1. Define the Business Problem

First of all, a company should have complete knowledge of its problem that is interfering with its business and causing problems. After that, they should find out a solution and consider RFID the solution. Sometimes the problem is quite simple so we don’t give it much thought. E.g. when I need my items I couldn’t find them. Now first we need to find the basic reason which is causing this problem and consider all the issues that are happening due to this. This the most basic and important step. A clear cut and precise solution exist for a problem that is defined well and properly. It can help the company to achieve its goals. If a problem is explained properly and well, it’ll be easier to find its solution. This will save your time, cash and resources. This will also find out that if you need the RFID for the procedure of the solution.

   2.)   Complete Internal RFID Testing (or hire an RFID expert to complete a site survey)

There are different accommodations where we can run the RFID system. All the accommodations are very different from each other. We can distinguish them based on factors that are related to the environment. This factor plays a crucial role in running the perfect FID system. There are certainly important questions need to be answered. To operate a survey on the site, consult someone who is a professional of RFID. You can also perform a test that is done individually. To answer the important questions, a thorough examination of every red zone should be done. Questions are:

• If we install the RFID system, what are the types of challenges that don’t require a need to overcome anymore?
• To acquire the goals of the company, what type of people of reading, labels, and projections will be needed?
• If you want to make sure that labels of RFID can be read properly, what alterations need to be done?

Establish a Business Case (i.e. determine the cost of an RFID solution and complete an ROI assessment) After performing all the basic tasks i.e. complete description of the solution of the problem related to business, goal setting and organizing surveys of sites and testing, a company must have a complete knowledge and information regarding to the cost that is needed by it. If you bought the important hardware, software, got done any installment and support, or any additional services that are needed to make the system work efficiently, the cost of all of these things should be included in the estimated budget, even if they are bought from the internal or external source. When you are estimating the ROI analysis cost, the setup for the initial system vs. the cost that is going on potentially which includes labels of RFID, etc., must be given attention especially. An assessment of ROI which also includes the estimation of the costs for the implementation of the system vs. the return from an investment that is hoped must be completed properly.

3.)   Determine Feasibility

The RFID is sometimes not appropriate for a precise application. This happens mainly for 2 reasons:

• Possibility of the Application: If we see this from a physics or environmental viewpoint, it is not practically possible to install a system of RFID which is very capable of reading the labels of RFID with so success so that it’ll reach the goals of the company.
• Possibility of the ROI/Cost: We might think that if RFID is not working well for the application, we should try ROI. But ROI isn’t good enough either to imply the technology or justify it. 

Is there a chance RFID won’t work for me?

Yes. This not right to think that RFID is the answer to all the questions of application. By looking through the viewpoint of the environmental factor, the application should be applicable. It should also meet the cost perception. We can view this through the example. If the labels of RFID could be damaged by the high temperature or pressure or if the cost of the RFID system offset the added value, then under these circumstances, RFID must not be applied. Normally these situations are considered from a business viewpoint or in the process of scope.

How much will an RFID system cost?

RFID system comes in very different sizes. It can be as small as the reader that can be hand held or can be as large as from few labels to readers and antennas of hundreds and sometimes there could be a thousand tags. So there isn’t one particular cost. If you want to know the exact price, analysis needs to be performed. If you want to have an approximate value for the precise system, consider the 2 factors i.e. costs of near term and costs of the long term.

In any system of RFID, there is a cataloging of costs which are two. They are startup cost also known as the near term and recurring cost also called the long term. To keep the RFID system active and in succession, money is needed. This amount of money that is spent is called start up cost. It also helps to get it to combine with other systems that are running. To make the whole system working properly, money is needed. That cost is called a recurring cost. They recur weekly, monthly and yearly.

To know properly, here are some examples of start up cost:

• The hardware of RFID- something which reads, projections, shackles
• Tags of RFID- There are some tags which are reusable or some are for one time
• Software- Traditional formation of costs and/or starting license cost
• Amenities- Installment and analysis
• Here are some examples of recurring cost:
• Contract of Support- To get support for a specific period for the sake of the system
• Software- Fees for maintenance required annually
• Consumable supplies- Labels of RFID, a ribbon of printer

Can I try RFID before investing in a full system?

If you want to examine the RFID, there are some kits for the development of RFID and sample packets for labels of RFID. These are the ideal way to do the testing of RFID and check if it is working well for a specific application. There is also an availability of the solutions for RFID but they can be very costly. So performing the testing on a small scale and doing it properly is the best way to save you time and money.

All the basic equipment of RFID that is required to do the set-up and to do the testing of the system of RFID, is included in the kits for development. Certain things are included in the development kit of RFID. These are reader, more than one projections, and few labels for samples, reading’s sample program, encrypting and examining the labels of RFID and also the entree to the software development kit of the reader.

To do the testing of the labels of the RFID in a way that is effective in a cost manner, use the label sample packets of RFID. This way you can find the precise one for each application. It is an important chore to do the examining of the several types of labels. It is done so that RFID can give its best presentation.

What do I need for a full RFID system?

There are some basic elements present in the RFID system:

• Readers- This is the most crucial equipment. It is called the RFID system’s BRAIN. It is required to perform the function properly. They are also known as the interrogators. They are also used to connect with the labels of the RFID. The connection is done through radio waves.
• Projections- These are also the essential component of the RFID. They are also sometimes referred to as devices that are dumb. This is because they create the field of RF by using the energy from the reader. By doing so the reader can receive and transfer the signals from the labels of the RFID.
• Labels: If we consider the simplest form of the label of RFID, we’ll see that it consists of two things: a projection that is used to transfer and receive the signals and a chip of RFID in which the ID of the label is safe. It also stores the other information.
• Software: This thing is very crucial to the system of RFID. To activate the reader and start its communication with the labels of the RFID, you’ll need the software. To make the final and appropriate decisions, data that is collected is read by the labels. Then they are presented, delivered and kept safe. They are also used to activate the systems so they can take the action they have pre-planned. Sometimes software differs on the base of its complexity. This all depends upon the application that is being used.

There are some other things other than basic equipment. These additional equipment include heap light, sensors for motion and some other GPIO devices. It depends upon the system that how much and what type of hardware and software are needed by it.

How do I choose my RFID hardware?

RFID hardware is present in a vast variety and easily available. There are some environmental conditions in which certain types of these parts of the RFID are best to use. So you need to choose the right equipment. This process can be tiresome sometimes. If you need to make sure of the success, perform the hard testing. Do this testing once the selection is done. In the process of selection, there is some availability of the resources that are mentioned below:

• Buyer’s Guide for Telemecanique RFID- If you don’t have enough knowledge in the buying area, you’ll need a buyer’s guide for Telemecanique RFID. This is an eBook which comprises of total 24 questions. These questions will help the buyer in the buying process. If you’ll answer each question it will help you to know what kind of hardware is you need. Through this, you’ll be able to make a proper decision. 
• Selection Process for UHF Telemecanique RFID reader- If you are choosing the reader of Telemecanique RFID, you must know the 3 factors. This post which is on a blog will help you in providing knowledge of these factors.
• 3 Guidelines for Choosing a Passive UHF Telemecanique RFID Antenna- When you are selecting a projection for Telemecanique RFID, you must know the 3 factors. This knowledge is provided to you by the post which is on the blog.
• Cables of Antenna for Telemecanique RFID- Through this, the maximum performance is achieved. To connect the projection and the reader, the cable of the antenna is required by the system of the Telemecanique RFID. To choose the best cable of the antenna, use this post which is posted on the blog. It will help you in providing the knowledge you need to buy the perfect cables.

How do I choose RFID labels?

There is a wide variety of labels present in the market place. You need to choose the correct label for your application to get proper work done. This task of choosing may seem a little overwhelmed. This process is almost as same as choosing the right hardware for RFID. You make the right choice by following and using the criteria, which are made for this purpose. You can narrow down your choices through this. Always remember to do proper testing when you are done with the choosing of the tags. There are some resources which will help in the choosing process:

• Guide of RFID for Buyer- If you don’t have enough knowledge in the buying area, you’ll need a buyer’s guide for RFID. This is an eBook which comprises of total 24 questions. These questions will help the buyer in the buying process. If you’ll answer each question it will help you to know what kind of hardware is you need. Through this, you’ll be able to make a proper decision. 
• 3 Things to Know about UHF RFID Tags- When you are selecting a label for RFID, you must know the 3 factors. This knowledge is provided to you by the post which is on the blog.

