TransCore MPRX Series User manual

16-0079-001 Rev D 2/2020
TransCore’s Multiprotocol Reader Extreme (MPRX) is a radio frequency identification
(RFID) reader designed for harsh environment applications. This guide provides site
planning, testing, and operating instructions for this system.
This guide is intended for use by authorized TransCore dealers, installers, and
service personnel. The MPRX is a contained unit. Once the system is set up and
tested by the authorized installer, no additional service is required.
MPRX Reader
User Guide
Trusted Transportation Solutions

Information in this document is subject to change and does not represent a commitment on the part of
TransCore, LP.
© 2016-2020 TransCore, LP. All rights reserved. TRANSCORE, AMTECH, EGO, and ENCOMPASS
are registered trademarks and are used under license. All other trademarks are the property of their
respective owners. Contents are subject to change. Printed in the U.S.A.
For further information, contact:
TransCore
8600 Jeerson StreetNE
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113 USA
TransCore Technical Support
Phone: [phone]
Web: www.transcore.com
TransCore Sales Support
Phone: [phone]
Lantronix ® Technical Support (Ethernet Support)
Phone: [phone]
Web: www.lantronix.com/support/
MPRX User Guide
TransCore Proprietary
ii

WARNING TO USERS IN THE UNITED STATES
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION FCC
LOCATION AND MONITORING SERVICE STATEMENT
47 CFR §90.351
NOTE: The user is required to obtain a Part 90 site license from the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) to operate this radio frequency identification (RFID) device in the United
States. The FCC ID number is FIHMPRXV1. Access the FCC website at www.fcc.gov to obtain
additional information concerning licensing requirements.
NOTE: Users in all countries should check with the appropriate local authorities for licensing
requirements.
FCC RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
47 CFR §15.105A
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate RF energy and may cause
harmful interference to radio communications if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual. Operating this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference, in which case, depending on the laws in eect, the user may be required to
correct the interference at their own expense.
NO UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS
47 CFR §15.21
CAUTION:
This equipment may not be modified, altered, or changed in any way without permission.
Unauthorized modification may void the equipment authorization from the FCC and will void
the warranty.
USE OF SHIELDED CABLES AND GROUNDING
47 CFR §15.27A
NOTE: Shielded cables and earth grounding the unit is recommended for this equipment to
comply with FCC regulations.
TRANSCORE, LP
USA
TransCore Proprietary iii

