company.
(Click here for larger image)The RD5000 is based on a 624 MHz PXA270 processor, and is equipped with 64 MB each of SDRAM and flash memory. The battery-powered device supports WiFi and Bluetooth wireless, for cable-free operation.
The unit can be mounted on a forklift together with Symbol's Windows CE-powered
VC5090 vehicle/fixed mount computer (shown at right), as part of an integrated forklift system that reduces the need for drivers to spend time recording the receipt and movement of goods, according to the company.
Symbol lists the following key features and specifications for the RD5000 RFID reader device:
- Processor -- PXA270, clocked at 624 MHz
- Memory -- 64 MB RAM, 64 MB flash
- I/O ports -- although not explicitly stated, the RD5000 appears to have mini USB and serial ports
- RFID:
- EPC Generation 2 UHF
- nominal read range -- 10 feet (3 m) with Symbol RFX6000 4x4 tag optimally oriented
- antenna -- integrated, circularly polarized, 1.5 dB effective linear gain per axis (nominal). Antenna port for future optional external antenna
- frequency range -- 902 to 928 MHz
- output power -- 1W conducted (1.4W EIRP with integrated antenna)
- Wireless:
- 802.11a/b/g WiFi
- Bluetooth v1.2
- Power:
- removable, rechargeable 7.2 volt 2200 mAh Lithium ion battery pack
- optional external power supply
- Sealed to IP66
- Dimensions -- 7 x 9 x 2 inches (178 x 229 x 51 mm)
- Weight -- 3 lbs 10 oz. (1.64 kg) including battery
Symbol says the RD5000 will also support the company's upcoming Wireless Next Generation (Wi-NG) RF-switching system, said to allow organizations to easily deploy and manage evolving RF networks from one central location.
Anthony Bartolo, VP of Symbol's Wireless Infrastructure and RFID Divisions, stated, "Previous RFID deployment strategies have depended heavily on the predictable movement of goods, with RFID readers installed at 'choke points' such as dock doors. By RFID-enabling material handling equipment with Symbol's new RD5000 mobile RFID reader, organizations gain increased visibility to items in the supply chain all the way to the shelf or staging area."
The RD500 mobile RFID reader appears to be available now. Pricing was not disclosed.
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