RFID IND Modbus

Overview

Purpose of the device

RFID IND Modbus is an industrial tag reader, equipped with a robust IP65 enclosure, offering protection from dust and water. The built-in RS485 module enables problem-free communication with the master device, to which the codes read from RFID cards will be sent.

Additionally, thanks to the Modbus RTU protocol, the user has control over two relays that can be used to control various devices, and over two digital inputs that can be used to monitor the status of other devices. The device configuration is done via USB.

Changelog

1.0 31st of March 2025

• Firmware revision v1.34

Device construction

Technical characteristics

Because of different installation needs, the device does not have any mounting openings in the enclosure. Openings should be made by the customer anywhere in the rear section of the housing - this does not void warranty. Remember to use a proper cable gland in order to maintain the declared ingress protection.

Dimensions

Connectors description

• USB – Used for device configuration,
• OUT1, OUT2 – Relays 1 and 2 contacts,
• IN1, IN2 – General purpose inputs 1 and 2,
• 12-24VDC – Power input,
• RS485 – Modbus connector,
• Boot/Rst – Shorting the pins before applying power will cause the module to enter the bootloader mode.

Connecting inputs

Outputs OUT1 and OUT2 can operate in two modes:

• PWR mode – Configuration jumpers set in position 2-3 (as shown in the image below). In this mode, an activated relay will provide the output with the power supply voltage eg. 12V DC. If the reader is powered with 24V DC, 24V DC will be provided.

• Normally Open mode – Jumpers set in position 1-2 (as shown in the image below). In this mode an external power source is necessary.

Signalling

The device is equipped with 3 LED indicators that inform the user about the module's state and with a sound generator that informs about tag application.
The LED can be disabled or set to respond to a tag.
The buzzer can be disabled or set to generate a signal after a tag is read.

IMPORTANT – Determining the device version

Module version v1

Module version v2

v1 device configuration

To configure the device, use the Inveo RFID M1 / U1 Configurator software, which allows you to define the basic functions of the device. The program can be downloaded from https://inveo.com.pl/software.

After installing the RFID M1 / U1 Configurator configuration program and starting it, connect the USB cable to the computer and the module (in this case, the external power supply of the module is not required – the device is powered via the USB port).

The first line of the programme window displays information about the version of the configuration program – PC version, reader software version – RFID Software and reader hardware version – RFID Hardware.

It also informs the user whether that the reader is connected or disconnected to/from the PC.

Outputs

The reader is equipped with 2 relay outputs. Each output can be programmed individually.

• Mode – Output mode. The following options are available:
  • Disable – Output control is disabled,
  • Bistable – The relay has only one determined status (active or inactive),
  • Astable – The relay is activated and deactivated with defined time periods (Time On and Time Off),
  • Time – Output single trigger mode, the output is activated for the defined time (Time on) after the specified time passes (Time off).
• Time On – Time defining how long the relay will be active (Used in Toggle and One-pulse modes),
• Time Off – Time defining how long the relay will be inactive (Used in Toggle and One-pulse modes),
• Active Relay on Card – Activates the relay after a card is applied and read by the reader,
• State – Displays the current relay state (yellow - activated, black - deactivated) and gives the user the option to activate it manually.

Inputs

State INPUT 1 and State INPUT 2 display the current input state. When the rectangle is yellow, the input is active. A black rectangle indicates that the input is inactive.

LED and sound signal

The software allows the user to customize visual and sound signaling.

For the buzzer and LED's, two options can be selected:

• OFF – Buzzer/LED off,
• ON – Sound a signal/glow when a tag is read.

Continuous Read Mode

Using Continuous Read Mode makes reading the same tag possible only after the defined time passes. Other tags are read instantly. This prevents the situation where the same card is accidentally read multiple times. The delay time is specified in 0,1s units.

RS485 communication settings

• Mode – 9th transmission bit settings:
  • None,
  • Even,
  • Odd.
• BaudRate – Transmission speed selection field (1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200),
• Device address.

Card Serial Number – The field displays the last RFID transponder code read and the type of card.

v2 device configuration

RFID IND Modbus readers with v2 hardware are supported by the Inveo RFID Config programme. V1 devices should be configured with the RFID U1 M1 Config software. To determine the hardware revision of your device, read the Determining the module version chapter.

After installing and running the configuration programme, connect an USB cable between the PC and the module (external power is not required in this case - the device is powered via USB).

Modbus

The Modbus tab enables the user to configure the RS485 communication and assign parameters of the module's outputs.

RS485 communication settings

• PDU – Device's modbus address,
• BaudRate – Transmission speed selection field (1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200),
• Parity – 9th transmission bit settings:
  • None,
  • Even,
  • Odd.

Continuous reading

The device allows definition of a tag read delay.