AVERTISSEMENT À L’ATTENTION DES
UTILISATEURS AUX ÉTATSUNIS
DÉCLARATION 47 CFR §90.351 CODE DES
RÈGLEMENTS FÉDÉRAUX DE LA FEDERAL
COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION FCC SUR LES
SERVICES DE LOCALISATION ET DE CONTRÔLE
REMARQUE : L’utilisateur est tenu d’obtenir une licence d’utilisation sur site Partie 90 auprès
de la Federal Communications Commission (FCC) afin de pouvoir utiliser ce dispositif RFID
(radio-identification) aux États-Unis ou au Canada. Le numéro d’identification de la FCC est
FIHMPRXV1. Pour obtenir de plus amples informations concernant les exigences relatives aux
licences, prière de consulter le site web de la FCC à www.fcc.gov.
REMARQUE : Il est recommandé à tous les utilisateurs, quel que soit leur pays, de consulter les
autorités locales compétentes sur les exigences de licence.
DÉCLARATION 47 CFR §15.105A DE LA FCC SUR
LES INTERFÉRENCES DES FRÉQUENCES RADIO
REMARQUE : Cet appareil a été testé et déclaré conforme à la catégorie d’un appareil
numérique de classe A en accord avec la partie 15 des directives de la FCC. Ces normes visent
à assurer une protection raisonnable contre les interférences nuisibles lorsque l’appareil est
utilisé dans un environnement commercial. Cet appareil génère, utilise et peut émettre de
l’énergie RF et peut être à l’origine d’interférences nuisibles aux communications radio s’il n’est
pas installé et utilisé en suivant les directives du manuel d’instructions. Si cet appareil est utilisé
dans une zone résidentielle, il est probable qu’il cause des interférences nuisibles. Dans ce cas,
l’utilisateur pourrait être amené à remédier aux interférences à ses propres frais, selon les lois
du pays en vigueur.
AUCUNE MODIFICATION NON AUTORISÉE
47 CFR §15.21
MISE EN GARDE:
Il est interdit de modifier, d’altérer ou d’apporter des changements à cet appareil de quelque
manière que ce soit sans autorisation. Toute modification non autorisée peut annuler
l’autorisation d’utilisation accordée par la FCC et annulera la garantie.
UTILISATION DE CÂBLES BLINDÉS ET MISE À LA TERRE
47 CFR §15.27A
REMARQUE : Il est recommandé d’utiliser des câbles blindés et une mise à la terre avec cet
appareil afin de répondre aux réglementations de la FCC
TRANSCORE, LP
ÉTATSUNIS
MPRX User Guide
TransCore Proprietary
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WARNING TO USERS IN CANADA
INDUSTRY CANADA IC INDUSTRY CANADA’S RADIO STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS RSS137
LOCATION AND MONITORING SERVICE IN THE BAND 902928 MHZ SECTION 2.1
NOTE: The user is required to obtain a license from Industry Canada (IC), to operate this
radio frequency identification (RFID) device in Canada. The IC ID number is 1584A-MPRXV1,
access the IC website at www.ic.gc.ca to obtain additional information concerning licensing
requirements.
Industry Canada (IC) Industry Canada’s Radio Standard Specifications General Requirements
(RSS-GEN) for Compliance of Radio Apparatus Statement Section 8.4
This device complies with Industry Canada’s license-exempt RSS. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
1 ) This device may not cause interference; and
2 ) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
AVERTISSEMENT AUX UTILISATEURS AU CANADA
INDUSTRIE CANADA IC INDUSTRIE CANADA RADIO STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS CNR137
EMPLACEMENT ET SERVICE DE SURVEILLANCE DANS LA BANDE 902928 MHZ, SECTION 2.1
Remarque : L’utilisateur est tenu d’obtenir une licence d’Industrie Canada (IC), afin d’exploiter
ce dispositif d’identification par radiofréquence au Canada. Le numéro d’identification d’IC est
1584A-MPRXV1. Pour obtenir de plus amples informations concernant les exigences relatives
aux licences, prière de consulter le site web de d’IC à www.ic.gc.ca .
Radio Standard Spécifications exigences générales Industrie Canada (IC) Industrie Canada
(CNR-GEN) pour s’acquitter du Radio appareil déclaration article 8.4
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio
exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes:
1 ) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
2 ) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage
est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
TransCore Proprietary v

RADIO FREQUENCY HEALTH LIMITS FOR MPRX READER
USING AN EXTERNAL ANTENNA IN FREQUENCY BAND
OF 902.25 TO 903.75 AND 910.00 TO 921.50 MHZ
Several agencies (OSHA, FCC, IC) have environmental guidelines regulating maximum
permissible exposure (MPE) or “safe” exposure levels that this product falls under. To ensure
that proper safety guideline for the end users of this product, i.e. Occupational (Controlled) and
General Population/Public (Uncontrolled), the recommended levels for each of the agencies are
presented in the next sections with TransCore’s recommendations for safety in the last section.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
OSHA (an agency of The United States of America) legislates in the Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) Title 29 Part 1910 Subpart G 1910.97 titled “Nonionizing radiation”, a maximum
safe exposure limit of 10 milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm2) during any 0.1-hour period
(i.e. 6 minutes). Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment)
of 915 MHz and the highest antenna gain that this equipment is certified for use in a final
installation, the minimum safe distance was calculated to be 8 in (20 cm).
FCC (Federal Communication Commission)
FCC (an agency of The United States of America) legislates in the Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR) Title 47 Chapter I Subchapter A Part 1 Subpart I Section 1.1310 titled “Radiofrequency
radiation exposure limits” that the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) is the following:
Occupational/Controlled Exposure
Power density = frequency (in MHz) /300 mW/cm2with an Averaging time of 6 Min
General Population/Uncontrolled Exposure
Power density = frequency (in MHz) /1500 mW/cm2 with an Averaging time of 30Min
Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment) of 915 MHz
and the highest antenna gain that this equipment is certified for use in a final installation,
the minimum safe distance was calculated. The MPE minimum distances are 14 in (36 cm) for
the Occupational/Controlled environment, and 31.5 in (80.5 cm) for the General Population/
Uncontrolled environment.
Industry Canada (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada)
Industry Canada (a Department of the Government of Canada) sets out the requirements in
Radio Standards Specification RSS-102, Issue 5 guidelines, recommending a maximum safe
power density in W/m2. Thus, the maximum permissible exposure for general population/
uncontrolled exposure at 915MHz is 2.77 W/m2. The average time is 6 minutes. The maximum
permissible exposure (MPE) is the following:
MPRX User Guide
TransCore Proprietary
vi

