ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010

Information technology — Radio frequency identification device conformance test methods — Part 7: Test methods for active air interface communications at 433 MHz

ISO/IEC 18000 defines the air interfaces for radio frequency identification (RFID) devices used in item management applications. ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 defines the active air interface for these devices operating in the 433,92 MHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band. ISO/IEC TR 18047 provides test methods for conformance with the various parts of ISO/IEC 18000. ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010 contains the compliance measurements required to be fulfilled by a product in order to be compliant to ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009. ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010 defines test methods for determining the conformance of radio frequency identification devices (tags and interrogators) for item management with the specifications given in ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009, but does not apply to the testing of conformity with regulatory or similar requirements. The test methods require only that the mandatory functions, and any optional functions which are implemented, be verified. This may, in appropriate circumstances, be supplemented by further, application-specific functionality criteria that are not available in the general case. The interrogator and tag conformance parameters in ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010 are the following: mode-specific conformance parameters including nominal values and tolerances; parameters that apply directly affecting system functionality and inter-operability. The following are not included in ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010: parameters that are already included in regulatory test requirements; high-level data encoding conformance test parameters (these are specified in ISO/IEC 15962). Unless otherwise specified, the tests in ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010 are to be applied exclusively to RFID tags and interrogators defined in ISO/IEC 18000-7.

Technologies de l'information — Méthodes d'essai de conformité du dispositif d'identification de radiofréquence — Partie 7: Méthodes d'essai pour des communications d'interface d'air active à 433 MHz

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 21-Jun-2010
• ICS: 35.040 - Information coding
• ICS: 35.040.50 - Automatic identification and data capture techniques
• Technical Committee: ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 31 - Automatic identification and data capture techniques
• Drafting Committee: ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 31/WG 4 - Radio communications
• Current Stage: 9093 - International Standard confirmed
• Start Date: 11-Jun-2021
• Completion Date: 12-Feb-2026

Relations

• Revises: ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2005 - Information technology — Radio frequency identification device conformance test methods — Part 7: Test methods for active air interface communications at 433 MHz
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2008

Overview

ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010 is the Technical Report that specifies conformance test methods for active RFID air-interface communications at 433 MHz. It provides the measurement procedures and test setups required to verify that RFID interrogators and tags conform to the radio and link-layer specifications in ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 (active air interface in the 433.92 MHz ISM band). This TR focuses on mandatory and implemented optional functions of devices; it does not replace regulatory compliance testing or high‑level data encoding tests (see ISO/IEC 15962).

Key topics and requirements

• Scope: Conformance testing for RFID tags and interrogators defined by ISO/IEC 18000-7 (active 433.92 MHz operation). Excludes regulatory parameters and high-level encoding conformance.
• Test types:
  • Physical Conformance Tests (signal frequency, modulation, bandwidth, timing, receiver/transmitter characteristics, RSSI behavior, interoperability).
  • Command Protocol Conformance Tests (mandatory and optional Link Layer command verification for interrogators and tags).
• Test environment & pre‑conditioning:
  • Default environmental conditions: 23 °C ± 3 °C and 40–60% relative humidity.
  • Devices should be conditioned per manufacturer instructions before testing.
• Test setup & equipment:
  • Use of spectrum analyzers, RF receivers (with sense antennas and optional FM demodulators), logic analyzers and a control computer.
  • Antenna details (type, polarization, height, distance) and test configuration must be recorded in test reports.
• Reference devices: Definitions for Reference Interrogator and Reference Tag (known-compliant devices used to validate tests).
• Reporting: Test reports must list measured values, applied tolerances (default ±5% unless stated otherwise) and total measurement uncertainty (refer to ISO/IEC Guide 98-3).

Applications and users

• Who uses it:
  • RFID test laboratories and conformance labs performing product validation.
  • RFID hardware manufacturers (tags, interrogators) validating design conformance before release.
  • System integrators and QA teams verifying interoperability and basic radio/link-layer performance.
• Practical uses:
  • Verifying transmitter frequency and modulation, receiver sensitivity and timing for long‑range active RFID systems.
  • Ensuring interoperable behavior between interrogators and tags in item-management, logistics, asset tracking, and supply‑chain applications that use the 433 MHz ISM band.

Related standards

• ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 - Parameters for active air interface communications at 433 MHz (normative).
• ISO/IEC 15962 - High-level data encoding conformance tests (not covered here).
• ISO/IEC 19762 - AIDC harmonized vocabulary (terms/definitions).
• ISO/IEC Guide 98-3 - Measurement uncertainty guidance.

Keywords: ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010, RFID conformance test methods, 433 MHz, ISO/IEC 18000-7, active air interface, interrogator, tag, ISM band, RF test setup, spectrum analyzer, interoperability.

