 to ﬁre o Ctag

address 0.

8111 Switch on RF Port 1, Fire O Check Tag Address 1 on Check Tag

Pin 0

Command #8111 turns on RF Port 1 and sends the command on Ctag pin 0 to ﬁre o Ctag

address 1.

8112 Switch on RF Port 2, Fire O Check Tag Address 0 on Check Tag

Pin 1

Command #8112 turns on RF port2 and sends the command on Ctag pin 1 to ﬁre o Ctag

address 0.

8113 Switch on RF Port 3, Fire O Check Tag Address 1 on Check Tag

Pin 1

Command #8113 turns on RF Port 3 and sends the command on Ctag pin 1 to ﬁre o Ctag

address 1.

8142X Set Check Tag Character on Check Tag Pin 0

Command #8142X sends the command on Ctag pin 0 to set the Ctag character.

8143X Set Check Tag Character on Check Tag Pin 1

Command #8143X sends the command on Ctag pin 1 to set the Ctag character.

8150 Set Check Tag Address to 0 on Check Tag Pin 0

Command #8150 sets the check tag address to 0 on check tag pin 0.

8151 Set Check Tag Address to 1 on Check Tag Pin 0

Command #8151 sets the check tag address to 1 on check tag pin 0.

8152 Set Check Tag Address to 0 on Check Tag Pin 1

Command #8152 sets the check tag address to 0 on check tag pin 1.

8153 Set Check Tag Address to 1 on Check Tag Pin 1

Command #8153 sets the check tag address to 1 on check tag pin 1

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–36

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:

Done

831 Enable Automatic Periodic RF Status Report

Command #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 minutes.

Reader response:

Done

836 Disable MPRX Mode

Command #836 disables the MPRX mode. Reader

response:

Done

837 Enable MPRX Mode

Command #837 enables the MPRX mode.

Reader response:

Done

836 Disable AI1200 Emulation Mode

Command #842 disables the AI1200 Emulation mode. Reader

response:

Done

837 Enable AI1200 Emulation Mode

Command #843 enables the MPRX mode.

Reader response:

Done

850 MUX RF Port 0 (Factory Default)

Command #850 enables RF Port 0, which disables antenna multiplexing.

Reader response:

Done

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–37

851 MUX Between RF Ports 0 and 1

Command #851 multiplexes between RF ports 0 and 1.

Reader response:

Done

852 MUX Between RF Ports 0, 1, and 2

Command #852 multiplexes between RF ports 0, 1, and 2.

Reader response:

Done

853 MUX Between RF Ports 0, 1, 2, and 3

Command #853 multiplexes between RF ports 0, 1, 2, and 3.

Reader response:

Done

891 MUX Test Mode RF Port 1 Only

Command #891 turns on RF port 1 only for antenna mux testing.

Reader response:

Done

Note: Refer to “MUX Test Modes” on page 7–39 for test operation.

892 MUX Test Mode RF Port 2 Only

Command #892 turns on RF port 2 only for antenna mux testing.

Reader response:

Done

Note: Refer to “MUX Test Modes” on page 7–39 for test operation.

893 MUX Test Mode RF Port 3 Only

Command #893 turns on RF port 3 only for antenna mux testing.

Reader response:

Done

Note: Refer to “MUX Test Modes” on page 7–39 for test operation.

User Guide

TransCore Proprietary

7–38

Check Tag Operation

To enable check tag 0, issue the following commands

#8110 – turn on RF port0, send the command on Ctag pin 0, to ﬁre o Ctag address 0.

#8111 – turn on RF port1, send the command on Ctag pin 0, to ﬁre o 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 o Ctag address 0.

#8113 – turn on RF port3, send the command on Ctag pin 1, to ﬁre o 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 Modes

To enable antenna multiplexing (muxing) operational modes, issue the

following commands

#836/#837 – Disable/enable MPRX mode

#850 – RF port 0 only (factory default)

#851 – mux between RF ports 0 and 1

#852 – mux between RF ports 0, 1, and 2

#853 – mux between RF ports 0, 1, 2, and 3

#552 – Display mux setting. This display message will include “MPRX” if MPRX mode is

enabled (#837).

When MPRX mode is disabled, the reader will continuously step through each port that

has been enabled with #85X, stepping 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 MPRX 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,

MPRX Reader

TransCore Proprietary 7–39

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 sning, and ATA dwell of two

handshakes per antenna is automatic in MPRX mode.

MUX Test Modes

To enable antenna muxing test modes, issue the following commands

#891 – RF port 1 only

#892 – RF port 2 only

#893 – RF port 3 only

To use these test modes, MPRX mode must be disabled (#836) and muxing must be

disabled (#850). These command modes are not saved to NVM, and will be cleared by

a power cycle of the reader, or by enabling either MPRX 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 disable RF on by sense, if desired.

Chapter 8

Conﬁguring the MPRX

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–2

Chapter 8 Conﬁguring the MPRX

This chapter provides instructions for conﬁguring the Multiprotocol

Reader Extreme (MPRX). The information includes factory conﬁguration

parameter defaults and instructions for using terminal emulation

software to verify and change the MPRX factory conﬁguration defaults.

Conﬁguring the Reader

After installing the MPRX, 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.

Default Operating Parameter Settings

Table 8 – 1 contains the factory default conﬁguration settings for the MPRX operating

parameters. The default conﬁguration settings may not be the correct operating

conﬁguration 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” on page 2–2 Review the default conﬁgurations shown in Table 8 – 1 to determine

which parameters, in addition to operating frequency and operating range, need to be

adjusted. Refer to “Chapter 7 Commands” on page 7–2 for a complete list of parameters

and the corresponding commands.

Note: The dual-protocol MPRX internal timing varies depending on the operative tag

read mode and the type of tag in the read ﬁeld.

Table 8 – 1 MPRX Default Conﬁguration Settings

Parameter Setting Command

Operating mode Data 00

Baud rate 9600 1005

Stop bits 1 1010

Parity None 1020

Time and date appended Enabled 302

Auxiliary information appended Disabled 310

Unique ID code criteria Separation of 1 ID 4100

Tag translation mode Disabled 452

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–3

Parameter Setting Command

SeGo protocol tag initialization

during multi-tag sort

Enabled 456

Reader ID number 00 6000

Communications protocol Basic 610

Error correcting protocol (ECP)

timeout

12.7 sec 612FE

Flow control Software (XON/XOFF) 6141

Echo mode Enabled 6171

ATA operating range Maximum 6431F

RF attenuation Full power 64400

SeGo protocol tag operating

range

Maximum 6451F

Presence without tag reports Disabled 6900

RF-o control Timeout or no presence 6922

RF timeout Never true 693F

Input inversion Disabled 6940

Serial number SSSSSS 695

Store hardware conﬁguration Hardware conﬁguration

not known

696

Automatic periodic RF status

report

Disabled 830

Conﬁguring Parameters with Terminal Emulation

Software

To conﬁgure the MPRX using a PC and terminal emulation software to manually enter

MPRX host commands, follow the instructions in the section “Connecting the MPRX to the

Host” on page 4–12 Then, enter the appropriate conﬁguration commands through the

terminal emulation software on the host.

Refer to “Chapter 7 Commands” on page 7–2 for a detailed description of all available

conﬁguration commands.

Starting the Terminal Emulation Software

You 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 Terminal, an

application included with Microsoft Windows. Most terminal emulation applications have a

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–4

similar sequence for launching.

To start the terminal emulation software

1. At the command prompt, type your terminal emulation start command; or if using

Windows Hyper Terminal, select:

Programs>Accessories>Hyperterm and press ENTER.

The application displays the Connection Description dialog box as shown in

Figure 8 – 1

Figure 8 – 1 Connection Description Dialog Box

2. 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 Box

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–5

3. 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.

The application displays the COM1 Properties dialog box as shown in Figure 8 – 3.

Figure 8 – 3 COM 1 Properties Dialog Box

4. 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: None

Click OK.

