Symbol launches next generation RFID reader

Early adopters of RFID are already using the Symbol XR480 EU reader to leverage the increased asset visibility and operational efficiencies of RFID across their supply chains. The XR480 EU reader builds on Symbol's commercially proven XR400 RFID reader platform that combines Generation 2 (Gen 2) dense-reader mode operation with reliable read performance for industrial-scale RFID implementations. Based on the Windows® CE® operating system, it utilises this operating system for seamless integration with existing IT infrastructure, reducing the support costs associated with multi-platform environments.

"The XR480 EU builds upon Symbol's diverse customer and application experience with large-scale RFID implementations," said Tarek Hassaniyeh, sales manager, Symbol Technologies Middle East. "By allowing customers to manage and move information instantly upon data capture, the XR480 EU truly extends business intelligence to the edge of the enterprise. It complements our existing comprehensive product platform as Symbol enables global early adopters to move from RFID pilots through to full scale deployment."

The new XR480 platform is also compatible with Symbol's XR400 reader and leverages existing XR400 capabilities such as application hosting. This allows end-users, partners and third party application developers to easily develop specific, customer-driven applications that can be embedded and run directly on the reader.

It provides control input/output and USB interfaces to manage devices ranging from motion sensors and lights to memory sticks and display screens. With these peripherals, enterprises can use RFID to activate various business processes, including dynamic assembly lines that are reconfigured based on the specific products being received on the conveyor belt; real-time alerts that allow forklift drivers to change delivery locations for urgent items, and rules that prevent delivery of products to incorrect locations and "handle with care" rules, that signal an item's fragility at the moment it passes through the dock door reader.