Using Continuous Read Mode makes reading the same tag possible only after the defined time passes. Other tags are read instantly. This prevents the situation where the same card is accidentally read multiple times. The delay time is specified in 0,1s units.

Outputs

The reader is equipped with 2 relay outputs. Each output can be programmed individually.

• Mode – Output mode. The following options are available:
  • Disable – Output control is disabled,
  • Bistable,
  • Toggle – The relay is activated and deactivated with defined time periods (Time On and Time Off**)
  • One-pulse – Output single trigger mode, the output is activated for the defined time (Time on) after the specified time passes (Time off),
• Time On – Time defining how long the relay will be active (Used in Toggle and One-pulse modes),
• Time Off – Time defining how long the relay will be inactive (Used in Toggle and One-pulse modes),
• Auto activate – Select action that will trigger the output:
  • on read – Output will be triggered after a card is applied to the reader,
  • on card – Output will be triggered if the card remains in the read field.

LED's and sound

The Inveo RFID Config programme enables simple configuration of visual and sound signalling. All you have to do is to go to the LED & Buzzer tab and select the appropriate settings.

For the buzzer, two options can be selected:

• OFF – Buzzer off,
• ON READ – Sound a signal when a tag is read.

The user can configure the LED's according to his needs. Each LED can be configured in 4 ways:

• ON – The LED glows constantly when power is connected,
• OFF – LED disabled,
• ON READ – The LED signals a successful tag read,
• IN FIELD – The LED signals that a tag has been applied and glows when it is in range of the module.

Main tab – Only in special versions

In the programme's bottom secion, the current USB port (to which the device is connected) status and basic reader information should be displayed:

• PC version – PC application version,
• RFID Hardware – RFID reader hardware version,
• RFID Software – RFID reader software version.

If the reader was detected by the programme, configuration can begin.

The USB mode mode of operation should be selected first. Available options:

• USB Keyboard emulator – Standard keyboard emulation (HID),
• Virtual Com Port – Virtual COM port communication (CDC),
• WebUSB Api – Communication via a web page.

Keybord emulation mode

In keyboard emulation mode, the reader behaves like a standard USB keyboard. After an RFID tag is applied, its number is stored in the space selected by the cursor in an appropriate format.

Virtual CDC serial port mode

If the Virtual Com Port mode is selected, the reader sends the applied tag's UID number to a virtual serial port. In this mode both the sound and LED indicators can be controlled.

Sending the byte to the virtual com port causes a reaction:

Bit	Function	dec	hex	Description
0		1	1	LED 1
1		2	2	LED 2
2		4	4	LED 3
3		8	8	Continuous tone
4		16	10	Ascending tone
5		32	20	Descending tone
6	*	64	40	0 – Standard operating mode, the code is sent after a card is applied 1 – The code is sent by request only
7	**	128	80	1 – Card code send request

Number sending format

The next step is to set the format for sending the read card number.

The following output data formats are available:

• Binary – The card code bytes are sent in the binary format (applies to the Virtual Com Port mode),
• HEX LowerCase Letter – The tag code is sent in the hexadecimal format with lower case letters,
• HEX UpperCase Letter – The tag code is sent in the hexadecimal format with upper case letters,
• HEX UpperCase Letter Minus – The tag code is sent in the hexadecimal format with upper case letters, dashes separating the code bytes:

• Decimal – The tag is converted to decimal format:

• ASCII – Decoding of card data to the ASCII format (applies to Mifare tags). The string must end with a "0".
• Frame 1-Wire – DS2401 emulation.
• H10301

Prefix CDC – Is a string of numbers and letters sent before a tag is read in the virtual serial port mode.

Postfix CDC – Is a string of numbers and letters sent after a tag is read in the virtual serial port mode.

Prefix HID – Is a string of numbers and letters or special characters (Alt, Enter, key combination) sent before a tag is read in the keyboard emulation mode.

Postfix HID – Is a string of numbers and letters or special characters (Alt, Enter, key combination) sent after a tag is read in the keyboard emulation mode.

Key Interval – the delay between sent characters. This setting is used on slower devices such as tablets. If the device to which the reader is connected isn't fast enough to input the UID or characters defined in the Prefix/Postfix fields correctly (eg. doesn't input all characters), define a longer time delay between characters (Key Interval). The default value is 10.

Read Delay - Only new TAG – readout of the same tag is possible only after the defined time has passed, other tags are read immediately. This setting prevents the card from being read multiple times. The delay time is defined in x * 0,1s.

Read Delay - User Defined – User defined tag readout delay time. The delay time is defined in x * 0,1s.

To define a special character to be sent as a HID prefix or postfix, click Insert special char next to the appropriate position.