The application displays the conﬁgparms –Hyper Terminal main screen as shown in

Figure 8 – 4.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–6

Figure 8 – 4 Hyper Terminal Main Screen

Verifying Communications

You must verify that the MPRX and the PC or laptop are communicating.

To verify communications

1. Start the terminal emulation application as described in”Starting the Terminal Emulation

Software” on page 8–3.

Note: When testing the MPRX using a laptop computer, TransCore recommends that

you conﬁgure laptop communication parameters to match those of the host device to

which the MPRX will be connected after testing and conﬁguration are completed.

2. Cycle the power on the MPRX.

Upon startup, the MPRX transmits a sign-on message, displayed on the terminal

emulation screen as shown in Figure 8 – 5, or a boot ROM failure message.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–7

Figure 8 – 5 Sign-on Message

The sign-on message appears as follows at a baud rate of 38,400 bps:

Model [software version] SNSSSSSS [Copyright notice]

where SSSSSS is the serial number assigned to the MPRX 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 not been stored into reader

memory. Contact TransCore Technical Support at 505-856-8007.

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 MPRX is operating out of boot ROM. In this

case, the MPRX 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

5–4 .

Communications can also be veriﬁed by using the command sequence in Table 8 – 2.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–8

Table 8 – 2 Command Sequence to Verify Communications

Entry MPRX Response Notes

#01 <CR> #Done <CR/LF> Switches the MPRX 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 MPRX to data mode

3. If a successful sign-on message is not returned, check connections and

communications factors and correct any errors.

To check connections and communications factors

1. Conﬁrm that the MPRX has power.

2. Verify the connections between the PC and the MPRX.

3. Verify the receive (Rx) and transmit (Tx) connections.

4. If using handshaking, verify the request to send (RTS) and clear to send (CTS)

connections.

5. Verify the COM port settings for the MPRX following the instructions in “Serial Port

Communications” on page 8–15 .

Repeat the procedures in “Verifying Communications” on page 8–6.

If you still cannot verify the MPRX and PC communications, contact TransCore Technical

Support.

Verifying Tag Read Capability

After verifying communications between the MPRX and the PC, verify the capability to read

tags. The test tag should match the tag type and protocol of the tags that your system will

be reading.

The polarization of the test tag must be aligned in the same direction as the antenna.

Figure 8 – 6 shows horizontally polarized antenna and tag.

Note: Matching the tag and antenna polarization is critical to obtain optimal system

performance.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–9

Figure 8 – 6 Tag and Antenna Orientation (horizontal polarization)

The test tag must be mounted ﬂush against a metal backplane.

Note: The default tag read mode of the reader is the protocol(s) programmed into the

reader. Use only those test tags programmed with the correct protocol(s) for the reader.

Caution

To avoid damage to the MPRX, you must connect the antenna before applying power

to the reader.

To verify tag read capability

1. Once communications are veriﬁed, enter the following sequence of commands to turn

on continuous RF:

• #01

• #6401

• #40

• #00

2. Pass one test tag in front of the active MPRX antenna. If the MPRX reads the tag, the

terminal emulation application displays the tag information on the screen as shown in

Figure 8 – 7.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–10

Figure 8 – 7 Successful Tag Read

If the tag ID is not displayed, perform the following actions:

• Verify that the MPRX is in data mode (command #00 Switch to Data Mode).

• Ensure that the tag you are using is compatible with the MPRX. The MPRX can read

tag types that are compatible with the reader model.

• An MPRX displays the tag read for any tag that is compatible with the reader

programming.

• Using the audible circuit tester as described in “Testing the MPRX 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

MPRX and the host.

3. Pass a dierent reader-compatible test tag in front of the MPRX antenna.

4. When the MPRX 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 – 8.

Figure 8 – 8 Second Successful Tag Read

If the read is unsuccessful, perform the following actions:

• Ensure the tag you are using is compatible with the MPRX.

• Using the audible circuit tester as described in “Testing the MPRX Using an Audible

Circuit Tester” on page 4–3, 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

MPRX and the host device.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–11

Conﬁguring MPRX Parameters

Follow the procedures in this section to conﬁgure MPRX parameters using a PC, laptop,

or terminal emulator. The PC or laptop must be connected to and communicating with the

MPRX, and the terminal emulation application must be conﬁgured correctly, as described in

the section “Verifying Communications” on page 8-7.

To conﬁgure parameters

1. Switch to command mode by typing #01 at the prompt on the terminal emulation

screen, and pressing ENTER.

Note: All MPRX 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 Data

Use this procedure to set appended tag data parameters using the terminal emulation

application. Refer to “31N Append Auxiliary Information Selection” on page 7-10 for more

information.

To set appended tag data parameters

1. Ensure that the host device 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 Separation

The 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 uniqueness. You

can reinstate uniqueness checking with commands #4100 or #4101 Select ID Separation.

Note: The MPRX internal timing varies depending on the operative tag read mode and

the type of tag in the read ﬁeld.

Refer to section “40 Transmit All ID Codes” on page 7–10 “and section “410N Select

Unique ID Code Criteria (Anti-passback Feature)” on page 7–11.

To set ID separation parameters

1. Ensure that the host device 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.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–12

Reports

The MPRX 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. Refer to sections “529 Display Presence Input Status” on

page 7–18 and “690N Select Presence Without Tag Report Option” on page 7–30 .

To set presence reporting

1. Ensure that the host device 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 reporting

1. Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

2. Enter command #560 to display input status change report options and press

ENTER.

• E0 = 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

Reset Reader

Command #63 Reset Reader resets uniqueness, clears the power fail bit, and transmits

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.

Refer to “63 Reset Reader” on page 7–25

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–13

To reset the reader

1. Ensure that the host device 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 8-8.

Radio Frequency

Caution

The authorized continuous wave (CW) frequency band for the MPRX in the U.S. is

902.25 to 903.75 MHz and 910.00 to 921.50 MHz and the authorized modulated

frequency band for the MPRX in the U.S. is 911.75 to 919.75 MHz. The RF for each

MPRX at the site must be set according to the frequency speciﬁed in the FCC site

license. Only trained, authorized installation and maintenance personnel are permitted

by FCC to set the RF.

By using the MPRX an authorized person can set the frequency within the range from 860

to 930 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 7–28

Note: For backward compatibility to existing controllers, you can set the RF operating frequency

in 500-kHz steps using command #642NN.

To set the frequency range

1. Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

2. Enter command #647XXX – where XXX is a hexadecimal value from 000 to 118

and press ENTER. Refer to command “647XXX Select RF Operating Frequency” on

page 7-29 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

4. #527 to see the current frequency setting.

Caution

Contact TransCore if your application requires a frequency outside of the authorized

frequency range.

RF Transmission

The RF transmission can be controlled by one of the following methods:

• Connecting a presence detector to the SENSE0 circuit

• The host device sending software commands to the MPRX

As a factory default, the MPRX is conﬁgured to control the RF power with a presence

detector. Figure 8 – 9 illustrates the methods of controlling RF sense output.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–14

Figure 8 – 9 MPRX RF Control Options

Presence Detector Controlling RF Transmission

The presence detector can be a loop detector, a track circuit, an infrared sensor, an

ultrasonic sensor, or another presence detection device that is connected to sense input0

to turn on the MPRX RF transmitter. In Figure 8-9, Option A shows a presence detector

controlling the RF transmitter. This operation is ensures that the RF is “on” only when a train

is in the MPRX read zone. Command #641 Select RF-by-Input Control (factory default) must

be enabled.

To set the option of the presence detector controlling the MPRX

• Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

• Enter command #641. Press ENTER.

• Leave the setting on RF-by-input control for normal operation.

Host Controlling RF Transmission

In Figure 8 – 9, Option B shows the host controlling the RF transmitter. This is the most

common implementation.

If the presence detector is connected to the host device, as shown in Option B, commands

#6400 RF O and #6401 RF On sent from the host device turn on and o the MPRX RF

transmitter.

