Texas Instruments RI-UHF-STRAP-08

Overview

RI-UHF-STRAP-08 from Texas Instruments is an EPCglobal UHF Gen2 (v1.0.9) and ISO/IEC 18000-6C compliant RFID strap IC designed for inlay conversion into smart labels. It features 192-bit memory (96-bit EPC, dual 32-bit passwords, locked 32-bit TID), operates at 860–960 MHz, supports Block Write/Block Erase, and delivers -13 dBm read sensitivity with 10-year data retention.

For engineers reviewing the RI-UHF-STRAP-08 datasheet, RI-UHF-STRAP-08 pinout, RI-UHF-STRAP-08 application, or RI-UHF-STRAP-08 equivalent, key selection factors include its 2.5 × 3 mm bonding pad layout, PET substrate compatibility, low-power H-field/E-field operation, and mechanical handling limits (6 N shear force, 15 mm bending radius).

Technical Context

The RI-UHF-STRAP-08 implements a passive UHF RFID tag architecture compliant with EPCglobal Gen2 v1.0.9 and ISO/IEC 18000-6C standards. Its RF front-end enables operation across global 860–960 MHz bands with -13 dBm typical read sensitivity and -9 dBm programming sensitivity, optimized for high-speed singulation via advanced anti-collision protocols.

It integrates a 192-bit non-volatile memory map: 96-bit user-programmable EPC, 32-bit Access Password, 32-bit KILL Password, and factory-locked 32-bit TID. Memory endurance is rated at 100,000 write/erase cycles with guaranteed 10-year data retention at -40°C to +65°C operating temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

RI-UHF-STRAP-08 is a bare-die strap on 50 µm PET substrate, delivered unmounted on reels. It has two 2.5 × 3 mm aluminum bonding pads for flip-chip attachment to external antennas - no traditional IC package or pin count applies. Mechanical dimensions: 9.00 mm web width, 4.00 mm pitch, 150 µm die height.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar UHF RFID strap applications.

Compared with Impinj Monza R6-P and NXP UCODE 8xm, RI-UHF-STRAP-08 offers superior write endurance and factory-locked TID for supply chain security, while trading off some sensitivity and protocol extensibility - making it optimal for high-volume, cost-sensitive smart label manufacturing where data integrity and longevity are critical.

Availability

RI-UHF-STRAP-08 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for supply chain logistics, express parcel delivery, and airline baggage handling requiring stable component supply, reel-based conversion compatibility, and long-lifecycle availability.

Supply support for RI-UHF-STRAP-08 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity technologies, with leadership in RFID, power management, and signal chain solutions.

RI-UHF-STRAP-08 belongs to TI's UHF Gen2 Strap product line, engineered specifically for high-yield, low-cost inlay manufacturing - balancing RF performance, mechanical robustness, and process compatibility for smart label converters.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the RI-UHF-STRAP-08 in an RFID system?

The RI-UHF-STRAP-08 serves as a passive UHF RFID strap IC that forms the core silicon element of smart labels. When bonded to an antenna, it enables wireless identification and data exchange per EPCglobal Gen2 v1.0.9 and ISO/IEC 18000-6C standards. The RI-UHF-STRAP-08 does not contain an integrated antenna or packaging - it is designed exclusively for embedding into inlays during label conversion.

Does the RI-UHF-STRAP-08 require external power or a battery to operate?

No, the RI-UHF-STRAP-08 is a fully passive device powered solely by RF energy harvested from the reader's electromagnetic field. It contains no internal battery or power source. Its low-power 130 nm silicon design allows operation at -13 dBm typical read sensitivity, enabling reliable communication even in weak-field environments typical of dense pallet or conveyor applications.

How is memory organized in the RI-UHF-STRAP-08, and what is the purpose of the locked TID?

The RI-UHF-STRAP-08 provides 192 bits of non-volatile memory: 96 bits for the Electronic Product Code (EPC), 32 bits each for Access and KILL passwords, and 32 bits of factory-programmed and permanently locked TID (Tag Identifier). The locked TID ensures immutable device identity for authentication, anti-counterfeiting, and traceability - it cannot be overwritten or erased after manufacture, unlike the user-programmable EPC and passwords.

What mechanical handling constraints must be observed when converting RI-UHF-STRAP-08 into inlays?

During inlay conversion, the RI-UHF-STRAP-08 must not exceed 6 N shear force, 10 N/mm² chip-area pressure, or bending radii less than 15 mm in either direction. Exceeding these limits risks cracking the silicon die or delaminating the aluminum interconnects. The strap also requires de-ionization during winding/unwinding to prevent ESD damage, given its 2.0 kV HBM rating.

Can the RI-UHF-STRAP-08 be used with antennas made from materials other than PET?

Yes - the RI-UHF-STRAP-08 is compatible with antennas fabricated on paper, corrugated board, polyester film, and conductive ink-printed substrates, provided the bonding pads achieve ≥50% contact area and the resulting antenna impedance matches the strap's 380 Ω parallel target at resonance. TI's reference designs assume PET, but mechanical and electrical validation is required for alternate materials due to differences in dielectric constant and thermal expansion.