November 21, 2018 - Siemens is extending its range of Simatic RF600 ultra-high frequency (UHF) devices to include an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader. The Simatic RF615R comes with a design of 133 x 155 x 45 millimeters, an internal, circularly polarized antenna and an additional external antenna connection. Using the connection for the additional external antenna, it is possible to set up a small-scale RFID gate. The device supports OPC UA as an IoT (Internet of Things) interface and communicates via the OPC UA AutoID Companion Specification V1.0 data model.
This permits vendor-independent communication within the automation and a standardized connection to cloud applications such as the open cloud-based IoT operating system MindSphere via an industrial IoT gateway such as Ruggedcom RX1400 with CloudConnect. Analysis of gathered data provides transparency for KPIs such as plant availability, utilization of assets, or energy saving potential.
With its circularly polarized antenna, the reader offers flexibility in the placement of RFID transponders to be captured. With both a digital input and a digital output, the Simatic RF615R offers a trigger option for distributed read points as well as local response to reading events. Access to configuration, commissioning and diagnostic tools takes place in the customary way via a web browser. Other functions include in-process diagnosis and the diagnostic history in the logbook.
The reader is most suited for use in mechanical and plant engineering as well as in conveyor technology. Due to its protection rating of IP67, Simatic RF615R can also be used in harsh industrial environments.
About Siemens
Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is active around the globe, focusing on the areas of electrification, automation and digitalization. A producer of energy- efficient technologies, Siemens is a supplier of efficient power generation and power transmission solutions and a pioneer in infrastructure solutions as well as automation, drive and software solutions for industry.