Can I get RFID tags pre-printed and pre-encoded?

The answer to this question is YES. If you want to save the time and cost of your company you should pre-print and pre-encode the labels of RFID. This process of printing and encoding is a customized process. It takes extra time sometimes to order.

What sort of software will I need for my RFID system?

The software you’ll need for the RFID system is known as the off-the-shelf software package abbreviated as OTS. This is a solution to your software problem. This is easily available in the market for the purchase. As the market place is getting advanced, the availability of the software is becoming easy for the application of RFID. In the meantime, the need for customized software solution will arise by most of the companies.

The software that is customized has different complexity levels. This depends upon the requirement of the company. As seen in many cases, we should always start with the most basic function of the software. Doing this, also make the software capable of having all the necessary features and functions for the future to get the desired work. The software is upgraded with the application. This method might be slow but it has its perks. It helps to know about the details of the application. It also helps in determining what properties and functions are most useable.

Can I set up an RFID system without the software?

No. It doesn’t matter if the system of RFID you are using is a small one, the insertion of the software is a necessity. Software is required for very basic functions. Such as the function of the reading and label writing is not possible without software. If the software is not present for this, the reader will not know about writing a label or which label is read to report the system.

The software has different levels of complexity. It can be both simple and complex. At the start of the project when it is scouring period, it should be the topmost priority to explain the need for software. There is some software which is available commercially is called off-the-shelf software. In this are included Impinj Speedway Connect Software. Now, these are used when they are required. Sometimes only these are needed. Sometimes the specific demands are fulfilled with the simple software. This development of customized software is required.

Do I need a software engineer on staff?

It is not a requirement to have a software engineer in the staff when you are applying the RFID. If the problem of the business is explained clearly and its scope of the project, they can use customized software that is available in the market. If you are using the customized software that is available commercially and still your needs are not met, the next best step will be the use of software engineers. It doesn’t matter if you have hired the software engineer from your already appointed people or someone new from outside. The important thing is the quality of work. You’ll need that engineer to make a customized software that is necessary for the proper working of the RFID system.

Who installs the RFID system?

If the RFID system has a practical team in their department of purchasing, who have the complete knowledge of the RFID, they must know how to install the RFID system and do its proper testing. If the team doesn’t have enough experience and practical knowledge and has less ability, there might be a possibility that the setup that has been installed could be incorrect and you may not get the required results.

The company should hire or become a partner with professionals of RFID to make sure that RFID is installed perfectly. Do this when you don’t have the confidence in your team about the installation process of RFID. 

Is there a recommended way to set up RFID hardware and get started?

There isn’t one precise way of setting up an RFID system. This is because each facility is unique. Also, there is no assurance that you’ll get the desired result. The best way of making a perfect installation is giving time to testing and tweaking process until:

• Labels are not read 100% when they should be giving their 100%
• Readings that are lost are usually avoided (They come from different areas)

Many aspects are involved in the explaining of the read zone that is ideal for a specific application. These aspects include the setting of the readers, projection gain and selection of the labels of the RFID. You can have more knowledge about this if you’ll read the 6 factors. These factors are those that have an effect on the range of reading.

There is no assurance that when a unique zone will have replication during the procedure. This happens because even when there is a small alteration, it will have a huge effect on the system of the RFID. The zone of reading which is additional can have testing and tuning from the setup of an already well-tuned read zone which is acting as the starting point.

So the answer to this question is No, there is no ideal way to install RFID hardware setup. Every situation is unique and has a requirement for complete testing. Here are some tips which will help in setting the RFID system for beginners:

The loss of the cable can be reduced by decreasing the projection length that is required. This can happen by keeping the reader of the RFID and projection very close to each other

If you want the finest results, do the testing of the several locations and also the angle of the projections during the procedure of placing the antenna for RFID. Benefits can be increased if you’ll increase different projection types testing. Don’t go straightly for the label that works for the RRFID system in the first try. Find the ideal label by testing several different types.

Also, go for the testing of several different settings. You might get the one where the system of RFID works best.

How many read zones are needed and where will they be located?

It is important to collect the data. So, the zone of reading of the RFID should be placed at every point.

If there is a closet for accounts and you need to do the scanning of the items, one of the best setups will be the portal type setup. In this, this setup is arranged at the door of the docks where items are read during going in and out. This might be a suitable solution. There is another solution and that is called the single handheld reader of the RFID. It can also be a good fit.

If you want to know the exact and precise location of every item that is present on the floor of the facility, at different stages of the procedure of manufacturing, install the read zones. There are some companies whose only interest is to know the location of the item that is present in the facility. For this purpose install the read zones only at the entrance and exit of the facility. 

There is also a type of application. On this, the number of reading zones that are needed and the location of these read zones is depended. They are also dependent upon the quantity of the data you are going to need to get the results you need.

There are items in my facility that contain liquids/metals; does that mean RFID will not work for me?

Testing in RFID application is the key. There are many methods and applications that can be sued for checking the interference of mitigation between metal and water.

If you got limitations in your system like tagging or other environmental concerns then you should not depend on RFID application entirely.

All these limitations should be checked properly and these techniques and procedures need to be tested using the specific equipment. Tag will be specific for each and every item. On the other hand some of the applications might need multiple tags for making it worth.’

Read more about multiple path issues caused by metal and water.

What if I want to use RFID in my facility for more than one application? Should I have separate RFID systems?

The answer to this question depends on the case of study. If systems need to be combined then combine them together for making it worthwhile. On the other hand if you case state that you should be standalone in your business strategy then make it separate.

So scoping phase of the program determines the New RFID separate or combined system for working.

How long does a typical RFID system take to deploy?

Type and complexity of RFID applications determines its timeline. All-in-one RFID hardware system can be purchased and used in just a few weeks. It is commercially available.

A customized RFID system which solves all customer related problem and tackle complex issues take an intensive testing and a period of almost 6-12 months for its deployment.

Following are some of the stages which are needed for the deployment of an RFID system:

• Defining the business problem
• Establishing the Business Case
• Project Scoping
• Understanding the potential and limitations of RFID technology
• Defining the project objectives
• Analysis of Existing System
• Collecting information
• Information analysis
• Developing a Project Road Map
• System Designing
• Requirement analysis
• Hardware/software selection
• Developing a new process
• Proof of Concept
• Prototype Testing
• Debug
• System Adaptation
• Pilot Implementation
• Full Implementation
• System deployment
• Training
• Continuous Improvement
• Monitoring
• Collect feedback from users

How do I train my employees on RFID?

If any company wants to implement a RFID system in its technology then it needs to properly train its employees. Training include its usage,procedure and limitations.

Two or three persons from your company should be designated as RFID experts which are given extensive training of RFID applications by the third party. If you train you company employers well about the RFID system then there will be less errors and problems in your system. System deployment will be more easy.

When will I see a return on investment from my RFID system? Time difference in purchasing any RFID application and getting profit from it vary from every company to company.

Ideally any company assess all the aspects and points very carefully before implementing any RFID system in its company.

Value a system add into ROI application tells you how fast you will gain profit. Cost and rate of return of investment determines the payback from the system. If you implement your system properly it will give back you profit in 1-3 years of time period.

Where I can learn more about the RFID?

There are many books available online to read more about the RFID system. Following are the available resources for studying in detail about the RFID system:

1. RFIDJournal.com

It is a website comprised of all the news around the world for the RFID deployment.

• RFIDinsider Blog

It is a RFID blog which includes all the beginners,medium and expert level enthusiasm for the RFID system application.

• RFID Resources

atlas RFID store is a website comprised of ebooks, videos and customer profiles for the enhancement of the RFID knowledge.

• RFID Videos

atlas RFID store you-tube page contains videos about the RFID working,products and tutorials.

Ecocircuitbreaker.com carry the following items:

Telemecanique connectors – Telemecanique cordset – telemecanique rfid telemecanique osisense

Gardening is a chore that requires a lot of time and is very strenuous. But it can be made easy if you have the correct equipment. It’ll be easy to do the plantation, maintenance and making your outdoor area beautiful. A whole lot of a burden is decreased if you are using the right equipment. This will save you precious time and you can enjoy more by spending quality time on your lawn.  

