TagMaster XT-3 Instruction Manual

Doc no. 11-267 02
© TagMaster NA
XT-3 Reader
Installation Manual & Data Sheet
MANUAL

XT-3 Reader Installation Manual & Data Sheet Doc no. 11-267 02
© TagMaster NA 2 (28)
Revision Date Comment
01 2011-08-23 First version
02 2011-12-08 Additional info added during product safety
assessment
Copyright
The copyright and ownership of this document belongs to TagMaster NA. The document may be
downloaded or copied provided that all copies contain the full information from the complete document. All
other copying requires a written approval from TagMaster NA.
Disclaimer
While effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this document TagMaster NA
assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the
information contained herein. The information in this document is subject to change without notice.

XT-3 Reader Installation Manual & Data Sheet Doc no. 11-267 02
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Table of Contents
1Introduction 4
1.1 XT-3 Reader ................................................................................................. 4
1.2 TagMaster’s RFID System ............................................................................ 4
2Safety Instructions 5
2.1 Instructions ................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Warnings ...................................................................................................... 5
3Installation 6
3.1 Environmental Considerations ...................................................................... 6
3.2 Preconditions ................................................................................................ 6
3.3 Mounting the Reader .................................................................................... 7
3.4 Mounting the External Antenna (Optional) .................................................... 9
3.5 Cable Connections...................................................................................... 10
3.6 Identifying Readers across TCP/IP Networks.............................................. 11
4Testing 12
4.1 Installation Test........................................................................................... 12
4.2 Trouble Shooting ........................................................................................ 13
5Technical Data 14
5.1 Reader Overview ........................................................................................ 14
5.2 Interfaces.................................................................................................... 15
5.3 Performance Data....................................................................................... 22
5.4 Electrical Data............................................................................................. 23
5.5 Mechanical Data ......................................................................................... 25
5.6 Environmental Specification........................................................................ 27
6Contact 28
6.1 Technical Support ....................................................................................... 28
6.2 Office .......................................................................................................... 28

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1 Introduction
1.1 XT-3 Reader
The XT-3 RFID reader is a full functionality EPC Gen 2 (ISO 18000-6C) reader for
access installations such as Parking, Gated Communities and Condominiums. The
reader is available in two models: XT-3 eu for the European market (865.6-867.6 MHz)
and XT-3 us for the US market (902-928 MHz). The reader has a built-in antenna and
can be expanded with an optional external antenna. The read range is five meters for
XT-3 eu and six meters for XT-3 us.
The XT-3 Reader can work as a standalone reader when using ACTS. The Readers
are equipped with all TagMaster reader application software providing suitable
functionality. ACTS (Access Control and Tracking System) software can be embedded
on the reader for standalone operation.
The reader can be configured and controlled via the Ethernet interface, either locally or
remotely via an Internet connection. The XT-3 Reader supports several standard
interfaces including Ethernet (TCP/IP), RS232, RS485 and Wiegand/Mag-stripe.
More detailed information about the reader’s functionality is available in 06-118, “GEN4
Reader User’s Manual”.
1.2 TagMaster’s RFID System
TagMaster’s RFID system consists of readers and ID-tags. Readers can work
standalone or be connected to a host computer using serial or Ethernet interfaces.
1.2.1 Reader
The reader is a device for reading ID-tags using radio frequency. Some readers have
the capability to write information to ID-tags that support this.
The reader has a built-in antenna for communication with ID-tags. Some readers can
be expanded with external antennas. The reader also has various interfaces for
communication with a host computer and other external devices. When an acceptable
ID-tag is read, the reader can for example pull a relay connected to a barrier and grant
access to a vehicle and at the same time sound the buzzer and flash the visible
indicator.
To reduce the risk of interference, several readers in close proximity to each other
should use frequency hopping or be set to different frequency channels.
1.2.2 ID-tags
An ID-tag carries information that can be read at a long distance using radio frequency.
TagMaster has a range of ID-tags with different properties. Technical data for the
different ID-tags are presented in the respective ID-tag’s data sheet.