Controlled Environment
Power density = 0.6455*frequency (in MHz)0.5 W/m2with a Reference Period time of 6Min
General Public/Uncontrolled Environment
Power density = 0.02619*frequency (in MHz)0.6834 W/m2with a Reference Period time of 6Min
Using the frequency (in the middle of the band of operation of this equipment) of 915 MHz
and the highest antenna gain that this equipment is certified for use in a final installation, the
minimum safe distance was calculated. The MPE minimum distances are 18 in (45 cm) for the
Controlled environment and 47 in (120 cm) for the General Public/Uncontrolled environment.
TransCore Recommendation on MPE (Maximum Permissible Exposure)
The calculated power densities and MPE distance for each of the agencies respective to the
environment is shown below.
Occupational/Controlled Environment
Agency Power Density (mW/cm2) MPE minimum distance Time (min)
in cm
OSHA 10 8 20 6
FCC 3.05 14 36 6
IC 1.95 18 45 6
General Population/Public/Uncontrolled Environment
Agency Power Density (mW/cm2) MPE minimum distance Time (min)
In cm
OSHA 10 8 20 6
FCC 0.61 31.5 80 30
IC 0.28 47 120 6
With the equipment installed and running at the maximum transmit power of 2.0W (33 dBm), 0
dB transmit attenuation, using the highest gain antenna that the equipment is certified for, the
recommendation for each of the operation environments is as follows:
1 ) The antenna should be installed at least 47 in (120 cm) from the General Population/Public i.e.
Uncontrolled Environment.
2 ) Maintenance personnel (i.e. Occupational/Controlled Environment) must remain at least 18 in
(45 cm) from the antenna and limit their time in the environment to 6 minutes when the system
is operating.
TransCore Proprietary vii

