Rugged multi-tag UHF RFID and bar code reader
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

Unitech America is a subsidiary of Taiwanese automatic data collection specialist Unitech, founded in 1979. The RH767 is a Windows CE 5.0-based multi-tag HF or UHF RFID and bar code reader. It can read both EPC Gen 1 and Gen 2 RFID tags and comes with embedded RFID middleware for easy integration. Like the Unitech PA966 with which it shares the design and most tech specs, the RH767 uses the older 400MHz Marvell PXA255 processor.

The integrated 1D laser bar code scanner reads UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, EAN 128, Codabar, Code 11, Code 32, Code 39, Code 39 full ASCII, Code 39 standard, Code 93, Code 128, Delta Code, Interleaved 2 of 5, MSI Plessey, Standard 2 of 5, and Toshiba Code. The 13.56Hz HF RFID reader is for short reading distances (up to five inches) whereas the UHF reader model reads tags up to six feet away. The unit has USB and infrared, and both a PC Card and a CF card slot for expansion.

The Unitech RH767's most prominent feature is its large reader handle that also contains a very powerful 37 watt-hour battery that provides up to 20 hours of operation. Like the Unitech PA966/967, the RH767 has a 36-key keypad that includes numeric, alpha and function keys. Though it looks like a QWERTY Blackberry-style keyboard, the keys are actually arranged alphabetically. There is also a 4-way navigation pad, and Esc and Enter keys. A special alpha key lets users easily toggle between input types.

The Rh767 weighs about a pound and a half. It has 64MB of RAM and 64MB of Flash ROM. The backlit touchscreen display has the standard 240 x 320 resolution. The device carries an IP55 ingress protection rating, can handle 4-foot drops, and operate in a 23 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit temperature range.

This Unitech terminal is designed for integration into supply chain management in retail operations, industrial manufacturing and logistic applications, or wherever else RFID reading is needed.