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2 Safety Instructions
2.1 Instructions
Read this manual carefully before using the XT-3 reader and take notice of warnings in
order to prevent injury and product damage.
Where local regulations exist, these are to be followed. The safety information in this
manual is a supplement to local regulations. It is the responsibility of the local project
manager to make certain that local regulations are known and followed.
The relevant manual (including this safety information) must be followed in any work
performed on the TagMaster products or systems.
The use of TagMaster’s genuine spare parts and accessories are recommended.
TagMaster will not assume responsibility for any malfunction due to use of spare parts
or accessories produced by a third party.
2.2 Warnings
Warnings are used throughout this manual to alert the reader to special instructions
concerning a particular task or operation that may be hazardous if performed
incorrectly or carelessly. The warnings are preceded by the common hazard symbol.
Figure 1 Hazard Symbol
The following two levels of warnings are used:
Warning!
Warning means that an accident may occur if the safety precautions are neglected.
This type of accident may cause injury. It may also damage the product.
Caution!
Caution means that an accident may occur if the safety precautions are neglected. This
type of accident may damage the product.

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3 Installation
This section describes the procedure of installing the reader, including mounting the
reader and installing the necessary cables. Read through this entire section before
performing the installation.
Caution!
Install the reader in accordance with local and national building and electrical codes
and/or applicable jurisdictions i.e. state or federal laws or city ordinances. The reader
is designed for installation using Class 2 wiring. Installation shall be performed by a
qualified service technician.
3.1 Environmental Considerations
The XT-3 reader is a reliable solution for identification systems because it is unaffected
by the normal electromagnetic background noise found in industries and elsewhere.
3.1.1 Electromagnetic Interference
Industrial noise is typically present in the kHz and low MHz frequency band. The XT-3
reader uses 860-960 MHz frequencies, so typical industrial noise will not affect the
communication.
3.1.2 Electromagnetic Interference in Cables
By using specified cables, proper shielding, and grounding as well as selecting a
suitable communication interface, optimum communication reliability is ensured. For
more information about cable specifications see section 3.2.2, “Cables and Power
Supply”.
3.1.3 Lightning
In order to protect the reader from possible effects of lightning, additional surge
protection on the inputs and outputs may be needed.
3.1.4 Temperature
For most applications, normal convection cooling is sufficient for the reader. But if heat
is generated close to the reader, the use of forced cooling or heat shields should be
considered.
3.2 Preconditions
The locations of readers and ID-tags have been specified during the project planning
phase, based on considerations of communication distances and movement speeds.
The cable paths and cable types have been determined during the project planning
phase.
The power supply must comply with all relevant safety regulations.

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The equipment must be disconnected from all voltage sources before any installation
or service work is carried out. Capacitors inside the equipment can hold their charge
even if the equipment has been disconnected from all voltage sources.
Caution!
Damage may be the result if the equipment is switched on when parts are removed
from the controller board, or if a PCB is removed within one minute after switching off
the equipment.
3.2.1 Tools
The following tools are necessary for installation:
•Adjustable spanner
•Screwdriver, Torx T20
•Screwdriver, Philips PH00x60 or SZS 0,4x2,5
•Side cutter
•Wire stripper
•Crimping tool for ferrules
3.2.2 Cables and Power Supply
Cables and power supply are not supplied with the XT-3 reader.
All cables should be shielded and suitable for the installation environment, for instance
indoor or outdoor environment. Use flexible cables with stranded wire. The reader
chassis should be grounded during installation. This is done using the ground screw
(position 12 in Figure 4 Overview of the reader with open lid). As an alternative a
metallic cable gland can also be used to connect to the reader chassis to ground using
the power cable shielding.
The terminal blocks used are Phoenix, type PT 1.5, which allow for a cable area of 0.2
to 1.5 mm² (AWG 26-14). Stranded wires must be fitted with a ferrule before being
inserted in the termination blocks.
The cable for the RS485 interface must be a twisted pair cable and conform to the EIA
RS485 standard. When using RS485 communication, correct termination of the
interface must always be considered in order to handle transmission-line effects. The
Reader has no built-in RS-485 termination as the termination points depends on the
number of transceivers in the network.
A category 5 (CAT5e) cable is required for the Ethernet connection.
The reader shall be powered by a UL Listed or Certified, Class 2 or LPS power supply
suitable for outdoor use, rated 24 V DC, 1 A minimum. The power supply shall fulfil the
specifications in section 5.4.2, “Power supply, J31”.
3.3 Mounting the Reader
Mount the reader in a horizontal position with the cable glands on the bottom side.
Direct the reader so that the reading lobe covers the positions of the ID-tags.