LIMITES D’EXPOSITION AUX RADIOFRÉQUENCES POUR LE LECTEUR MPRX
UTILISANT UNE ANTENNE EXTERNE SUR LA BANDE
DE FRÉQUENCES DE 902.25 À 903.75 ET DE 910.00 À 921.50 MHZ
Plusieurs organismes (OSHA, FCC, IC) publient des directives environnementales qui
recommandent des limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) ou des niveaux
d’exposition “sûrs” auxquels cet appareil se conforme. Pour faire en sorte que chaque
utilisateur final ait connaissance des directives de sécurité qui le concerne, que ce soit
dans son travail (accès contrôlé) ou pour la population générale/le grand public (accès non
contrôlé), TransCore présente les niveaux recommandés par chaque organisme dans ses
recommandations sécuritaires détaillées dans la dernière section.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
Dans le Code des réglementations fédérales (CFR), Titre 29, Partie 1910, Sous-partie G 1910.97,
intitulée “Nonionizing radiation” (Rayonnements non ionisants), l’OSHA (organisme américain)
recommande un plafond d’exposition maximale de 10 milliwatts par centimètre carré (mW/cm2)
pendant une période de 0,1 heure (soit 6 minutes). En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz (milieu
de la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet
appareil a reçu une certification d’utilisation dans une installation finale, la distance minimale
sécuritaire est de 20 cm (8 po).
FCC (Federal Communication Commission)
Dans le Code des réglementations fédérales (CFR), Titre 47, Chapitre I, Sous-chapitre A, Partie
1, Sous-partie I, Section 1.1310 intitulée “Radiofrequency radiation exposure limits” (Limites
d’exposition aux rayonnements de radiofréquence), la FCC (organisme américain) établit les
limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) comme suit :
Exposition professionnelle/contrôlée
Densité de puissance = fréquence (en MHz)/300 mW/cm2avec une durée moyenne de 6 min.
Exposition de la population générale/non contrôlée
Densité de puissance = fréquence (en MHz)/1500 mW/cm2avec une durée moyenne de 30 min.
En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz (milieu de la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le
gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet appareil a reçu une certification d’utilisation dans une
installation finale, la distance minimale sécuritaire est la suivante : les distances MPE minimales
sont de 36 cm (14 po) pour l’environnement professionnel/contrôlé et de 80,5 cm (31,5 po) pour
la population générale/environnement non contrôlé.
MPRX User Guide
TransCore Proprietary
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Industrie Canada (Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada)
Le Cahier des charges sur les normes radioélectriques 102, 5eédition, d’Industrie Canada
(un ministère du Gouvernement du Canada) établit des recommandations pour une densité
de puissance maximale sécuritaire en W/m2. Ainsi, l’exposition maximale admissible pour la
population générale/non contrôlée à 915 MHz est calculée à 2,77 W/m2. La durée moyenne est
de 6 minutes. Les limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes MPE) sont les suivantes :
Environnement contrôlé
Densité de puissance = 0,6455*fréquence (en MHz)0,5 W/m2avec une durée de référence
de 6 min.
Grand public/environnement non contrôlé
Densité de puissance = 0,02619*fréquence (en MHz)0,6834 W/m2avec une durée de référence de 6 min.
En utilisant la fréquence de 915 MHz (milieu de la bande de fréquences de cet appareil) et le
gain d’antenne maximal pour lequel cet appareil a reçu une certification d’utilisation dans une
installation finale, la distance minimale sécuritaire est la suivante : les distances MPE minimales
sont de 45 cm (18 po) pour l’environnement professionnel/contrôlé et de 120 cm (47 po) pour le
grand public/environnement non contrôlé.
Recommandations de TransCore sur les limites d’exposition maximale autorisée (normes
MPE)
Les densités de puissance et la distance MPE calculées par chaque organisme pour
un environnement donné sont présentées ci dessous.
Exposition professionnelle/environnement contrôlé
Organisme Densité de puissance
(mW/cm2)
Distance MPE minimale Durée (en min.)
po cm
OSHA 10 8 20 6
FCC 3,05 14 36 6
IC 1,95 18 45 6
Population générale/environnement non contrôlé
Organisme Densité de puissance
(mW/cm2)
Distance MPE minimale Durée (en
min.)
po cm
OSHA 10 8 20 6
FCC 0,61 31,5 80 30
IC 0,28 47 120 6
TransCore Proprietary ix

