Siemens Industry, Inc. has added three compact, rugged and affordable RFID readers with standard IO-Link interfaces to its family of Simatic RF200 RFID products.

Two of the new readers are cylindrically shaped – the RF210R (M18) and RF220R (M30) models are suitable for small assembly lines with cramped mounting conditions. The block-shaped RF260R (75 x 75 x 40 mm) reader offers a longer sensing range (HF field), ideal for track guided assembly lines and conveyors.

IO-Link is the manufacturer-independent standard for a uniform connection of switching devices and sensors to the control level with an intelligent point-to-point interface. The communication standard enables a continuous transmission of process, parameter and diagnostic data.

“The new RFID readers easily integrate into existing industrial automation systems with any communications bus,” says Michael LaGrega, RFID and Code Reading Systems engineer, Siemens Industry. “It is an economical option for easy and open connections.”

The industrial-grade readers' standardized IO-Link interface makes it easy to integrate them into sensor level automation. No RFID-specific programming is required, further simplifying any application.

In addition to sensor level automation, the IO-Link readers seamlessly integrate into Simatic ET200 distributed control systems using Profinet and Profibus communications networks with one of two IO-Link master modules. The master module ET 200S 4SI is suitable for IP20 control cabinets while the master module of the ET 200eco PN with high a high 1P67 protection rating is suitable for field mounting.

All three readers have an integrated antenna (IP67). Operating status is viewed on a 3-color LED display at the reader.