Now below are some of the equipment, which can be used in gardening and which will save you time. People are using them for a long time in one shape or another. There are also some updated and latest models of equipment available.

1. Hori-Hori Knife

This is a tool whose origin is from Japan. It has two parts. One part is called a trowel and the other part is called a knife. It is used in the area which has mountains and is stony. This is used for relocating the dwarf trees and tubers dig.

Some common types of trowels don’t have great strength. They will be curved if you are applying pressure to dig up a hard rock or root. However, there is also another type known as the bomb proof hori-hori. This has a strong trowel that will not easily curve. This is because it has a tough wooden handle, inside which is a scale of steel rod. The blade in this is kind of thin. This helps get in places that are tight and for the cutting of roots that are tangled, the jagged edge is quite useful. There is also another modernized type of hori-hori. This is useful for the planting of bulbs. This is because at the blade’s backside there are markings for the inches.

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2. Edging Knife

This is another category of knife for gardening. To cut over the field or lawn mats in such a way so that grass will not go into the flower bed, edging knife is used.

There is a long handle present on the edging knives. It looks like a spade. At the bottom side, there is a flat blade. This knife is useful in providing the energy which will help push this over stems of grass of the lawn. To keep a clean line around the corners of the lawn, these knives are very helpful for this purpose. This process makes the lawn look very strident.

3. Leaf Shredder

There are very different types of leaf shredders. One of them is a standalone model and another model is made in such a way that it can be attached to a blower for leaf or lawnmower.

In this, the leaves are completely shredded and turned into a type of soil instead of packing them all in a bag and keeping them on the restrain. Put the wasted leaves into the shredder. However, there is a much better way of doing this. There is a tool for law which motorized by gas. There is a shredder attached to it. Suck all the leaves in them. They will be shredded down in a perfect form in a group and can be used as a source of nutrition for flower beds or it can also be used as a conditioner for soil which is very good.

4. Pole Pruners

There are many types of pole pruners with each one having a unique purpose. You won’t need a ladder after using this for your tress.

The telescoping pruner is the most common type of pole pruner that is used. It is made up of a combination of lopping blade which is used to cut limbs to the diameter of about an inch and saw that is short in size which is used for cutting large limbs. Along with the pole is a rope that swings by it. By pulling this rope, the lopper is started. This can go up to 15 feet or maybe more depending on the type of the model. If you need to do heavy tree work, use gas and electrically motorized models. If your work is on a smaller scale, some models have a hand pruner’s shaped like blades. They are used on trees for fruits to do the fine-scale trimming. 

5. Cherry Picker

If you don’t feel like getting on a tree or a ladder to pick up fruits, use the cherry picker. This will help you in this regard.

There are several types of cherry pickers. They come in different forms and lengths. Their forms and lengths depend upon the tree size and the fruit type you are picking. It is made up of a claw which is of metal and also contains a basket that will gather the fruits you are picking. Don’t get confused with the name that it can only be used for cherries. You can use this equipment to reap any kind of fruit. It is the only garden equipment that gives fun by using it but also it saves time.

 How to Safely Sharpen Garden Shears

The excessive energy you spend in your garden on the snipping and cutting of the bushes and trees can be decreased by the use of the golden shears which are properly sharpened. By using this you can your time and can also save yourself from getting injured. To sharpen your equipment fast and effective, follow the given instructions:

To Sharpen Hedge Shears and Grass Clippers

Step 1 – Check the Pivot Nut

If the nuts that are used to join the blades with handles is somehow loose, tight it with help of plug twist whose size should be adequate. Test the cutting strength of the clippers by cutting some papers. If the clippers are performing fine, properly adjust the straightening of the blades. Shrill them again if they are not cutting the paper properly. Keep in mind that always have something for the protection of your eyes and wear gloves during the metal sharpening.

 Step 2 – Clean All Debris and Rust off the Blades

To clean all the waste and rust from the plant, use the bristle brush which should be firm. To clean the blades properly, use a soft cloth.

 Step 3 – Sharpen the Blades with the Mill File

To find out the original angle at the corner, properly check the blades. Over the bevel, pass the file of the mill to every blade by giving slow strokes for a long time. Give strokes from the bottom to the tip line. Before doing all of this, make completely sure that the blades are at a distance to each other. Now go at the end side of every blade by starting from the start. With very low pressure put your thumb ball at the blade. This is performed to check the sharpness of the blade. Clean the waste or any rubbish or rust on the blade by using the cloth of a soft texture. Now using the file for the mill, do the spot filing one more time.

Step 4 – Lightly Oil the Sharp Blades

Now in the soft cloth, put some oil of low density and low weight. For lubrication and protection from the oxidation and erosion, spread the oil on the blades.

 To Sharpen Pruning Shears

Pruning shears are only used to cut branches of the trees. It has two blades. One of them is curved and the other one is straight. They cut the branches in a diameter of about more than 1 inch. If you’ll use the shears for tree pruning, you’ll harm the equipment.

Step 1 – Brace the Curved Pruning Shear Blade

Separate the blades of pruning shear from each other by untying the pivot nut with the help of a box that is used for plug twists. With tip, put the curved blade’s bottom part. The grip should be vise. Now use the handle for rotating to protect it. Now clean the blade to remove the rust and waste.

Step 2 – Sharpen the Curved Blade

Bring the sharpness of the blade bevel from the file’s tip to the midpoint. This can be done by giving small firm strokes. Discharge it from the grip of the vise, remove the dust and rust and then do the lubrication with oil. Put oil through a soft cloth.

Step 3 – Sharpen the Straight Blade

In the grip of the vise, add the blade that is straight and then edge up. To make the angle of 90 degrees on the edge of the blade, use the file of the mill. Also, give strokes of a long duration. And check and clean the straight blade and oil it and then join it with the curved blade.

If you are using a log splitter whose power is dependent on gas, you may need to do maintenance occasionally. You can have this maintenance task done by the professional or a technician by using your warranty you have when you bought the log splitter. But if you bought a log that was second hand or has no warranty, you’ll have to do the maintenance all by yourself.

 A hydraulic log splitter has some components which are used for basic purposes. These are wheels a frame of steel which is used for the movement purpose. It also includes a hydraulic cylinder, a pump for oil, a valve for control purposes and an engine that is motorized by gas. On the reason that what is wrong with the log, the gears and instruments may differ. Also, it is best to have the basic components of the log available at all times as it’ll be very helpful.

Step 1 – Troubleshoot – Oil Pump

The first stage in the mending of the log is knowing the basic cause of what is wrong with it. To keep a pump of oil in good functioning condition, the reserve tank should always have sufficient hydraulic fluid. If the filter for oil that is present in the oil pump is old and dead beat, it should be replaced. Also, the fluid of high pressure and low pressure that is going towards and from the cylinder and is getting channeled by the hose may need the exchanging.

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 Step 2 – Engine

The engine needs to be examined. It should be made sure that the motor is getting enough fuel and fire to function. Examine the plug for spark if the motor is not starting. You’ll know that fuel is getting in the position if you can see gas in the carburetor region. If it is happening, it probably means that fire is not getting towards it. The sockets and points, after a certain time, become old and they might need exchanging. To check if the points need replacing, with the help of pliers that are insulated, pull the wire for plug off. Now from the top of the plug, hold the wire about ¼ inch and tug the rope starter. You’ll know to replace the points if there is no spark.

 Step 3 – Hydraulic Cylinder

Inside a cylinder, there is usually a piston ring or faulty seal which causes damage to the cylinder, sometimes make it swell and cracked and even damage the piston rod. By disassembling the whole cylinder, only then you can swap the seal. Always keep in mind that for the removal of the seal, don’t ever use a sharp object. Avoid causing scratches to the inside or later it’ll cause problems. If there is a need to disassemble the cylinder, follow the diagram if you do not have instructions.

 Step 4 – Valve

To regulate the control of pressure that is going in and out of the cylinder, there is a switch known as a valve is used. The log is pushed into the splitting wedge due to a force that is applied by the control. Properly examine to see if the valve is working correctly. Make sure that all the seals are tightly closed and there is no damage to the hose. This will increase the life expectancy.

