RFID reader integrates dual-axis antenna

"Given the level of user activity around RFID today—particularly in high-growth application segments such as item-level traceability in retail and asset management—interest in handheld passive UHF readers is at its highest peak and continues to climb," said Michael Liard, RFID practice director at ABI Research. "Motorola's new MC3090-Z RFID handheld comes to market at an important time, as with more users evaluating RFID in myriad markets, new requirements are emerging that must be addressed, especially when it comes to handheld reader flexibility, form and function."

The gun-style MC3090-Z RFID reader supports Gen 2 technology and provides the ability to scan bar codes—reducing the number of devices organizations need to purchase and manage. In addition, the reader includes Motorola's newly patented omni-directional antenna enabling orientation-insensitive data capture. This capability results in longer and wider read ranges for more accurate, rapid capture of tag data. The MC3090-Z's orientation-insensitive RFID data capture makes it suitable for item-level applications such as retail cycle-counting, inventory and asset tracking.

"Motorola continues to deliver on its promise to design new technologies that meet the specific needs of customers as they look to integrate RFID solutions into their existing business environments," said Mike Poldino, VP and general manager of RFID, Motorola enterprise mobility solutions. "With the introduction of the MC3090-Z RFID reader, Motorola is raising the bar in innovation by offering the industry's only high-accuracy, high-performance solution in a small form factor. For our retail customers, the MC3090-Z addresses the growing demand for a flexible handheld solution that is easy to grip and use all day—ultimately improving employee efficiency and performance."

Until now, enterprises were forced to choose between two types of antennas: linear polarization for a longer read range or circular polarization for wider coverage. The MC3090-Z antenna combines the advantages of these two technologies into a patented dual-axis orientation-insensitive antenna. It offers a new level of read sensitivity for superior reliability and an expanded coverage area. In addition, by eliminating the need for alignment of the reader and tag, it increases user comfort and productivity.

The new MC3090-Z handheld RFID reader, while designed for the carpeted space, is still quite rugged, passing some of the most stringent impact tests, with the ability to survive a four-foot drop to concrete. In addition, the reader can operate in a wide range of temperatures and is IP54 sealed to withstand dusty environments, spills and the routine wipe-downs required in healthcare and other challenging environments.

Easy to install, configure and manage right out of the box, the MC3090-Z series is compatible with Microsoft Biz Talk Server 2006 R2 and supports applications written with Microsoft.NET 2.0-based APIs, allowing customers to host applications directly on the reader. The MC3090-Z offers security options supported by 802.11a, b and g. Users can choose to write password-protected applications for an additional level of security.

The Motorola MC3090-Z handheld RFID reader will be available through Motorola channel partners and Motorola sales, and is expected to be available in North America in Q1 10 with a global rollout throughout the year.

For application notes on RFID click here.