Trimble Adds Ultra High-Frequency RFID to Juno T41 Rugged Handhelds

Trimble has introduced the Juno T41 rugged handheld computer with integrated Ultra-High Frequency RFID capabilities. In addition to high-speed 1D/2D barcode imaging technology, smartphone capability and enhanced, real-time 1-2 meter GPS accuracy, the Juno T41 series now offers new models that provide more functionality and configuration choices for data collection and mobile workforce management, Trimble said.

“Often the RFID tag is specifically used because the item being tracked is in difficult or harsh environments where a barcode won’t survive,” said Jim Sheldon, general manager of Trimble’s Mobile Computing Solutions Division. “The rugged design of this handheld computer is an ideal solution for reading RFID in outdoor and extreme situations.”

The RFID capability can be combined with Enhanced GPS and/or smartphone connectivity so customers can choose a specific handheld model that meets their needs.

The Juno T41 R will automatically recognize tags across a variety of frequencies and work with any size or style of RFID tag that is designed for customized solutions. UHF RFID is an increasingly commonplace technology using the 860 to 960 MHz frequency range.

Using the latest EPCglobal Gen 2 RFID technology from Trimble’s ThingMagic Division, the device uses two different antenna ranges to read or recognize the unique identification of an asset anywhere in the world.

• FCC Certified (North America): 902-928 MHz bands
• ETSI Certified (EU): 865.6-867.6 MHz bands
• ACMA Certified (AU/NZ): 920-926 MHz bands

Trimble Juno T41 RFID handheld computers feature a 1-GHz processor and 512-MB RAM and 32-GB onboard storage with either Android 4.1 or Microsoft WEHH 6.5 operating systems. Other standard features include an 8-MP integrated camera, multi-touch capacitive 4.3-inch sunlight-readable display, all-day battery life and 2-4 meter GPS accuracy capability. Other features include:

• Rapid-read, high-accuracy performance on multiple tags with multiple orientations, even in crowded conditions.
• Consistent read-range over 3.5 meters for 5 cm2 (2″) UHF tags in unobstructed space.
• Integrated antenna with the ability to transmit up to +30 dBm (1 Watt) power for demanding applications.
• >Configurable performance settings and use-case parameters in the pre-loaded Trimble SearchLight application.
• Software Development Kit to customize all settings including read-range, power-consumption and other features.

The Juno T41 models are built to meet military-grade standards of ruggedness for drops, temperature, altitude, humidity extremes, vibration, chemical exposure and shock with either an IP65 or IP68 rating for water and dust.