Standards Content (Sample)

TECHNICAL ISO/IEC
REPORT TR
18047-7
Second edition
2010-07-01
Information technology — Radio
frequency identification device
conformance test methods —
Part 7:
Test methods for active air interface
communications at 433 MHz
Technologies de l'information — Méthodes d'essai de conformité du
dispositif d'identification de radiofréquence —
Partie 7: Méthodes d'essai pour des communications d'interface d'air
active à 433 MHz
Reference number
©
ISO/IEC 2010
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©  ISO/IEC 2010
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ii © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction.v
1 Scope.1
2 Normative references.1
3 Terms, definitions, symbols and abbreviated terms .2
3.1 Terms and definitions .2
3.2 Symbols and abbreviated terms .2
4 Physical Conformance Tests .2
4.1 General .2
4.2 Default items applicable to the test methods.2
4.3 Test set-up and measurement equipment .3
4.4 Physical Layer Parameter Values and Limits.6
4.5 Functional Test - Interrogator .8
4.6 Functional Test - Tag .15
5 Command Protocol Conformance Tests.21
5.1 General .21
5.2 Default items applicable to the test methods.21
5.3 Test Setup .21
5.4 Interrogator Commands - Mandatory.21
5.5 Tag Commands - Mandatory .25
5.6 Tag Commands - Optional.26
Bibliography.28

© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved iii

Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) and IEC (the International Electrotechnical
Commission) form the specialized system for worldwide standardization. National bodies that are members of
ISO or IEC participate in the development of International Standards through technical committees
established by the respective organization to deal with particular fields of technical activity. ISO and IEC
technical committees collaborate in fields of mutual interest. Other international organizations, governmental
and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO and IEC, also take part in the work. In the field of information
technology, ISO and IEC have established a joint technical committee, ISO/IEC JTC 1.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of the joint technical committee is to prepare International Standards. Draft International
Standards adopted by the joint technical committee are circulated to national bodies for voting. Publication as
an International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the national bodies casting a vote.
In exceptional circumstances, the joint technical committee may propose the publication of a Technical Report
of one of the following types:
— type 1, when the required support cannot be obtained for the publication of an International Standard,
despite repeated efforts;
— type 2, when the subject is still under technical development or where for any other reason there is the
future but not immediate possibility of an agreement on an International Standard;
— type 3, when the joint technical committee has collected data of a different kind from that which is
normally published as an International Standard (“state of the art”, for example).
Technical Reports of types 1 and 2 are subject to review within three years of publication, to decide whether
they can be transformed into International Standards. Technical Reports of type 3 do not necessarily have to
be reviewed until the data they provide are considered to be no longer valid or useful.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO and IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO/IEC TR 18047-7, which is a Technical Report of type 3, was prepared by Joint Technical Committee
ISO/IEC JTC 1, Information technology, Subcommittee SC 31, Automatic identification and data capture
techniques.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2005), which has been
technically revised.
ISO/IEC TR 18047 consists of the following parts, under the general title Information technology — Radio
frequency identification device conformance test methods:
⎯ Part 2: Test methods for air interface communications below 135 kHz
⎯ Part 3: Test methods for air interface communications at 13,56 MHz
⎯ Part 4: Test methods for air interface communications at 2,45 GHz
⎯ Part 6: Test methods for air interface communications at 860 MHz to 960 MHz
⎯ Part 7: Test methods for active air interface communications at 433 MHz
iv © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

Introduction
ISO/IEC 18000 defines the air interfaces for radio frequency identification (RFID) devices used in item
management applications. ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 defines the active air interface for these devices operating
in the 433,92 MHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band.
ISO/IEC TR 18047 provides test methods for conformance with the various parts of ISO/IEC 18000. This part
of ISO/IEC TR 18047 contains the compliance measurements required to be fulfilled by a product in order to
be compliant to ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009.
© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved v

TECHNICAL REPORT ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010(E)

Information technology — Radio frequency identification device
conformance test methods —
Part 7:
Test methods for active air interface communications at
433 MHz
1 Scope
This part of ISO/IEC TR 18047 defines test methods for determining the conformance of radio frequency
identification (RFID) devices (tags and interrogators) for item management with the specifications given in
ISO/IEC 18000-7, but does not apply to the testing of conformity with regulatory or similar requirements.
The test methods require only that the mandatory functions, and any optional functions which are
implemented, be verified. This may, in appropriate circumstances, be supplemented by further, application-
specific functionality criteria that are not available in the general case.
The interrogator and tag conformance parameters in this part of ISO/IEC TR 18047 are the following:
• mode-specific conformance parameters including nominal values and tolerances;
• parameters that apply directly affecting system functionality and inter-operability.
The following are not included in this part of ISO/IEC TR 18047:
• parameters that are already included in regulatory test requirements;
• high-level data encoding conformance test parameters (these are specified in ISO/IEC 15962).
Unless otherwise specified, the tests in this part of ISO/IEC TR 18047 are to be applied exclusively to RFID
tags and interrogators defined in ISO/IEC 18000-7.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this part of ISO/IEC TR 18047.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009, Information technology — Radio frequency identification for item management —
Part 7: Parameters for active air interface communications at 433 MHz
ISO/IEC 19762 (all parts), Information technology — Automatic identification and data capture (AIDC)
techniques — Harmonized vocabulary
© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved 1

