Access Point

A hardware device serving as a communication hub in wireless RTLS networks. Receives signals from tags and transmits data to the central system. Strategically positioned throughout facilities to ensure comprehensive coverage. Also called readers, anchors, or base stations depending on technology.

Fixed infrastructure device that communicates with mobile tags to enable positioning. In industrial RTLS, access points serve dual roles: receiving signals from tags for position calculation and providing network connectivity for data transmission. Different technologies use varying terminology - UWB systems use 'anchors', BLE systems use 'beacons' or 'gateways', and Wi-Fi systems use standard 'access points'.

Key specifications include coverage radius (typically 30-100 meters depending on environment), maximum simultaneous tag capacity (ranging from 50-500 tags), update rate (1-10 Hz typical), and power requirements (5-30W per unit). Industrial deployments typically require 1 access point per 500-2000 m² depending on accuracy requirements and environmental obstacles.