User's Manual

COBALT UHF-SERIES CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING THE COBALT UHF
PAGE 24 OF 140
CHAPTER 2:
INSTALLING THE COBALT UHF
2.1 PREPARING FOR INSTALLATION
The Cobalt UHF-Series RFID Controllers support point-to-point serial connections
(RS232 and RS485), multi-drop network connections (via Subnet16™ Gateway or
Hub) and Ethernet connections (TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP).
NOTE: Up to 16 UHF-CNTL-485-02 units can be networked via Subnet16 Gateway
interface module and Escort Memory Systems’ Subnet16 Multidrop Bus Architecture.
2.1.1 Power Requirements
The Cobalt UHF Controller requires an electrical supply voltage of 10~30VDC (see
Appendix A: Technical Specifications
).
Use a dedicated and regulated power supply connected to a suitable AC power
source that is capable of delivering these requirements. Do not apply power until the
entire system is wired and checked.
See Appendix B: Models & Accessories – Power Supplies
for a list of available power
supplies.
2.1.2 Installation Guidelines
 Conduct a test phase where you will construct a small scale, independent
network that includes only the essential devices required to test your RFID
application. To avoid possible interference with other devices, do not initially
connect your RFID testing environment to an existing local area network.
 RF performance and read/write range can be negatively impacted by the
proximity of metallic objects and liquids (for further information, refer to Section
9.2.2 “UHF Signal Propagation”). Avoid mounting the Cobalt antenna within
15cm (6 inches) of any metallic object or wet surface.
 If electrical interference is encountered (as indicated by a reduction in read/write
performance), relocate the controller/antenna to an area free from potential
sources of interference.
 Route cables away from other unshielded cables and away from wiring carrying
high voltage or high current. Avoid routing cables near motors and solenoids.
 Always use adequate electro-static discharge (ESD) prevention measures to
dissipate potentially high voltages.
 Refrain from mounting the controller/antenna near sources of EMI (electro-
magnetic interference) or near devices that generate high ESD levels.