3 Terms, definitions, symbols and abbreviated terms
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO/IEC 19762 (all parts) and the
following apply.
3.1.1
Reference Interrogator
RFID interrogator, or device that emulates an RFID interrogator, that has been tested as compliant to both
ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 and ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010, and is used as a reference for testing tags
3.1.2
Reference Tag
RFID tag, or device that emulates an RFID tag, that has been tested as compliant to both
ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 and ISO/IEC TR 18047-7:2010, and is used as a known reference for testing
interrogators
3.2 Symbols and abbreviated terms
RSSI Receiver Signal Strength Indicator
4 Physical Conformance Tests
4.1 General
This clause specifies the tests to determine whether interrogators and tags conform to ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009
at the physical level. The Physical Conformance Tests include measurements relating to signal quality
(frequency, modulation, bandwidth, timing, etc.) of the transmitter and receiver, and the proper interaction of
interrogators and tags to the signals.
4.2 Default items applicable to the test methods
4.2.1 Test environment
Unless otherwise specified, testing shall take place in an environment of temperature 23 °C ± 3 °C
(73 °F ± 5 °F) and relative humidity of 40% to 60%. Tested equipment is to maintain performance limits stated
herein in this environment. In addition to this minimum requirement, manufacturers may specify for their
products an operational temperature range over which they intend to maintain performance limits stated in
their specifications.
4.2.2 Pre-conditioning
Where pre-conditioning is required by the test method, the tags and interrogators to be tested shall be
conditioned to the test environment by a method specified by the manufacturer before testing.
4.2.3 Default tolerance
Unless otherwise specified, a default tolerance of ± 5% shall be applied to the quantity values given to specify
the characteristics of the test equipment (e.g. linear dimensions) and the test method procedures (e.g. test
equipment adjustments).
2 © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

4.2.4 Total measurement uncertainty
The total measurement uncertainty for each quantity determined by these test methods shall be stated in the
test report.
NOTE Basic information is given in ISO/IEC Guide 98-3.
4.2.5 Test Report Format
Test reports shall be prepared individually for each tag or interrogator tested. Values measured for parameters
in each subclause of clause 4.5 for interrogators and clause 4.6 for tags shall be recorded.
4.3 Test set-up and measurement equipment
4.3.1 General
The RFID system specified in ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 is designed for long-range operation. Therefore a good
receiver characteristic on both interrogator and tag is useful. The range of an RFID system also depends on
the output power of the interrogator, which is set according to regulatory limits and application needs.
This clause defines the test set-up and measurement equipment for verifying the operation of a tag or an
interrogator according to ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009.
Test results shall not be influenced by the set-up method of the test.
Test set-ups include:
• Test set-up for interrogator testing (see 4.3.2)
• Test set-up for tag testing (see 4.3.3)
• Test equipment (see 4.3.4 )
4.3.2 Test set-up for interrogator testing
The conformance tests are designed to verify compliance with the basic radio-frequency parameters of the
interrogator and tag while undergoing bi-directional communication.
Measurements are to be conducted with equipment configured to provide a high signal to noise ratio over the
air interface. To achieve this, an interrogator with integral antenna(s) may be equipped with temporary
antenna connector(s). Alternatively, a coupling device such as a sense antenna may be used to connect to
the test equipment. Such an antenna should be selected with consideration for polarization and range to
reduce measurement variations. Engineering judgment may be applied to select test equipment to support the
variety of specific design features offered by different manufacturers. The antenna type, polarization, height
and distance shall be recorded in the test report.
A control computer with appropriate software and user documentation provided by the vendor is expected to
perform the control of all tests. All interrogator commands defined for this conformance testing are defined in
ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 Command codes.
To set up an interrogator with the appropriate test pattern and operational modes, one of the two methods
shall be used (combinations shall also be possible):
• A pre-programmed, semi-automatic test mode implemented at the manufacturer’s option through test
code internal to the product. The operation of such code may require special purpose commands or
connections beyond the scope of this Standard.
• A reference tag with which the interrogator may execute Link Layer operations.
© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved 3

The air interface parameter in a test mode shall behave the same as the air interface parameter during normal
usage.
Unless otherwise stated the frequency of the reference carrier shall be set to 433,92 MHz.
The implementation of the test mode shall be in accordance with the air interface parameters and timing
specified herein. If not stated herein, consult ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009.
The frequency of the interrogator transmitter shall be within the tolerance specified herein. The output power
shall be set according to the manufacturer’s instructions, not to exceed the maximum allowed by local
regulatory rules taking into consideration the antenna gain. A control computer is required to set up and trigger
all interrogator activity, as shown in Figure 1. The RF test equipments in the figure include RF receiver
(including a sense antenna with or without an FM demodulator), spectrum analyser and logic analyser.

