Is there a kit on the market that is independent of a PC, is battery-powered, has a 4- to 6-foot range, and can beep when a tag is detected?
—Name withheld
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I am unaware of a specific kit available. 3M and other firms have developed high-frequency (HF) readers that can plug into a computer’s USB port, but these are designed to have a short read range (approximately 3 feet). Tagsense, ThingMagic and other companies offer ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) readers that plug into the USB port.
The only solution I know of that might meet your needs is Motorola‘s 3090-Z handheld interrogator, which has a demo application enabling you to enter a serial number and find the tag with that specific number. The device beeps more frequently as you get closer to the tag. The list price is $3,385. You can purchase such units from Motorola’s resellers. To find a reseller in your area, use the Motorola Partner Reseller tool on the company’s Web site.
—Mark Roberti, Editor, RFID Journal