IDCRAFT Connectivity Box

RFID Data From the Read Point Directly to the Backend

The IDCRAFT CT Connectivity Box is an RFID edge gateway designed to simplify the connection between RFID readers and backend applications. Instead of requiring access to the corporate network, additional on-site servers or complex middleware installations, the gateway transfers RFID data independently via LTE.

The installation process is straightforward: connect the RFID reader, insert a SIM card and switch on the device. The Connectivity Box receives each RFID read event, removes duplicate records, buffers the processed data locally and sends structured JSON packets to the customer’s backend API via HTTPS.

Reliable Data Transfer With Offline Buffering

Temporary network interruptions do not result in lost RFID data. Read events are stored locally in an SQLite database and automatically retransmitted once the LTE connection is restored. The offline buffer is configured for 60 minutes by default and can be adapted to the application.

Batch uploads are performed every ten seconds, while the deduplication time window, upload interval and retention period can also be configured. Sent records are deleted after three days by default.

Autostart, automatic reconnection, heartbeat functions and an LTE watchdog support reliable 24/7 operation. Following a power interruption, the Connectivity Box restarts automatically and resumes data transmission.

Secure Remote Access and Monitoring

Each Connectivity Box can remain accessible through a private VPN for remote maintenance, diagnostics and status checks. The VPN can either be self-hosted or provided by IDCRAFT as a subscription service.

A secure, read-only status dashboard provides information about the operating state of the gateway. Two status LEDs indicate the connection to the RFID reader and the customer backend. Backend authentication is handled through an API key, bearer token and individual device ID.

LTE, Ethernet and WLAN Connectivity

The gateway uses LTE Cat 4 for mobile data transmission and is prepared for the future integration of 5G communication modules. A customer-provided SIM card with a standard data plan is required.

Gigabit Ethernet connects the RFID reader to the gateway, while 2.4 and 5 GHz WLAN can be used during commissioning and service. An external omnidirectional antenna covers the frequency range from 600 to 6000 MHz. GNSS-based geolocation is available on request.

Vendor-Independent RFID Integration

The Connectivity Box is designed as a vendor-independent platform for different RFID frequencies and reader types. It currently supports the GateSense UHF gate reader. Integration of Chainway UHF and RAIN RFID readers as well as ACS HF and NFC devices is in preparation.

Reader communication is currently provided via Ethernet using TCP/IP. USB and RS232 interfaces are under development. Customer-specific REST API endpoints can be implemented on request.

Edge Computing Based on Raspberry Pi 5

The gateway is built around a Raspberry Pi 5 with 8 GB RAM, with an optional 16 GB configuration. It runs the 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS and uses IDCRAFT middleware developed in Python.

At least 64 GB of microSD storage is available for local processing and buffering. Three system services manage data processing, communication and operational availability.

Common Applications

The IDCRAFT CT Connectivity Box is suitable for RFID applications in:

• Industry 4.0 and connected production

• Textile services and industrial laundries

• Vehicle identification

• Remote application monitoring

• Asset tracking

By combining local edge processing, mobile connectivity and secure remote access, the Connectivity Box provides a practical link between distributed RFID read points and cloud-based or enterprise backend systems.