Control Interrogator RF Test
Computer Equipment
Figure 1 — Interrogator test system
4.3.3 Test set-up for tag testing
The conformance tests are designed to verify compliance with the basic radio-frequency parameters of the tag.
Measurements are to be conducted with equipment configured to provide a high signal to noise ratio over the
air interface. To achieve this, an interrogator with integral antenna(s) may be equipped with temporary
antenna connector(s). Alternatively, a coupling device such as a sense antenna may be used to connect to
the test equipment. Such an antenna should be selected with consideration for polarization and range to
reduce measurement variations. The antenna type, polarization, height and distance shall be recorded in the
test report.
To set-up a tag with the test pattern and operational modes, one of the two methods shall be used
(combinations shall also be possible):
• A pre-programmed, internal self-test mode in the tag. Note that design of this optional self-test mode is
specific to each manufacturer. Special purpose over-the-air commands outside of ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009
or external connections may be required to operate in this mode.
• A reference interrogator for which the tag may execute Link Layer operations.
If no internal self-test mode is implemented in the tag, the conformance tests shall be performed during RF
traffic between the tag and reference interrogator. For R/W tags without a test mode, a reference interrogator
for initializing the appropriate operational mode shall be used. In this RFID system the interrogator is a master
which initiates air interface activity and the tag only transmits in response to interrogator commands.
If a built-in test mode is incorporated in the tag, all air interface parameters shall behave the same as the air
interface parameter during normal usage.
A control computer and reference interrogator are required to set up and trigger all tag activities as shown in
Figure 2.
The RF test equipments in Figure 2 may include an RF receiver (including a sense antenna with or without an
FM demodulator), a spectrum analyser, a logic analyser, or other similar instruments.
4 © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

Control Reference
Tag
Computer Interrogator
RF Test
Equipments
Figure 2 — Tag test system setup
4.3.4 Test equipment
All tests shall be done with commercial test equipment. Numerous types of RF measurement instruments are
available with extended features for spectrum analysis, modulation analysis and data recording. The
instruments listed below are examples of suitable equipment. Other variants may be used which are capable
of making the measurements to the necessary degree of accuracy. All test equipment shall be calibrated by a
nationally certified calibration laboratory within 12 months preceding the date of test.
Additional equipment such as power supplies, splitters, combiners and cables may be used as required.
The RF signal reference port for all measurements shall be either an antenna connector, or an appropriate
coupling device such as a probe antenna. The reference port location shall be identified in the test report.
4.3.4.1 Spectrum analyser
A spectrum analyser or other instrument with equivalent features is required. The instrument requires internal
triggering with the capability of capturing the RF signal leading edges, or an external triggering device.
4.3.4.2 Modulation analyser
A means of detecting and analyzing the data bit stream encoded on the RF signal is required. An example of
a suitable instrument is a modulation analyser with the capability of analysing the signal’s central frequency
and frequency deviation. Instruments with other combinations of features may be employed.
4.3.4.3 Signal generator
It is necessary to emulate the interrogator Wake Up Signal over the frequency range required for the tag to
detect it and respond. For this purpose, a modulated signal generator for the 433 MHz band may be used.
The signal level for the tests shall be within the operational range of the receiver input of the tag. The input
level shall be specified by the tag manufacturer and shall be documented in the test report.
4.3.4.4 Logic analyser
Instrumentation is required to capture and verify data transmission timing and correctness. An example of
such equipment is a logic analyser with memory. The analyser should be capable of sampling at a rate of at
least 100 mega-samples per second with a resolution of at least 8 bits at optimum scaling.
© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved 5

