What the read range actually means on site
The Siemens 6GT2821-6BC32 is a SIMATIC RF200 RF260R RFID reader with an integrated antenna, operating at 13.56 MHz. Its read range is listed at 135 mm maximum, but that figure depends entirely on the transponder type you pair it with — the range shrinks with smaller or lower-gain tags, so budget for less in a real mounting position. It talks to ISO 15693 transponders (MDS Dxxx series) over IO-Link V1.1, and the 32-byte IO process data fits most pallet- and tote-level identification tasks. The 230 kbit/s IO-Link port is the bottleneck, not the 26.5 kbit/s RF air interface.
Mounting and wiring for washdown zones
IP67 rating means the reader body and the M12 connector survive washdown — the sealing washer under the mounting screws is what keeps water out of the housing, not the thread itself. Fasten with 2 x M5 screws through the 75 x 75 mm face. The M12 4-pin connector carries both power and IO-Link communication. The PA6.6 housing in anthracite is silicon-free, which matters if the reader goes into a paint shop or coating line where silicone contamination causes fisheyes.
Lifecycle and sourcing for the BOM line
The listed MTBF of 480 years is a calculated figure under controlled conditions — not a warranty, but a reliability benchmark for the design.