Avec l’appareil installé et fonctionnant à la puissance de transmission maximale de 2,0 W
(33 dBm), 0 dB d’atténuation de transmission, et en utilisant le gain d’antenne maximal pour
lequel l’appareil a reçu une certification, les recommandations pour chaque environnement
d’exploitation sont les suivantes :
1 ) L’antenne devrait être installée à au moins 120 cm (47 po) de la population générale/du grand
public, c’est-à-dire d’un environnement non contrôlé.
2 ) Le personnel d’entretien (c’est-à-dire dans un environnement professionnel/contrôlé) doit rester
à au moins 45 cm (18 po) de l’antenne et limiter son temps d’exposition à 6 minutes lorsque
l’appareil est en fonctionnement.
MPRX User Guide
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Licensing Requirements
An FCC license provides the user with the legal authorization to operate the MPRX on the licensed
frequencies at the site specified in the license. Only an authorized installer or service technician can set
the RF frequency of the MPRX to the frequency specified in the FCC site license. No end-user-operated
controls exist on the MPRX.
The FCC license may provide the user with protection and authorization to maintain the system should any
other RFID product be used in the licensed area after the MPRX equipment is installed.
Users of the MPRX in the United States must obtain a license from the FCC. In the United States, the
authorized modulated (SeGo protocol operation) frequency band for this product is 911.75 to 919.75 MHz
and the authorized continuous wave (AAR-formatted operation) frequency band is 902.25 to 903.75 MHz
and 910.00 to 921.50 MHz.
The user is responsible for filing the FCC license according to FCC regulations, but the TransCore dealer
will provide assistance and support as necessary to complete these forms. Forms are available online at
the FCC internet site http://wireless.fcc.gov/uls. For further information on obtaining the license contact
TransCore.
CAUTION
This equipment can be set to frequency ranges outside those authorized for use in the U.S. by
the FCC. Users in all countries should check with the appropriate local authorities for licensing
requirements.
TransCore Proprietary xi

MPRX User Guide
xii
Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements ...................................................xi
Chapter1 System Overview ............................1–17
System Description .....................................................1–17
Reader................................................................1–18
Compatible Tag Types ................................................. 1–22
Chapter2Test Procedures ............................2–23
Required Tools and Equipment ..........................................2–23
Pre-installation Testing of the MPRX .....................................2–25
Testing the MPRX Circuit ...............................................2–25
Connecting the Antenna(s) .............................................2–26
Connecting the Power Supply...........................................2–29
Connecting Communications ...........................................2–32
Connecting Sense Input and Sense Output Circuits ........................2–32
Chapter3 General Software Information ................3–38
Command Entry Conventions .............................................3–38
Command Response Conventions .........................................3–38
Startup...............................................................3–40
Chapter4 Communications Protocols ..................4–42
Introduction ..........................................................4–42
Basic Protocol ........................................................4–43
Error Correcting Protocol ...............................................4–43
Data Inquiry Protocol ..................................................4–44
Basic Protocol and ECP Format..........................................4–44
ECP Reliability ........................................................ 4–51
Manually Disabling ECP for Maintenance .................................4–54
Chapter5 Commands ................................5–56
Default Settings .......................................................5–56
Operating Modes......................................................5–56
Command List ........................................................5–58

xiii
Chapter6 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–86
Configuring the Reader ................................................6–86
Terminal Emulation Software ............................................6–87
Configuring MPRX Parameters ............................................6–91
Chapter7 Troubleshooting and Maintenance ........... 7–100
Error Messages ...................................................... 7–100
MPRX Repair ........................................................ 7–103
Technical Support .................................................... 7–103
Chapter8 AT5720 Check Tag-to-MPRX ...............8–104
Required Supplies ....................................................8–104
To assemble the kit for two check tags...................................8–104
AppendixAGlossary.................................A–106
AppendixBTechnical Specifications ....................B–111
Reader Specifications ..................................................B–111
AppendixC Wiring Information ....................... C–114
Communications Interfaces ............................................ C–114
AppendixDCommand Quick Reference ................ D–116
Command Syntax .................................................... D–116
Factory Default Settings ............................................... D–116
Numerical Command List ...............................................D–117
Alphabetical Command List............................................D–124
AppendixE Compatible Tag Information ............... E–134
Tag Configurations ................................................... E–134
Tag Data Formats..................................................... E–135