The two types of log splitter called horizontal and vertical log, both are known as hydraulic machines motorized by gas. A hydraulic log splitter is one of the easiest tools to use. This is because it has a limited number of parts. Examine each part of the components including valve, pump for oil, engine and hydraulic cylinder as well as the seals used for connection and hose thoroughly to avoid faults and errors in the future. By doing so, there will less rate of damage and the splitter will work accurately.

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 Troubleshooting Your Hydraulic Log Splitter

You’re thinking of that afternoon you have to enjoy with the splitter because winter’s here. You are thinking this time it’ll also work well, but in case it doesn’t work properly, here are some techniques to solve the issues and problems

Gas-Powered Engine Troubleshooting

Your hydraulic log splitter’s engine that is gas depended can face various issues. The most common issue that happens is the failure of the engine to start. If this condition prevails, first of all, check the choke valve that whether it is open or not. Also, remember to check that the tank has sufficient gas. Also, make sure that the plug for spark is clean. If your gas is polluted with water or the type you are using isn’t suitable, the engine will make bleeping sounds or may not run properly. If the engine stops suddenly even though the gas is full, it could a sign of reduced oil. A slow engine can be a sign that the air filter is not properly clean or the choke is half-closed.

The Logs Won’t Split

One of the most important things in the yard machine log splitter is the magnitude and location of the logs. Make sure that the log must not surpass the dimension’s maximum range for your splitter. Sometimes the wedge becomes dismal or misappropriated. This is because of the excessive use of it. To solve this issue, re-polish the wedge and swap it. Examine the top off and also the hydraulic oil’s liquid level. Sometimes the oil leakage happens. To check that, under the pump place a cardboard piece during the splitting of logs and if there are any parts which are dead beat, exchange them.

Problems with the Pressure Plate

Examine the movement of the pressure plates. When you’ll do the splitting of the logs, you’ll notice that the plate vibrations are increased or sometimes have bumpy movements. If these things occur, it means that hydraulic oil is needed by the log splitter. If the level of oil isn’t the issue here, then it has something to with the system’s air. The air sometimes gets mixed with the oil. To remove that air, open the bleed valve. Also try to cycle the plate for pressure in the backward and forward direction, 3 to 4 times. When you are done with this process, always remember to close the valve for bleeding. Now maintain the proper level of oil.

Hydraulic Oil Leak

If there is a leakage of oil occurring in the log splitter, make sure that the valve for bleeding is tightly closed. Once you have made sure that the valve is closed properly, now it’s time to check the seals. When seals become old and rusty they tend to promote leakage.

Splitting log becomes an easy task if you are using the hydraulic splitter that is working correctly. For the splitters that are motorized by the gas, make sure to check the following points 1) that there are sufficient gas and oil and 2) make sure that the switch for spark and filter for air are clean. All of you who are using the hydraulic splitters, always place the logs rightly. Use to tear the logs that are too big. Pressure plate movement and the air bleeding from the hydraulic system, these are the conditions that you need to examine closely. Now, in the end, do check the log splitters for the leakage of oil.

Lawn Tractors

We all know that a lawn tractor is very important and handy to maintain the lawn. The one thing we don’t know is that it can be very dangerous while operating for the person who is handling it. Adding safety switches to it is the way they are made safe to operate. They are added by the constructors of the lawn tractors. While operating it, these safety switches prevent the damage from happening to the person who is operating it. This is the main purpose of these safety switches. Several other safety switches collaborate with the other parts of the mower which makes the process safe. 

Click here for schneider electric safety switches

 Reverse Safety Switch

Sometimes there is another switch present called a reverse cutoff switch. When the tractor blades are in motion and it is in the reverse mode, the reverse cutoff switch is used to off the engine. It is used to turn off the tractor’s engine. This is helpful in a situation when the blades are on and, the person handling the mower falls off a hurdle mistakenly. This switch is quite important because the backside of the mower is not visible during the process. There is another switch also present on few lawn tractors. It is called an override switch. To override the safety switch and start operating the mower blades during the reverse direction of the tractor, press the button or lever.

At ecocircuitbreaker.com, we sell these following switch Interlocked Receptacle Switches, Heavy Duty Safety Switches, Double Throw Safety Switches, General Duty Safety Switches, Light Duty Safety Switches, Square D Disconnect Switches

 Seat Kill Switch

In the lawn tractor, underneath the seat of the person who drives it, there is another switch for safety purposes. If due to any reason, the interaction with the seat is lost (of the driver) when the blades are still moving and in the apparatus, the conduction is with the brakes of parking, the switch turns off the engine. The switch is designed in that peculiar way. When the brake of parking is working and the blades of mower have stopped moving, even then the tractor will continue to work. This step is proven to be beneficial. This will guard the driver if there is any situation of over-roll, flipping or bounce out of the seat which will go directly towards the moving blades of the mower. Engine’s power is turned off instantly as the driver leaves the seat. As a result, blades and the engine stops. Due to this switch, the driver has some time to go and come back to the seat. This situation acts like a small thump that displaced the driver shortly. During all this procedure, when the spark of the engine is disturbed, the backfire of the lawn tractor will occur.

 Gear Safety Switch

This safety switch is for another reason. This inhibits the mutual start of the lawn tractor with the conduction still going. It works by stopping the pedal of brake/clutch by the person who is operating it. By doing so, the engine is started. This switch is designed uniquely. When the brake of the parking is still working and without any weight on the driver’s seat, the tractor is still running. Due to this, the tractor is averted to jumping and it prevents the operator or anyone from standing near it, getting injured from its equipment.

To work safely with the lawn tractor, make sure that all the safety switches are working properly. In your schedule of maintenance, make sure that all the switches are examined and verified appropriately, before start using the mower. Your engine of the lawn tractor will not turn on if there is any problem with the safety switches. The problem will prevent its start. The switch which is causing a problem should be exchanged with the part which is ok to use. This is done to make sure that the safety process is carried out in the future.

Ultrasonic Sensor: A device in which an object is used to measure its distance. It is done by sending a specific frequency based sound wave. When the sound wave collides with the object, it gets reflected and then the ultrasonic receiver receives the sound wave. Calculation of the time of sending and receiving sound waves gives the value of the measured distance. By using the ultrasonic sensor and Arduino, you can easily read the measurement of the distance.

 Through this formula, we can measure the distance:

• Distance = Speed of Sound x time taken/2

With the speed of 344m/s, which is equal to 1129ft/s, the sound does the traveling through the air. Now with the total time of a wave of sound (include sending & receiving) is multiplied with speed, which is mentioned before. In the formula mentioned above, we divide with 2 because total time is calculated. Due to the inappropriate shape, position and very small size of the object, they don’t get detected by the ultrasonic sensors.

Working with the Circuit Diagram of Ultrasonic Sensor

A set of ultrasonic transmitters and receivers is present in the inside of the above-mentioned circuit diagram. Both of the sets are work at the same frequency. The frequency sound of the circuit is gets reflected towards the receiver and the alarm is activated. This situation happens when in the area of a covered circuit, anything or any object enters. The ultrasonic sensor circuit can be automatically reset or it can remain in the activated state until it is rearranged manually. There are two gates known as NAND gates in the sensor. To drive the transducer, the gates are wired in the form of an inverter, which in return forms the multi vibrator output. There are two trimmers present in this. They are denoted as P1 and P2. To regulate the factor of amplification of inverting and non-inverting circuit or sometimes called op-amp, P1 is used. For regulating the output frequency of the transmitter and for obtaining the efficacy, the output frequency must match the frequency of the resonance of the traducer which is currently in use. All this is represented by P2. To receive the signal of the output, the transducer is used. The output signal after colliding gets reflected and amplification of the signal takes place through the resistor TR3.

Different Types of Ultrasonic Sensor with Working

Ultrasonic sensors have 4 major types which are used commonly:

1)     Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor

For the alternating transmission and reception of the wave of sound, there is a special type of transducer called sonic transducer, is used. This sensor is converted into receiver mode when the sonic transducer releases the sonic waves, which in return gets reflected by an object. To the object’s distance from the sensor, the value of the total time is inversely proportional. This time donates the period which is delivered between emitting and receiving of the wave of sound. The detection area is the only point where the possibility of digital output exists or can be sensed. Through the potentiometer, sensing array can be adjusted. 

