The Siemens SIMATIC RF240R (6GT2821-4BC32) is a compact HF RFID reader with an IO-Link V1.1 interface, designed for identification tasks in intralogistics and production environments. Measuring 50 x 50 x 30 mm and weighing approximately 60 g, it features an integrated antenna with up to 65 mm read range and full IP67 protection. The IO-Link interface provides plug-and-play connection to IO-Link master modules, with configuration, diagnostics, and maintenance handled through TIA Portal for seamless integration into PROFINET and PROFIBUS networks.

How Does the RF240R Compare to Other SIMATIC RF200 Readers?

The RF240R occupies a middle ground in the RF200 portfolio. At 50 x 50 x 30 mm with an integrated antenna and 65 mm range, it is more compact than the RF260R (75 x 75 x 41 mm, 135 mm range) while offering a built-in antenna — unlike the RF250R which requires an external antenna. Compared to the cylindrical RF210R (M18, 20 mm range) and RF220R (M30, 35 mm range), the RF240R provides a larger read range in a flat square housing suited for surface mounting on conveyor frames and assembly stations rather than flush mounting in a drilled hole.

What RFID Standards and Transponders Does the RF240R Support?

The RF240R operates at 13.56 MHz using ISO 15693 and ISO 18000-3 standards. It is compatible with Siemens SIMATIC RF200 transponders including the MDS D100, D124, D126, D139, D160, D165, D200, D324, D339, D421, D424, D425, D426, D428, D460, D524, and D528 series. Maximum RF data transfer rate is 26.5 kbit/s, with approximately 2.4 ms read access time and 3.3 ms write access time per byte. The reader processes one transponder at a time and is not multi-tag capable.

How Does the IO-Link Interface Work?

IO-Link V1.1 provides point-to-point communication at 230 kbit/s (COM3) with 32 bytes of input and 32 bytes of output process data. The reader connects via a standard M12 4-pin connector with a maximum cable length of 20 m to the IO-Link master. Power is supplied at 24 V DC (20.4-28.8 V) with typical current consumption of 50 mA. The IO-Link master provides upstream PROFINET or PROFIBUS connectivity to the PLC, with all engineering and diagnostics unified in TIA Portal.

What Are the Installation and Environmental Specifications?

The RF240R measures 50 x 50 x 30 mm and weighs approximately 60 g, housed in PA 6.6 polyamide (anthracite). It mounts using two M5 screws with a maximum tightening torque of 1.5 N·m, and can be installed directly on metal surfaces with no minimum clearance. IP67 protection ensures complete dust-tight operation and resistance to temporary water immersion. Operating temperature range is -20 °C to +70 °C, with storage and transport tolerance of -25 °C to +80 °C. Shock resistance is rated at 500 m/s² (EN 60721-3-7 Class 7 M2) and vibration at 200 m/s². MTBF is approximately 430 years. A 3-color LED indicates power, transponder presence, and error states.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I choose the RF240R over the RF250R?

The RF240R includes an integrated antenna with 65 mm range in a single 50 x 50 x 30 mm housing, making it a self-contained solution for straightforward mounting. The RF250R is the same size but requires a separate external antenna (ANT series), which adds flexibility in antenna placement at the cost of managing two components. Choose the RF240R for simpler installations where the reader and antenna in one unit is preferable; choose the RF250R when the antenna needs to be positioned separately from the reader electronics.

Is the RF240R compatible with third-party IO-Link masters?

Yes, the RF240R conforms to the IO-Link V1.1 standard and can operate with any certified IO-Link master. However, full TIA Portal integration for engineering and diagnostics requires a Siemens IO-Link master such as the SIMATIC ET 200SP or ET 200pro.