CRYPTAG CENSUS, Instructions Manual

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2. READER LOCATION
The range of the ELC1 is such that some care is needed in selecting the reader’s location.
A Do not locate an ELC1 reader near another reader. If tags can pick up signals from two or more
readers, they respond to neither. The separation should be about 1.5 times the sum of their
ranges. For the ELC1 reader the reading range is normally well over 1 metre (3.3 ft), so two
ELC1 readers should be kept at least 3 metres (10 ft) apart.
If there are readers from other manufacturers there may be an interaction. If the other reader
uses frequencies similar to those used by Cryptag Census the safe distance may be more than
expected. (This is because Cryptags are more sensitive than most tags.)
B ELC1 readers should not be mounted directly on to a metal surface. Not only will the reading
range be severely affected, but also the current consumption will rise. (In extreme cases there is
a danger that the reader may cut out temporarily.)
It is safe to mount on metal using the spacer provided but reading range will be affected.
The reader can be mounted on metal backboxes 75mm square (such as are used for standard
electrical fittings). It is better to use plastic backboxes, as the metal backbox has a small effect
on range.
Take care not to over-tighten backbox attachment screw/bolts.
C Interference. The reading range may be affected if the ELC1 is mounted close to a computer
monitor, or other sources of interference. (The effect on reading range will vary with the
monitor’s scan frequency.)
D ELC1 readers can be mounted on glass or other flat surfaces using the spacer provided.
The ELC1’s reading range is such that a Site Survey is desirable. Using the MS3 Test/Tune meter, the
reading range will only be affected significantly if the MS3, with the probe attached, shows that the
reading range is reduced below 1 metre.
ELC1 Label readers are designed so that they can be mounted directly on to a door. The reader’s
dimensions match those of commonly used labels (signs), and the reader’s low profile and bevelled edges
mean that it can be mounted unobtrusively. Using the spacer supplied, the reader can be mounted on
other surfaces.
In general the reader is best mounted in the centre of a door, or towards the handle. This maximises the
probability of the tagholder being detected before reaching the door. The reader can be mounted on either
side of the door. Check that no problems will arise from tags being read behind the reader or to the side.
(The reading zone is almost spherical.)
When tags are being carried by people, the best height should be selected with regard to the way in which
tags will be read.. The best height is generally where tags will naturally be presented face on to the reader
(except TC3). The reader should be within reach of people in wheelchairs.
ELC1 readers have LEDs fitted, but in some cases they will be covered by the label (sign).
The ELC1 requires a hole to be drilled in the surface on which it is to be mounted. This hole should be
45mm (1.75 inch) diameter, and have a depth of at least 10mm). If the reader is to be mounted on a fire
door, make sure that the door’s integrity is maintained.
If the reader is to be mounted in an outdoor location, you should use a suitable version of the reader.