Positioning the Tag and Reader for Processing
The TagMate USB
®
was designed for optimal reading of tags that are positioned
under the reader face that is opposite the LED, aligned with the backside label, and
in a parallel relationship to the reader. A read range of 2-4 inches is possible by this
method, allowing tags to be read through the wall of an insulated container.
In many cases, however, and especially for hands-free operation under AC line
power, ergonomic considerations are more important than read distance. The
figures below illustrate two alternative positions for reading tags with a TagMate
USB
®
.
The first configuration is optimal for desktop operations, and does not obscure the
LED. The second configuration, an “end-on” read mode, may be optimal for
processing tags that are hard to reach, since the reader may be extended farther
and more ergonomically to reach the tag. For end-on reading, positioning of the tag
so that about half of it extends above the upper surface of the reader, as shown
above, will give better results than completely centering the tag on the end of the
reader.
Notes:
The TagMate USB
®
will not be able to read tags as shown above if the reader is directly on
a metallic surface. Many desktops have metallic underlayers, even though the surface
does not appear so. If a possible problem of this type is encountered, try raising the
reader off the surface by ½ inch or more (e.g. place it on a book).
TagMateUSB Aug 11, 2009
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