New RFID read/write device readers from Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc. can now accommodate both low and high feature transponders (tags). These HF (high frequency) 13.56 megahertz readers have been enhanced with ISO 15693 functionality, making them suitable with low to high memory tags.

Low memory tags include the affordable MDS D100 and D124 ISO 15693, as well as high feature tags in the RF300 product family.  SIMATIC® RFID Readers, including models RF310R and RF380R, now have complete ISO 15693 functionality.

The D324 and D160 RFID tags in the Siemens Moby D product line have user data capacities ranging from 20 bytes to 1 kilobyte. These are typically used in applications with central data storage in manufacturing industries, such as the automotive industry and its suppliers; and material handling and logistics systems.  

The Simatic RF310R and RF380R Readers support advanced tags in the RF300 family that have larger data capacities and fast data throughput from reader to tag. The mode of operation is easily managed in the program environment by changing the operating parameters of the reader. This allows the reader to operate in a high-performance "RF300 protocol" mode, or in the ISO 15693 protocol. This gives this system tremendous flexibility to meet the requirements of many applications.

Standard communication modules can integrate these readers into PC-based applications or industrial controller based automation system via PROFIBUS, Serial and PROFINET/Ethernet communications. The Simatic RF380R Reader has an additional RS232 interface that allows direct connection to other manufacturer's control systems or a PC without a communication module. The RF340R, RF350R, and RF310M mobile handheld terminals will be enhanced with ISO 15693 functionality in the near future.