ZMD has multifunction temperature logger

ZMD has launched the ZMD41211, a multifunction temperature logger and smart-label radio-frequency identification (RFID) integrated circuit (IC).

Using the ZMD41211, logistics customers can precisely monitor and record temperature and humidity throughout the shipping process.

This is a key capability, since many materials can tolerate temperature fluctuations but only for a limited time.

ZMD's RFID IC records time as well as temperature, so shippers can determine the total exposure.

This avoids the necessity of discarding products that may only have been briefly exposed to temperatures outside the permitted range.

The ZMD41211 is suitable for all types of temperature or spoilage-sensitive products, from vaccines to vegetables.

It has a built-in timer function that allows the user to customise the monitoring frequency.

An on-chip temperature sensor and Eeprom allows the logging of time and temperature values during the entire transportation process.

ZMD's temperature logger complies with ISO 15693 RFID technology and can be read and programmed with existing standard compliant systems.

'For perishable products, temperature tracking is vital during the logistics process,' said Andreas Heldwein, ZMD medical business line manager.

'Spoiled medication, blood bags or food can be extremely harmful if not properly handled.

'We developed the ZMD41211 to be easy to use and integrate, yet tough and versatile enough for use in the real-world.

'We're offering this RFID IC as a standard product for a wide range of applications.' Temperature logging requires only a small external coil and a 1.3V battery.

The ZMD41211 has eight modes of temperature recording.

It can be set, for example, to only record temperature values that exceed user-defined limits.

This ensures that memory is not wasted storing data that is within the specified parameters.

Alternatively, the device can log up to 720 temperature readings for a complete record of cargo exposure.

The measurement frequency is programmable and data is stored in Eeprom so the device works well even in ocean-cargo applications.

The chip is also re-usable.

Once the data is read, it can be re-programmed to record new temperature information.

The ZMD41211 can also be customised.

Adding sensors, for example, to monitor humidity, is done with the on-chip I2C bus interface.

User configuration and calibration of the IC is straightforward and can be done wirelessly over the RFID link, which is fully ISO/IEC 15693 compliant and operates at 13.56MHz with a range of 1m.

This makes it compatible with virtually all RFID systems and easy to scan in a warehouse, truck or ship.

The 13.56MHz RFID clock is also used as a synchronisation source for the IC's internal timer, allowing it to offer three per cent timer accuracy without the cost of a crystal oscillator.

Temperature readings are accurate to within 1C over the measuring range of -30 to +50C.

With reduced precision, the device will operate to +80C, ensuring control in all types of shipping environments.

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