LTE-Enabled RFID Edge Gateway Simplifies Auto-ID Deployments

Deploying RFID solutions often becomes challenging not at the point of tag detection, but during the integration phase. Connecting readers to enterprise systems, coordinating with IT departments, deploying middleware, and securing network access can significantly increase project time and cost.

To address these challenges, IDCRAFT GmbH has introduced the IDCRAFT Connectivity Box, a compact RFID edge gateway that consolidates data collection, processing, and secure transmission into a single device. Using an integrated LTE connection, the gateway delivers RFID data directly from the reader to the customer’s backend without relying on local servers or corporate network access.

Installation is straightforward. Users simply connect an RFID reader via Ethernet, insert a SIM card, and power up the device. Since data is transmitted over the mobile network, there is no need to install additional middleware or integrate the gateway into the customer’s internal IT infrastructure.

The Connectivity Box receives RFID events over TCP and processes the information locally before forwarding it. Duplicate tag reads are automatically filtered using a configurable time window, which is set to 40 seconds by default. Valid events are stored in a local SQLite database and converted into structured JSON messages for secure transmission to a REST API over HTTPS.

Data is sent in configurable batches every ten seconds, while authentication is managed using a unique device identifier and API key. By processing information at the edge, the gateway reduces unnecessary data traffic and delivers clean, structured records that can be consumed directly by backend applications.

Connectivity issues do not result in lost RFID events. If the LTE connection is temporarily unavailable, the gateway buffers captured data locally for up to 60 minutes by default. Once communication is restored, all stored records are transmitted automatically.

To maintain continuous operation, the device includes several monitoring functions. A heartbeat signal reports system status, while an LTE watchdog supervises the mobile connection and can automatically restart the communication module if required. Automatic startup and reconnection features further minimize the need for on-site maintenance.

Built on a Raspberry Pi 5 platform running IDCRAFT’s Python-based middleware, the Connectivity Box uses an LTE Category 4 modem mounted on a carrier board designed to support future 5G upgrades.

Each deployed gateway can be accessed remotely through a private VPN for diagnostics, maintenance, and configuration. In addition, a secure read-only dashboard provides visibility into the operational status of every installed unit without requiring access to the customer’s internal network.

The Connectivity Box is available both as an independent gateway and as part of the preconfigured GateSense Connect solution. Initial support includes GateSense UHF gate readers, while compatibility with devices from Chainway, ACS, and CRAFT Technologies is currently being expanded to cover UHF, RAIN RFID, HF, and NFC applications.

The first production deployments are already in operation at a textile services company, where the gateways track laundry movements at incoming and outgoing goods stations.