Validate RFID Tags with Real-Time Reader Emulation
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Perform real-time baseband processing with the NI PCI-5640R IF transceiver.
At first glance, the enabling technology of radio frequency identification (RFID) systems seems simple. However, the combination of emerging protocols and requirements for multivendor interoperability produces a significant test challenge.
One growing technique for protocol conformance test is RFID reader emulation. In many instances, this approach has several benefits because current RFID standards allow for significant flexibility. For example, according to the ISO 18000-6 type C protocol, an RFID tag reader can send data at a variety of symbol data rates. In fact, the period to transmit a binary “zero” symbol, called “Tari” (type A reference interval), can range from 6.25 to 25 μs. Thus, adequate tag testing requires a test system to emulate a broad range of RFID readers. In this scenario, the test system sweeps across the full range of Tari values while validating the tag response.
Real-time baseband processing is required for RFID reader emulation and is impossible with traditional instrumentation. Fortunately, FPGA-based software-defined instruments provide a unique and innovative solution. In this scenario, both generation and analysis are linked with an FPGA baseband processing engine, as shown in the figure.
Using the FPGA-based NI PCI-5640R IF transceiver, the RFID test system can simulate an entire inventory round using custom values for parameters such as Tari, link timing, and modulation depth.
This article first appeared in the Q1 2008 issue of Instrumentation Newsletter.
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