Intelligent combination of RFID and sensors

RFID controller and IO-Link master in one device:

In the RFID processor unit BIS V, Balluff has introduced a real multitalented solution to the market. Thanks to its compact pro-cessor unit, up to four read/write heads can be connected. Both HF (13.56 MHz, in accordance with ISO 15693 and ISO 14443) and LF (125 kHz) read/write  heads can be connected simultaneously from the front via plug-and-play. The RFID controller also provides the option of connecting IO-Link-capable sensors or actuators directly to an integrated IO link master.

HM 2015 presents new features in the shape of Profinet, CC link and Ethernet IP for additional interface availability. In addition to BIS L and BIS M, the proven BIS C can now be run with the BIS V for tool identification. In a few months, it will also be possible to connect the UHF system BIS U. A single controller type is sufficient for setting up a continuous RFID structure within a company – from unfinished parts delivery and manufacturing to shipping. This results in significant savings on hardware and installation for the user .

The controller in compact metal housing with dimensions of 168x62x48 mm is easy to install in the control cabinet or on a DIN rail or profile in the field and fulfills all requirements for an industrial-grade version (IP65). Until recently, a USB terminal served as a ser-vice interface to the computer. The integrated display provides the right overview. To name one example, in addition to the device and software version, it displays all relevant network settings for Ethernet-based systems. In addition, highly visible LEDs indicate the operating state of every read/write head, even from greater distances.

Many typical application areas are covered. For identification tasks for material flow control in production systems, the user can benefit from low hardware usage and low installation costs in areas such as conveyor systems in mechanical engineering, assembly lines, electric suspension systems or in the entire intralogistics field.