Zebra RFD8500 | UHF RFID Bluetooth Sled | 6m+ Read Range | 900+ Tags/sec | Integrated 2D Imager | Android & iOS
The Zebra RFD8500 is a UHF RFID Bluetooth sled that transforms any compatible Android or iOS mobile device into a full enterprise-class RFID reader. With a 6m+ read range, 900+ tags per second throughput, and an integrated SE4710 2D barcode imager, it adds powerful RFID and barcode scanning capability to existing hardware — without replacing your mobile fleet.
The RFD8500 reads EPC Class 1 Gen 2 and EPC Gen2 V2 UHF RFID tags at over 6 metres nominal range and processes 900+ tags per second — enabling fast inventory counts, asset tracking, and receiving workflows that would take hours with barcode scanning alone.
Beyond RFID, the built-in SE4710 enterprise imager reads all major 1D and 2D barcodes — QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, and standard linear codes. Workers handle both RFID and barcode workflows with a single device, reducing equipment costs and training complexity.
Connects wirelessly via Bluetooth 2.1 to Android 4.4+ and iOS 8+ devices — including Zebra mobile computers, iPhones, iPads, and compatible Android smartphones and tablets. Deploy enterprise RFID on the mobile platform your team already uses.
When a wireless connection is unavailable, batch mode stores up to 40,000 RFID tag reads and 500 barcodes locally. Sync when connectivity is restored — no data loss in areas with poor coverage.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | RFD8500 |
| SKU | RFD8500-1000100-EU |
| RFID Type | UHF RFID (EU frequency) |
| Tag Protocols | EPC Class 1 Gen 2, EPC Gen2 V2 |
| Read Range | 6+ m (20+ ft) nominal |
| Read Rate | 900+ tags/sec |
| Barcode Imager | SE4710 — 1D & 2D (QR, DataMatrix, PDF417) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 2.1 |
| Compatible OS | Android 4.4+, iOS 8+ |
| Batch Mode | 40,000 RFID tags + 500 barcodes |
| Battery | PowerPrecision Li-Ion 4,410 mAh |
| Sealing | IP52 |
| Drop Specification | 1.2 m (4 ft) to concrete |
| Weight | ~435 g |
| Region | EU |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — it connects via Bluetooth 2.1 to Android 4.4+ and iOS 8+ devices. Compatible with Zebra mobile computers as well as many standard smartphones and tablets. Check Zebra's compatibility list for your specific device model before purchasing.
Yes. The integrated SE4710 enterprise imager reads all major 1D and 2D barcodes — including QR codes, DataMatrix, PDF417, EAN, and Code 128 — in addition to UHF RFID tags. One device handles both workflows.
The EU suffix indicates this unit is configured for EU UHF RFID frequencies (865–868 MHz). Do not use an EU-frequency unit in regions requiring different RFID frequencies (e.g. US 902–928 MHz) as it will not comply with local regulations.
IP52 means the RFD8500 is protected against dust particles and light dripping water only. It is not rated for high-pressure jets or immersion. For wet or washdown environments, consider a more ruggedised RFID solution.