IO-Link HF
13.56 MHz ISO 15693 identification for short/medium-range, single-tag applications with simple IO-Link integration.
- Read/write
- Suitable for smart tooling and machine-level identification
- Range depends on antenna/tag combination
ifm · Industrial Identification
ifm RFID Systems
Use RFID when the identifier must be read without line of sight and, where required, written with process or asset data. The correct IFM platform depends on read distance, number of tags, data payload, process speed and the effect of metal or water on the RF field.
HF 13.56 MHzUHFRead / writeTrack & trace
RFID platform routes
HF and UHF selection by distance, tag count and process speed
ifm covers short/medium-range HF identification and long-range/bulk-read UHF architectures, with IO-Link, modular and all-in-one routes.
Modular & All-in-One HF
HF platforms for larger payloads and faster transfers, with flexible antenna options or controller-plus-antenna in one housing.
- Single-tag communication
- Up to about 220 mm on suitable combinations
- Useful for error proofing and WIP
UHF RFID
Longer-range identification with multi-tag capability for packaging, storage, sequencing and shipment processes.
- EPC Gen2 / ISO 18000-6C route
- Bulk tag reading
- Up to 10 m on modular systems
Track-and-trace applications
RFID solves identification problems cameras and simple presence sensors cannot
The tag can carry an identity and user memory without requiring optical line of sight.
Smart tooling
Identify tools, track cycles and support automated setup or maintenance decisions.
Error proofing
Verify the correct carrier, component, tool or assembly enters a production step.
Work-in-process
Carry or retrieve production data as parts move through manufacturing.
Logistics & assets
UHF can support storage, retrieval, sequencing, shipments and returnable-asset identification.
RF physics
HF and UHF behave differently around the application
HF RFID uses inductive coupling at 13.56 MHz and communicates with one tag at a time. UHF uses backscatter and can identify many tags over longer distances. Metal and water can disturb both technologies and must be considered during tag and antenna selection.
HF / ISO 15693Shorter range, controlled read field and single-tag communication.
UHF / EPC Gen2Long range and multi-tag anti-collision for logistics-style processes.
Tag mattersRead distance is a property of the antenna/tag/application combination—not the reader alone.
Metal & moistureUse correctly tuned tags and validate installation where RF-absorbing/reflecting materials are present.
Platform selection
Match the RFID architecture to the process
Start with how many tags need to be read, how far away they are and how much data must move during the cycle.
| Requirement | IFM route | Typical range | Tag handling | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple machine identification | IO-Link HF / DTI | Up to ~220 mm depending on combination | One tag | Smart tooling, access, simple carriers |
| High data payload / faster HF | Modular HF / DTE10 + ANT | Up to ~220 mm | One tag | Error proofing, WIP |
| Compact networked HF | All-in-one HF / DTE60 | Up to ~220 mm | One tag | WIP, raw materials, returnables |
| Long-range bulk read | Modular UHF | Up to ~10 m | Many tags | Logistics, sequencing, storage |
| Compact UHF | All-in-one UHF / DTE90 | Up to ~4 m | Up to 16 tags on documented platform | Remote access / compact track & trace |
Requirement capture
Inputs required before RFID system selection
Read/write performance must be tested with the actual tag, material and geometry before the application is frozen.
Read distanceMinimum/maximum antenna-to-tag distance.
Tag countSingle tag or bulk reading.
MaterialMetal, water-based material, plastic, wood or mixed environment.
DataUID only or read/write process data and payload size.
Cycle timeAvailable dwell time and machine speed.
InterfaceIO-Link, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, TCP/IP or higher-level IT integration.