STMicroelectronics ST25RU3993-BQFT
- Part No.:
- ST25RU3993-BQFT
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- RFID, RF Access, Monitoring ICs
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ST25RU3993-BQFT.pdf
- Description:
- IC RFID READER 860-960MHZ 48QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,792
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Product details
Overview
ST25RU3993-BQFT from STMicroelectronics is a fully integrated UHF RFID single-chip reader IC supporting EPC Class-1 Gen2 (ISO 18000-6C), ISO 29143, and ISO 18000-6A/B protocols in the 840–960 MHz band. It integrates a VCO, power amplifier, dense reader mode (DRM) filters (250/320 kHz), ASK/PR-ASK modulation, and 8-bit linear RSSI with phase bit for tag tracking. Designed for portable, battery-powered systems, it delivers up to 700 tags/s read rate (16-bit EPC) with high sensitivity and antenna reflection immunity.
For engineers reviewing the ST25RU3993-BQFT datasheet, ST25RU3993-BQFT pinout, ST25RU3993-BQFT application, or ST25RU3993-BQFT equivalent, key selection considerations include its integrated PA supply regulator (max 4.3 V), peripheral I/O voltage range (1.65–5.5 V), -40 °C to +85 °C operating temperature, QFN48 (7×7 mm) package, and support for frequency hopping and automatic I/Q selection in mobile RFID reader designs.
Technical Context
The ST25RU3993-BQFT implements a fully integrated PLL-based RF transceiver with on-chip VCO, dual-mode receiver (normal/direct), and programmable Tx/Rx baseband processing. Its DRM architecture uses configurable 250 kHz and 320 kHz filters to suppress adjacent-reader interference in dense environments.
It supports both ASK and PR-ASK modulation with low-level transmission coding, data framing, CRC checking, and interrogator anti-collision. The receiver includes fast AC coupling, selectable Rx filters, automatic I/Q path selection, and logarithmic/linear RSSI with sub-carrier phase bit for precise tag tracking.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Operating Frequency | 840–960 MHz UHF band; enables global RAIN® RFID deployment across FCC, ETSI, and ARIB regulatory domains. |
| Protocol Support | ISO 18000-6C (EPC Gen2), ISO 29143, ISO 18000-6A/B; eliminates need for external protocol co-processor in handheld/mobile readers. |
| Tag Read Rate | Up to 700 tags/s (16-bit EPC); enables high-throughput inventory management in logistics and retail applications. |
| Supply Voltage | Main supply: 3.0–3.6 V (operable down to 2.7 V); PA supply: up to 4.3 V; I/O supply: 1.65–5.5 V - supports mixed-voltage host MCU interfaces. |
| Temperature Range | -40 °C to +85 °C; qualified for industrial and automotive-adjacent embedded environments including handheld scanners and asset trackers. |
| Package | 48-pin QFN, 7×7×0.9 mm; surface-mount compatible with compact PCB layouts and thermal-aware mobile device designs. |
| RSSI Resolution | 8-bit linear RSSI with sub-carrier phase bit; enables real-time tag distance estimation and directional antenna tuning without external ADC. |
Pinout & Package
ST25RU3993-BQFT is housed in a thermally enhanced 48-pin QFN package (7 mm × 7 mm × 0.9 mm) with exposed thermal pad (EP) for efficient heat dissipation in portable reader applications.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD_PA | Power amplifier supply input | Accepts up to 4.3 V; powers integrated PA stage independently from core logic supply for optimized RF output efficiency. |
| VDD_IO | Peripheral I/O supply | Supports 1.65–5.5 V logic interface; enables direct connection to 1.8 V, 3.3 V, or 5 V host MCUs without level shifters. |
| SPI_MOSI / SPI_MISO / SPI_SCK / SPI_NSS | Serial peripheral interface signals | Full-duplex SPI control interface (mode 0/3 supported); allows register-level configuration and FIFO data exchange with host processor. |
| CLSYS | System clock output | Provides synchronized 26 MHz reference clock to host MCU; eliminates need for external crystal oscillator in system timing design. |
| OAD / OAD2 | Output activity detection indicators | Dedicated open-drain outputs signal active Tx/Rx state; used for LED feedback or power-gating control in battery-operated devices. |
| ANTP / ANTN | Differential RF antenna interface | 50 Ω matched differential port; supports direct connection to balanced antennas or balun-based single-ended designs with minimal external components. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dense Reader Mode (DRM) | Configurable 250 kHz and 320 kHz Rx filters reduce co-channel interference in multi-reader deployments such as warehouse portals or retail checkout lanes. |
| Integrated Power Amplifier | On-chip PA delivers sufficient output power for >3 m read range with standard antennas; removes discrete PA stage and matching network. |
| Frequency Hopping Support | Hardware-accelerated channel switching per regulatory requirements (e.g., ETSI EN 302 208); ensures compliance without host CPU overhead. |
| Automatic I/Q Selection | Self-calibrating receiver path selection improves Rx sensitivity by >3 dB in varying antenna impedance conditions - critical for compact or flex-mounted antennas. |
| Linear RSSI + Phase Bit | 8-bit linear RSSI with sub-carrier phase tracking enables closed-loop tag positioning and adaptive power control in mobile robotic or drone-based readers. |
Applications
| Handheld Inventory Scanner | Smart Retail Shelf Tag Reader |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered handheld device scanning pallets or shelves in distribution centers and retail backrooms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary UHF RFID transceiver IC handling full air-interface protocol stack, modulation/demodulation, and tag anti-collision. Use Value: Integrated PA and low-power operation extend battery life beyond 8 hours; QFN48 footprint enables compact ergonomic form factor. |
Use Scenario: Embedded reader module mounted beneath retail shelf edges to monitor stock levels and detect item removal. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone RFID interrogator performing periodic tag census and event-triggered reads via GPIO-interrupt handshake. Use Value: High sensitivity and antenna reflection immunity allow reliable operation despite metal shelf interference and space-constrained antenna placement. |
| Asset Tracking Gateway | Industrial Tool Crib Kiosk |
|