4.4 Physical Layer Parameter Values and Limits
Table 1 and Table 2 below list the critical parameters to be measured and verified in the subclauses listed in
the first column. These tables refer to values in ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 Table 117 and Table 118, or to clause
numbers in that standard. The first column identifies the corresponding ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 entry in
parentheses as “(Ref.)”.
Table 1 — Interrogator Parameter Values and Limits
Subclause Parameter Min Nominal Max
(Ref.)
4.5.1 Interrogator Tx Centre Frequency @ 433,906983 MHz 433,920 MHz 433,933018 MHz
o o
23 C +/- 3 C
(Int. 1) (-30 ppm) (+30 ppm)
4.5.2 Interrogator Tx FSK Frequency 40 kHz (-20%) 50 kHz 60 kHz (+20%)
Deviation (RMS)
(Int. 7f)
Interrogator Tx FSK Frequency 30 kHz (-40%) 50 kHz 70 kHz (+40%)
Deviation (Peak)
4.5.3 Interrogator Tx Modulation  200 kHz
Bandwidth containing 99% of RF
(Int. 2)
Power
4.5.4 Interrogator Wakeup Header 2,35 s 4,80 s
Duration
(6.1)
4.5.4 Interrogator Wakeup Header Square 2x15,68 µs (-2%) 2x16 µs 2x16,32 µs (+2%)
Wave Period
(6.1)
4.5.4 Interrogator Wakeup Header Square 30,625 kHz (-2%) 31,25 kHz 31,875 kHz (+2%)
Wave Frequency
(6.1)
4.5.5 Interrogator 100ms Co-Header 2 x 50 µs 2 x 51 µs (+2%)
2 x 49 µs (-2%)
Square Wave Period
(6.1)
4.5.5 Interrogator Co-header Tx Duration 98 ms 100 ms 102 ms
(6.1)
4.5.6 Preamble Start (Low Period)
15 µs
(6.2)
4.5.6 Interrogator Tx Preamble Square
2 x 29,4 µs (-2%) 2 x 30 µs 2 x 30,6 µs (+2%)
Wave Period, 20 cycles duration.
(Int.11; 6.2)
4.5.6 Preamble Terminator Cycle Timing 53 µs (-2%) 54 µs high 55 µs (+2%)
(Int.11; 6.2) 53 µs (-2%) 54 µs low 55 µs (+2%)
Interrogator Data Tx Bit Interval 2x17,64 µs(-2%) 2x18 µs 2x18,36 µs (+2%)
4.5.7
(Int.8; 6.2)
4.5.7 Interrogator Data Bit Rate 27,222 kbps (-2%) 27,778 kbps 28,334 kbps (+2%)
(Int.8; 6.2)
Not FSK rise time or fall time.  6 µs between +/- 30
Specified kHz, Fig 3
4.5.7 Packet Terminator (Low Period) 35.28 µs 36.00 µs 36.72 µs
(6.2)
4.5.7 Packet Terminator (High Period) 15 µs
(6.2)
4.5.8 Interrogator Rx Bandwidth 300 kHz
(Int.2a) @ -3dB
6 © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

Table 2 — Tag Parameter Values and Limits

Subclause Parameter Min Nominal Max
(Ref.)
4.6.1 Tag Tx Centre Frequency @ 23 433,906983 MHz 433,920 MHz 433,933018 MHz
o o
C +/- 3 C
(Tag:1) (-30 ppm) (+30 ppm)
4.6.2 Tag Tx FSK Frequency Deviation 40 kHz (-20%) 50 kHz 60 kHz (+20%)
(RMS)
(Tag:7i)
Tag Tx FSK Frequency Deviation 30 kHz (-20%) 50 kHz 70 kHz (+20%)
(Peak)
4.6.3 Tag Tx Modulation Bandwidth  200 kHz
containing 99% of RF power
(Tag:2)
Preamble Start (Low Period) 15 µs
4.6.4
(6.2)
4.6.4 Tag Tx Preamble Square Wave 2 x 28,5 µs(-5%) 2 x 30 µs 2 x 31,5 µs (+5%)
Period, 20 cycles duration
(Tag:11c)
4.6.4 Preamble Terminator Cycle 40 µs (-5%) 42 µs high 44 µs (+5%)
Timing
(Tag:11c) 51 µs (-5%) 54 µs low 57 µs (+5%)
4.6.5 Tag Data Tx Bit Interval 2x17,1 µs (-5%) 2x18 µs 2x18,9 µs (+5%)
(Tag:8)
4.6.5 Tag Data Bit Rate 26,389 kbps 27,778 kbps 29,167 kbps
(Tag:8) (-5%) (+5%)
6 µs between +/- 30
Not FSK rise time or fall time
specified kHz, Fig 3
Not Tag Wakeup Time  End of Wakeup
Specified Period
4.6.5 Packet Terminator (Low Period) 34.20 µs 36.00 µs 37.80 µs
(6.2)
4.6.5 Packet Terminator (High Period) 15 µs

(6.2)
4.6.7 Tag Rx Bandwidth @ -3 dB 300 kHz
(Tag:2a)
4.6.8 Tag Awake Timeout 30 s
(6.1)
© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved 7