2)      Ultrasonic 2 Point Proximity Switches

There are two points present in this sensor for switching. That’s why it is known as 2 points proximate switch. This 2 point proximity switch is just like the standard sensor. The only difference it has from a standard sensor is that it has a 2-touch setup key for a function. This function is known as a tech-in function. With the help of a teach-in button, which is a built-in, there are 2 switches present i.e. Sde1 and Sde2, which can be easily programmed. Programming takes place within the range of senses.

Square D proximity switch

Schneider electric button

3)     Ultrasonic Retro-Reflective Sensors

The ultrasonic retro-reflective sensor’s operating technique is quite the same as the ultrasonic proximity sensor. By measuring the transmission time, the distance between the sensors to the reflector can be measured. This is the only difference that is present in this sensor. In the ultrasonic retro-reflective sensor, for the reflector, a stationary object is used and by regulating the resistance of potentiometer, sensing distance could be regulated. The working procedure of this sensor is quite simple. The propagation time of the sensor can be changed when an object comes within the distance of sense. Due to the change in the time of propagation, the sensor has converted into an active mood. The recognition of the sound absorbent and the object which is doing the sound deflection, both are allowed by this type of sensor.

How to Measure Speed with Ultrasonic Sensor

For the measurement of the speed through the ultrasonic sensor, there is a requirement of a microcontroller or any type of controller e.g. Arduino, which needs to attach with this sensor. There are 2 transducers present in the ultrasonic sensor. The first one acts as a speaker. In this, the speaker is involved in the conversion of the electrical pulse into the sound pulse. Then the speaker releases them with an enhanced frequency of approximately 40 kHz. The sound pulses which get reflected due to the colliding with the specific object get received by the second transducer, which performs as a microphone. The controller’s timer starts to measure the pulses when they are in the state of transmitting, and the measurement is stopped when the waves of sound get received by the microphone. This all happens because of the attachment of the microcontroller with the ultrasonic sensor. The microcontroller determines the speed of the specific object, which is based on the sending and receiving of pulses of the sound. 

Applications of Ultrasonic Sensor

1. This is used to measure the levels in the tanks e.g. tanks of oil, chemical, milk or water. They can also be used to control the level of the liquid.
2. For the counting which is of enhanced speed, this type of sensor is used in the detection of the beam.
3. For robot sensing, this type is used in the industry of robots.
4. There is a system of car parking in which the barrier system is used to control the entry of the car. When something is present in the car, the barrier should not be dropped. This system uses ultrasonic sensors.
5. In the machines, which are used for the cutting of bottles and filling the drinks, the recognition of the bottles is happening throughout the process. All this happened due to this sensor. 
6. There is an industry in which cell phones, motherboards of the computer and circuit boards for appliances for the home are made and printed. This industry uses ultrasonic sensors.
7. The built-up of the car is performed in an industry that uses ultrasonic sensors.
8. This sensor is also used in the system where car washing is performed.
9. To detect the motor or generator’s speed, the ultrasonic sensor is used.
10. In the present system of detection, this sensor is also used.

Advantages of Ultrasonic Sensor

1. The discovery of the objects which are deep or outward has become very easy due to ultrasonic sensors. These sensors have enhanced frequency, increased sensitivity and great power of penetration.
2. A microcontroller can easily connect with this type of sensor.
3. To measure the width and deepness of the parallel surface, ultrasonic sensors are best. This is because they have high precision.
4. The objects which are present within the sensor’s area can easily estimate their nature, form, and alignment.
5. These sensors are not dangerous at all during procedures. They are very easy to use

Disadvantages of Ultrasonic Sensor

1. It is of much importance that the technician should be very experienced in testing the ultrasonic sensors. They should have complete knowledge of the manual given for the procedure.
2. Technicians must pass the test of having complete knowledge of the ultrasonic equipment and how to use them. This happens in the procedure of inspection. 
3. The sensors which are being used must have water resistance. Otherwise, a lot of destruction could happen.

An experienced professional is required during the interfacing of sensors with microcontrollers.

At ecocircuitbreaker.com, we sell the item below:

Photo-electric sensors

Inductive proximity sensor

Ultrasonic sensors

Pressure sensors

There is a rate of sound that is too high for humans and therefore they cannot hear it. Ultrasonic sensors work by releasing this kind of frequency. Then distance is measured which is based on the required time by waiting for the sound to return back. This phenomenon is similar to the time measured by the radar which is done when a radio wave hits an object and returns.

There are some sensors that use distinct emitter and receiver of the sound. Sometimes these two are combined to make one instrument. This instrument has an element of ultrasonic which is used to separate the signals of emitting and receiving. A small set of this sensor type can also be prepared instead of making it with different elements. This type is good for applications where size is a top priority.

Sometimes for the same purpose, radar and ultrasonic sensors are used. There is also another type known as the sound sensor. This type is very easily and freely available. Their price is also not very high, just some dollars. They may perform the detection of the objects more efficiently than radar.

Ultrasonic sensors have no difficulty in properly handling of the clear plastic, whereas radar or sometimes sensors that are based on the light, may have an issue with this. Ultrasonic sensors don’t get affected by the color of the substance they are sensing.

Readings are sometimes not trustworthy. This happens because sometimes the object we are using is made of a substance that absorbs the sound, or sometimes it has that kind of shape from which the sound waves are reflected away from the receiver.

This formula can be used to estimate the precise distance from the sensor:

·        Distance = ½ T x C

Where T stands for time and C stands for the sound speed.

Sometimes the value varies due to the temperature and humidity, but at 20ºC which is equal to 68ºF, the sound speed is 343 meters/second which is equal to 1125 feet/second.

There are some ultrasonic sensors which are specially modified, can be used underwater. The calculations should be accustomed meaningfully because the sound speed is 4.3 times fast in water as compared to in the air.

What are Ultrasonic Sensors Used For?

Now the question that comes in mind is that where these sensors can be used. The answer to this question is robot map-reading and also factory computerization. It can also be used in water-level sensing. This can be done by putting the sensor at top of the surface of the water. There is also another way we can use this sensor to use in the water. In this, the sensor is placed at the bottom of the water and let them travel through it. But it also involves the reflecting off of the surface bottom present below. 

Flow rates of the fluid can also be measured from the ultrasonic sensors, if they are designed properly. This information might be new to some people. In the case, considering it is very simple, with the fluid’s flow, an emitter and a receiver are lined up. Both are separated in this arrangement. Now through a moving medium, the sound is roaming. Due to this, by the fluid’s velocity, sound speed will either be enhanced or reduced. By lining up the mentioned 2 elements at a specific position to each other, the above process can be applied to the flow happening in the pipes. The effective enhancement of the velocity can be calculated which is based on the trigonometric relations among the two.  

From several ultrasonic elements, data can be used to increase the accuracy of the flow rate. Due to this, results will be very precise within the given percentage fraction. 

Incorporating Ultrasonic Sensors into Arduino Projects

If you get interested due to all of the data mentioned above, you can do this thing yourself, very simply. For this, you’ll require an Arduino and a sensor which is HC-SR04. In the picture which is shown above, is the Arduino Nano, which is compressed & economical. You can also any other development board if you want. That’ll work too. There are components that include Arduino, HC-SR04, some wires, and breadboard. Collect them all. Now go in the Arduino IDE, and now fit the sensor library which is called Newping.

There will be a variety of new sketches, which can work as an example and you can select from them when the above-mentioned system is installed.

Now, open the Newping 3 Sensors sketch.

There will be pins present. Now attach them to the HC-SR04 from the Arduino, as described in the procedure. Also, add ground and from Arduino, add 5V.

There is a board called dev board. Now take your program and send it to that board, and then at 115200 baud, open your serialized monitor. When you’ll place something in front of it, you’ll get a distance reading. Remember that when there is an error and it doesn’t correctly read a distance, it’ll give ‘0’ reading.

To observe what works and what not, use different shapes and materials in performing the procedure. It felt good to find that there is a paneling called acoustic foam, which doesn’t return a signal. There also some surfaces which are even and plain. Like a screen of the phone or a paper’s piece. These things are identified as quite good.

Schneider electric Ultrasonic sensor

This is the beginners guide to the RFID system. This works best for those for which this RIFD system is new and want to learn about it. How it works? Its different types and about the necessary equipment and tags.

What is RIFD?

How it works?

