Texas Instruments Introduces High-Frequency, Multi-Standard RFID Reader Family

Dallas-based Texas Instruments (TI) announced the availability of a high-frequency (13.56 MHz), multi-standard, integrated circuit (IC) RFID reader product family. The advanced package design of the TRF7960(1) family measures 5x5mm, and supports ISO/IEC 14443A/B, ISO/IEC 15693, ISO/IEC 18000-3 and TI’s contactless commerce and Tag-It portfolio. The advanced, flexible design increases reader performance while reducing the IC footprint, and the TRF7960(1) is designed for both fixed and handheld reader devices.

Several key performance attributes are built in. For instance, to maximize read-range and reliability, the integrated, on-board linear voltage regulators that turn up the analog, digital and power amplifiers provide power supply noise isolation. The reader has an integrated analog front-end and data framing system for all the supported standards. In addition, the dual receiver input configuration detects amplitude modulation (AM) and phase modulation (PM) to eliminate read “holes” created when antenna orientation in the operating environment changes the tag return signal from AM to PM.

By providing an internal clock for the microcontroller, the TRF7960(1) powered reader uses only a single 13.56MHz crystal, rather than the standard two crystals, reducing the total bill of materials. Designed with fewer components, TI’s reader IC consumes less power and takes up less space. Other integrated functions include error checking, data formatting, framing and anti-collision support for multi-reader environments.

Power consumption for the overall reader is reduced by providing seven flexible manual or automated configuration settings, which shut down unused sections of the reader to save power. The TRF7960(1) IC operates between 2.7 Vdc to 5.5 Vdc input supply voltage, and when in power-down mode, consumption is less than 1 micro Amp, while standby current is less than 120 micro Amp.

With a high level of integration, lower power consumption and a smaller footprint, the devices are available in the standard 32-pin QFN (IC to board) connection packages.