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VonHippel RFID Reader

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Contents

Overview

In this how to, I'll document and show how to build a RFID reader for use with the Bug.

GOAL

Read a RFID card and send it's data over serial to the bug

HARDWARE

ID20 RFID Reader,RFID cards BugBase, MAX232 RS232/TTL shifter, piezeo beeper, T3/4 LED, 220 ohm resistor, IRF530 N channel MOSFET, three 1uF capacitors, prototype board, 8 pin male header, some wire.

TOOLS

Soldering iron, Oscilloscope(optional but recommended)

Steps

Step 1: Acquire the Parts

Buy the ID20 RFID reader and some RFID cards from Sparkfun.com . The other parts are pretty common and can be purchased from a local electronics store( Radioshack ) or from an online source ( mouser.com ).

Step 2: Set up the ID-20

The ID-20 RFID reader is a black, all in one module with 10 male headers. Of the 10 male headers we only need to use 5. Follow the wiring diagram : LINK TO DIAGRAM so that in the end you only have 4 wires coming out - Power,Ground,Detect, and Serial.

Step 3: Make the circuit

Follow the schematic : LINK TO SCHEMATIC . Be sure to arrange the VonHippel connector in the proper configuration so that it fits into the VonHippel base correctly

Step 4: Test it out!

Try to see if it works. Plug in the RFID module and swipe a card by the reader. If it beeps and the LED turns on, then its good! Check the serial data on RxD( 9600 baud ), you should get a packet that looks like this : PACKET CONTENTS

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check if LED is on backwards
  • Check if IRF530 is on correctly
  • Check if MAX232 is position correctly
  • Check for short circuits( plus touching minus)
  • Check to make sure there is a correct connection to the VonHippel
  • Use your oscilloscope to verify there is data ( and at the correct voltage) going into and out from the MAX232.