The Compact B40 can connect up to two Pepperl+Fuchs RFID read/write devices and slots into both PLC-based automation setups and modern IT architectures. It features a multiprotocol Ethernet interface with an integrated switch, supporting both PROFINET and EtherNet/IP protocols out of the box. For teams working on IIoT and cloud-connected workflows, a built-in REST API provides direct access to tag data without the need for middleware or custom gateway solutions.

Commissioning and configuration are handled through an intuitive web interface, which covers all connected Pepperl+Fuchs readers and writers across the IPH (LF), IQH (HF), and IUH (UHF) product lines. Automatic time synchronisation via NTP and SNTP ensures that event timestamps remain accurate across distributed systems, a practical detail that matters when traceability and audit trails are involved.

On the physical side, the unit is built for tough environments. An IP67-rated encapsulated metal housing allows deployment in conditions ranging from -25 degrees Celsius to 70 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for factory floors, loading docks, and outdoor logistics operations where dust, moisture, and temperature swings are part of daily life.

One of the standout features of the Compact B40 is its compliance with the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), which comes into effect in 2027. The device supports software updates through its web interface, ensuring that both IT and OT security requirements can be maintained over time. For businesses investing in industrial RFID infrastructure today, this forward-looking approach provides a degree of investment protection that is increasingly important as regulatory requirements tighten.

Pepperl+Fuchs highlights several key application areas for the new unit. In CNC machining centres, it enables reliable workpiece and tool identification. In material handling, intralogistics, and airport baggage systems, the multi-frequency support allows a single evaluation unit to work across different tag standards already deployed in the field. Retail and apparel businesses can use the REST API integration for inventory tracking, omnichannel fulfilment, Click and Collect operations, theft protection, and supply chain traceability.

The combination of multi-frequency support, dual industrial Ethernet protocols, IIoT connectivity, and CRA compliance positions the IDENTControl Compact B40 as a versatile option for organisations looking to consolidate their RFID infrastructure without sacrificing flexibility or future-proofing.

Read more at https://www.pepperl-fuchs.com/en/news/future-ready-identcontrol-compact-rfid-evaluation-unit-for-seamless-integration-into-plc-and-it-based-systems-gn10112

The post Pepperl+Fuchs IDENTControl launch Compact B40 CRA-Ready Multi-Frequency RFID Unit first appeared on RFID News.

NFC and UHF RFID in One Wearable

One of the standout aspects of the WS501-R is its inclusion of NFC RFID alongside UHF RFID capabilities. NFC is built directly into the device, giving workers the ability to interact with short-range NFC tags and smart labels without carrying a separate reader. The UHF RFID functionality uses an integrated upward-facing antenna and delivers a read range of approximately five feet, which can be configured and dynamically adjusted depending on the task at hand. An optional external downward-facing antenna is also available for applications that require it.

Beyond the onboard RFID hardware, the WS501-R is designed to pair with Bluetooth BLE UHF readers. This means the device can act as the processing and display hub for extended UHF RFID operations, with a connected BLE reader handling tag capture at greater distances or in different orientations. This flexibility makes the platform well suited to complex workflows where a single read range or antenna position is not enough.

Barcode Scanning and Display

The WS501-R integrates the SR560 1D/2D imager, which is built to handle damaged or poorly printed barcodes and offers a wide field of view for capturing multiple codes in a single scan. The 2-inch AMOLED colour display runs at 460 x 460 resolution and supports both fingertip and gloved-hand touch input. Two programmable buttons allow workers to customise functions to match their workflow, and a built-in speaker and microphone add push-to-talk capability for on-the-floor communication.

Processing Power and Connectivity

Under the hood, the WS501-R runs on a Qualcomm QCS2290 quad-core processor clocked at 2.0 GHz, paired with 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of flash storage. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 for high-throughput network performance and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable short-range pairing with peripheral devices including the BLE UHF readers mentioned above. The 9.24 watt-hour battery is hot-swappable, so workers can keep the device running through extended shifts without downtime.

Built for Industrial Environments

Durability is a core part of the WS501-R’s specification. The device carries an IP65 sealing rating for protection against dust and water jets, is drop-rated to five feet onto concrete, and operates across a temperature range of 14 degrees Fahrenheit to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. A replaceable front shell adds further longevity to the hardware investment.

Zebra is targeting the WS501-R at warehousing, distribution, transportation and logistics, manufacturing, and retail operations. Use cases include picking, inventory management, sorting, and asset tracking, all areas where hands-free RFID capture can reduce errors and improve throughput. With NFC RFID on board alongside UHF and BLE reader pairing support, the device covers a broader range of tag types and read scenarios than many single-frequency wearables.

Read more at https://www.zebra.com/gb/en/products/spec-sheets/mobile-computers/wearable/ws501-r.html

The post Zebra launch the WS501-R RFID wearable mobile computer first appeared on RFID News.

The Mobile Gate is mounted on heavy-duty castors, allowing a single operator to wheel it into position at hall transitions, transfer points or loading bays. A rechargeable battery provides autonomous power, so the unit can function in locations where mains electricity is impractical or unavailable. Wireless connectivity through WLAN or 5G keeps data flowing back to warehouse management and ERP systems in real time.

A telescopic traverse sits at the top of the gate frame, making it straightforward to adjust the read zone width to match different doorway or aisle dimensions. An integrated status monitor on the unit gives operators immediate visual feedback on read performance and system health. The industrial-grade construction is designed to withstand the knocks and vibrations common in warehouse and production environments.

From an operational standpoint, the SmartMove platform removes one of the biggest barriers to RFID gate deployment: the capital commitment tied to fixed infrastructure. Organisations can start with a single mobile gate, trial it across several process steps and scale up only when the business case is proven. Each unit can also be customised during production to suit specific operational requirements.

RFID Konsortium highlights several practical use cases for the platform. In logistics and transportation, the gate can monitor freight movements at air cargo facilities and distribution centres. In manufacturing, it can track work-in-progress along production lines. For supply chain visibility, the system supports monitoring of C-parts, raw materials, semi-finished components and finished goods as they move through a facility.

One notable deployment example involves a large German airport where the Mobile Gate is used to automatically verify parcel freight before it is loaded onto aircraft. By reading UHF RFID transponders on each package, the system prevents costly loading errors and ensures shipments reach the correct destination.

The SmartMove RFID Mobile Gate positions itself as a practical entry point for organisations that want to digitise vehicle and object identification across their intralogistics workflows without committing to permanent infrastructure projects.

Read more at https://www.rfid-konsortium.de/en/hardware/rfid-gate/mobile-gate/

The post RFID Konsortium launch SmartMove RFID Mobile Gate Platform first appeared on RFID News.