Sense Inputs

The RS–232 conﬁguration used by the MPRX has two sense inputs — SENSE0 and

SENSE1. 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 are used to notify

the MPRX of train presence and are designed to be connected to a free- of-voltage dry

contact. The MPRX sense inputs are designed to connect to a dry contact closure.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–15

You can conﬁgure the MPRX to generate input status change reports, which are transmitted

like tag IDs. The host can then respond based on the true/false (closed/open) status of the

sense inputs. Refer to the section “Reports” on page 8–12“.

The following procedures describe how to set sense inputs using the terminal emulation

software. Refer to command “694N Select Input Inversion Option” on page 7–32 for more

information.

To set sense inputs

1. Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

2. Enter command #6940 to disable input inversion (factory default) or command

3. #6941 to enable input inversion, and press ENTER.

Sense Output Device

The sense output is dedicated for testing and set up of the reader. It is deﬁned as the

TAG_LOCK signal and indicates that 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 isolation

transformer is required.

Serial Port Communications

The MPRX supports one RS–232 communications port. For the RS–232 communications

speciﬁcation, the MPRX maintains the following three sets of parameters that aect serial

port communications:

• Port conﬁguration parameters (baud rate, data bits, stop bits, parity)

• Communications protocols (basic, error correcting)

• Flow control scheme (none, software)

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

issuing commands with the host device. Use the following procedures to set serial port

communications parameters using the terminal emulation program.

Port Conﬁguration Parameters

Use this procedure to set port conﬁguration parameters using the terminal emulation

program. Refer to sections “100N Select Baud Rate” on page 7–6, “100N Select Baud

Rate” on page 7–6 through “102N Select Parity” on page 7–6

To set baud rate

1. Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–16

2. Enter command #100N and press ENTER.

To set stop bits

1. Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

2. Enter command #101N and press ENTER.

To set parity

1. Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

2. Enter command #102N and press ENTER.

Communications Protocol

Use the following procedures to set communications protocol. Refer to sections “610 Select

Basic Communication Protocol (Factory Default)” on page 7–23 through “612NN Select

Error Correcting Protocol Timeout” on page 7–24 for more information.

Caution

Do not switch to ECP (command #611) unless the host is prepared to acknowledge

each reader transmission.

To select a communications protocol

1. Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

2. Enter command #610 to select basic protocol (factory default) or command #611 to

select ECP and press ENTER.

Software Flow Control

The host can enable or disable ﬂow control with command #614N Select Flow Control

Option.

The host can use software control characters (XON/XOFF) 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. 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

ECP.

Use the following procedure to set ﬂow control parameters using the terminal emulation

program. Refer to section “614N Select Flow Control Option” on page 7–24 .

To select ﬂow control

1. Ensure that the host device is in command mode.

2. Enter command #6140 to disable ﬂow control, command #6141 to enable software ﬂow

control (factory default) and press ENTER.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–17

Fine-Tuning and Verifying the Read Zone

If the read zone is too wide or too deep for your application, it can be ﬁne-tuned by

physically adjusting the external antenna mounting orientation, reprogramming the actual

RF power output (#644NN Set RF Attenuation), and/or reprogramming the RF sensitivity

range (#643NN Set ATA Operating Range (Distance) 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.

Refer to sections “643NN Select ATA Operating Range (Distance)” on page 7–27 ,

“645NN Set SeGo Protocol Operating Range (Distance)” on page 7–28, and “644NN Set

RF Attenuation” on page 7–27 for more information.

Note: As described in “Marking the Read Zone” on page 4-14, marking the read pattern

using test tags that are hand-carried by a tester gives a general idea of the read

pattern but the pattern may vary somewhat when actual rail assets are read.

Physically Orienting the MPRX 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 Power

You can make the read zone smaller by adjusting the MPRX 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 power

1. Ensure that your PC is communicating with the MPRX using a terminal emulation

program as described in section “Verifying Communications” on page 8–6.

1. Mark the current read zone as described in section “Marking the Read Zone” on page

4–13.

Caution

Test tags should be compatible with your MPRX. Test tags can be AAR-formatted or

SeGo-protocol tags.

2. Enter command #01 to switch to command mode. You are prompted with #DONE from

the reader and can now enter reader commands.

3. 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 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. Increasing the attenuation lowers the output RF

power.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

8–18

4. Switch to data mode by entering command #00 and pressing ENTER.

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 #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

trac by performing the following procedures:

To test the read zone

1. Ensure that the MPRX is in data mode.

2. With the MPRX 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 on 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 8–8.

Fine-tuning the Read Zone by Adjusting Sensitivity Range

The MPRX read zone can be ﬁne-tuned by using command #643NN for ATA protocol tag

read mode or #645NN for SeGo protocol tag read mode to reprogram the RF sensitivity

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 pattern 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 range

1. Ensure that your PC is communicating with the MPRX using a terminal emulation

program as described in “Verifying Communications” on page 8-7.

2. Mark the current read zone as described in “Marking the Read Zone” on page 4–13.

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 minimum 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

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 8–19

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

trac by performing the following procedures.

To test the read zone

1. Ensure that the MPRX is in data mode.

2. With the MPRX operating, 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.

4. 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 8–8.

Chapter 9

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 9–1

Chapter 9 Troubleshooting and Maintenance

This chapter contains information for troubleshooting a Multiprotocol

Reader Extreme (MPRX) and performing minimal maintenance checks.

the chapter also includes information for returning products for repair,

technical support, and contact information for providing feedback and

suggestions to TransCore.

Error Messages

The MPRX transmits an error message if a command received from the host is not a

recognized command or if information supplied with the command is incorrect. 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 Action

Error06

NVRAM parameters have been lost. The MPRX

will not function properly because the RF

section is shut o 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 MPRX

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.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

9–2

Error

Message

Description Corrective Action

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 module

If 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.

Troubleshooting

You can use the following table for troubleshooting. Should problems continue, contact

TransCore for return and replacement procedures. If you contact Technical Support, use

the symptom number in Table 9 – 2 to reference the problem that you are having with the

MPRX.

Table 9 – 2 Symptoms and Remedies

Symptom

NumberaSymptom Remedy

1 When performing a quick

test of the MPRX, the buzz

box does not buzz.

Check all your wiring connections and antenna connections and

ensure that your buzz box is functioning.

The wires from the MPRX 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. Refer to page 7-18 for more information.

2The baud rate is selected

correctly but nothing

happens.

The MPRX is not communicating with your host device. Check the

power supply to your host device, and check the connections

between the host device and the MPRX. Try reversing the receive

and transmit connections. Also, check the position of the Interface

Selection Switch.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 9–3

Symptom

NumberaSymptom Remedy

3When testing the MPRX, all

the wires are connected

correctly but the unit does

not respond.

The MPRX 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 MPRX is VT100.

Check that the MPRX communication cable is connected to the

correct COM port.

Verify that the external antenna is connected correctly.

Also, check the position of the Interface Selection Switch.

4Strange signal responses

come from the MPRX

when tested with the PC.

Ensure that the reader is in the correct interface mode for the test

tag, that is, AAR for an AAR-formatted 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 Nothing happens when

the test tag is passed

in front of the MPRX RF

antenna.

Ensure that the MPRX is powered on

Verify that the reader is set to RF ON (#6401). Verify that the antenna

is connected correctly.

6The MPRX came from

another site and does not

work the way the factory

defaults indicate that it

should.

Dierent 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.

7When connected to a PC

that is running terminal

communications software,

a just-powered up MPRX

displays one of the

following messages:

#Model E4 Series X.XX

SNSSSSSS

#[Copyright notice]

The MPRX works. The software is now loaded. SSSSSS is the

TransCore-assigned serial number for this MPRX. However, if SSSSSS

= 000000, a serial number has never been assigned. If a serial

number has not been assigned to your MPRX, contact TransCore

Technical Support.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

9–4

Symptom

NumberaSymptom Remedy

8The read zone is too

small, even before the RF

power and range control

have been adjusted.

If another MPRX is in the same area, ensure that it is operating on

another frequency that is at least 2 MHz dierent.

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 external antenna in a dierent direction to see

if interference comes from only one direction. You may require a

dierent MPRX that uses another frequency.

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.

9 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 external antenna may need adjustment. Slightly tilt

the external antenna to a dierent angle to change either the length

or width of the read zone.