Using the virtual keyboard window, any key and character combination can be created.

First, the Prefix HID field should be filled with: "User logged in:"

In the Postfix HID field, "." should be inserted and an Enter key pressed on the virtual keyboard.

To confirm the settings, it's required to press the Upload data to RFID button.

Once this is done, every tag application will cause this string to display:
"User logged in: UIDnumber."

Under the Advanced tab, advanced code readout options are located.

The application allows modification of the read code in a wide range.
The following options are available:

Bit Negation – If selected, the read values are negated:

Swap Byte – Function enabling byte swap:

Swap Bit – Function causing the bit string to change:
Replacement of the first bit with the last one, the second bit with the second last one etc.

Begin (bit) – Number of the bit the reader begins the UID readout with.

End (bit) – Number of the bit the reader ends the readout operation with.

Input of a wrong value to the Begin / End (bit) field will result in a change to the entire tag value, because the bits of each byte will be shifted:

The UID code is in a 0-39 range. The user filled the fields as follows:
Begin (bit) = 1
End (bit) = 40
correct TAG: 04-00-1B-B7-BC → TAG read: 08-00-37-6F-78,

The entire tag (in bits) was shifted, that's why the value in bytes is completely different.

Align – Alignment of the read tag,

Auto Length – Automatic adjustment of the read code length.

Padding – Manual setting of the code value length. The value of 1 equals to one character.

Predefined – Predefined values for Begin (bit) and End (bit).

Use System Keyboard Layout – The system keyboard layout is taken into consideration when letters and numbers are inputted.

CDC Custom Serial – Optional number that can be read in the virtual COM port mode.

Modbus API

The device is designed to be controlled via the Modbus serial communication protocol.

Modbus API allows the user to:

• Read and write any block of the Mifare tag (only Mif version),
• Set the security (authorization) to write and read data to each Mifare block (only Mif version),
• Control signaling (LED, Buzzer),
• Check the process result.

Modbus addressing

Modbus is available via RS485 (Modbus RTU).
The device supports the following Modbus RTU functions:

• 0x01 Read Coils
• 0x03 Read Holding Register
• 0x05 Write Single Coil
• 0x06 Write Single Register
• 0x0F Write Multiple Coils
• 0x10 Write Multiple Registers

Holding Registers:

Single Coil:

The Coil 1016 register is queried the most often. If its value changes to 1, it means that a new tag has been read by the device. The Holding Registers 1002-1011 contain the tag ID.

After the ID has been read, the read flag should be reset (Coil 1016 or Holding Reg 1000) by sending „0”. Only then the readout of the next tag will be possible.

The output parameters can be modified using the Modbus protocol. The settings are not stored in the non-volatile memory of the module. After the device is restarted, the settings previously stored in the EEPROM using the configuration programme will be restored.

Mifare tag structure - only Mif version

The 1k Mifare tag structure is presented below. (source: NXP Semiconductor MF1S503x pdf):

The Mifare tag is equipped with a 1 kB EEPROM, divided into 16 blocks.

Manufacturer Data

The first block of the tag contains the manufacturer data, that is the UID number (often described as Card ID or Serial Number). It is assumed that this block is read-only, but cards that allow writing data to the first block do exist.

Data blocks

Each sector contains 3 data blocks (except for sector 0, containing only 2 blocks). Each block can store up to 16 bytes of data. Each data block can be configured using the access byte as a:

• Read/write block,
• Value block.

Sector Tralier

The Sector Trailer block is located at the end of each sector. It contains the access keys and data block configuration bits:

• Key A (required key),
• Key B (optional key).

Reading and writing

Precisely 16 bytes can be read or written to the tag at once. If the user wants to change 2 bytes of the tag without deleting the other bytes, it's required to read 16 bytes, change the 2 required and write all 16 bytes.

Memory buffer - Only Mif version

The reader is equipped with a built-in tag data memory. Two buffers (4kB each) are used: one for the read and one for the write operation. Access to the memory can be gained with Modbus Holding Registers.

The reader can operate in two memory addressing modes (reg MemoryMode):

• Full mode – Read and write memory is addressed exacly like the tag memory structure. To read the second byte of the first data block, read 18 and the Modbus Register buffer shift (1*16 + 2 = 18). Block 0 from the 15th sector begins with 15 (sector number)*4 (block in the sector)*(byte in the block) + Modbus Register buffer shift. Make sure that no unwanted data is stored to the Sector Trailer, as this can block sector access.

• Linear Mode – The reader calculates the addresses, skipping the manufacturer and all Sector Trailer blocks. Thanks to that, the user has 752 free bytes from the 1024 available. This mode guarantees that no unwanted data will be written to the Sector Trailer blocks, as the application will not have access to them.