MPRX User Guide
xiv
List of Figures
Figure 1 MPRX End Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–18
Figure 2 MPRX Communication Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–19
Figure 3 Pin Designations for Host Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1–20
Figure 4 Socket Designations for Sense Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–21
Figure 5 Socket Assignments for Ethernet Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1–22
Figure 6 Wiring for Audible Circuit Tester for Onboard MPRX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–25
Figure 7 Wiring for Audible Circuit Tester for Wayside MPRX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–26
Figure 8 Connect RF N-type Load or Attenuator to Reader Cable End . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–27
Figure 9 Short Load to Earth Ground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–27
Figure 10 MPRX Showing Antenna Ports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–28
Figure 11 Location of MPRX Ground Stud. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–29
Figure 12 Location of Host/Sense Ports on MPRX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–30
Figure 13 Stand-alone DeviceInstaller Link. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–34
Figure 14 DeviceInstaller Start Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–34
Figure 15 Connecting Directly to Computer Ethernet Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–34
Figure 16 Multiple NIC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–35
Figure 17 Adapter Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–35
Figure 18 Check for Updates Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–35
Figure 19 Disable Firewall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–36
Figure 20 LanTronix DeviceInstaller Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–36
Figure 21 Xport Direct+ Device Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–37
Figure 22 Tag and Antenna Orientation (horizontal polarization) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6–90
Figure 23 MPRX RF Control Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6–94
Figure 24 Sense CTAG Pinouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8–104
Figure 25 MPRX Exterior Case Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B–112
Figure 26 MPRX End Panel Dimensions with Antenna Ports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B–113
Figure 27 MPRX End Panel Dimensions with Communication Connectors . . . . . . . . . . B–113

xv
List of Tables
Table 1 Connector Cabling Accessory Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–18
Table 2 Power Supply Current Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–19
Table 3 Recommended Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1–22
Table 4 Pretest Accessory Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–24
Table 5 Pretest Accessory Options Available From Third Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–24
Table 6 Pin Assignments for Host Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–30
Table 7 Socket Assignments for Sense Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2–31
Table 8 Inrush and Steady State Currents for MPRX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–31
Table 9 Antenna Mux Channel Identification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–33
Table 10 Four-Character Command Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3–38
Table 11 Sample Command Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–39
Table 12 Select Baud Rate Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–59
Table 13 Select Stop Bits Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–60
Table 14 Select Parity Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–60
Table 15 Append Time and Date Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–62
Table 16 Append Auxiliary Information Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–62
Table 17 Unique ID Code Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–63
Table 18 Select Valid Code Commands and Frames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–64
Table 19 Software Flow Control Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–75
Table 20 RF Control Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–76
Table 21 RF Attenuation CommandVariables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–77
Table 22 Presence Without Tag Report Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–78
Table 23 RF Control Algorithm Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–79
Table 24 Timeout Period Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–79

MPRX User Guide
xvi
Table 25 Input Inversion Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5–80
Table 26 MPRX Default Configuration Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6–86
Table 27 Command Sequence to Verify Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6–89
Table 28 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7–100
Table 29 Symptoms and Remedies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–101
Table 30 Check Tag 0 Wire Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8–104
Table 31 Check Tag 1 Wire Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8–105
Table 32 MPRX Host Communications Cable Pin Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C–114
Table 33 Communications Interfaces and Conductor Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C–114
Table 34 MPRX SENSE Communications Cable Pin Designations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C–115
Table 35 Ethernet Pin Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C–115
Table 36 MPRX Default Configuration Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D–116
Table 37 MPRX Commands Listed Numerically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D–118
Table 38 MPRX Commands Listed Alphabetically. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D–124
Table 39 RF Frequency Commands – FCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D–131
Table 40 RF Frequency Commands Non- FCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D–133
Table 41 SeGo Protocol Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E–134
Table 42 AAR-formatted Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E–136

