The orientation of the reader antenna to the reader antenna to the implant affects the range and ability to
read. In order to get a good read, the implant must either be:
i) Parallel to the reader antenna (Orientation A) or,
ii) Pointing at the corner of the reader antenna (Orientation B)
So, referring to Fig.4 above, this behavior is a result of the intrinsic nature of underlying technology.
Therefore good reading technique is important in getting reliable reading performance.
3.3 Interference from RF Sources
The Hero Identity Tag Reader senses minute variations in electromagnetic fields in order to read ID
signals from the Identity Tags.
Unfortunately, there are many sources of electromagnetic radiation which can interfere with the signals
from the ID tags and thereby decrease the sensitivity of the reader. This results in reduced reading
distance. Known sources of interference include the following: Computer CRT screens, TV sets, some
kids of switching power supplies, some kids of large motors.
Reader sensitivity to any kind of interference sources is highly dependent on the proximity to the
interference source and sometimes to the angle of orientation between the reader and the interference
source.
If you are using the reader, and the LOW BATTERY indicator is not on, but you are experiencing a
marked decrease in reading distance, then the reader is probably being affected by electromagnetic
interference. To improve the situation, try changing the location or orientation of the reader. You will be
able to tell what the offending interference source is, since most electromagnetic interference fields only
extend few feet from their source.
3.4 Operating near metal objects
Metal objects (especially ferrous metals) absorb electromagnetic fields. Operating either the Identity Tag
Reader or placing the Identity Tag too close to metal objects can severely limit the range of operation of
the system.
If you are experiencing reduced operation range from your system, check for metal table tops, doors, etc.
in close proximity (a few inches) to any part of the tag-reader environment. Although interference due to
electromagnetic absorption is a real possibility, it is often limited for reading problems. The system will
work in the vicinity of large metal objects because the effects referred to here occur only in very close
proximity to the reader and Identity Tag, for example, placing a bare implant directly on a metal table and
attempting to read it.
3.5 Power-off
Remember to power-off the reader after use when operating with batteries. The reader uses a small
amount of power when it is ON, even when not reading. This will eventually
drain the batteries.
Do not leave the reader ON for extended periods of time when you are not reading ID tags. When you do
not intend to use the Hero Identity Tag Reader for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to
prevent possible damage to the unit from battery leakage. Store the reader and batteries in a dry place
protected from sunlight, high heat and high humidity.
