Basic Assembly
In this section we'll cover the two ways to set up the Simultaneous RFID Reader - M7E over both USB-C and connected to a microcontroller for use with the SparkFun Simultaneous RFID Reader Arduino Library.
Communicating via USB-C Serial
The fastest and easiest way to start using the board is through the USB-C connector. Simply plug the board into a computer with a USB-C cable and open up the Universal Reader Assistant.
Reminder, many computer USB ports can only supply ~500mA @5V which limits the power level settings to roughly 20dBm and lower. Running the M7E at higher power levels may require a dedicated power supply.
Communicating via Serial PTH Header
Users who prefer to communicate with the RFID reader using the Serial PTH header should solder either wires or header pins to connect them to a 3.3V microcontroller (you can also use this to connect to a USB UART board like the Serial Basic. If you are not familiar with through-hole soldering or would like a refresher, take a read through this tutorial.
We'll demonstrate soldering male headers to the board and use jumper wires to connect the RFID Reader to the SparkFun RedBoard Artemis for use with the SparkFun Simultaneous RFID Tag Reader Arduino Library.
| RFID Reader | RedBoard Artemis |
|---|---|
| RX | TX / D2 |
| TX | RX / D3 |
| VIN | 5V |
| Ground | Ground |
Digital Pin Selections
Digital pin values are the default selections for Software Serial in the Simulataneous RFID Reader Arduino Library and may be incompatible with your selected microcontroller. Refer to the Arduino Software Serial Reference for pin limitations for common microcontrollers.
Power Supply Considerations
When connecting the Simultaneous RFID Reader - M7E to a microcontroller, make sure your power supply can source sufficient current for your selected power level as the board can draw up to 720mA @5V at max read power level. The M7E's internal voltage regulator includes built-in protection that engages when the current draw reaches 1A and will not allow any more supply current to the module. As such, it is strongly recommended to use a 5V power supply when setting the read power to above +26 dBm.
If you opt to power the RFID Reader from your development board's output voltage we recommend using the 5V out (if applicable) and then powering your development board through a dedicated power supply to avoid browning the circuit out as USB ports can only source ~500mA@5V. The image below shows the Simultaneous RFID Reader - M7E connected to the RedBoard IoT and powered with a dedicated power supply through the barrel jack.