Dual Frequency Reader: Function, Advantages, and Application Scenarios

In an increasingly connected industrial landscape, RFID readers play a central role. Dual Frequency Readers are particularly versatile, as they can communicate in both the HF range (13.56 MHz) and the UHF range (approx. 860–960 MHz). They combine the strengths of both frequencies and enable universal readability – for example, for mobile authentication and large-scale inventory management.

What is a Dual Frequency Reader?

A Dual Frequency Reader is an RFID device that supports both frequency ranges – HF for near-contactless reading (e.g., NFC) and UHF for longer distances and rapid bulk reading.

Key features include support for both HF and UHF, multiple interfaces, and high compatibility with a wide range of RFID applications.

Functionality & Interfaces

• HF mode (13.56 MHz): Inductive near-field communication – ideal for secure authentication and targeted reading operations, such as with smartphones or access cards. Dual Frequency Readers can also function as card readers in various applications.

• UHF mode (860–960 MHz): Far-field backscatter communication – suitable for fast detection of multiple items over several meters.

The reader automatically or manually switches to the appropriate mode depending on the tag and reading situation.

Additionally, the reader supports interfaces such as USB and USB-C, ensuring flexible connections to computers and other devices. It is compatible with SD and microSD cards and supports modern standards like UHS and UHS-II, allowing very high transfer speeds. This makes it well-suited for efficient data transfers and storage expansion.

Comparison: HF vs. UHF in a Reader

HF is ideal for secure, short-range use cases, while UHF excels in range and speed – Dual Frequency Readers combine both worlds.

Advantages of Dual Frequency Readers with UHS-II

• Maximum flexibility: One device, multiple use cases – from access control to large-scale inventory management.
• Cost and space efficiency: Eliminates the need for parallel equipment – compact, efficient, cost-saving.
• Multi-application capability: UHF for process automation, HF for authentication and mobile communication – all in one device.
• Future-ready: Perfect for IoT scenarios and omni-channel RFID solutions – whether in retail, logistics, or healthcare.
• Environmental compliance & quality: Devices meet high environmental standards and certifications. Our products stand for sustainable quality and support environmentally conscious decisions.
  

Application Scenarios

• Retail & Logistics:
  UHF scanning in warehouses; HF/NFC for customer or employee interaction.
• Pharma & Healthcare:
  UHF for inventory tracking; HF for secure patient or medication assignment via smartphones.
• Asset Tracking & Intralogistics:
  UHF for goods flow monitoring; HF for employee authentication or process release.

Customers can receive devices via delivery or pick them up directly from the warehouse.

Standards, USB-C & Compatibility

Dual Frequency Readers support industry-standard protocols, such as:



• UHF: EPC Gen2 / ISO 18000-63
• HF: ISO/IEC 15693, ISO/IEC 18000-3, NFC (Forum Type 5)

This compliance ensures reliable integration into existing infrastructures and label designs.

Security & Data Protection

• HF communication supports secure authentication and encryption (e.g., NFC security profiles).
• UHF communication enables anti-collision mechanisms for multi-tag reading.



Combined in one device, this ensures efficiency without compromising security.

Future Perspective

With IoT, AI, and predictive analytics on the rise, integrated readers are becoming central nodes. Dual Frequency Readers are well positioned for this future: they combine identification, authentication, and automated logistics – acting as enablers for smart supply chains and connected processes.

Conclusion

Dual Frequency Readers merge the benefits of HF and UHF technology in a single device. They enable secure near-field communication and fast long-range detection. This makes them suitable for a wide range of applications – from retail and logistics to healthcare. Companies benefit from greater flexibility, reduced hardware costs, and future-proof usability in connected processes.

Plöckl Media Group (PMG) supports you with customized RFID labels, optimized for Dual Frequency Readers. This ensures your systems run reliably and deliver the desired process efficiency.

FAQs

What is a Dual Frequency Reader?
A Dual Frequency Reader is an RFID device that operates in both the high-frequency range (HF, 13.56 MHz) and the ultra-high-frequency range (UHF, approx. 860–960 MHz). This allows different RFID tags to be captured with just one device.

What advantages does it have compared to single-frequency devices?
The main advantage is flexibility: both short-distance use cases (HF, e.g., authentication) and longer-range scenarios (UHF, e.g., logistics) can be handled with one device. This reduces hardware costs and simplifies integration.

Which industries use Dual Frequency Readers?
Typical industries include logistics and supply chain, retail, pharma & healthcare, and industrial applications – wherever secure near-field communication is combined with large-scale inventory control.

Which standards are supported?
Dual Frequency Readers typically support EPC Gen2 / ISO 18000-63 in the UHF range and ISO/IEC 15693, ISO/IEC 18000-3, as well as NFC standards in the HF range. This ensures compatibility with most RFID labels.

What is the role of Plöckl Media Group?
PMG develops and produces RFID labels optimized for use with Dual Frequency Readers. This includes material selection, antenna design, and encoding – tailored to industry-specific requirements.