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Fixed or Portable RFID Reader?

time2022/09/06

You have to buy a new RFID reader and don't know whether to choose stationary or portable? do not worry! The following article gives you some suggestions to help you make the right choice! Let's take a closer look at these two types of RFID readers!
rfid readers
You have to buy a new RFID reader and don't know whether to choose stationary or portable? do not worry! The following article gives you some suggestions to help you make the right choice! Let's take a closer look at these two types of RFID readers!

Fixed RFID reader

They have more power than portable readers and are ideal for non-mobile applications because they need to be connected to a power source. They are installed in relevant locations, for example, in access control applications, where readers are fixed next to doors, waiting for employees to identify themselves via RFID tags.

To better understand which applications a fixed reader is best for, let's see what their advantages are.

Key benefits of stationary RFID readers

Automatic real-time monitoring: Since the fixed RFID reader maintains an always-on monitoring mode, the tags can be read without operator intervention. This means that their use is a great way to automate business processes.

Wide read range: These devices are permanently installed in designated locations and read continuously to detect any RFID tags passing within the reader's active area, which is usually wider than portable readers.

Flexibility in which type of antenna can be attached to the reader: Fixed RFID readers typically have multiple ports that allow multiple antennas to be attached. You are free to choose any type of antenna within the same frequency range of your application as long as you use the correct cable for the connection.

Tracking large numbers of RFID tags: Fixed readers are often used in environments where large numbers of RFID tags are tracked.

Common areas of fixed RFID readers

Fixed RFID readers are ideal for reading points that require a large amount of collected data, such as:

Automatically track items on conveyor belts in manufacturing lines.

Track in and out movements in warehouses and distribution centers for real-time inventory visibility.

As a POS (point of sale) in retail. In particular, the technology is able to speed up the checkout process by reducing human-factor errors, while updating the inventory system where the item has been removed.


Compared to their predecessors, they have a compact design, often with an integrated antenna. Also, they are battery-powered. Therefore, they are often used for tasks that require mobility or flexibility. Such as tracking assets in the field. The read data is transmitted to the management software via Bluetooth or WiFi.

Now let's look at the advantages of portable RFID readers.

Key benefits of portable RFID readers

Easy to portable: Mobile RFID readers have been specially developed for use anytime, anywhere, that's why they are lightweight and battery-powered.

Rapid deployment: No major deployment requirements for portable RFID readers. The device is ready to use. Eliminating the need for power and cabling enables rapid implementation with minimal investment, making these readers ideal for initial RFID deployments and pilots.

Flexibility: They can be used in a wide range of areas across the enterprise, maximizing cost-effectiveness and delivering a faster return on investment.

Ease of use: Many portable readers have key features that make data collection and transfer very easy.

Common areas of portable RFID readers

Fully user-controlled mobile readers are ideal for field reading, especially for small marked items such as:

During inspections (see here), searching for serial numbers, assets,s and equipment specifications can lead to audit fatigue and possible human error. Using a portable RFID reader, information can be automatically loaded into audit software systems.

In a library, it is very simple to use a portable reader to identify misplaced books on a shelf, or, once the software confirms that there are still items in the bookcase, a portable RFID reader can be used to check for lost books layer by layer.

They are ideal for performing maintenance operations (RFID for managing product lifecycle).

Having briefly covered the differences between stationary and portable RFID readers, hopefully, you can now decide which type of reader to deploy to get the most efficiency and value from your RFID implementation within your organization. If you want to buy an RFID reader, welcome to contact us.

At Yanzeo, we provide barcode and RFID solutions. Yanzeo's years of professional research and exploration of smart technology have brought together the technical essence of the barcode industry. Through the data interpretation of changes in the information environment of modern society, we can effectively overcome the difficulties and problems of barcode RFID technology, develop and design industry-leading barcode RFID products, and help customers calmly deal with the challenges brought by accurate identification and various identification obstacles, and always ensure that customer's safety. good experience.