4.5 Functional Test - Interrogator
4.5.1 Transmitter frequency accuracy
4.5.1.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to verify that the interrogator transmitter frequency complies with the requirements
of Table 1.
4.5.1.2 Test procedure
The interrogator shall transmit a broadcast or point-to-point tag collection command, which includes a tag
Wake Up Signal. The centre frequency of the transmitted signal shall be measured by means of a spectrum
analyzer or modulation analyzer. It is to be noted that the FSK spectrum suppresses energy at the nominal
centre frequency, so that the measurement must be made by taking the midpoint between modulation peaks.
4.5.1.3 Measurement values and limits
The interrogator centre frequency shall be within the frequency range specified in Table 1.
4.5.1.4 Test report data
The test report shall state the measured frequency.
4.5.2 FSK modulation
4.5.2.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to ensure that the interrogator average frequency deviation is within acceptable
operating limits. Note that the FSK modulation waveform rise time and over-shoot produce power spectra
affecting the Transmitter Modulation Bandwidth measurement in subclause 4.5.3.
4.5.2.2 Test procedure
The interrogator shall transmit a collection command, including a tag Wake Up Signal comprising a Wakeup
Header and Co-Header. The Wake Up Signal is a regular waveform of sufficient duration to facilitate test
equipment synchronization over the air. The positive and negative FSK frequency deviations of the transmitter
shall be measured separately, evaluated as the RMS deviation over any individual Symbol-High or Symbol-
Low period in the Wake Up Signal or collection command waveform. Alternatively, if test equipment does not
permit RMS deviation measurements then the peak measurement may be taken instead.
A modulation analyzer or spectrum analyzer with suitable features shall be used for this measurement.
4.5.2.3 Measurement values and limits
A waveform mask representing the base-band frequency deviation appears in Figure 3 showing the limits for
maximum rise and fall times, maximum over-shoot and under-shoot, and limits for the time-averaged
frequency deviation for any pulse. All of these parameters are to be satisfied simultaneously.
4.5.2.4 Test report data
The test report shall evaluate the waveform compliance with the Mask of Figure 3 and record a Pass or list the
failing parameters. The report shall also record separately the measured Positive Frequency Deviation and
Negative Frequency Deviation.
8 © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

FSK Pulse Mask
Max peak
Transition regions centered at 18us pulse width
deviation
70KHz
RMS value calculated
within this window
Max RMS
deviation
60KHz
Nominal
Min RMS
deviation
(40KHz)
Center
frequency
Min peak
deviation
+/-30KHz
Min RMS
deviation
(-40KHz)
Nominal
Max RMS
deviation
(-60KHz)
6 us 6 us
Max peak
deviation
-70KHz Rise and Fall times are measured between 30
kHz positive and negative deviation relative to
center frequency
9 us 9 us 9 us
Middle of pulse Start of pulse Middle of pulse End of pulse

Figure 3 — FSK Pulse Mask
4.5.3 Transmitter Modulation Bandwidth
4.5.3.1 Test objective
This measurement ensures that the transmitter signal modulation does not result in excessive bandwidth
spreading and does not interfere with adjacent channels, if present.
4.5.3.2 Test procedure
A spectrum analyzer or similar instrument with the capability of measuring the bandwidth occupied by 99% of
the total RF power is to be used. The instrument should have a Resolution Bandwidth of 10 kHz and a Video
Bandwidth of 10 kHz to capture the modulated spectrum over the Wakeup Signal interval. The full span of the
display shall be between 500 kHz and 1 MHz. Utilize the automatic measurement features of the instrument to
measure the 99% bandwidth.
4.5.3.3 Measurement values and limits
The value measured shall not exceed the maximum bandwidth specified in Table 1.
© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved 9

Transition region
Transition region
4.5.3.4 Test report data
The test report shall record the measured bandwidth.
4.5.4 Wake Up Header Signal
4.5.4.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to verify that the Wakeup Header square wave frequency and duration are within
specified values.
4.5.4.2 Test procedure
The interrogator shall transmit a tag collection command that initially transmits the tag Wake Up Signal to
wake up all tags in the range of the interrogator.
An example of a suitable measurement system appears in Figure 4. It consists of an RF receiver with FM
demodulator tuned to 433,92 MHz. The Wakeup Header square wave period and modulation frequency are to
be measured with a logic analyzer or other suitable instruments. The wakeup coding shall be measured and
verified for correctness.
.
Interrogator
Tag
FM Receiver Logic analyzer
Figure 4 — Wakeup Header testing setup

4.5.4.3 Measurement values and timing
Verify that the Wakeup Header for a single antenna consists of:
• Wakeup Header square wave with period and frequency as specified in Table 1.
• Wakeup Header duration is between the minimum and maximum values specified in Table 1.
All timing measurements shall be made from edge to edge at the 50% levels of each signal transition.
4.5.4.4 Test report data
The test report shall record the waveform period, the Wakeup Header square wave frequency, and the
Wakeup Header duration.
4.5.5 Co-Header Signal
4.5.5.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to verify that the Co-Header square wave modulation frequency and duration are
within specified values. This test is designed to ensure that the interrogator transmits a Co-Header square
wave that can be recognized by tags for use in power management.
10 © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

4.5.5.2 Test Procedure
The interrogator shall transmit a tag collection command that includes the Wake Up Signal.
An example of a suitable measurement system appears in Figure 5. It consists of an RF receiver with FM
demodulator tuned to 433,92 MHz. The Co-Header square wave period and modulation frequency are to be
measured with a logic analyzer or other suitable instruments. The wakeup coding shall be measured and
verified for correctness.
.
Interrogator
Tag
FM Receiver Logic analyzer
Figure 5 — Co-Header signal testing setup

