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[on:]

Hi Everyone,

Looking for suggestions on enhancing the read distance of SM130 module. The current read distance is 10cm. I would like to double or tripple this distance.

Using
SM130 13.56 MHz RFID Module - http://www.sparkfun.com/datasheets/Sensors/ID/SM130.pdf
RFID Evaluation Shield - 13.56MHz
Arduino Mega

Goal
Enhance read distance

One of the possibile solutions would be to add a power amplifier and attenuator/buffer between the antenna and the SM130 Module.

Example
SM130-->Power Amplifier -->Antenna --> Tag -->Antenna -->Attenuator/Buffer --> SM130

What do you think?

[Reply #1 on:]

I think an antenna with more turns would produce a higher signal strength.

[Reply #2 on:]

Could I add an LNA to the receive input?

[Reply #3 on:]

Could I add an LNA to the receive input?

I don't think so.  The antenna connection is for both output and input.  The RFID reader has to send power to the passive RFID card.  The LNA would help the receiver but would likely block the transmitter completely.  No power to the RFID card means no response.