RFID Sensor – the SICK RFU61x, Big Ability in a Small Package

What is RFID Technology?

RFID, or Radio Frequency Identification, is a method of transferring information between two entities, these being an RFID tag that carries information and a RFID scanner or reader to decode that data. Using electromagnetic field technology, when an item adorned with an RFID tag passes a suitable scanner that information is captured, extracted, and acted upon, or not, by the control system that is interpreting the data.

RFID tags and readers do not need a line of sight to function, they merely need to pass within the detecting range of each other. RFID Sensor tags can be found in many applications, such as attached to clothing in a store, under the skin to identify pet ownership, in a car key fob or in production operations, monitoring the progress of a product through each stage of manufacture, all of them containing data that is accessible by a suitable reader.

RFID technology exists in many forms and for many purposes and SICK, world-renowned manufacturers of sensors and sensing solutions are no strangers to RFID technology, here we preview the RFU61x UHF RFID Sensor.

The RFU61x UHF RFID Sensor, Small and Powerful

The RFU61x RFID Sensor from SICK, is one of the smallest read/write device of its type on the market, ideally suited for IIoT applications involving the identification of production workpieces or components.

RFID Sensor SICK RFU61x

The diminutive stature of this RFID Sensor enables versatile application possibilities even in the most limited installation spaces, and the rugged design provides reliable operation even in demanding industrial environments.

Installation is quick and easy thanks to the integrated process logic which means data gathered by the sensor can be processed directly within the device itself, performing triggering, reading, and writing which is passed onto the control system for interpretation.

Easy to connect, the RFU61x has a wide range of interface options allowing for the direct connection of trigger sensors meaning this capable RFID Sensor can be used as a remote, self-supporting unit.

 

The RFU61x UHF RFID Sensor – Packed with Features:

  • Extremely compact design, ideal for demanding environments
  • Frequency band UHF 860 – 960 MHz (region specific)
  • Read range up to 0.5 metres (depending on transponder and ambient conditions)
  • Connection option for trigger sensors
  • Connectivity – Ethernet (TCP/IP, PoE, OPC UA), Profinet, EtherNet/IP, USB
  • Link option to PC control systems or directly to the cloud
  • Antenna and data processing integrated in the sensor
  • Configuration via SOPAS ET and/or AppSpace Software or integrated web server
  • Rugged design in accordance with IP67
  • Large range of differing region-specific radio approval versions available

RFID Sensor SICK RFU61x

Configuration and set-up can be simplified further by using the free-to-download SICK SOPAS ET software or the integrated web server which helps reduce commissioning time. The versatile SICK APPSpace software (available via a monthly licence), which can also be used with other SICK Radio Frequency Units (RFU), helps provide users with maximum flexibility when programming. The RFU61X is available in a range of radio approval variants to cater for the individual broadcasting demands of specific countries and regions.

 

Typical Fields of Application

  • Component identification on assembly lines
  • Identification of production material in machines
  • Load identification on mobile platforms
  • Material procurement in E-Kanban
  • Container identification in conveyor systems

 

RFID Sensor Technical Data

  • Supply voltage 18 to 30 VDC
  • RFID standard EPCglobal UHF Class 1 Generation 2, ISO/IEC 18000-6 C
  • Modulation – PR-ASK, Read range ≤ 0.5 m
  • Integrated antenna, adjustable transmitting power, circular polarisation
  • Housing construction – die cast aluminium
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) 92 mm x 80 mm x 38 mm
  • Optical indicators 4 LEDs, multi-colour (device status), 4 RGB LED (Process feedback)
  • Memory card type – microSD (for parameter cloning, data storage)
  • Protection class III
  • Weight 313 g

RFID Sensor SICK RFU61x

View the Offer

 

Have you seen these articles?

Keeping it Charged

Scanning with Lasers!


Kempston Controls is committed to finding you the ideal solution for your application. Call us today on +44 (0) 1933 411 411, email us at sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk, or alternatively contact us here, we will be happy to help.

Kempston Controls

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may use these HTML tags and attributes:

<a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>