SparkFun Simultaneous RFID Reader - M7E Hecto

The SparkFun M7E Hecto Simultaneous RFID Reader simplifies reading UHF RFID tags (EPCglobal Gen 2) with its powerful M7E-HECTO module by JADAK©. This improved version builds upon the popular M6E reader by offering easier connectivity and enhanced features.

The M7E Hecto boasts high performance, reading tags at an impressive rate of up to 300 tags per second and writing at 80 milliseconds. It provides adjustable power output ranging from 0dBm to 27dBm. A suitable external antenna (sold separately) enables reading tags from distances up to 16 feet (4.9 meters). The on-board antenna offers a read range of one to two feet. Range performance depends on a wide variety of parameters so range results may vary.

For a solder-free setup, the reader connects directly to a computer via USB-C, allowing you to read tags immediately. This is thanks to the built-in CH340C converter. The reader also offers flexibility in power options. You can choose between USB-C or a 0.1in.-header for connecting to an external 3.3V source or microcontroller of your choice. A convenient switch on the board lets you effortlessly switch between these interfaces.

Warning: Ensure that personnel do not stand in the radiation beam of the antenna unless they are more than 21cm away from the face of the antenna (to adhere to FCC limits for long-term exposure). See Datasheet for more information.

  • M7E Hecto UHF RAIN® RFID Reader
  • EPCglobal Gen 2 (ISO 18000-6C) with nominal backscatter rate of 250kbps
  • Separate read and write power levels, command adjustable from 0dBm to 27dBm in 0.01 dB steps
  • Up to 300 tags/sec to read 96-bit EPC
  • 80msec typical for standard write of 96-bit EPC
  • Supply Voltage: 3.3V-5V
  • Supply Current: 1A Max
    • Internal current limiting circuit
  • Power Mode Consumption (@5V):
    • Full: 0.665W
    • Minsave: 0.140W
    • Sleep: 0.080W
  • Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 60°C
    • Built-in thermal-management
  • Serial Interfaces:
    • USB-C Connector
    • 0.1"-Spaced PTH Header (3.3V logic)
  • 2-way Switch for Serial Interface Selection
  • Enable & GPIO PTH Pins
  • Antenna Options
    • Integrated PCB Trace Antenna (Default)
    • u.FL Connector for External Antenna Connection

SparkFun Simultaneous RFID Reader - M7E Hecto Product Help and Resources

Core Skill: Programming

If a board needs code or communicates somehow, you're going to need to know how to program or interface with it. The programming skill is all about communication and code.

3 Programming

Skill Level: Competent - The toolchain for programming is a bit more complex and will examples may not be explicitly provided for you. You will be required to have a fundamental knowledge of programming and be required to provide your own code. You may need to modify existing libraries or code to work with your specific hardware. Sensor and hardware interfaces will be SPI or I2C.
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Core Skill: Electrical Prototyping

If it requires power, you need to know how much, what all the pins do, and how to hook it up. You may need to reference datasheets, schematics, and know the ins and outs of electronics.

3 Electrical Prototyping

Skill Level: Competent - You will be required to reference a datasheet or schematic to know how to use a component. Your knowledge of a datasheet will only require basic features like power requirements, pinouts, or communications type. Also, you may need a power supply that?s greater than 12V or more than 1A worth of current.
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