Check the range control adjustment. Refer to “Radio Frequency” on

page 8–13..

10 The MPRX is reading tags

out of the desired read

zone.

Some interference from other RF or electrical sources may be

occurring. Refer to “Reﬂection, Refraction, and Diraction of RF

Signals” on page 2–8

Verify that the read zone has been properly set up. Refer to “Fine-

Tuning and Verifying the Read Zone” on page 8–17 .

a Use this number to reference the problem you are having with the MPRX if you contact Transcore for Technical Support.

MPRX Repair

The MPRX is designed for whole-unit replacement and is manufactured with surface-

mounted components. It requires sophisticated testing and repair equipment. All testing

and repairs are performed at TransCore’s factory. Please contact TransCore to obtain a

Return Materials Authorization (RMA) for returning the reader.

Technical Support

Authorized dealers and distributors are responsible for the direct support of all customers.

Authorized dealers and distributors needing support can contact TransCore Technical

Support at (505) 856-8007. 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.

Note: End users and facility operators contacting Technical Support will be referred to

the dealer responsible for the system sale.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 9–5

Marketing Support

Dealers requiring marketing support may call TransCore Sales Support at 800.923.4824.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

9–6

Chapter 10

Interface to Train Recording Unit

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

10–2

Chapter 10 Interface to Train Recording Unit

This chapter describes the communication/power interface between

the Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) and the Train Recording Unit

(TRU™).

TRU System Overview

The TRU is a system composed of hardware and software that is used at mainline rail

locations in North America. The TRU records detailed information about trains, uses the

information to create “consists” for the trains, and then transmits consist reports to a host

computer system. A train “clean consist” report is a train listing in standing order, where

orientation of tagged equipment is provided, location of untagged equipment is provided,

and car count is accurate. The TRU accommodates normal operating procedures such as

changes in speed and reverse and incorporates intelligence to handle both single and

multi-track locations.

The TRU System hardware includes the TRU “box,” RFID reader(s) or connection for

the Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX), antennas, wheel detectors, presence loops,

external device interfaces, communications interfaces, and other optional peripherals

(Figure 10 – 1).

Figure 10 – 1 TRU Front Panel Showing Operational LEDs

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 10–3

MPRX to TRU Connection

The MPRX and TRU typically are installed in the same railside hut and are connected by a

communication/power cable. Figure 10 – 2 shows the TRU circular connector port for the

MPRX interface cable.

Figure 10 – 2 TRU-MPRX Communications Interface Cable Port (bottom of TRU)

Figure 10 – 3 shows a graphical representation of the communications interface cable.

10–3

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

10–4

Figure 10 – 3 MPRX-TRU Communications Interface Cable

Table 10 – 1 lists the MPRX-to-TRU communications interface pin designations and signal

descriptions.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary 10–5

Table 10 – 1 MPRX-to-TRU Interface Cable Pin and Signal Designations

MPRX Pin Signal Designation Signal Description TRU Pin

1 TXD1 Transmit Data 1 8

2 GND Signal Ground 15

3 LOCK Lock 7

4 GND Signal Ground 14

5 +24RTN +24V Return 6

6 CTS1 Clear to Send 1 13

7 +24RTN +24V Return 5

8RTS1 Request to Send 1 12

9 +24V DC Input Voltage 4

10 GND Signal Ground 11

11 +24V DC Input Voltage 3

12 LOCK_RTN Lock Return 10

13 SENSE_1 Input Sense 1 2

14 RXD1 Receive Data 1 9

15 SENSE_0 Input Sense 0 1

Chapter 11

Check Tag to MPRX Assembly

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

11–2

Chapter 11 AT5720 Check Tag-to-MPRX Assembly

This document describes the procedures to assemble and connect a

check tag assembly to a Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX).

Required Supplies

Before assembling the check tag antenna kit, make sure you have the necessary

supplies and tools for this task. Check Tag Kit (TransCore P/N 19114-00). Table 11 – 1 lists

the kit parts.

Table 11 – 1 Check Tag Kit Parts List

Quantity Description

1Terminal connector strip (9 position)

2Self-tapping screw

1 Plastic connector housing sleeve

2 Plastic nut cap with rubber insert

1Nylon closing cap

1Check Tag Assembly Instructions

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 Reader Extreme

MPRX

• TransCore Proprietary 11–3

To assemble the kit for two check tags

1. Strip the cable insulation to expose the three check tag wires. Strip wire insulation

approximately 1/4 inches to expose bare wire. Slide the plastic nut and rubber grommet

over the wires (Figure 11 – 2).

Figure 11 – 1 Place Nut and Grommet Over Exposed Check Tag Wires

2. Pull the check tag wires through the connector housing (Figure 11 – 3).

Figure 11 – 2 Feed Check Tag Wires through Plastic Housing Connector

3. For Check Tag 0, insert and tighten the check tag wires to the terminal strip as shown in

Figure 11 – 2 and Table 11 – 2.

Figure 11 – 3 Connect Check Tag Wires

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

11–4

Table 11 – 2 Check Tag 0 Wire Assignments

4. If connecting two check tags, repeat steps 1 through 3. Connect Check Tag 1 to the

terminal strip as listed in Table 11 – 3.

Table 11 – 3 Check Tag 1 Wire Assignments

Figure 11 – 4 shows both check tags connected to terminal strip.

Figure 11 – 4 Two Check Tag Assemblies Connected to Terminal Strip

5. Insert and tighten the two self-tapping screws to secure the terminal strip (Figure 11 – 5).

Wire Color Pin No.

Ground Black 3

Power Red 4

Data White 5

Wire Color Pin No.

Ground Black 7

Power Red 8

Data White 9

MPRX

• TransCore Proprietary 11–5

Figure 11 – 5 Securing Terminal Strip into Connector Housing

6. To complete the connector assembly, tighten the nuts on the cable end snugly

(Figure 11 – 6).

Figure 11 – 6 Plastic Nuts with Grommets

As the nut is tightened, the connector compresses the grommet around the check tag

cable.

To assemble the kit for one check tag

1. Follow the procedure steps described above in steps 1 through 6, but connect only one

check tag cable.

Caution

If 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).

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

11–6

Figure 11 – 7 Nylon Cap Securely Fastened in Unused Port

To connect the check tag assembly to the MPRX

Remove the dust cover from the Check Tag port of the MPRX and plug in the check tag

cable assembly (signle check tag assembly shown in Figure 11 – 8). Be sure that the two

handles snap into place on the MPRX. This ensures a solid connection.

Figure 11 – 8 Check Tag Assembly Secured to MPRX Port

MPRX

• TransCore Proprietary 11–7

Appendix A

Glossary

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

A–2

Appendix A Glossary

AAR Association of American Railroads

AC alternating current

ACK acknowledge (data valid)

ANSI American National Standards Institute

antenna passive device that converts RF energy into magnetic energy (RF signal)

ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange

ASIC application-specic integrated circuit

ATA American Trucking Association

aux auxiliary

AWG AWG (American Wire Gauge) is a U.S. standard set of non-ferrous wire conductor

sizes

backscatter portion of an RF signal that is modulated by a tag and radiated back to the reader

baud measure of number of bits per second of a digital signal; for example, 9600 baud =

9600 bits per second

BCKS boot checksum

BCM buer control mode

bps bits per second

byte a binary character; for example, one 8-bit ASCII character

check 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

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary A–3

cmd command

comm communications

command data set that is recognized by the receiving device as intending to elicit a specic

response

conduit exible steel pipe use for electrical wiring

cps characters per second

CR carriage return

CRC cyclic redundancy check

CTRL control

CTS clear to send

data information that is processed by a computing device

DC direct current

DIAG diagnostic

ECP error correcting protocol

ECPS error correcting protocol status

eGo® Proprietary name for ANSI NCITS 256-2001 and ISO 18000-6B compliant TransCore

products. A registered trademark of TC License, Ltd.

eol end of line

eom end of message

EPROM erasable programmable read-only memory

eld 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.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

