RFID readers fit power/size/cost constraints of embedded,consumer apps

RFID readers fit power/size/cost constraints of embedded,consumer apps

The AS3993 and AS3980 RFID reader ICs combine low-power operation, small size, and low cost to offer an attractive route to RFID implementation in embedded, portable and consumer devices. The AS3993 is an EPC Class 1 Gen 2 RFID part which implements all the relevant protocols, including ISO 18000-6C, the ISO 29143 air-interface protocol for mobile RFID interrogators, and ISO 18000-6A/B (for operation in direct mode).

The AS3993 also includes an on-chip VCO and power amplifier and offers a complete set of RFID features including Dense Reader Mode functionality and support for frequency-hopping, low-level transmission coding, low-level decode, data framing and CRC checking. The AS3980, a sister device to the AS3993, is also an EPC Class 1 Gen 2 RFID reader IC which offers a high level of integration and RF performance.

Packaged in a 7 x 7mm QFN package, both parts draw just 75 mA on a supply voltage of 3.3 V and offer -90 dBm sensitivity and high immunity to self-jamming. When used in a stand-alone end product, the AS3993 or AS3980 only require the addition of a simple 8-bit microcontroller to create a complete RFID reader system.(Contact company for pricing — available now)

By Christina Nickolas

austriamicrosystems , Unetrremstaetten , Austria
U.S. Sales Office 408-345-1790

www.austriamicrosystems.com