NXP Semiconductors SLEV900/AFB

Overview

SLEV900/AFB from Philips Semiconductors is an I-CODE Evaluation Kit designed to enable rapid prototyping and functional validation of ISO/IEC 15693-compliant RFID label systems. It includes an SLRM900-based I-CODE reader, antenna, 24 V power supply, serial interface cable, ten pre-programmed I-CODE labels, three software disks (Windows demo, DOS evaluation, C-source), and documentation. It supports read/write, EAS activation/deactivation, serial number enumeration, and full memory dump for SL1ICS3001-family labels.

For engineers reviewing the SLEV900/AFB datasheet, SLEV900/AFB pinout, SLEV900/AFB application, or SLEV900/AFB equivalent, this kit delivers plug-and-play RF evaluation capability for RFID system integration, feasibility studies, and host-interface protocol development - with Windows 95/98/NT 4.0 support, adjustable 4 W RF output, and C-library access to low-level command sets.

Technical Context

The SLEV900/AFB implements a complete ISO/IEC 15693-2/-3 compliant reader subsystem centered on the SLRM900 IC. It operates at 13.56 MHz, supports 1-out-of-4 coding, and uses ASK 10% modulation with 26.48 kHz subcarrier for communication with I-CODE1 labels (e.g., SL1ICS3001).

Hardware includes BNC-connected antenna interface, RS-232 serial link (57.6 kbaud default), and 24 ±1 V DC input. Software comprises Windows-based ICODE.EXE (with GUI-driven block read/write, EAS control, and serial number scan) and DOS-based CRMTEST3.EXE for command-level testing and configuration.

Key Specifications

Availability

SLEV900/AFB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RFID system integration, ISO/IEC 15693 protocol validation, and EAS-enabled retail security prototyping requiring stable component supply and legacy-compatible evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for SLEV900/AFB 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

Philips Semiconductors (now NXP Semiconductors) was a global leader in analog, RF, and smart-card ICs, with expertise in contactless identification and secure interface solutions.

The SLEV900/AFB belongs to Philips' I-CODE product line - engineered specifically to accelerate development of ISO/IEC 15693-based RFID applications, including inventory tracking, anti-theft systems, and label-based data logging.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the SLEV900/AFB evaluation kit?

The SLEV900/AFB evaluation kit serves as a complete turnkey platform for developing and validating ISO/IEC 15693-compliant RFID systems using Philips' I-CODE1 technology. It enables engineers to perform real-time read/write operations, EAS activation/deactivation, serial number enumeration, and full memory inspection on SL1ICS3001 labels - all via Windows or DOS software interfaces. The SLEV900/AFB includes hardware, firmware, source code, and documentation required for rapid proof-of-concept implementation.

Does the SLEV900/AFB support modern operating systems like Windows 10 or Linux?

No - the SLEV900/AFB was designed exclusively for Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows NT 4.0, along with DOS environments. Its CRMTEST3.EXE and ICODE.EXE binaries are 16-/32-bit legacy executables incompatible with modern OS security models and driver architectures. The SLEV900/AFB does not include USB interface, signed drivers, or API abstraction layers needed for Windows 10 or Linux compatibility.

Can the RF output power of the SLEV900/AFB be increased beyond 4 W?

The SLEV900/AFB hardware is rated for a maximum RF output of 4 W. Exceeding this level may damage the included antenna, which was optimized for that power. While RF output is adjustable via software (e.g., CRMTEST3.EXE), operation above 4 W requires a custom-designed antenna - the SLEV900/AFB itself does not support higher-power amplification or thermal management for sustained >4 W operation.

What label ICs are compatible with the SLEV900/AFB?

The SLEV900/AFB is explicitly validated for use with the SL1ICS3001 I-CODE1 Label IC, as confirmed in its datasheet and software documentation. It supports the full command set defined in the I-CODE1 specification - including serial number read, user memory access (Blocks 4–15), Write Access Conditions (Block 2), and EAS/QUIET bits (Block 3). The SLEV900/AFB is not verified for I-CODE2 or later generations.

Is source code provided with the SLEV900/AFB, and what language is it written in?

Yes - the SLEV900/AFB includes Visual C++ 6.0 source code (in VC6SOURCE.ZIP) for the Windows demonstration software ICODE.EXE. This allows developers to inspect, modify, and extend host-side logic for custom RFID workflows. The SLEV900/AFB also supplies the crm_s32.dll serial library (distributed separately by Philips) to interface with the reader hardware at the API level.