A–4

frames consecutive bits of data in memory that are read and written as a group

frequency bands a range of RF frequencies assigned for transmission by an RF device

hex hexadecimal

hexadecimal base 16 numbering system that uses the characters 0 though 9 and A through F to

resent the digits 0 through 16

host device, generally a computer, that is connected to the Multiprotocol Reader Ex-

treme

through the communications port

I/O or IO circuits input/output circuits

ID identication; encoded information unique to a particular tag

NCITS American National Standards Institute International Committee for Information

Technology standards

interface connection point for communication with another device

IOST I/O status

ISO International Standardization Organization

LF line feed

meter

MHz megahertz

mode method of operation

MPRX Multiprotocol Reader Extreme

ms millisecond(s)

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary A–5

NAK negative acknowledgment (data not valid)

passback used to refer to a tag ID that is not passed on to the tag buer

PC personal computer

PCKS EPROM ash checksum

protocol specied convention for the format of data messages communicated between devices

PRST presence status

PWRB power fail bit

RAM random access memory

RDID reader ID

read process of acquiring data from a device; for example, from a tag or from computer

memory

reader controlled interrogating device capable of acquiring data from a device; for example,

acquiring and interrupting data from a tag

read zone the physical area in which a tag can be read by the reader

RF radio frequency

RFID radio frequency identication

RFST RF status

ROM read-only memory

RTC real-time clock

RTS request-to-send

SCTS status of check tag status

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

A–6

SeGo Super eGo (SeGo) is a superset of the eGo protocol

SN serial number

som start of message

SSTC input status change reporting options

tag small self-contained device acting as an identifying transponder

TRU™ Train Recording Unit

TT tag translation

volts

Ver version (soware)

write 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 specied memory

locations.

XON/XOFF protocol for controlling the ow 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 o. e actual signal for X/ON is the same bit conguration as the ASCII Ctrl-Q

keyboard combination (11 hexadecimal). e X/OFF signal is the Ctrl-S character (13

hexadecimal).

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary A–7

Technical Speciﬁcations

Appendix B

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

B–2

Appendix B Technical Speciﬁcations

Reader Speciﬁcations

Communications

a. In the U.S., the authorized continuous wave frequency band is 902.25 to a. 903.75 MHz and 910.00 to 921.50 MHz and the authorized

modulated frequency band for this product is 911.75 to 919.75 MHz.

b. Reading range depends on reader or external antenna conﬁguration, tag type, tag read mode, and operating environment.

Hardware Features

Power Requirements

Physical Attributes

Frequency Selection 860 to 930 MHz capablea

Reading Range

Read performance varies depending on tag, reader, and

external antenna conﬁguration and environment.

Typical read range should be 12 to 17 ft (3.7 to 5.2 m).b

Integrated system with

connectors for external

antennas

RF module, tag decoder, power supply, I/O ports, and

serial communications interface all housed in a single

package.

Case Aluminum (Allodyne)

Input Voltage 12 to 24 VDC (Option)

24 to 110VDC (Option)

Size 13 x 5 x 2.49 in. (33 x 7.62 x 6.32 cm)

Weight 5.9 lb (2.6 kg)

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary B–3

Environmental Parameters

Options

Operating Temperature -40°F to +158°F (-40°C to +70°C)

Humidity 99% condensing

Ingress Protection IP65/IP67 Rated, with appropriate connectors.

Vibration Tolerance The MPRX complies with vibration tolerance limits

speciﬁed in AREMA C&S Manual, Part 11.5.1, Class C

Operation Shock

Tolerance

The MPRX complies with shock tolerance limits

speciﬁed in AREMA C&S Manual, Part 11.5.1, Class C

Communications

Interface

RS–232, RS-422, Ethernet

Cable Accessory Kits

: MPRX-to-TRU™ cable assembly, 6 ft (1.8 m)

: MPRX-to-TRU cable assembly, 20 ft (6.1 m) 58-7001-003:

MPRX cable assembly, 6 ft (1.8 m), no TRU 58-7001-004

MPRX cable assembly, 20 ft (6.1 m), no TRU

AC/DC Converter

An AC/DC converter is available from TransCore to allow

for connection to 110/220VAC sources. The transformer is

rated -40 to 70C, and will power up to 2 MPRX units. Part

number available upon request.

Wiring Diagram

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

C–2

Appendix C Wiring Information

This appendix contains a graphical representation showing the wiring

connector pin-outs as well as any wiring signal tables used to test

and install the Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) for a non-Train

Recording Unit installation.

Communications Interfaces

Table C – 1 lists the interfaces available with the MPRX.

Table C – 1 Communications Interfaces and Conductor Requirements

Table C – 2 lists the MPRX Host Communications Cable Pin Designations. The interface

cable is TransCore P/N (6-foot [1.8-m] cable assembly, no TRU) or (20-foot [6.1-m] cable

assembly, no TRU).

Interface Number of

Conductors

RS–232 3

RS-422 5

Ethernet 4

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary C–3

Table C – 2 MPRX Host Communications Cable Pin Designations

Host Cable

Pair Color Pin Number Name

Pair 1 White 9 SIG_GND

Black 1 RS232 TX

Pair 2 White 10 SIG_GND

Brown 2 RS232 RX

Pair 3 White 12 +V Return

Red 11 +V In

Pair 4 White 12 +V Return

Orange 11 +V In

Pair 5 White 12 +V Return

Yellow 11 +V In

Pair 6 White 3 Lock

Green 4 Lock Return

Pair 7 White 6 RS422 TX-

Blue 5 RS422 TX+

Pair 8 White 8 RS422 RX-

Violet 7 RS422 RX+

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

C–4

Table C – 3 lists the MPRX Sense Communications Cable Pin Designations. The interface

cable is TransCore P/N (6-foot [1.8-m] cable assembly, no TRU) or (20-foot [6.1-m] cable

assembly, no TRU).

Table C – 3 MPRX SENSE Communications Cable Pin Designations

Sense Cable

Pair Color Pin Number Name

Pair 1 White 3 I/O GND

Black 7 CTAG 0

Pair 2 White 3 I/O GND

Brown 8 CTAG 1

Pair 3 White 4 I/O GND

Red 1 +12V

Pair 4 White 4 I/O GND

Orange 1 +12V

Pair 5 White 6 OUT 0

Yellow 2 OUT 1

Pair 6 White 11 I/O GND

Green 5 PULSE OUT

Pair 7 White 9 I/O GND

Blue 12 SENSE 0

Pair 8 White 10 I/O GND

Violet 11 SENSE 1

Command Quick Reference

Appendix D

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–2

Appendix D Command Quick Reference

This appendix lists the default conﬁguration settings for the

Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) and its commands. Commands

are listed both numerically and alphabetically.

Command Syntax

The 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 variable. 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 refer to Chapter 5, “This chapter provides software-related information for the

Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) System.” on page 5–2.

Table D – 1 lists factory default settings. Table D – 2 lists, in numerical order, all of the

commands available to users. Table D – 3 lists the same commands by command name.

Factory Default Settings

Table D – 1 lists the factory default settings for the MPRX.