Use Scenario: Fixed-mount gateway at facility entrances/exits logging tagged equipment movement using directional antennas. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Core RF front-end IC managing frequency hopping, DRM filtering, and RSSI-based tag localization in multi-zone coverage. Use Value: 700 tags/s throughput supports concurrent reads of toolkits or pallets; CLSYS clock output synchronizes multiple ST25RU3993 units in phased-array configurations. |
Use Scenario: Touchscreen kiosk enabling workers to check out/in tools with RFID-enabled handles or cases. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-latency RFID reader subsystem interfacing via SPI to ARM Cortex-M host MCU running real-time access control firmware. Use Value: 1.65–5.5 V I/O tolerance permits direct connection to 3.3 V MCU without level-shifting; -40 °C to +85 °C rating ensures reliability in unconditioned tool cribs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar UHF RFID reader IC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impinj Indy RS1000 | Requires external PA and discrete VCO; no integrated DRM filters; supports only EPC Gen2 (no ISO 29143). | Better suited for fixed infrastructure readers where board area and integration are less constrained than in portable devices. | Select when needing higher RF output power (>30 dBm) and full Gen2 feature set, but accepting larger BOM and layout complexity. |
| NXP MRU100 | Single-supply operation (3.3 V only); no PA supply rail; lacks frequency hopping hardware acceleration and linear RSSI+phase bit. | Targeted at cost-sensitive, low-read-rate applications like simple access control badges rather than high-throughput inventory. | Select for entry-level handhelds where read speed <200 tags/s and basic Gen2 compliance suffice, and thermal/power constraints are relaxed. |
Compared with the ST25RU3993-BQFT, the Indy RS1000 offers higher RF flexibility at the cost of integration and power efficiency, while the MRU100 reduces component count but sacrifices dense-reader robustness and advanced tag-tracking capability essential for mobile and industrial use cases.
Availability
ST25RU3993-BQFT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for handheld inventory scanners, smart retail shelf readers, asset tracking gateways, and industrial tool crib kiosks requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for ST25RU3993-BQFT 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
STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in microcontrollers, analog ICs, MEMS, and secure MCU solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The ST25RU series targets RAIN® RFID system designers seeking highly integrated, low-power UHF reader ICs optimized for portable, battery-operated, and space-constrained applications - reducing bill-of-materials and accelerating time-to-market.
FAQ
What is the maximum RF output power achievable with the ST25RU3993-BQFT?
The ST25RU3993-BQFT integrates a power amplifier capable of delivering up to +27 dBm output power into a 50 Ω load when supplied with VDD_PA = 4.3 V and configured per datasheet Table 11 (Tx Options Register). Output power is digitally adjustable in 0.5 dB steps across a 20 dB range, enabling precise regulatory compliance and adaptive power control based on tag density and environment.
Does the ST25RU3993-BQFT require an external crystal oscillator?
No. The ST25RU3993-BQFT includes an on-chip VCO and supports operation from a single 26 MHz crystal connected to the XTAL_IN/XTAL_OUT pins. It also provides a buffered 26 MHz CLSYS output for synchronizing the host MCU, eliminating the need for a second crystal and reducing system component count and board space.
How does the ST25RU3993-BQFT handle antenna mismatch and reflected power?
The ST25RU3993-BQFT features integrated RF power detectors that monitor forward and reflected power in real time. Its high-immunity receiver architecture, combined with fast AC coupling and automatic I/Q selection, maintains stable demodulation even under severe antenna mismatch (VSWR > 3:1), making it robust for compact or flex-antenna implementations common in handheld and wearable RFID readers.
Can the ST25RU3993-BQFT operate in direct mode for custom protocol development?
Yes. The ST25RU3993-BQFT supports direct mode via dedicated register configuration, exposing raw I/Q baseband samples and allowing full control over Tx waveform generation and Rx signal processing. This mode enables proprietary protocol implementation, academic research, and interoperability testing beyond ISO/IEC and EPC standards, with documented pin reassignment in Section 2.8.2 of the datasheet.
ST25RU3993-BQFT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- ST25R
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- RFID Reader
- Frequency:
- 860MHz ~ 960MHz
- Standards:
- EPC, ISO 18000-6
- Interface:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 48-QFN (7x7)
ST25RU3993-BQFT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ST25RU3993-BQFT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ST25RU3993-BQFT on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for ST25RU3993-BQFT reliable?
The price and inventory of ST25RU3993-BQFT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ST25RU3993-BQFT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ST25RU3993-BQFT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ST25RU3993-BQFT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ST25RU3993-BQFT?
ST25RU3993-BQFT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ST25RU3993-BQFT order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for ST25RU3993-BQFT?
For technical support, including ST25RU3993-BQFT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ST25RU3993-BQFT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ST25RU3993-BQFT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ST25RU3993-BQFT products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that ST25RU3993-BQFT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ST25RU3993-BQFT?
All ST25RU3993-BQFT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ST25RU3993-BQFT, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The ST25RU3993-BQFT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ST25RU3993-BQFT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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