How to connect Arduino and RFID

On this instructable I will try to show how to interface a RFID sensor with the Arduino. I am using the RFID sensor from seeedstudio the serial version of it. There are a few parts you will gonna need. I also bought some RFID keys.

UPDATE: Now it works with IDE 021

connect Arduino and RFID

Step 2: Plugging all together

Connect the antenna on the appropriate pins like the first photo.

Plug the RFID sensor to the protoboard like the second photo above.

Only 3 wires are required to interface, 2 wires for supply and another for the serial line(communication)
The wires as connected as the third photo shows.
On RFID sensor: PIN 1 -> Tx
PIN 2 -> Rx (Not Used)
PIN 3 -> NC
PIN 4 -> GND
PIN 5 -> VCC (+5V)

Tx from RFID board goes to Digital PIN 2 on Arduino Board.

That is all you gonna need to wire.

Moving on to next step, the software.

Step 3: The code

I’m not a software guy, so this code is just for demonstration.

I don’t make any kind of checksum at the tags code, but it seems to work fine.

The code is really simple. I used a new library for the serial, using software emulation.

With the two white cards you can deny or allow the access of others keys.

Any doubt, please ask me.

Edit (05/11/12):
code update for new Arduino version

[box color=”#985D00″ bg=”#FFF8CB” font=”verdana” fontsize=”14 ” radius=”20 ” border=”#985D12″ float=”right” head=”Major Components in Project” headbg=”#FFEB70″ headcolor=”#985D00″]

What you gonna need?

– Arduino Board
– RFID Sensor from seeedstudios
– Wires
– Protoboard
– RFID tags (125kHz) from seeedstudios[/box]


About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer with a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan University. I have written for various industries, mainly home automation and engineering. My writing style is clear and simple, and I am skilled in using infographics and diagrams. I am a great researcher and am able to present information in a well-organized and logical manner.

Follow Us:
LinkedinTwitter
Scroll to Top