Table D – 1 MPRX Default Conﬁguration Settings

Parameter Setting Command

Operating mode Data 00

Baud rate 9600 1005

Stop bits 1 1010

Parity None 1020

Time and data appended Enabled 302

Auxiliary information appended Disabled 310

Unique ID code criteria Separation of 1 ID 4100

Valid ID code criteria Acquisition of 1 ID 4200

Uniqueness time-out 2 minutes 441

Tag translation mode Disabled 452

Multi-tag sort Disabled 454

SeGo protocol tag initialization

during multi-tag sort

Enabled 456

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–3

Parameter Setting Command

Reader ID number 00 6000

Communications protocol Basic 610

Error correcting protocol (ECP)

timeout

12.7 sec 612FE

Flow control Software (XON/XOFF) 6141

Echo mode Enabled 6171

RF-by-input control Enabled 641

ATA operating range (distance) Maximum 6431F

RF attenuation Full power 64400

SeGo protocol operating range

(distance)

Maximum 6451F

Presence without tag reports Disabled 6900

RF-o control Timeout or no presence 6922

RF timeout Never true 693F

Input inversion Disabled 6940

Serial number SSSSSS 695

Store hardware conﬁguration Hardware conﬁguration not

known

696

Automatic periodic RF status

report

Disabled 830

Numerical Command List

The 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, “Chapter 6 Communications Protocols” on page 6–2 ” for the

complete syntax of commands and messages.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–4

Table D – 2 MPRX Commands Listed Numerically

Number Command Name Reader Message

00 Switch to data mode Done

01 Switch to command mode Done

1002 Set baud rate = 1200 baud Done

1003 Set baud rate = 2400 baud Done

1004 Set baud rate = 4800 baud Done

1005 Set baud rate = 9600 baud Done

1006 Set baud rate = 19.2 K baud Done

1007 Set baud rate = 38.4 K baud Done

1010 Use one stop bit Done

1011 Use two stop bits Done

1020 Disable parity Done

1021 Select even parity Done

1022 Select odd parity Done

20 Set time Done

21 Set date Done

22 Display time and date Time and date

300 No time and date appended Done

302 Time and date appended Done

310 Disable aux info append Done

311 Enable aux info append Done

40 Transmit all IDs Done

4100 Select one ID separation Done

4101 Select two ID separation Done

4102 Select three ID separation Done

4103 Select four ID separation Done

4200 Select 1 valid ID code Done

4201 Select 2 valid ID codes Done

4202 Select 3 valid ID codes Done

4203 Select 4 valid ID codes Done

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–5

Number Command Name Reader Message

440 Reset uniqueness Done

441 Set uniqueness time-out to 2

minutes

Done

442 Set uniqueness time-out to 15

seconds

Done

443 Set uniqueness time-out to 30

seconds

Done

452 Disable tag translation mode Done

453 Enable tag translation mode Done

454 Disable multi-tag sort Done

455 Enable multi-tag sort Done

456 Enable SeGo protocol tag

initialization during multi-tag

sort

Done

457 Disable SeGo protocol tag

initialization during multi-tag

sort

Done

480 Disable ATA Done if MPRX model supports this

tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is

unsupported.

481 Enable ATA Done if MPRX model supports this

tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is

unsupported.

484 Disable SeGo Done if MPRX model supports this

tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is

unsupported.

485 Enable SeGo Done if MPRX model supports this

tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is

unsupported.

488 Disable eATA Done if MPRX model supports this

tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is

unsupported.

489 Enable eATA Done if MPRX model supports this

tag protocol. Error if tag protocol is

unsupported.

505 Display version Model [model]

Ver [version no.] SN [serial no.]

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–6

Number Command Name Reader Message

506 Display hardware conﬁguration

information

S...S

S...S = ASCII string (maximum length of

20 characters)

520 Display power fail bit PWRB Px R0

P0 = no power fail has occurred

P1 = power fail has occurred

R0 = not applicable to the MPRX

521 Display reader ID number RDID xx

xx = 00–FF

522 Display comm port parameters MAIN Bx Sx Px D0

B2 = 1200

B3 = 2400

B4 = 4800

B5 = 9600

B6 = 19.2

B7 = 38.4

S0 = one stop bit S1 = two stop bits P0

= no parity

P1 = even P2 = odd

D0 = EOL delay of 0 ms

524 Display appended info status IDAP T0 D0 Xx

T0 = time not appended

T1 = time appended

D0 = date not appended

D1 = date appended

X0 = aux info not appended

X1 = aux info appended

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–7

Number Command Name Reader Message

525 Display comm protocol ECPS Px Txx Xx S0

P0 = basic

P1 = ECP

P2 = data Inquiry

Txx = ECP timeout

ms = 50 * xx

FF = disabled ECP timeout

X0 = no ﬂow control

X1 = software ﬂow control

S0 = som character is #

527 Display RF status RFST Cx Ox Tx Fxxx Rxx Gxx

Axx I04

C0 = RF controlled by host

C1 = RF-by-presence sensor

O0 = RF o

O1 = RF on

T1 = uniqueness timeout of 2 min

T2 = uniqueness timeout of 15 sec

T3 = uniqueness timeout of 30 sec

Fxxx = RF output frequency,

xxx = 000 to 118

Rxx = Tag decoder range (distance) for

ATA tags, 00 to 1F hexadecimal range

value

Gxx = Tag decoder range (distance) for

eGo Plus Tags, 00 to 1F hexadecimal

range value Axx = RF power

attenuation, 00 max to 0A min (10 dB

less than max)

I04 = ﬁxed

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.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–8

Number Command Name Reader Message

529 Display presence input status PRST Px D0 Ax Tx Ix

P0 = disable presence w/o tag reports

P1 = enable presence w/o tag reports

D0 = min presence true period of 0 ms

A0 = RF o on timeout

A1 = RF o on timeout or tag A2 = RF

o on timeout or no presence

T0: RF timeout of 0 ms (always expired)

T1: RF timeout of 4 ms

T2: RF timeout of 8 ms

T3: RF timeout of 12 ms

T4: RF timeout of 20 ms

T5: RF timeout of 24 ms

T6: RF timeout of 32 ms

T7: RF timeout of 48 ms

T8: RF timeout of 60 ms

T9: RF timeout of 92 ms

TA: RF timeout of 152 ms

TB: RF timeout of 300 ms

TC: RF timeout of 452 ms

TD: RF timeout of 600 ms

TE: RF timeout of 752 ms

TF: RF timeout inﬁnite, never expires

(factory default)

I0 = Input inversion disabled (factory

default)

I1 = Input inversion enabled

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–9

Number Command Name Reader Message

530 Display RF0 ﬁlter status RF0S Ux V0

U0 = one ID separation (factory default)

U1 = two ID separation

U2 = transmit all IDs

U3 = buer all IDs

V0 = valid ID code criteria of one

acquisition (factory default)

V1 = valid ID code criteria of two

acquisitions

V2 = valid ID code criteria of three

acquisitions

V3 = valid ID code criteria of four

acquisitions

534 Display tag translation mode

status

TT <0 to 1>

0 = tag translation mode disabled

1 = tag translation mode enabled

537 Display echo status ECHO x

0 = disabled (factory default) 1 =

enabled

540 Display ﬂash checksum PCKS I0000 Exxxx

xxxx = 4-byte ASCII checksum

543 Display boot checksum BCKS xxxx

xxxx = 4-byte ASCII checksum

549 Get user-programmable group

select equals (GSE) ﬁlter data

The response data is formatted

similar to the data in the conﬁguration

command.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–10

Number Command Name Reader Message

552 Request sensor status change Reader response:

MUX x<0 to 3> <MPRX>

where

x = 0 antenna multiplexing disabled, RF

on port 0 only

x = 1 antenna multiplexing between RF

ports 0 and 1 when sense0 active

x = 2 antenna multiplexing between RF

ports 0 and 1 when sense0 active and

RF port 2 when sense1 active

x = 3 antenna multiplexing between RF

ports 0 and 1 when sense0 active and

RF ports 2 and 3 when sense1 active

MPRX = MPRX mode selected

560 Display input status change SSTC Ex Mx

E0 = status change reports disabled

E1 = status change reports enabled

M0 = no reporting

M1 = report change on input0 M2 =

report change on input1 M3 = report

change on either input

570 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 = Enabled

F = Full transaction (eATA) D = Disabled

577 Report buered handshakes XX = number of handshakes

60NN Set reader ID number NN =

00–FF

(00 = factory default)

Done

610 Select basic protocol Done

611 Select ECP protocol Done

612NN Set ECP timeout

NN = 01–FE (1–255)

timeout = 50 ms * NN (if NN =

FF, timeout is disabled)

Done

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–11

Number Command Name Reader Message

612FE Set ECP timeout = 12.7 sec Done

613 Enable data inquiry protocol Done

6140 Disable ﬂow control Done

6141 Enable software ﬂow control Done

6170 Disable echo Done

6171 Enable echo Done

63 Reset reader Model [model]

Ver [version no.] SN [serial no.]

