Many people use the term "card reader," but they are searching for different types of proximity devices, such as desktop or wall-mounted contactless card readers, NFC writers, door access devices, time tracking solutions, or even smart locks.

To make it easier to understand and help you choose the right device, read the article below or contact us. We will assist you in determining which device best suits your needs.

Selecting an appropriate reader for RFID or NFC chips depends on several factors, including the intended use, the type of chips you want to read, and the system's technical requirements. Here are some key steps to help you choose the right reader:

To choose the right reader, it is essential to:

• Know the operating frequency of the chips and the protocols they support.
• Select the appropriate type of connection for the reader to the device.
• Determine how the reader should function (reading ID codes, writing to chips, etc.).
• Verify that the reader's reading format is compatible, as the same chip ID code can be interpreted differently.

Even devices with identical housings may differ significantly in functionality due to small differences in model designations, which can affect their suitability for specific applications.

Consider the Reading Range

• For short-range readers (e.g., time tracking, door access), readers operating at 125 kHz or 13.56 MHz are suitable.
• If you need a reader compatible with NFC readers, like those in mobile devices, NFC readers that operate in the same way as mobile devices are ideal.
• For longer-range needs, such as tracking items in a warehouse, UHF technology is more appropriate.

Connectivity Options

• USB readers for connection to a computer or terminal.
• Wireless readers using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
• Network readers with Ethernet connections.
• Serial readers with RS232 or RS485 connectors.
• Wiegand readers for connection to controllers for door access and similar purposes.

Operational Modes

• Readers for reading chip ID codes (keyboard emulation, COM/Virtual COM reading, controllers for ID code reading).
• Readers with the ability to write to chips (PC/SC readers managed via APIs).
• Standalone devices that include a reader, controller, and relay (e.g., for door opening or machine starting).
• Portable handheld readers for inventory, logistics, or mobile use.

What is an RFID Reader?

An RFID reader is an electronic device that communicates with contactless RFID media, also known as transponders or RFID tags. These transponders contain a microchip and an antenna. The operation is based on exchanging information via radio frequencies. RFID readers emit an electromagnetic signal, and when an RFID transponder is nearby, it "wakes up" and sends back an electromagnetic signal (ID or other data). When encoding or programming chips, the reader sends a signal that modifies the content of the EEPROM memory in the media's microchip.

Operating Frequencies of Readers and Supported Chips

RFID readers operate in different frequency bands, with the most commonly used being:

• Low-frequency readers (LF): Typically operate at 125 kHz or 134.5 kHz and support chips such as TK4100, EM4200, T5577, EM4550, and HITAG®.
   
• High-frequency readers (HF): Typically operate at 13.56 MHz and support chips like Mifare Classic®, NTAG, ICODE®, DESFire®, Ultralight, and Fudan F08.
   
• Ultra-high-frequency readers (UHF): Operate between 860 MHz and 960 MHz and support chips such as Alien Higgs, UCODE 8, and Monza® R6. In Europe, frequencies from 865 to 868 MHz are used.

RFID and NFC Reader Modes

RFID and NFC readers can operate in various modes, such as:

• Keyboard Emulator: Enters the chip ID on the computer screen.
• Virtual COM Reader: Reads the chip ID via virtual COM ports.
• Serial Reader: Reads the chip ID on serial COM ports.
• AutoRead Reader: Automatically reads data from memory and displays it on the screen.
• PC/SC and CCID Reader/Writer: Requires API integration for use.
• Wiegand Reader: Uses a 3-wire protocol to transfer chip ID to a controller.
• Controller with Relay: Receives data from the reader and includes a relay for door locks.

Communication Protocols Supported by RFID Readers

Even if a chip operates at the same frequency as the reader, compatibility is not guaranteed, and supported protocols must also be verified. Some NFC readers are not suitable for all NFC chips. For example, an NFC reader using ISO14443 is not compatible with NFC chips using ISO15693.

Common standards defining RFID and NFC chips and communication protocols include:

• ISO/IEC 14443: Communication between 13.56 MHz readers and transponders (e.g., MIFARE®, NTAG, DESFire®).
• ISO/IEC 15693: Often used for ICODE® chips and applications like library systems and asset identification.
• ISO/IEC 18000: Covers air interface communication for different frequency bands.
• ISO/IEC 18092: NFC standard for near-field communication up to 4 cm.
• ISO 11784/11785: Standard for 134.2 kHz readers and transponders for animal identification.

Applications of RFID and NFC Readers

RFID and NFC technology are commonly used for:

• User or object identification.
• Access control (e.g., door opening).
• Contactless payments.
• Asset and inventory tracking.
• Timing at sports events.

Using RFID and NFC Readers on Metal Surfaces

If you place an RFID reader on a metal surface, the reader's magnetic fields can trigger eddy currents within the base, leading to poor or non-functional performance.

To ensure proper operation mount the reader on a non-conductive material, such as plastic or wood, at least 1 cm thick or use protective materials like 3M™ Flux Field Directional Material (FFDM) to shield the reader from interference.

Need Help Choosing the Right RFID / NFC Reader?

Feel free to contact us at info@rfidspecialist.eu or call +38641 884 124. We are here to help!