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is the non-contact and wireless use of The radio frequency for the transfer of data. When you Tag items with RFID a unique id is given to these items which allow the identification of them. You can read lines without read lines and its boundary is extended up to 20 mm.

Basically these were first used in the world war 2 for the identification of Aeroplanes. After this technology continue to increase and becomes more cost effective.

Types of RFID

There are three main types of RFID:

1. Low frequency
2. High frequency
3. Ultra-high frequency

Low frequency

-General Frequency range: 30-300 KHz

-Primary frequency range: 124-134 KHZ

-Read range

-Contact-10 cm

-Average Cost per tag

$0.75-$5.00

Applications

Access control, Animal tracking, Car key-fob, Applications with liquid volumes and metals.

Advantages

It works very good with metal and liquids I.e its global standards.

Cons

1. High cost of production
2. Low transmission rate of data
3. Low memory quality
4. Short reed range

High Frequency

1.Primary Frequency Range: 13.56 MHz

2Read Range: Near Contact – 30 Centimeters

3Average Cost Per Tag: $0.20 – $10.00

4.Applications: DVD Kiosks, Library Books, Personal ID Cards, Poker/Gaming Chips, NFC Applications

5.Pros: NFC Global Protocols, Larger Memory Options, Global Standards

6.Cons: Short Read Range, Low Data Transmission Rate

Ultra-High Frequency

General Frequency Range: 300 – 3000 MHz

Primary Frequency Ranges: 433 MHz, 860 – 960 MHz

We have further two types of RFID in the ultra-high frequency range:

1. Active RFID
2. Passive RFID

Active RFID

1.Primary Frequency Range: 433 MHz, (Can use 2.45 GHz – under the Extremely High Frequency Range)

2.Read Range: 30 – 100+ Meters

3.Average Cost Per Tag: $25.00 – $50.00

4.Applications: Vehicle Tracking, Auto Manufacturing, Mining, Construction, Asset Tracking

5.Pros: Very Long Read Range, Lower Infrastructure Cost (vs. Passive RFID), Large Memory Capacity, High Data Transmission Rates

6.Cons: High Per Tag Cost, Shipping Restrictions (due to batteries), Complex Software may be Required, High Interference from Metal and Liquids; Few Global Standards

Passive RFID

1. Primary Frequency Ranges: 860 – 960 MHz

2. Read Range: Near Contact – 25 Meters

3. Average Cost Per Tag: $0.09 – $20.00

4. Applications: Supply Chain Tracking, Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals, Electronic Tolling, Inventory Tracking, Race Timing, Asset Tracking

5. Pros: Long Read Range, Low Cost Per Tag, Wide Variety of Tag Sizes and Shapes, Global Standards, High Data Transmission Rates

6. Cons: High Equipment Costs, Moderate Memory Capacity, High Interference from Metal and Liquids

Primary Subsets of Passive RFID

UHF passive RFID standard range is 860-960 MHz. It is further divided into 2 subsets : 865-868 MHz and 902-928 MHz.

Primary Subsets of Passive RFID

European telecommunications standards institute (ETSI) is the main body in Europe that set standards for the communication through different channels. RFID equipment s and tags are not allowed to communicate at smaller frequency rate but only at subsets of larger range from 860-960 MHz.

As ETSI sets standards for only Europe. But when we purchase or donate items from outside Europe.

902 – 928 MHz – FCC

The federal communications commission (FCC) is known as the governing body In the States of America for setting and upholding standards via multiple channels including radio waves. FCC regulations say that RFID equipment’s and tags only operate in the frequency of 902-928 MHz. Other types of communication is ranged between 860-960 MHz.

Tags which are FCC verified or are at the north-American area can be used throughout the North-American region.

Other

ETSI and FCC are the first ever major standards to be approved. Many countries adopted one or both or created a new one which comes under the sub-range of one of them.

Argentina chose the range of 902-928 MHz. Country of Armenia has its own range of 867 frequency.

Regional regulations are regulated by FCC or ETSI, there are also other specifies which regulate the amount of radiated power. Every country has a different range and strict for its range. Licence is required to use the FCC.

Every region has its own frequency range. To know more click here.

Example applications

There are endless applications of RFID. It extends from inventory chains tracking to the supply chains. It can become more specialized depending on the activity and industry. Rental item tracking, It asset tracking and track textile items.

It identifies items very quickly. Following are some of the applications of RFID running successfully:

1. Race Timing
2. Supply Chain Management
3. Pharmaceutical Tracking
4. Inventory TrackingIT Asset Tracking
5. Laundry & Textile Tracking
6. File Tracking
7. Returnable Transit Item (RTI) Tracking
8. Event & Attendee Tracking
9. Access Control
10. Vehicle Tracking
11. Tolling
12. Hospital Infant Tracking
13. Animal Tracking
14. Tool Tracking
15. Jewelry Tracking
16. Retail Inventory Tracking
17. Pipe and Spool Tracking
18. Logistics Tracking (Materials Management)
19. DVD Kiosks
20. Library Materials Tracking
21. Marketing Campaigns
22. Real-Time Location Systems

Important facts

Return on investment (ROI)

When you are going to buy or invest in a new system two main points should be considered. First is when you are going to have the profit. Secondly what is the labour and fixed costs. Altogether the advantages and other points.

Application and cost feasibility should be checked before RFID implementation system.

Application Feasibility

It refers to the whole process of determining the use or application with RFID system. RFID also has its limitations. Reed range limitations, asset material composition and environmental constraints tells how a RFID is applicable to the different aspects. Feasibility report and project is the application feasibility report. RFID is the right fitting of the application.

Cost feasibility

For monetary prospective cost feasibility is the point. It just not include the current numbers but the investment cost with the returning amount of money. These systems can be expensive. Initial spun out cost is required for testing out new materials and equipment. Deployment cost begins after testing. After a proper setup one can see a return on investment.

Fixed Vs recurring costs

Recurring cost

Recurring cost is very important if you want to get a clear picture of the yearly expenses and the overhead costs.

Fixed costs

One time cost of getting started is known as the fixed costs. Antennas,readers and cables is broadly termed in the fixed cost and all the hardware. It doesn’t mean that cost is for one time. Basically its not a one-time application cost. If you want to set your system afterwards initial cost still counts. RFID tags are one time tags which can be used again in the system. These are assigned and redistributed to the employees.

Recurring costs

These are items which are only used once and discarded during the application or process. RFID label or inlay is a common type item used in the recurring costs. As these tags are low cost these can be used for lifetime. In case of RFID printer then the printer ribbon is known as the recurring cost. If a factored licence is renewed through a software or as a SaaS (Software as a service) which is considered a recurring fact.

Environmental factors

The RFID systems are susceptible to the certain environmental factors and materials that cause well diminished ranges and affect the overall accuracy. For interference of RFID applications metals and liquids are most common sources. But for the equipment and planning proper RFID tags are needed.

RFID becomes more common with the liquid filled or metallic items. Many new items are released for reducing this problem. New techniques are developed for the mitigation of these item effects. Tag placement and spacer are working with these items.

What is this system?

Following are the four components of every RFID system:

1. Tags

2. Antennas

3. Cables

4. Readers

Simple system is of a hand-held RFID reader. In a complex system multi-port readers are used. GPIO boxes, cables, multiple antennas and a complete setup of software is required.

RFID tags

What is an RFID tags?

RFID tag is a very simple one and is comprised of two parts:

Antenna for receiving and transmitting signals.

RFID chip which is used to store tag’s ID and other information. RFID tags are placed on the items in order to track them. RFID readers and antenna are used in it.

On every chip there are four types of memory banks:

1.User

2.Reserved

3.TID

4.EPC 

Every memory bank specifies the item which is tagged or in the which bank.

Many different types and shapes of RFID tags are available with a lot of features and options for operating. Every tag is specific to the surface materials,environments and applications.

