Chainway C72 is a long-range UHF tracking device operating on 865-868 MHz / 920-925 MHz / 902-928 MHz. MSRP starts at $800. See alternative architectures.
Technical Specifications
Hardware Overview
The Chainway C72 is an industrial-grade RFID device. It operates within the 865-868 MHz / 920-925 MHz / 902-928 MHz range and supports the EPC C1 Gen2, ISO 18000-6C standard, making it widely deployed across enterprise logistics applications.
With an IP rating of IP65, it offers protection against specific environmental conditions typical in warehouses or retail backrooms. The reader utilizes Li-ion 8000 mAh for continuous performance, while its stated maximum read rate peaks at ~900 tags/sec.
Connectivity and Network Integration
In modern deployments, network integration is the most significant hurdle. This model offers Wi-Fi, BT 5.0, 4G options for transferring data back to central systems.
However, a major bottleneck with legacy Chainway hardware is the heavy reliance on proprietary SDKs (like LLRP) or expensive third-party IoT middleware to process raw tag data into meaningful business intelligence.
The Nextwaves Alternative
If your engineering team is evaluating the Chainway C72, the Nextwaves NR155 presents a vastly superior cloud-native architecture. Legacy systems inherently drive high capital expenditure through vendor lock-in and proprietary software ecosystems.
Nextwaves completely eliminates this barrier by providing a standard MQTT REST API directly on the device. Your software developers can integrate tag reading directly into your custom ERP or WMS backend in days instead of months, completely bypassing recurring middleware licensing fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the C72?
The Chainway C72 is a heavy-duty mobile handheld RFID terminal based on the Android OS. It supports the EPC C1 Gen2, ISO 18000-6C standard over the 865-868 MHz / 920-925 MHz / 902-928 MHz frequency band, enabling roaming inventory sweeps and ad-hoc audits.
How much does this setup cost initially?
Units are typically priced around $800 MSRP. Depending on your shift requirements, you must also budget for charging cradles, spare Li-ion 8000 mAh batteries, and Android Mobile Device Management (MDM) software.
Why should I choose Nextwaves instead?
Nextwaves provides embedded cloud-native endpoints directly on the device. By supporting open protocols natively, mobile operators can push tag data straight into backend databases without engineering custom Android bridging applications.
Is the hardware durable enough for warehouses?
The ruggedized, pistol-grip chassis weighs 654 g and measures 177 x 88.6 x 145.8 mm. With an IP65 rating, it is built to survive concrete warehouse drops, heavy dust ingress, and varying environmental conditions across logistics facilities.
Does it support multiple network types?
Network access relies on its internal Wi-Fi, BT 5.0, 4G modems. Enterprise cellular 4G profiles or WPA2/WPA3 WLAN setups can be configured to protect internal payload data during wireless transmission.
Can my team install this internally?
Hardware deployment requires configuring the Android environment. Software teams must properly provision the localized APKs and utilize the Chainway UHF SDK to specify correct EPC transmission strengths for your workflow.
How does the remote management work?
Driven by Impinj chipsets, the mobile interrogator typically supports ~900 tags/sec under ideal conditions. Centralized device tracking, remote wipe capabilities, and firmware deployments are handled via MDM profiles.
Do I need proprietary software to run it?
A typical deployment requires writing custom Android/Java applications using the Chainway SDK to filter reads from the Wi-Fi, BT 5.0, 4G modems before caching or transacting them via REST to your cloud CRM.
What warranty comes with the reader?
The unit ships with a standard one-year warranty covering manufacturer defects. Extended defect coverage is available and highly recommended for portable scanning hardware.
Are the antennas sold separately?
The device features an integrated, high-gain circular antenna tuned for the 865-868 MHz / 920-925 MHz / 902-928 MHz ranges. The battery capacity restricts maximum transmission outputs over 12-hour shifts.