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For optimal performance, tilt and rotate the reader into a position so that the front side
of the reader is parallel with the front side of the ID-tag to be read. Align the reader so
that the actual reading range is 60–70% of the specified maximum.
The figure below shows a typical reader installation. Note that the installation details
depend on site requirements.
TM00103
=
=
100%
60 - 70%
Figure 2 Reading lobe
How to mount the ID-tag depends on the type of tag and which object that is being
tagged. TagMaster’s windshield ID-tag should be mounted in a horizontal position in
the windshield. Note that some cars have a metallized windshield. The ID-tag must be
mounted in an area of the windshield without metallization.’
Never mount the reader close to, and directly facing, a large metal area.
Warning!
To comply with Council Recommendation 1999/519/EC and FCC regulations, this
reader must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm from all
persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna
or transmitter.
Warning!
Hot surface! The back of the reader enclosure can become hot during continuous
operation in a hot environment.
The Universal Mounting Kit (Part No. 193600) from TagMaster enables the Reader to
be mounted in a wide variety of positions and angles. The kit contains all parts needed

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for mounting the Reader on a wall or on a pole. The Universal Mounting Kit is suitable
for outdoor use. See separate data sheet for more details.
Figure 3 XT-3 reader mounted on a pole with Universal Mounting Kit
Mounting hole layout details are available in section 5.5.2, “Dimensions”.
Note: Do not drill any additional holes in the enclosure, as that would affect the sealing
specification.
Caution!
Never exceed the environmental and electrical limits specified in section 5, “Technical
Data”. Exceeding the limits can result in permanent damage to the reader.
3.4 Mounting the External Antenna (Optional)
The optional external antenna has the same physical dimensions and RF performance
as the reader and should be mounted in the same way as the reader (see section 3.3,
“Mounting the Reader”).
Different reader models require different external antennas:
Part No. Model
163100 External XT-3 eu antenna
163200 External XT-3 us antenna

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Connect the external antenna to the reader using an RF cable with RP-TNC
connectors. Cables supplied by TagMaster are tuned to give maximum performance
while still being within the regulatory limits.
The external antenna also has built in LEDs. These can be controlled from the XT-3 by
connecting an optional M12-4 cable between the reader and the external antenna.
The following cables are available:
Part No. Model
196025 Antenna RF-cable 2.5 m
196050 Antenna RF-cable 5.0 m
196125 Antenna LED-cable 2.5 m
196150 Antenna LED-cable 5.0 m
3.5 Cable Connections
Three available openings (20mm, 16 mm and 16 mm) in the base are sealed with blind
plugs and can be used for cable connections. The XT-3 reader is delivered with one
M20 cable gland for incoming cables and is also delivered with two cable gland options
for incoming cables. Using these options it is possible to handle one or two separate
cables in the same single gland. The alternatives are 1 x 6-12 mm or 2 x 4-6 mm. This
makes it possible if for instance using TCP/IP, to have a separate shielded CAT5e
cable for communication, while still having two other shielded cables for power and
possible I/O connections.
Connect cables as described below.
1. Open the reader.
2. Cut the cable to a suitable length and pull it through the cable gland.
3. Measure enough length of the cable to reach to the terminal blocks.
4. Strip the outer insulation of the cable inside the reader.
5. Tighten the cable gland around the cable.
6. Strip the ends of the conductors and crimp a ferrule onto the stripped end of
each conductor.
7. Connect the conductors to the corresponding terminal blocks.
All screw terminals and connectors are documented in section 5.2, “Interfaces”. The
torque to be used when fastening the lid to the base of the reader using the 8 screws
should be 1.0 Nm. First use preset torque, then tighten opposite screws in pairs.
Caution!
Never disconnect the internal or external antenna cable during operation; doing so will
damage the reader! Never operate the reader close to, and directly facing a metal surface;
dosing so may damage the reader!
Caution!
Do not remove the pressure balance membrane; it will compromise the IP classification.