TransCore

6400 Turn o RF Done

6401 Turn on RF Done

641 Select RF-by-input control Done

642NN Select RF operating frequency Done

643NN Set ATA operating range

(distance) NN = 00 (shortest) to

1F (longest) 1F = default

Done

644NN Set RF attenuation NN = 00 to

Done

645NN Set SeGo protocol operating

range (distance)

NN = 00 (shortest) to 1F

(longest)

Done

647XXX Select RF operating frequency

from 860 to 930 in 250 kHz

steps

XXX = 000 - 118 (hexadecimal)

Done

65 Reset power fail bit Done

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–12

Number Command Name Reader Message

66F Load default operating

parameters (except RF

operating frequency)

Done

6900 Disable presence without tag

reports

Done

6901 Enable presence without tag

reports

Done

6920 Turn RF o on timeout Done

6921 Turn RF o on timeout/tag Done

6922 Turn RF o on timeout/no

presence

Done

693N Set RF timeout N = 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 Done

6940 Disable input inversion Done

6941 Enable input inversion Done

695S...S Set serial number S...S =

ASCII string (maximum length

of 6 characters)

Done

696S...S Store hardware conﬁguration

string S...S = ASCII string

(maximum length of 20

characters)

Done

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–13

Number Command Name Reader Message

697 Set user-programmable group

select equals (GSE) ﬁlter

697 MM AA

DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

where

MM = determines which of the

eight comparison data bytes

are to be compared for the

Group Select ﬁlter

AA = determines the start

address in the tag memory for

the comparison data

D...D = 8-byte ﬁeld (16

characters) used by the tag as

the comparison data for the

group select ﬁlter

Done

8110 Switch on RF port 0, ﬁre o

check tag address 0 on check

tag pin 0

Done

8111 Switch on RF port 1, ﬁre o

check tag address 1 on check

tag pin 0

Done

8112 Switch on RF port 2, ﬁre o

check tag address 0 on check

tag pin 1

Done

8113 Switch on RF port 3, ﬁre o

check tag address 1 on check

tag pin 1

Done

8142X Set check tag character on

check tag pin 0

Done

8143X Set check tag character on

check tag pin 1

Done

8150 Set check tag address to 0 on

check tag pin 0

Done

8151 Set check tag address to 1 on

check tag pin 0

Done

8152 Set check tag address to 0 on

check tag pin 1

Done

8153 Set check tag address to 1 on

check tag pin 1

Done

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–14

Number Command Name Reader Message

830 Disable automatic periodic RF

status report

Done

831 Enable automatic periodic RF

status report

Done

836 Disable MPRX mode Done

837 Enable MPRX mode Done

850 MUX RF port 0 Done

851 MUX between RF ports 0 and 1 Done

852 MUX between RF ports 0, 1, and

Done

853 MUX between RF ports 0, 1, 2, and

Done

891 MUX test mode RF port 1 only Done

892 MUX test mode RF port 2 only Done

893 MUX test mode RF port 3 only Done

Alphabetical Command List

The 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, “Chapter 7 Commands” on page 7–2 for the complete syntax of

commands and messages.

Table D – 3 MPRX Commands Listed Alphabetically

Command Name Code Reader Message

All IDs transmit 40 Done

Appended info status display 524 IDAP T0 D0 Xx

T0 = time not appended

T1 = time appended

D0 = date not appended

D1 = date appended

X0 = aux info not appended

X1 = aux info appended

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–15

Command Name Code Reader Message

ATA disable 480 Done if MPRX model supports

this tag protocol. Error if tag

protocol is unsupported.

ATA enable 481 Done if MPRX model supports

this tag protocol. Error if tag

protocol is unsupported.

ATA operating range set

NN = 00 (shortest) to 1F (longest)

1F = default

643NN Done

Automatic periodic RF status

report disable

830 Done

Automatic periodic RF status

report enable

831 Done

Aux 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 checksum

Buered handshake report 577 XX = number of handshakes

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–16

Command Name Code Reader Message

Comm port parameters display 522 MAIN Bx Sx Px D0 B0 = 110

B1 = 300

B2 = 1200

B3 = 2400

B4 = 4800

B5 = 9600

B6 = 19.2

B7 = 38.4

S0 = one stop bit S1 = two stop

bits P0 = no parity

P1 = even P2 = odd

D0 = EOL delay of 0 ms

Comm protocol display 525 ECPS Px Txx Xx S0 P0 = basic

P1 = ECP

P2 = data inquiry Txx = ECP

timeout ms = 50 * xx

TFF = disabled ECP timeout X0

= no ﬂow control

X1 = software ﬂow control S0 =

SOM character is #

Command mode switch 01 Done

Data inquiry protocol enable 613 Done

Data mode switch 00 Done

Date set 21 Done

Default operating parameters

load (except RF operating

frequency)

66F Done

eATA disable 488 Done if MPRX model supports

this tag protocol. Error if tag

protocol is unsupported.

eATA enable 489 Done if MPRX model supports

this tag protocol. Error if tag

protocol is unsupported.

Echo disable 6170 Done

Echo enable 6171 Done

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–17

Command Name Code Reader Message

Echo status display 537 ECHO x

0 = disabled

1 = enabled

ECP protocol select 611 Done

ECP timeout set = 12.7 sec 612FE Done

ECP timeout set

NN = 01–FE (1–255)

timeout = 50 ms * NN

(if NN = FF, timeout is disabled)

612NN Done

Even parity select 1021 Done

Flash checksum display 540 PCKS I0000 Exxxx

xxxx = 4-byte ASCII checksum

Flow control disable 6140 Done

Get user-programmable group

select equals (GSE) ﬁlter data

549 The response data is formatted

similar to the data in the

conﬁguration command.

Hardware conﬁguration

information display

506 S...S

S...S = ASCII string (maximum

length of 20 characters)

Hardware conﬁguration string

store

S...S = ASCII string (maximum

length of 20 characters)

696S...S Done

Input inversion disable 6940 Done

Input inversion enable 6941 Done

Input status change display 560 SSTC Ex Mx

E0 = status change reports

disabled

E1 = status change reports

enabled

M0 = no reporting

M1 = report change on input0

M2 = report change on input1

M3 = report change on either

input

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–18

Command Name Code Reader Message

MPRX mode disable 836 Done

MPRX mode enable 837 Done

Multi-tag sort disable 454 Done

Multi-tag sort enable 455 Done

MUX RF port 0 850 Done

MUX between RF ports 0 and 1 851 Done

MUX between RF ports 0, 1, and 2 852 Done

MUX between RF ports 0, 1, 2, and 3

853 Done

MUX test mode RF port 1 only 891 Done

MUX test mode RF port 2 only 892 Done

MUX test mode RF port 3 only 893 Done

Odd parity select 1022 Done

Operating 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 = Enabled

F = Full transaction (eATA) D =

Disabled

Parity disable 1020 Done

Power fail bit display 520 PWRB Px R0

P0 = no power fail has

occurred P1 = power fail has

occurred R0 = not applicable

Power fail bit reset 65 Done

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–19

Command Name Code Reader Message

Presence input status display 529 PRST Px D0 Ax Tx Ix

P0 = disable presence w/o tag

reports

P1 = enable presence w/o tag

reports

D0 = min presence true period

of 0 ms

A0 = RF o on timeout

A1 = RF o on timeout or tag

A2 = RF o on timeout or no

presence

T0: RF timeout of 0 ms (always

expired)

T1: RF timeout of 4 ms T2: RF

timeout of 8 ms T3: RF timeout

of 12 ms T4: RF timeout of

20 ms T5: RF timeout of 24

ms T6: RF timeout of 32 ms

T7: RF timeout of 48 ms T8:

RF timeout of 60 ms T9: RF

timeout of 92 ms TA: RF timeout

of 152 ms TB: RF timeout of

300 ms TC: RF timeout of 452

ms TD: RF timeout of 600 ms

TE: RF timeout of 752 ms

TF: RF timeout inﬁnite, never

expires (factory default)

I0 = Input inversion disabled

(factory default)

I1 = Input inversion enabled

Presence without tag reports

disable

6900 Done

Presence without tag reports

enable

6901 Done

Reader ID number display 521 RDID xx

xx = 00–FF

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–20

Command Name Code Reader Message

Reader ID number set NN = 00-

(00 = factory default)

60NN Done

Reader reset 63 Model [model]

Ver [version no.] SN [serial no.]

