System Integration FAQs

Does the system support Power over Ethernet (PoE) for the RFID infrastructure components?

Yes, the system supports PoE deployments to its infrastructure components currently by using PoE splitters for both networked and non-networked RFID infrastructure devices.

Can The Argus platform integrate directly to my ERP?*

Yes, Argus was designed to allow system integrators to integrate directly to ERP systems.

How long does it take to integrate the Argus platform to my third party application?

Guard RFID provides a software development (SDK) kit to qualified system integration firms. We created a TestApp to assist with integration. A typical integration can take as little as one day. Engineering support is included with the package.

Hardware FAQs

What frequency does your active rfid equipment operate at?

We operate at 433MHz.

What is an Exciter?

The GuardRFID Exciter creates a low frequency security field, typically around a door or portal. The field can be sized from 2 – 18 feet depending on the door/portal to be protected. When a prohibited tag enters the field – an event triggers in the Argus platform. Since the local Tag Reader/Controller stores unique IDs, this event is instant and redundant – providing a secure perimeter.

What if I need to get around the RF Exciter field?

We designed in a ByPass for those unusual situations. The ByPass can be programmed to recognize a ‘door open’ event as well.

Is the Argus platform a piece of hardware or software?

Yes and Yes, Argus is a combination of RF hardware and software with data management that creates a flexible active rfid platform to achieve the goals of most active RFID installations.

Can I add electronic key entry and CCTV IP Video to my active RFID system?

Yes, the Argus platform was designed to accept a variety of peripheral devices to optimize your system work for your unique environment.

Tag FAQs

What are the dimensions of your smallest RF tag?

Our small form factor active rfid tags are 1.1” in diameter and range from 0.33” to .48” in thickness.

Why are GuardRFID active RF tags faster than comparable products?

We designed our active rfid Argus platform with a high speed wireless tag-to-system link, and with algorithms and database techniques that permit fast data throughput.

What is your tag population density?

Tag population density is how many tags can be accurately supported within range of one reader. It can be measured in many ways. We achieve a population density measured in thousands per Reader, though this can be affected by multiple factors like how often you can move tags. Our system is designed to be fast, accurate and reliable.

How do you achieve such a high active RF tag density?

Our active rfid Argus platform manages the throughput. Tag density is a function of the beacon rate, speed and locating algorithm. If the client requires high tag density, we configure the system to allow the density required.

How are your active RF tags attached to assets?

All of our small form factor active tags are designed to be either mounted using an adhesive “peel and stick” label at the back of the Tag, or by employing GuardRFID’s patented tag mounting mechanism. The tag mount enables the Article Tags to be mounted on round and cylindrical surfaces, such as poles and power cables. Larger tags can be mounted with zapstraps, or magnets.

What is the GuardRFID active tag battery life?*

Battery life depends on required beacon rate specified for the application, the power draw of features and the environment – for example, a tag on perishable foodstuffs can be designed with a short battery life since the tag may only be used once. Or if you have slow moving inventory, without densely placed items, a motion sensor might be more appropriate to trigger a beacon. Tha battery life of our longest lasting tag is measured in years.

Software FAQs

What server O/S (Operating System) platforms does GuardRFID currently support?

Currently the RFID system is deployed on Microsoft Server 2003 and is a supported environment. It is not currently supported on SuSE Linux or Redhat Linux.

How often are updates to the RF software, antivirus, and OS done?

Software – as per our software release strategy (Major, Minor, Maintenance releases).
Major releases are typically 1 per year, minor releases are once per quarter, and maintenance releases are as required. Anti-virus and OS, as per hospital or industrial IT policy.