User's Manual Part 1

13,56 MHz Multitag Reader Module, Version 0.9v
ACG Identification Technologies AT Page 46
7 Frequently Ask Questions
7.1 Getting started
To test and interface the ACG 13,56 MHz Multitag OEM Reader Module, no
sophisticated µP development system is needed. All you need is a PC, a connection
cable and a power supply for the reader. If you are using Microsoft Windows
(98/NT/2000…), take following steps:
1. Make sure, that your reader is RS232-interface type
1. Start HyperTerminal
2. Create a new connection (FILE/NEW CONNECTION)
3. Enter name of connection as you like (i.e. ‘ISO 1.0’)
4. Select connect COM2 (COM1) direct connection
5. Connection setup 9600,8,n,1,no handshake
6. Connect the reader to COM2 (COM1) of the PC and apply appropriate the
supply voltage. The reader sends a string to the PC (e.g. “ISO 1.0”). This
string denotes the firmware provided by your reader module
7. Put a tag to your reader. Serial numbers should be displayed properly
8. Enter commands via keyboard. They are transmitted to the reader and the
reader replies with its response.
If using an operating system different from Microsoft Windows you may use any other
terminal program which is capable of receiving/transmitting via the serial port of your
PC.
7.2 How can I adjust the reading performance of different
tags?
Due to different tags of different tag manufacturers the antenna tuning has to be
adapted. The Plug and Play reader module is factory tuned for ISO 15693 tags. To
switch to Mifare tags the tuning capacitor (see APPENDIX A) has to be adjusted
correctly.
Following steps have to be done:
1. Connect the reader to the PC
2. Set the reader to the specific tag type
3. Start continuous reading mode (‘c’)
4. Place a tag within the antenna field.
5. Tune the capacitor until the LED is flickering.
6. Increase the distance between the tag and the reader
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until no better performance can be reached.
Now the reader is optimal tuned of a specific tag type.
7.2.1 Remarks
If more than one tag has to be read all steps mentioned above have to be performed
for each tag type. The reading distance of one tag in multi tag recognition mode
might be less than in an optimal tuned antenna field.