RFID Readers and Antennas

Industrial RFID systems read passive or active tags to identify pallets, tools, fixtures, and work-in-progress assemblies. Enicstra stocks readers, antennas, and tags from Balluff, SICK, Pepperl+Fuchs, Phoenix Contact, Turck, and similar manufacturers covering HF (13.56 MHz), UHF (860–960 MHz), and LF (125 kHz) frequency bands.

Inventory includes Balluff BIS read/write heads, SICK RFA/RFU UHF readers, Pepperl+Fuchs IDENTControl, Phoenix Contact RFID, and Turck industrial RFID — covering both current production and obsolete models. Antennas in directional and omnidirectional patterns; tag formats from low-profile sticker to ruggedized industrial enclosure. Every device is bench-tested with the standard 12-month functional warranty.

RFID equipment must be matched on frequency, protocol, and communication interface (IO-Link, Ethernet, Profinet) to work with your control system. Send the OEM part number plus the protocol you're using; most quotes reply within 1–2 business days.

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RFID Readers and Antennas

Pepperl+Fuchs IC-KP2-2HB17-2V1D RFID Controller Evaluation Unit

MFR #: IC-KP2-2HB17-2V1D

$1,042.38/ea ✓ In Stock

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Buying guide

Choosing RFID Readers and Antennas components

RFID system selection is governed by three things — frequency band (LF, HF, UHF), read range required, and the communication interface to your control system. Tags from one frequency band cannot be read by readers from another, so the choice cascades through the entire system.

Specifications to confirm before ordering:

Frequency band — LF (125 kHz), HF (13.56 MHz), or UHF (860–960 MHz)
Read range required (proximity at the reader vs meters away)
Tag type — passive or active, sticker or industrial enclosure
Memory size and read/write requirement
Reader communication — IO-Link, Ethernet/IP, Profinet, RS-485, USB
Antenna pattern — directional, omnidirectional, or specific shape for the application
Environmental rating for both reader/antenna and tag
Anti-collision capability (multi-tag reading)

Application guidance by frequency:

LF (125 kHz): short-range applications, robust against liquids and metals, slower data rates
HF (13.56 MHz): common for tool ID, access control, work-piece tracking; reads to ~10 cm
UHF (860–960 MHz): longer range (meters) for pallet/tote tracking; affected by metal and liquids

Common industrial uses:

Tool ID at the machine spindle: HF reader at the tool changer, HF tag in each tool holder
Pallet tracking in conveyor systems: UHF reader at gates, UHF tag on the pallet
Fixture identification: HF reader at the station, HF tag in the fixture
Maintenance check-in: handheld HF reader, tag on the equipment

UHF performance varies significantly with the materials in the environment — metals reflect, liquids absorb. Plan to test antenna placement and tag orientation before committing to a layout.

Related categories Frequently asked questions

Can you supply Balluff BIS or Pepperl+Fuchs IDENTControl RFID heads?

Yes. Legacy BIS-C, BIS-L, and IDENTControl product lines are common requests. Many remain in service on installed assembly and tool ID systems. Send the head and processor part numbers for availability.

HF or UHF — which do I need?

HF (13.56 MHz) is the standard for tool ID and work-piece tracking with read ranges of a few centimeters. UHF (860–960 MHz) is for pallet/tote tracking with read ranges in meters. The choice usually follows from the existing tag standard in your facility.

Can I use any tag with any reader?

No — tags and readers must share the same frequency band and protocol. Even within HF, ISO 14443 and ISO 15693 tags use different protocols. Specify the tag and reader as a matched set, and verify the existing tag protocol before ordering replacement readers.

Are tags included with readers?

Usually not. Tags are sold separately because the quantity and form factor depend on the application. We stock tags from the same manufacturers as the readers — confirm compatibility on the product page or with a quote.

Are RFID products new, surplus, or used?

Most stock is new-old-stock — unused, often in original packaging. Some legacy readers come from tested system removals. Each product page lists condition where known.