Parallax RFID Kit (EM4102)

Designed in cooperation with Grand Idea Studio, the Parallax Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Reader Module is the first low-cost solution to read passive RFID transponder tags. The RFID Reader Module can be used in a wide variety of hobbyist and commercial applications, including access control, automatic identification, robotics, navigation, inventory tracking, payment systems, and car immobilization.

This reader is compatible with EM4102 RFID tags (125 kHz).  The read range varies between 0.5" and 6" depending on the size of the tag's antenna.

This kit includes the Parallax RFID Reader, plus an assortment of EM4102 tags:

(1) Credit Card Thin Card (ISO)
(1) Thick Card (Clamshell)
(1) Inventory Label - Square Version (2 1/8 x 3 3/8)
(1) Small Glass Ampoule
(1) 20mm Button with Sticker Backing
(1) 17mm Black Pill Tag
(1) 35mm White Disk with Hole
(1) CD-ROM Tag
(1) 30mm Global Tag (black)
(1) 25mm White Disk
(1) 25mm White Disk (sticker backing)
(1) 30mm Clear Thin Lamination Disk
(1) 30mm Clear Thin Lamination Disk (sticker backing)
(1) 25mm Clear Thin Lamination Disc
(1) Blue Key Fob
(1) Wristband Watch Style

** Tags might change depending on availability, but will be similar in type.

This device can be connected to a PC serial port using a MAX232 line driver. The circuit isn't supported by Parallax, but it's possible to make this connection with a few dollars of parts.

Features:

• Fully-integrated, low-cost method of reading passive RFID transponder tags
• 2400 baud TTL serial interface (output only) to PC, BASIC Stamp module and other processors
• Requires single +5VDC supply
• Bi-color LED for visual indication of activity
• 0.1" pin spacing for easy prototyping and integration

 

 

Pin	Pin Name	Type	Function
1	VCC	P	System power, +5V DC input.
2	/ENABLE	I	Module enable pin. Active LOW digital input. Bring this pin LOW to enable the RFID reader and activate the antenna.
3	SOUT	O	Serial Out. TTL-level interface, 2400bps, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit.
4	GND	G	System ground. Connect to power supply’s ground (GND) terminal.
Note: Type: I = Input, O = Output, P = Power, G = Ground

 

Downloads:

• RFID Reader Documentation v1.2 (.pdf)
   
• BASIC Stamp 2 Source Code (.BS2)
• RFID Basic (.BS2)
• BASIC Stamp 1 Source Code (.BS1)
• SX/B RFID Card Reader Code (.SXB)
• RFID Security (.SXB)
• RFID Door Lock Video: Amal Graafstra's RFID implanted tag unlocks electronic doors using the Parallax RFID Reader
• N&V column "You Can't Touch That" #120 (.pdf)
• Nuts & Volts Column RFID