4.5.5.3 Measurement values and timing
Verify that the Co-Header consists of:
• Square wave periods and frequency stated in Table 1.
• Co-Header duration stated in Table 1.
All timing measurements shall be made from edge to edge at the 50% levels of each signal transition.
4.5.5.4 Test report data
The test report shall record the waveform period, the square wave frequency, and the Co-Header signal
duration.
4.5.6 Interrogator Message preamble format and timing
4.5.6.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to verify the interrogator preamble structure and timing conforms to the
specification.
Each interrogator command includes a preamble of 20 square wave cycles, preceded by a 15us logic low and
followed by the preamble terminator cycle. The preamble is shown in Figure 6, with the first byte of a sample
data packet. Data bytes are transmitted Least Significant Bit first. The example byte shown is 0x64.
© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved 11

Figure 6 — Interrogator data communication and timing

4.5.6.2 Test procedure
The interrogator shall transmit a broadcast or point-to-point command. Each command sends a preamble
including the preamble terminator cycle that identifies the interrogator-to-tag communication direction.
An example of a suitable measurement system is the same as appearing in Figure 4. It consists of an RF
receiver with FM demodulator tuned to 433,92 MHz. The preamble square wave period and modulation
frequency are to be measured with a logic analyzer or other suitable instruments. The preamble coding shall
be measured and verified for correctness.
4.5.6.3 Measurement values and timing
Verify that the command preamble complies with the requirements of Table 1:
• There is a minimum of 15 µs low period preceding the first preamble pulse
• The nominal duration of the preamble is 1308 µs duration, +/- 2%.
• 20 square wave cycles in sequence
• The preamble terminator cycle low and high periods are as specified.
All timing measurements shall be made from edge to edge at the midpoint (50%) levels of each signal
transition as shown in Figure 7.
12 © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

Measurement
Value
100%
90%
midpoint
midpoint
10%
Time
Figure 7 — Signal example with reference levels
4.5.6.4 Test report data
The test report shall record the following values:
• The total duration of the preamble
• The cycle timing of the preamble
• The timing of the preamble terminator cycle
4.5.7 Transmitter Data coding and reference timing
4.5.7.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to verify the interrogator transmission employs Manchester coding and the data
timing is within defined limits as shown in Figure 8. This test is designed to ensure that the interrogator
transmits data at the specified rate so that:
• The transmission will be correctly interpreted as data by tags
• The transmission will not be incorrectly interpreted as a Wakeup Header at 31,25 kHz.
FINAL DATA BYTE
rising
edge
b0 b1 b2 b3 b4 b5 b6 b7 b8
1 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0
36us 15us
logic logic
low high
Figure 8 — Final Data Byte Timing

© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved 13

4.5.7.2 Test procedure
The interrogator shall be set up to transmit a Collection with Universal Data Block (UDB) command. This
transmitted command data shall be analyzed for proper Manchester coding.
An example of a suitable measurement system is the same as appearing in Figure 4. It consists of an RF
receiver with FM demodulator tuned to 433,92 MHz.
4.5.7.3 Measurement values and limits
Observe that Manchester coding is employed with a high-to-low or low-to-high transition in the centre of each
data bit position.
The edge timing of the demodulated “high” and “low” transitions shall be measured to determine the
Manchester symbol periods. The symbol period shall be measured at the beginning, the middle and the end of
the transmitted message. The timing measurements shall be made from edge to edge at the midpoint (50%)
levels of each signal transition.
Verify the interrogator inserts a “stop bit” (0) after every eight data bits, and after the last Manchester encoded
bit within the packet it then transmits a final period of 36 µs of logic low followed by a rising edge and held high
for at least 15 µs.
4.5.7.4 Test report data
The test report shall give the measured coding format and timing parameters. The pass/fail condition is
determined by the values in Table 1.
4.5.8 Interrogator Receiver bandwidth
4.5.8.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to verify that the interrogator has a minimum -3 dB receiver bandwidth of 300 kHz.
The following test requires the interrogator to be able to measure and communicate the RSSI value.
Alternative means may be used to verify the receiver bandwidth if the interrogator does not provide the RSSI
readout.
4.5.8.2 Test procedure
With a programmable signal generator and RF modulator, generate and transmit an ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009
compliant RF message at 433,92 MHz, the nominal band centre. Other transmissions will be made above and
below channel centre to determine relative attenuation by reading the RSSI value.
At each frequency, read the RSSI value provided by the interrogator.
a) The RSSI shall be verified to be linearly proportional to the power, otherwise a calibration of the test setup
needs to be done.
b) Next, develop an average RSSI value from five (5) RSSI measurements made at 433,92 MHz ±10 kHz in
5 kHz steps (433,91 MHz to 433,93 MHz).
c) Repeat the RSSI measurements at two adjacent points: 433,92 MHz ±150 kHz (433,770 MHz and
434,070 MHz).
14 © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

4.5.8.3 Measurement values and limits
Verify that both adjacent RSSI values measured in Step c) are no more than 3 dB below the average RSSI
developed in step b) of the test procedure. Values greater than 3 dB are not compliant.
4.5.8.4 Test report data
The test report shall give the measured RSSI values and their relationship to the average RSSI in dB.