Types of RFID tags

For a large variety of RFID applications it comes in many different types. Its types are hard and inlays tags. Inlays are cheaper than hard tags. It ranges from $0.09 to $1.75 depending on features of tags. Hard tags are more resistant which vary between $1.00 to $2.00

Form Factor – Inlay, Label, Card, Badge, Hard Tag

Frequency Type– LF, NFC, HF, UHF Passive (902 – 928 MHz, 865 – 868 MHz, or 865 – 960 MHz), BAP, Active

Environmental Factors– Water resistant, Rugged, Temperature resistant, Chemical resistant

Customizable– Shape, Size, Text, Encoding

Specific Features/Applications– Laundry Tags, Sensor Tags, Embeddable Tags, Autoclavable Tags, Vehicle Tags, High Memory Tags

Specific Surface Materials– Metal mount tags, Glass mount tags, Tags for Liquid-filled items

Tag pricing

Type and quantity of tags determine its price. Prices of both types of tags are already mentioned. For higher level of customization more expensive tags will be used when compared to off-shelf tags.

Selecting an RFID tag

1.Type of surface for tagging e.g metal,wood and plastic

2.Reed range for your desire.

3.Size limitations

4.Excessive environment conditions to consider e.g extreme heat or cold.

5.Attachment method

Testing a lot of items and tags will result in the final selection. RFID tag samples determine the amount and type of tag used.

RFID reader

What is RFID reader

RFID reader is brain for any system and is necessary for a system to work. Readers are also known as interrogate which are used to transmit signals for communicating with the tags. There are two types of RFID types

1. Fixed RFID readers
2. Mobile RFID readers

Former ones stay in a fixed location and are mounted on the walls, desks or some stationary position. Integrated reader is a common subset. Integrated RFID reader is a one-built antenna with an external antenna as well. Integrated readers are pleasing and without a high traffic of the tagged items.

Mobile readers are handheld devices which allow flexibility with a host computer or smart device. There are two mobile RFID readers categories:

1.Mobile computing devices-readers with an on-board computer

2.Secondly, for readers which use a Bluetooth or auxiliary connection.

These devices are called sleds. Fixed RFID readers stay still at one point I.e one antenna and connect to eight different other points. With a multiplexer One can go up to 32 RFID antennas. Area of coverage determine the number of antennas. Desktop applications require only small area of coverage and one antenna works well in this case. Other applications require larger area of coverage. For the coverage area many antennas are used.

 Types of RFID readers

For RFID categorization we term them as mobile or fixed ones. Other RFID categories include connectivity, available utilities, features, processing capabilities, power options, antenna ports, etc.

1.Frequency Range- 902 – 928 MHz US, 865 – 868 MHz EU, Etc.*

2.Mobility– Fixed Readers, Integrated Readers; Mobile Readers

3.Connectivity Options– Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LAN, Serial, USB, Auxiliary Port

4.Available Utilities– HDMI, GPS, USB, Camera, GPS, GPIO, 1D/2D Barcode, Cellular Capabilities

5.Processing Capabilities– OnBoard Processing, No OnBoard Processing

6.Power Options– Power Adapter, PoE, Battery, In-Vehicle, USB

7.Available Antenna Ports– No External Ports, 1-Port, 2-Port, 4-Port, 8-Port, 16-Port

Reader pricing

It is the most expensive part of an RFID system. It varies from $400 to $3000 based on the capabilities and features. USB readers are of only $300. They have a very short range and are mostly used for the applications of desktop. Fixed and handheld readers vary in pricing depending on the features.

Selecting an RFID reader

1.What is the reed range for your application

2.Any excessive environments to consider?

3.Will reader be added to the network?

4.Where will you place reader?

5.Does your reader need to be mobile?

6.How many read zones do you need?

7.How many tags are needed at a time?

8.How quickly does a tag move through a reader?

RFID antennas

These are necessarily elements required for converting RFID readers signal into RF waves which are then picked by the RFID tags. Without an antenna one cannot receive or send signals.

These are slow devices as compared to RFID readers and take signals from the power.With the energy signals are transmitted to RFID tags in the vicinity. When a signal is generated in a specific direction it determines the efficiency of the antenna. For a more powerful gain the higher will be the RF field.

Efficiency of a system is determined by its polarity. Antenna polarity should be aligned with the RFID tag. If they reduce the read range will be reduced. Vertically-linear polarized antenna and a horizontally-linearly polarized antenna wont work together.

Circularly polarized will generate waves that generate waves in all directions. Enhanced flexibility of an application is produced in this way. RFID tags are read in the multiple directions. The energy is divided into two planes which will make one area less powerful than the other.

Types of Antennas

They can also be divided into different categories based on the applications.There are a few factors for dividing it two main points are considered Antennas are polarity (circular vs linear) and ruggedness (indoor vs. outdoor).

1.Frequency Range– 902 – 928 MHz, 865 – 868 MHz, 860 – 960 MHz

2.Polarity– Circular, Linear

3.Ruggedness– Indoor IP Rated, Outdoor IP Rated

4.Read Range– Proximity (Near-Field), Far-Field

5.Mounting Type– Shelf Antenna, Ground Antenna, Panel Antenna, Portal Antenna

Antenna pricing

RFID antennas vary from $30 to $300 per antenna. Some of them vary due to additional points like application-specific factors, such as ground/mat antennas. They have specialized applications like race timing, people, bikes and other stuff. They should be rugged enough to survive and perform well. Functioning and a non-functioning system is determined through the specialized antennas. They are also considered an investment.

Selecting an RFID Antenna

1.What is the read range?

2.Excessive environmental conditions to consider?

3.Will you mount antenna indoor or outdoor?

4.What is the exact size you want?

5.What is the orientation of the tag relative to the position in your application needs for the application?

Kits and additional items

Developmental kits

RFID developmental kit is used for all the collection and assigning of the information in the RFID tag. They are needed for writing and reading RFID tags. This is recommended as it allows people to use it right away. These kits are made from the manufacturers of reader so tags and recommended antenna is needed with them.  There is also a sample program inside it for writing and reading RFID kits or SDK.

SDK contains the documents, API codes and software  about writing so that the developer can start writing his own program about the application.

RFID cables

These cables help in communication between RFID reader and RFID antenna. Without it reader is unable to send signals to the antenna and power it. Choosing a cable seems easier than other parts but every cable comes with a specification. Basically a RFID wire varies in three different forms:

1.Length

2.Connector Types

3.Thickness

So before purchasing always keep in mind these three things. To choose a right connector for any end of the cable choose it wisely. E.g if RFID reader has an RP-TNC female connector then one side of your cable should have RP-TNC male and vice versa. For more information regarding our cable look at RFID cable guide.

Insulation rating of cable basically its length and thickness varies according to your specific task. If your cable is long more power will be lost obviously in the transmission. RFID reader and antenna distance determines how far your cable should be?

To minimize this power loss use a more insulated cable which will be more thicker. The longer length will increase the efficiency of a cable and minimize its power loss. Wit more insulation rating your cable will be more thick and rigid. It will make it difficult to bend and hence no bending when working around its corners.

Other Equipment & Accessories

There are many other equipment s present to enhance the system capacity. They will all help in the supplement of your system. Some of them are:

1.RFID portals

2.RFID printers

3.GPIO adapters

4.RF power mappers

5.Antenna mounting brackets

Up next

Even though this whole article is filled with RFID, it is a very small part of all the information related to RFID. We have a lot of other ways to learn about this technology:

RFID insider

It is a RFID blog which will keep you updated about all the new trends and advancements in this field. It doesn’t matter if you are a new comer or an expert we cover all topics so everyone can take benefit from it.

Youtube channel

AtlasRFIDchannel is our you tube channel with all the information ,tutorials and interviews of this Technology. We are looking for a radio frequency along with other applications for the advancement of our technology.

Ebooks and resources

We have a lot of guide similar to this one which shows the main components of RFID system, RFID applications and even information needed for the system deployment. In our RFID resource section we also have Info graphics, customer profiles and white papers for our users. For any new information fee free to contact us.

Buy here Schneider electric RFID system

4 types of proximity switches

Proximity switches close or opens the electrical circuit when they come near to any object at a certain distance. For the manufacture of robotics, equipment and security systems these switches are used.

We have 4 types of proximity switches I,e Inductive, acoustic, infrared and capacitive.

Schneider electric proximity sensor

Infrared

Invisible infrared beams are sent in this case. The proximity switch has a photo detector that detects any reflections from this light. These reflections tell proximity switches about the presence of an object. proximity switches which just have a photo-diode and a light source also give false results of the light but in the advanced case, a specific frequency light is only captured. Receivers only respond to that frequency. In complex switches, light is used to compute the distance of an object.

