The Siemens 6GT2801-1BA10-0AX2 is a SIMATIC RF300 RF310R GEN2 RFID reader with an integrated antenna, operating at 13.56 MHz. It communicates via an RS422 interface using the 3964R protocol, and is designed for connecting to RF300, ISO 15693, and MOBY E transponders. The read range reaches 60 mm, though the actual distance depends on the specific transponder type in use. This is a fixed-mount reader for industrial identification applications — tracking workpieces on a conveyor, identifying pallets in a warehouse, or verifying tooling in a machining center. The IP64 rating means it is dust-tight and protected against splashing water, suitable for factory-floor environments where occasional washdown or coolant mist is present but not high-pressure jets.
The 60 mm maximum read range is the headline figure, but it is range-dependent on the transponder — a larger or higher-gain tag will reach further than a small on-metal tag. For a sourcing decision, confirm the transponder type on your BOM against the Siemens compatibility list before committing the line. The reader draws 0.06 A typical at 24 VDC. The M12 8-pin connector carries both power and RS422 communication. Verify that your communication module or PLC interface supports RS422 (3964R) — this is not a standard RS232 or RS485 drop-in. The maximum cable length for the RS422 interface is 1000 m, which gives flexibility for distributed reader placement across a large facility. Data transfer rate over the air reaches 106 kbit/s maximum, with typical read access at 0.13 ms per byte and write access at 0.13 ms per byte.
ATEX/IECEx certification for hazardous areas
This variant carries ATEX marking II 3 G Ex ec IIB T4 Gc and II 3 D Ex tc IIIC T80 °C Dc, plus IECEx certification. That means it is approved for use in Zone 2 (gas) and Zone 22 (dust) hazardous areas — common in chemical, pharmaceutical, and grain-handling facilities. The increased safety (ec) protection type means the reader is designed to prevent arcs, sparks, or hot surfaces under normal operation.
Mounting and mechanical integration
The housing measures 55 mm wide, 75 mm deep, and 30 mm high, in Ti gray PA 12 plastic. It fastens with four M5 screws — no DIN-rail clip, so plan for direct panel or bracket mounting. The IP64 enclosure means no additional enclosure is required for dust and splash protection, but the M12 connector must be properly torqued to maintain the seal. Shock resistance is rated to EN 60721-3-7 Class 7 M2 at 500 m/s², and vibration resistance at 200 m/s². This is sufficient for mounting on machinery with moderate vibration — think conveyor drives or packaging machines, not a stamping press without isolation.