Setting Linear mode skips the manufacturer and all Sector Trailer blocks. In the RunReadFlag and RunWriteFlag commands, the firs bit indicates the second block of the first sector, in Full mode first block of the first sector.

The memory addressing mode is set by sending the appropriate value: Linear mode (0) or Full mode (1) to the Holding Register 2003.

Data representation in Modbus addresses (Endianess)

3 modes are available (DataMode register):

• default – Each Modbus Holding Register contains one byte of data.

• Endian 1 – Each Modbus Holding Register contains two bytes of data.

• Endian 2 – Each Modbus Holding Register contains two bytes of data.

The Endian 1 i 2 settings can reduce the amount of data transfer between the RFID reader and the main controller (PLC or other).

The data representation is set by sending an appropriate value to the Holding Register 2004.

Application examples

Card UID read operation

1. Apply a tag to the reader.
2. Wait for a 1 to appear in the IsNewTag register (1000 Holding Reg/1016 Coils).
3. The UID will appear in the Holding Registers 1002-1005.
4. Reset the IsNewTag flag (1000 Holding Reg/1016 Coils), to enable readout of next tag.

Data read operation

1. Select the tag signalling (this step can be omitted).
2. Select MemoryMode (2003 Holding Reg.) and DataMode (2004 Holding Reg.).
3. If required, set ReadAuthorization to the register without a default key.
4. Select the block that will be read RunReadFlag (2020-2035 Holding Reg.).
5. Set the ReadEnable flag (2001 Holding Reg.) to 1.
6. Wait for a 1 to appear in the IsNewTag register (1000 Holding Reg/1016 Coils).

After a tag is read (IsNewTag = 1):

1. Read the selected memory area from the ReadBuffer (register 4000-).
2. Initiate the response signal if not selected automatically.
3. Check the ReadResultGlobal register (2010 Holding Reg.) for errors.
4. Reset the IsNewTag flag to unlock the reader.
5. Return to step 3.

Data write operation

1. Select the tag signalling (this step can be omitted).
2. Select MemoryMode (2003 Holding Reg.) and DataMode (2004 Holding Reg.).
3. If required, set WriteAuthorization to the register without a default key.
4. Write the selected memory area using WriteBuffer (10000-). RunWriteFlags assigned to the write block will be set automatically while data is written.
5. Optionally, set or reset the RunWriteFlag for the written block.
6. Set the WriteEnable flag (2000 Holding Reg.) to 1.
7. Wait for a 1 to appear in the IsNewTag register.

After a tag is read (IsNewTag = 1):

1. Initiate the response signal if not selected automatically.
2. Check the WriteResultGlobal register (2011 Holding Reg.) for errors.
3. Reset the IsNewTag flag to unlock the reader.
4. Return to step 3.

Reading multiple tags

1. Wait for a 1 to appear in the IsNewTag register.
2. Execute the operations needed (read, write etc.)
3. After all tag operations are complete, recall 'HaltTag', to block the specified tag and operate on another one.

OR

1. Recall ‘WakeAll’, to wake all tags and start the operations on all of them from the beginning.

Warranty and manufacturer's liability

The manufacturer undertakes to respect the warranty agreement, if the following conditions are met:

• All repairs, changes, expansions and device calibrations are carried out by the manufacturer or an authorized service center,
• The power supply system meets the applicable standards,
• The device is operated in accordance with the suggestions presented in this manual,
• The device is operated in accordance with its intended purpose.

The manufacturer assumes no responsibility for consequences resulting from improper installation, improper use of the device, failure to comply with the instruction manual, and repairs made by unauthorized personnel.

Storage, operation and transport conditions

The device should be stored in enclosed rooms, where the atmosphere is free from vapours and corrosive substances:

• Environment temperature from -30°C to +60°C (-22°F - 140°F),
• Humidity from 25% to 90% (condensation unacceptable),
• Atmospheric pressure from 700 to 1060 hPa.

The device is intended to operate in the following conditions:

• Environment temperature from -10°C do +55°C (14°F - 131°F),
• Humidity from 30% to 75%,
• Atmospheric pressure from 700 to 1060 hPa.

Recommended transport conditions:

• Environment temperature from -40°C do +85°C (-40°F - 185°F),
• Humidity from 5% to 95%,
• Atmospheric pressure from 700 to 1060 hPa.

Installation and device operation:

• The module should be operated in accordance with recommendations provided later in this manual.

Disposal and decommissioning

In an event the device needs to be decommissioned (eg. after its intended life period is surpassed), it is recommended to contact the manufacturer or his representative, who are responsible to respond appropriately, i.e., to collect the device from the user. The user can alternatively contact companies specializing in electronic device or computer equipment disposal and/or decommissioning. Under no condition should the device be placed with other waste.