Acoustic

They work on the same principle as Infrared ones but the only difference is that these switches use sound instead of infrared radiations. The transducer is used to send sound waves in a preset manner to the object in its surroundings. Then these waves hit the object and return to the second receiver at a given time.

These switches calculate the time it takes to produce an echo and distance is measured by using it. Submarines’ sonars also use this method.

Capacitive

Changes in electrical capacitance are used to measure the distance to the objects. The radio frequency oscillator is used to connect with a metal plate. When a plate comes near an object its frequency changes and a signal is en to the switch for opening or closing it. One side-effect of these switches is that they are more sensitive to objects which are electrically conductive than the others.

Inductive

Magnetic Fields are generated by these switches to measure the distance. They work like metal detectors. Electrical current is produced in a metal wire and an electronic circuit is then used for measuring this current. If metal is close enough to the coil, its electromagnetic field will increase and a signal is sent to the switch for opening or closing. But these switches only detect metallic objects.

Proximity

These switches are used in several different manufacturing processes. The distance of machine components, in a security system to check the distance of opening a door is measured by them. It is also used in the robotics field where its presence near any object is checked and then the movement of robotics can be changed.

• What are proximity sensors?

Proximity sensors have a wide application in the manufacturing and industrial fields. They are used to detect the presence of an object and then take some action or simply detect their presence or absence. These sensors don’t require any kind of physical contact with the object or any sense near it. So these are also known as non-contact sensors.

There are different types of sensing techniques present in these sensors. These all techniques are used to categorize these sensors including other factors like material and environmental factors to consider.

The common types of sensors are listed below:

Capacitive

These sensors operate by noticing any change in the capacitance. The electrical charge and the voltage difference between two surfaces are known as the capacitance. It can be an air gap or some other material which is a Di-electric constant. When an object comes nearby, Di-electric is affected and capacitance is changed. This change is recognized as capacitance.

Buy schneider electric Capacitive sensor

Inductive

When inductance is changed these senors work. When a current is changed in a conductor a voltage difference is produced which is a reason for inductance. Because of these inductive properties they only work in the metal and not in plastics. The type of material for sensing also influences the sensing distance. Like ferromagnetic materials have the strongest sensing distance and other metals such as aluminum or copper will have much shorter distance.

Schneider electric Inductive proximity sensor

Photoelectric

They operate on a light. These sensors are dependent on the amount of light available to the detector in the sensor. Mainly we have two types of photo-electric sensors: through beam and reflective. Reflective sensors are mostly in the same housing as the emitter beam. They work by emitting a light that will strike an object and is reflected back to the detector. Through-beam, sensors have two housing: one is emitter and the other is sensor or detector. If any objects break a light, the detector will register this break.

Here are Square D Photo-electric sensor products

Ultrasonic

Sound waves are sued for detecting objects. The ultrasound wave is sent to the object and it is reflected back to the detector. The time period is predefined for this reflection and thus the distance of this object is measured when it returns after the reflection. These ultrasonic sensors are used in many different types of applications that are used for measuring a distance of an object e.g automotive park-assist functions and in bottles to check the filling level.

An upcoming post will describe in detail all these proximity sensors.

We sell Schneider electric ultrasonic sensor

7 Types of Sensors for Object Detection

Object detection is a very critical step in automatic industry,arrival of carrier puck and the presence of an object on the conveyor. Software developers and engineers need to know that they have inserted the detection sensor.

Programming based on a particular event is a very common method and they require all these inputs at the location in a computer’s program or  PLC ladder logic program. Sensing devices don’t inspect,measure or weigh the object under discussion. Their signal needs to be accurate for the absence and presence of a particular object via sending electrical signals.

A lot of technologies for sensing are available in the market today. Below are seven most common sensing types given along with the operation,constraints and advantages:

• Electro-mechanical

Electro-Mechanical switch is the most common type. If you replace a mechanical actuator with an object,its micro-switch will change. Rollers, whiskers and levers are types of actuators offered by the different types of manufacturers. Because of moving parts wear and tear is possible in these objects.

We sell these items below:

Square d whisker switch

Schneider electric roller limit switch

watts pneumatic actuator

Apollo Actuators & Controls

Square D limit switch lever

• Pneumatic

Compressed air and diaphragm are sued by these sensors to detect an object. Tiny orifice will allow the leak in the valve and the target is blocked the stream. Minute change in air pressure is created. Downstream diaphragm detect this pressure change which produces an electrical signal. Environments which require explosion proof sensor or extremely dirty places are very good places for this application.

Schneider electric explosion proof switch

Pneumatic Actuator

• Magnetic

When an actuating sensor is placed in the sensing range of these sensors they become activated. Two operating principles are commonly used: one is reed contact and other is hall effect transducer. In both examples presence of magnetic field will create a difference in the sensing path. air cylinder’s internal piston can be detected by both these sensors. reed switches  fail more often as compared to the hall effect transducer so engineers prefer the later one.

list of magnetic proximity sensor

• Inductive

These sensors detect the object which cause changes in the magnetic field of a sensor. Type and amount of metal determines the accurate detection. They have many shapes and sizes. These are reliable and cost-effective. So these are mostly used in the automation and equipment process.

• Capacitive

Non-metallic objects are detected by these sensors which have a DI-electric difference due to air difference. They have a good range in detecting wood, paper, fabric, liquid and plastic. Unlike Inductive sensors they don’t detect a change in the elector-magnetic switch they utilize it.

• Photoelectric

They are different sensors and have varied applications. Basically all these send a beam of light and detect any change in the amount of light which came back. diffuse, reflective and through-beam are three most popular ones. visible, infrared, LED or laser light sources are sued. Change in the diffusion due to the diffuse in the optical field of a sensor is detected by the diffuse sensors. The diffuser detects the light which come back from the object itself. Beam of light is created by Reflective and through-beam sensors and observe any source which break this beam. 50m beam of light or more is created by these two types of sensors. Transparent or varying-surface objects can be problematic for these sensors.

• Ultrasonic

Ultrasonic waves are send towards a target and they return back to the sensor after reflecting back from the target. All dense materials e.g. metal, wood, plastic, glass, liquid, etc. Reflect these sound waves and color, transparent or shiny objects do not affect these waves. Foaming materials which absorb these sound waves are not a good target for these sensors. Liquid levels in tanks are checked by these sensors. For equipment automation and industrial application Ecocicuitbreaker.com Technology Corporation has worked for decades for finding the best sensor level. Contact this technology for more possible solutions to the most difficult problems of manufacturing.

Proximity Sensors convert physical quantity into a signal which is known as proximity sensors. Infrared filters are used for powering them and the have broad applications in various fields.

They detect objects near to them even if these objects have no contact among it and sensor. The signal is sent by the sensor as long the object is in the defined vicinity of the sensor. These are known as proximity sensors because they detect the motion or presence of an object electrically.

Types of proximity sensors

Many different types of proximity sensors are available and they depend on the need and the material to be detected near them. Let’s take a look:

Inductive proximity sensors

The electrical signal is produced by these sensors as soon any object approaches them or comes near to them from any direction. iron, aluminum, brass, copper and other types of metals are also detected by the inductive proximity sensors. Each of these metals can be detected at a different sensing distance.

Flat targets are preferred with the sensors. If targeting distance is larger than the sensing distance, the sensing face can increase this distance. This was introduced in the mid-’60s.

Capacitive proximity sensors

Along with detecting metals resins, powders, liquids, are also identified by these sensors. covering material, cable longness, and noise sensitivity can vary the effectiveness of these sensors. Factors like temperature, sensing object, surrounding the object and the mounting distance between the sensors can vary the sensing distance. 25mm is its maximum range of senses.

Magnetic proximity sensors

They work on magnets and do not have any kind of electrical effect which makes them work in both AC and DC modes. Factors like temperature, objects surrounding it, as well as the mounting distance between the sensors can affect the sensing distance of these sensors. They can sense up to 120mm and have the highest sensing distance. mobile phones, tablets, and security gadgets use these magnetic proximity sensors. Mobile phones become more responsible and useful with these senors.

Thus these are the major types of sensors available in the market today and how they work.

telemecanique inductive proximity switch

Schneider motion sensor

Telemecanique sensors through beam

Square D occupancy sensor

Schneider Electric proximity sensor