User's Manual

80 R110/R170XiIIIPlus User Guide
RFID Guidelines
Overview
Overview
The R110 and R170 XiIIIplus “smart” label printer-encoders serve as dynamic tools for both
printing and encoding RFID labels, tickets, and tags. The printer encodes information on
ultra-thin UHF RFID transponders embedded in “smart” labels. It then immediately verifies
proper encoding and prints bar codes, graphics, and/or text on the label’s surface. For more
information about RFID media, see RFID “Smart” Labels on page 17.
Function of an encoded “smart” label depends on factors such as where the label is placed on
an item as well as on the contents of the item (such as metals or liquids). Contact the supplier
of your RFID reader for assistance with these types of issues.
Transponder Placement
Communication between the “smart” label and the printer is established when the transponder
lines up with the printer’s antenna. The optimal transponder position varies with the
transponder size, its configuration, and the type of RFID IC chip used.
Print quality may be affected by printing directly over the transponder. In particular, there is an
area on each label immediately around the location of the IC chip where the printer may print
with low quality. Design your printed label around the location of the chip in the type of
approved “smart” label that you select. For the list of approved transponders and related
placement specifications, go to
http://www.rfid.zebra.com/r4m.htm.
Important • It is important to use transponders that have been specifically approved for use in
this RFID printer. Failure to do so may result in the inability to read or write to the embedded
RFID tags. As new transponders become commercially available, Zebra will evaluate them for
compatibility with this printer. For the list of approved transponders, go to
http://www.rfid.zebra.com/r4m.htm.