TransCore

Report changes both 823 Done

RF attenuation set NN = 00 to 0A 644NN Done

RF o on timeout 6920 Done

RF o on timeout/no presence 6922 Done

RF o on timeout/tag 6921 Done

RF turn o 6400 Done

RF turn on 6401 Done

RF on by input control 641 Done

RF operating frequency from 860

to 930 in 250 kHz steps select

XXX = 000 - 118 (hexadecimal)

647XXX Done

RF operating frequency select 642NN Done

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–21

Command Name Code Reader Message

RF status display 527 RFST Cx Ox Tx Fxxx Rxx Gxx

Axx I04

C0 = RF controlled by host C1

= RF-by-presence sensor O0 =

RF o

O1 = RF on

T1 = uniqueness timeout of 2

min T2 = uniqueness timeout of

15 sec

T3 = uniqueness timeout of 30

sec

Fxxx = RF output frequency, xxx

= 000 to 118

Rxx = Tag decoder range

(distance) for ATA tags, 00 to 1F

hexadecimal range value

Gxx = Tag decoder range

(distance) for eGo Plus Tags, 00

to 1F hexadecimal range value

Axx = RF power attenuation, 00

max to 0A min (10 dB less than

max)

I04 = ﬁxed

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.

RF timeout = innite set 693F Done

RF timeout set N = 0–F

(always expired, 4,8,12,20,24,32,

48,60,92,152,300,452,600,752

ms, inﬁnite)

693N Done

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–22

Command Name Code Reader Message

RF0 ﬁlter status display 530 RF0S Ux V0

U0 = one ID separation U1 =

two ID

U2 = transmit all

SeGo disable 484 Done if MPRX model supports

this tag protocol. Error if tag

protocol is unsupported.

SeGo enable 485 Done if MPRX model supports

this tag protocol. Error if tag

protocol is unsupported.

SeGo protocol operating range

set NN = 00 (shortest) to 1F

(longest)

645NN Done

SeGo protocol tag initialization

during multi-tag sort

456 Done

SeGo protocol tag initialization

during multi-tag sort disable

457 Done

Serial number set S...S = ASCII

string (maximum length of 6

characters)

695S...S Done

Set check tag character on check

tag pin 0

8142X Done

Set check tag character on check

tag pin 1

8143X Done

Set check tag address to 0 on

check tag pin 0

8150 Done

Set check tag address to 1 on

check tag pin 0

8151 Done

Set check tag address to 0 on

check tag pin 1

8152 Done

Set check tag address to 1 on

check tag pin 1

8153 Done

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–23

Command Name Code Reader Message

Set user-programmable group

select equals (GSE) ﬁlter

697 MM AA

DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

where

MM = determines which of the

eight comparison data bytes are

to be compared for the Group

Select ﬁlter

AA = determines the start

address in the tag memory for

the comparison data

D...D = 8-byte ﬁeld (16 characters)

used by the tag as the

comparison data for the group

select ﬁlter

697 Done

Software ﬂow control enable 6141 Done

Stop bit use one 1010 Done

Stop bit use two 1011 Done

Switch on RF port 0, ﬁre o

check tag address 0 on check

tag pin 0

8110 Done

Switch on RF port 1, ﬁre o check

tag address 1 on check tag pin 0

8111 Done

Switch on RF port 2, ﬁre o

check tag address 0 on check

tag pin 1

8112 Done

Switch on RF port 3, ﬁre o check

tag address 1 on check tag pin 1

8113 Done

Tag ID separation select four 4103 Done

Tag ID separation select one 4100 Done

Tag ID separation select three 4102 Done

Tag ID separation select two 4101 Done

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

D–24

Command Name Code Reader Message

Tag translation mode status

display

534 TT <0 to 1>

0 = tag translation mode

disabled

1 = tag translation mode

enabled

Time and date appended 302 Done

Time and date display 22 Time and date

Time and date not appended 300 Done

Time set 20 Done

Uniqueness reset 440 Done

Uniqueness time-out set to 2

minutes

441 Done

Uniqueness time-out set to 15

seconds

442 Done

Uniqueness time-out set to 30

seconds

443 Done

Valid ID code select four 4203 Done

Valid ID code select one 4200 Done

Valid ID code select three 4202 Done

Valid ID code select two 4201 Done

Version display 505 Model [model]

Ver [ver no.] SN [serial no.]

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary D–25

Compatible Tag Information

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

E–2

Appendix E Compatible Tag Information

This appendix gives helpful information about the tags that are

compatible with the Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX).

Tag Conﬁgurations

Table E – 1 lists the TransCore Super eGo® (SeGo) protocol tags that are compatible with

the MPRX.

Table E – 1 SeGo Protocol Tags

Tag Model

Number Tag Type Power

Source

Number of

6-bit ASCII

Charactersa

Number

of 128-Bit

Framesa

Special Features

AT5120 Rail Beam 20 1

860 to 880 MHz frequency,

chemical resistant case, metal

external install

AT5118 Rail Beam 20 1

915 MHz frequency, high-

temperature chemical-resistant

case, metal external install

AT5133 Transportation Beam 20 1

915 MHz frequency, high-

temperature chemical-resistant

case, metal external install

AT5412 Transportation Beam 10 1/2

915 MHz frequency, high-

temperature chemical-resistant

case, metal external install

AT5413 Rail Beam 20 1

915 MHz frequency, high-

temperature chemical-resistant

case, metal external install

AT5414 Transportation 8-year

battery 10 1/2

Multifrequency, high-

temperature chemical-resistant

case, metal external install

AT5415 Transportation Beam 10 1/2

915 MHz frequency, high-

temperature chemical-resistant

case, metal external install

AT5549 Rail 10-year

battery 20 1 915 MHz frequency; water-

resistant, metal external install

a. These ﬁelds apply to eATA-programmed tags only. Contact TransCore for information regarding tags programmed with these

features.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary E–3

Table E – 2 lists most AAR-formatted tag models that are compatible with the MPRX.

Table E – 2 AAR-formatted Tags

Tag Model

Number Tag Type Power

Source

Number of

6-Bit ASCII

Characters

Number

of 128-Bit

Frames

Special Features

AT5110 Transportation Beam 20 1 915 MHz frequency, metal

external install

AT5112 Access control,

transportation

Beam 10 1/2 915 MHz frequency, metal

external install

AT5114 Access control,

transportation

10-yr

battery

10 1/2 Multifrequency, metal external

install

AT5117 Rail External 10 1/2 915 MHz frequency; weather

resistant, metal external install

AT5119 Rail External 10 1/2 915 MHz frequency; weather

resistant, metal external install

AT5125 Transportation Beam 20 1 915 MHz frequency; high-

temperature chemical-resistant

case, metal external install

AT5510 Transportation 10-yr

battery

20 1 Multifrequency, metal external

install

AT5704 Transportation External 4608 256 Multifrequency, dynamic tag,

metal external install

AT5707 Transportation 8-yr

battery

40a 2 915 MHz frequency, dynamic

tag, metal external install

If desired, in place of 40 six-bit ASCII characters, the AT5707 can support up to 34 seven-bit ASCII characters.

Tag Model

Number Tag Type Power

Source

Number of

6-bit ASCII

Charactersa

Number

of 128-Bit

Framesa

Special Features

AT5910 Transportation 8-year

battery 20 1

Multifrequency, high-

temperature chemical-resistant

case, metal external install

a. These ﬁelds apply to eATA-programmed tags only. Contact TransCore for information regarding tags programmed with these

features.

System Guide

TransCore Proprietary

E–4

Tag Data Formats

Tags 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 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.

MPRX

TransCore Proprietary E–5

TransCore MPRX Multiprotocol Reader Extreme User Manual

TransCore Multiprotocol Reader Extreme

User Manual

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