4.6 Functional Test - Tag
4.6.1 Transmitter frequency accuracy
4.6.1.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to verify that the tag transmitter frequency complies with the requirements of
Table 2.
4.6.1.2 Test procedure
Initialize for the test:
• The tag shall have a suitable n-byte data pattern pre-stored in user memory.
• The tag shall be in a sleep state, waiting for the Wake Up Signal.
The interrogator shall issue a “Collection with Universal Data Block” command as described in
ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009. The maximum packet size may be specified up to 255 bytes to enable the tag to
transmit a long record and facilitate over-the-air synchronization of the test instrumentation. The tag shall
respond with the Broadcast response message format of ISO/IEC 18000-7:2009 with transmission of the
selected, pre-stored data. A spectrum analyzer or modulation analyzer may be used to measure the centre
frequency. It is to be noted that the FSK spectrum suppresses energy at the nominal centre frequency, so that
the measurement must be made by taking the midpoint between modulation peaks.
4.6.1.3 Measurement values and limits
The tag centre frequency shall lie within the frequency range specified in Table 2.
4.6.1.4 Test report data
The test report shall record the measured centre frequency.
4.6.2 FSK modulation
4.6.2.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to ensure that the tag average frequency deviation is within acceptable operating
limits. Note that the FSK modulation waveform rise time and over-shoot produce power spectra affecting the
Transmitter Modulation Bandwidth measurement subclause below.
© ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved 15

4.6.2.2 Test procedure
In the manner of subclause 4.6.1, the interrogator shall transmit a collection command. The tag response is to
be measured. The positive and negative FSK frequency deviations of the tag transmitter shall be measured
separately, evaluated as the RMS deviation over any individual Symbol-High or Symbol-Low period in the
signal waveform. Alternatively, if test equipment does not permit RMS deviation measurements then the peak
measurement may be taken instead.
A modulation analyzer or spectrum analyzer with suitable features shall be used for this measurement.
4.6.2.3 Measurement values and limits
A waveform mask representing the base-band frequency deviation appears in Figure 3 showing the limits for
maximum rise and fall times, maximum over-shoot and under-shoot, and limits for the time-averaged
frequency deviation for any pulse. All of these parameters are to be satisfied simultaneously.
4.6.2.4 Test report data
The test report shall evaluate the waveform compliance with the Mask of Figure 3 and record a Pass or list the
failing parameters. The report shall also record separately the measured Positive Frequency Deviation and
Negative Frequency Deviation.
4.6.3 Transmitter Modulation Bandwidth
4.6.3.1 Test objective
This measurement ensures that the transmitter signal modulation does not result in excessive bandwidth
spreading and does not interfere with adjacent channels, if present.
4.6.3.2 Test procedure
A spectrum analyzer or similar instrument with the capability of measuring the bandwidth occupied by 99% of
the total RF power is to be used. The instrument should have a Resolution Bandwidth of 10 kHz and a Video
Bandwidth of 10 kHz to capture the modulated spectrum over the entire modulated data interval. The full span
of the display shall be between 500 kHz and 1 MHz. Utilize the automatic measurement features of the
instrument to measure the 99% bandwidth.
4.6.3.3 Measurement values and limits
The value measured shall not exceed the maximum bandwidth specified in Table 2.
4.6.3.4 Test report data
The test report shall record the measured bandwidth.
4.6.4 Transmitted message preamble format and timing
4.6.4.1 Test objective
The objective of this test is to verify that the tag transmitted message preamble structure and timing complies
with requirements specified in Table 2.
Each tag response includes a preamble of 20 square wave cycles, preceded by a 15us logic low and followed
by the preamble terminator cycle, as shown in Figure 9 below, with the first byte (example) of a data packet.
Pulse width in µs. Data byte transmitted significant bit first. Byte shown is code 0x64.
16 © ISO/IEC 2010 – All rights reserved

Figure 9 — Tag data communication and timing
4.6.4.2 Test procedure
Initialize for the test:
• The tag must have an easily recognizable n-byte data pattern (e.g. all “1’s” or all “0’s”, alternating “1’s” and
“0’s”, etc.) pre-stored in user memory.
The interrogator shall transmit a point-to-point “Collection with Universal Data Block (UDB)” command with the
test tag ID. The tag shall respond with transmission of the selected, pre-stored data. The tag response shall
be analyzed to determine the message preamble and timing.
An example of a suitable measurement system appears in Figure 4. It consists of an RF receiver with FM
demodulator tuned to 433,92 MHz. The preamble square wave cycle period, preamble terminator cycle timing
and modulation frequency are to be measured with a logic analyzer or other suitable instruments. The codin
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