Simultaneous RFID Tag Reader (M6E Nano), SparkX UHF RFID Ring Antenna (SPX-15113) soldering issue

[vauduong]

I am using a Simultaneous RFID Tag Reader (SEN-14066 M6E Nano) with the SparkX UHF RFID Ring Antenna (SPX-15113).

The SRTR is being used as a shield for the Arduino Uno.

To make it easier to switch between external and onboard antenna, I soldered switches to both pads. Testing out the connectivity, it seems that a pair of each pads on SJ1 and SJ2 are connected (please see video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cjAmhFOgMI) so it’s impossible to just connect the pad for external or onboard antenna - connecting one connects both. I am also using a 5V power supply and have a USB hooked up from my Arduino Uno to my computer.

The code for Example1_ConstantRead compiles and uploads, but consistently says scanning, even when there is an RFID tag directly next to both the onboard and external antenna. Could this be due to the voltage being split by the two antennas? I am using these Murata ultra small UHF RFID tags (KIT-16464). https://www.sparkfun.com/products/16464

How do I fix this soldering issue?

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cjAmhFOgMI

Thanks!

[paulvha]

As always when trying to understand /debug a situation and you get stuck: go back to basics. I would advice to remove the switches and external antenna. Reconnect the solder pads to the on-board antenna and remove the solder pad to the external antenna. Make the Nano now work as is first. At least you know that the board is working . Then take one step at the time. Personally I would not expect the switches to work. The unshielded wires and unshielded switch, together with the high frequency will easily cause radiation and will not be stopped.

[vauduong]

Thanks for the reply Paul, I hadn’t considered that the switches and wires would cause radiation. However, I removed everything to the basics and still had the same problem.

[paulvha]

drop me a PM and I will see how to help.