Chapter 1 System Overview
TransCore Proprietary 1–17
Chapter1 System Overview
System Description
The MPRX is a reader that supports Association of American Railroads (AAR) formatted tags and
TransCore’s high-performance Super eGo® (SeGo) radio frequency identification (RFID) technology.
The MPRX is a high-power unit that reads both full frame and half frame tags. The reader output power can
be adjusted using reader commands.
The MPRX 10-7200-001 and 10-7210-001 can multiplex up to four antennas, which allows a single reader
to be used for two tracks. The MPRX can support up to two AT5720 Check Tags. Model 10-7200-001
for onboard applications can be powered with a wide range DC input voltage +12-110 VDC (+24-110 VDC
EN50155). Model 10-7210-001 for wayside applications can be powered with a wide range DC input
voltage (+12-110 VDC).
The MPRX 10-7200-002 and 10-7210-002 are single port readers that have no multiplexing capabilities.
For the Onboard MPRX, the customer will need to supply their own voltage for tag lock (dry contact) with
external voltage for tag lock relay. The wayside MPRX requires 5V for tag lock.
Onboard MPRX +12-110 VDC (+24-110 VDC EN50155)
• Single Port: 10-7200-002
• Four Port: 10-7200-001
Wayside MPRX +12-110 VDC
• Single Port: 10-7210-002
• Four Port: 10-7210-001
Operational Modes
The MPRX reader can operate in several modes, depending on the application. All modes are read-only.
ATA: This mode is compatible with AAR rail tags, and many toll and access control tags. It is particularly
useful where the tag population is under extreme control, allowing only one tag in the antenna field at a
time, such as the rail environment.
SeGo: This mode has applications mainly in the toll and access control environment.
The operational mode of the reader is limited by the firmware load, and also by enabling or disabling the
modes using the appropriate #4NN commands, as defined in “Chapter 5 Commands” on page 5–56.

MPRX User Guide
TransCore Proprietary
1–18
Reader
The MPRX consists of an input/output (I/O) module, a power supply, a reader logic board (also called a tag
decoder), and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter/ receiver (called the RF module) in a compact enclosure.
These components are contained in a highly reliable, compact, and easy-to-install package. Figure 1
shows the four port version of the MPRX. The host connector, sense connector, Ethernet connector, and
interface selection switch are on the opposite end of the MPRX from the four antenna port locations.
Power and Communications Cables
Cable length for power and communications depends on the physical characteristics of the MPRX
installation site. Table 1 lists accessory kits available for cabling options based on your site’s requirements.
Table 1 Connector Cabling Accessory Kits
Part Number Description
58-7200-001 MPRX host connector leads 0.15m (6in)
58-7200-002 MPRX host cable assembly 3m (120in)
58-7200-003 MPRX host cable assembly 5m (200in)
58-7200-004 MPRX host cable assembly 10m (400in)
58-7201-001 MPRX sense connector leads 0.15m (6in)
58-7201-002 MPRX sense cable assembly 3m (120in)
58-7201-003 MPRX sense cable assembly 5m (200in)
58-7201-004 MPRX sense cable assembly 10m (400in)
Figure 1 MPRX End Views

Chapter 1 System Overview
TransCore Proprietary 1–19
Electrical Power
The MPRX accepts 12-110 VDC. Consult your local and national electrical codes for installation and safety
requirements.
It is the installer’s responsibility to supply conversion equipment and wiring. Table 2 contains power supply
current requirements.
Power circuits are protected internally against powersurges (±30%).
Table 2 Power Supply Current Requirements
Input Voltage (VDC) Power (W)
12 28.7
110 27.4
Host Communications
The MPRX communicates through an asynchronous RS–232, RS–422, or Ethernet interface. Figure 2
shows the MPRX communications ports. Figure 3 shows the host connector pin designations.
Figure 2 MPRX Communication Ports

MPRX User Guide
TransCore Proprietary
1–20
The standard RS–232/RS–422/Ethernet connection maximum distance depends on the baud rate, cable
type, and the receiving device at the other end.
Pin Number Operation
1 RS232_TX
2RS232_RX
3LOCK (No Connect on wayside MPRX)*
4LOCK_RTN
5RS422_TX+
6RS422_TX–
7 RS422_RX+
8RS422_RX–
9COM_GND (RS232 GND)
10 COM_GND (RS422 GND)
11 +V In
12 +V Return
* +5V on Wayside MPRX.
Figure 3 Pin Designations for Host Connector