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UHF RFID gates with multiple antennas automatically detect pallets and goods during loading and unloading. Source: Turck
UHF RFID gates with multiple antennas automatically detect pallets and goods during loading and unloading.
Overview

Automated Goods Detection at RFID Gates with Multiple Antennas

The Q300 UHF RFID reader from TURCK enables the automatic and reliable detection of goods, pallets, and load carriers at incoming and outgoing goods gates. Its integrated multiplex function allows multiple external UHF RFID antennas to be operated via a single reader. This makes it possible to set up RFID gates with a wide detection zone without having to install a separate reader for each antenna.

The solution is suitable for logistics centers, loading areas, and production environments where the movement of goods must be recorded quickly, completely, and traceably. For example, forklifts carrying loaded pallets can pass through an RFID gate while loading or unloading trucks. The antennas, mounted at different positions, read the UHF RFID tags on goods and load carriers from various directions.

Using Multiple Antennas with a Single UHF RFID Reader

In multiplex mode, the Q300 sequentially controls the connected passive UHF RFID antennas. This creates a coordinated detection solution for wide passageways, varying pallet positions, and goods with multiple RFID tags.

For example, the antennas can be mounted on the sides, above, or at other positions on a gate. This improves detection coverage and reduces the risk that shielded or poorly aligned tags will go undetected. At the same time, hardware, integration, and maintenance costs are reduced because a single central reader serves multiple antennas.

Reliable Goods Tracking During High-Speed Passages

At goods receiving and shipping areas, RFID data must be reliably captured even at high processing speeds. When forklifts, pallet jacks, or cargo containers pass through a gate, there is usually no time for manual scans. Incomplete reads can lead to incorrect inventory postings, shipping delays, or additional verification efforts.

With multiple antennas and optimized multiplex operation, the Q300 supports complete RFID capture as goods pass through logistics gates. Goods movements can be automatically transferred to higher-level systems and used for goods receipt posting, shipping control, inventory management, or track-and-trace.

Direct Feedback at the RFID Gate

The Q300’s integrated inputs and outputs enable direct connection to triggers, sensors, and signal lights. A sensor can trigger the reading process when a pallet or forklift enters the gate. Visual signals then indicate directly at the gate whether all required RFID tags have been successfully read.

If a tag is missing or has been read incorrectly, employees receive immediate feedback and can verify the process before the goods are transported further. This increases process reliability and reduces rework in receiving, order picking, and shipping.

Less Cabling and Easy System Integration

The Q300 is connected via an Ethernet cable and can be powered simultaneously via Power over Ethernet (PoE). This eliminates the need for separate power lines at the RFID gate. This reduces cabling requirements and simplifies retrofitting in existing warehouse and loading areas.

In addition, the reader supports Linux-based middleware applications. RFID data can thus be processed and filtered locally and transferred to WMS, ERP, MES, or track-and-trace systems. Depending on the application, additional industrial PCs can be eliminated, allowing for a more streamlined system architecture.

Efficient RFID Gates for Automated Goods Handling

The solution featuring the TURCK Q300 combines multi-antenna detection, integrated multiplex operation, and direct process feedback in a compact UHF RFID platform. It provides a reliable foundation for automated goods posting, transparent material flows, and secure loading and shipping control.

Are you planning RFID gates for incoming goods, outgoing goods, or pallet tracking? Work with TURCK to find the right multi-antenna solution for your passageways, load carriers, and process speeds.

Components

Used in this solution

Technology

Architecture and performance data

Housing Dimensions
300 x 300 x 61.7 mm
Wireless Technology
UHF RFID
Multiplex operation
Yes (switching between external antennas)
Antenna Type
External Passive Antennas
PoE
Supported (Power over Ethernet)
I/Os
Integrated I/Os for triggers and indicator lights
Middleware
Linux-based middleware support
Feedback Option
Visualization of the read status for incorrectly read tags
Scope of Application
Goods Receiving and Shipping, RFID Gates
Goal Advantages
Reduced cabling requirements; no additional IPCs required; lower total cost of ownership