Implementing a Smart Library Network
Using RFID Technology: A Step-by-Step
Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Workspace for a Smart Library Network
To begin implementing a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) enabled library system,
the first step involves setting up the virtual workspace with all the necessary hardware
components. These components are dragged and positioned within the simulation
environment to replicate the physical layout of a real-world smart library. The devices
include:
- Server (Server-PT): Acts as the central hub for data storage and network services.
- Network Switch: Facilitates communication between all connected devices on the
network.
- Three Personal Computers (PCs): One designated for the librarian, and the remaining
two for library guests.
- Router: Serves as the gateway to the broader network or internet.
- RFID Reader: Detects RFID-tagged items (e.g., books).
- RFID Cards (Tags): Attached to books for identification and tracking.
- LED Light: Provides a visual indicator of book status.
- Electronic Door Lock (DOOR): Controls physical access based on RFID authentication.
- MCU Board (Microcontroller Unit): Acts as an interface between the RFID reader and
other IoT components like the LED and door.
By arranging these components in the workspace, we simulate the foundational
architecture of a functional smart library system.
Step 2: Establishing Physical Network Connections
After positioning the devices, the next step is to interconnect them using appropriate
cables. These connections establish the local network infrastructure, ensuring seamless
communication between devices. The cabling layout is as follows:
- Server to Switch: A copper straight-through cable connects the Server's FastEthernet0
port to the Switch’s FastEthernet0/1 port.
- Router to Switch: A copper straight-through cable connects the Router’s Ethernet1 port
to the Switch’s FastEthernet1/1 port.
- PCs to Switch: Each of the three PCs is connected using a copper straight-through cable
from FastEthernet0 on each PC to FastEthernet2/1, 2/2, and 2/3 on the switch
respectively.
- RFID Reader to Switch: Connected via copper straight-through cable from the RFID
Reader’s FastEthernet0 port to FastEthernet2/4 on the switch.
- LED and Door to MCU Board: Custom IoT cables are used to link these components to
the MCU board.
These connections integrate all devices into the same local network, enabling smooth
interaction and data sharing across the system.
Step 3: Configuring the Router as a Gateway
To designate the router as the network’s default gateway, it must be manually configured
with a static IP address:
1. Click on the router device in the workspace.
2. Navigate to the Config tab.
3. Select GigabitEthernet0/0.
4. Assign the following values:
- IP Address: 192.168.1.1
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
This configuration allows the router to manage network traffic and connect devices to
external networks if needed.
Step 4: Assigning Static IP Addresses to the PCs
Each PC is assigned a unique static IP address to ensure consistent network identification.
Here’s how it is done:
1. Click on a PC.
2. Go to the Config tab.
3. Click on FastEthernet0.
4. Set:
- IP Address: 192.168.1.20 for the Librarian PC.
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
Repeat the process for the remaining two PCs (Guest 1 and Guest 2), assigning:
- 192.168.1.21
- 192.168.1.22 respectively.
Step 5: Assigning a Static IP Address to the RFID Reader
To enable network communication, the RFID Reader must also be assigned a static IP
address:
1. Select the RFID Reader.
2. Go to the Config tab.
3. Click on FastEthernet0.
4. Input:
- IP Address: 192.168.1.30
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
Step 6: Testing Network Connectivity
To verify successful device configuration and network communication:
1. Enter Simulation Mode.
2. Use the PDU tool to send test packets from one of the PCs to the router.
3. If the packets are delivered without any loss or error, the network setup is confirmed to
be correctly configured and operational.
Step 7: Programming RFID Tags (Book IDs)
Each book is assigned a unique RFID tag ID such as: 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004. These
IDs are embedded into RFID tags attached to books. When a book is brought near the
RFID reader, the system checks the ID against a central database to verify if it has been
properly checked out. If a book has not been registered through the proper borrowing
process, the system triggers an alert—activating the LED and locking the door to prevent
unauthorized exit.
Step 8: Programming the RFID Reader for Access Control
The RFID Reader must be programmed to validate each book's RFID tag against the
database:
1. The RFID Reader reads the tag ID of a passing book.
2. It sends a query to the server to verify the borrowing status of the book.
3. If the book is properly borrowed, the door is unlocked.
4. If the ID is not verified, the system flags the item as unauthorized, triggers the LED
alarm, and keeps the door locked.
Step 9: Designing the User Interface for Librarians and Guests
A functional graphical interface is developed for both the Librarian and Library Guests to
interact with the system. The interface includes the following features:
- Librarian Dashboard:
- Add new books to the digital catalogue.
- Monitor currently available books and those checked out.
- View borrower information and manage user accounts.
- Guest Interface:
- User-friendly design for easy navigation.
- Login capability to access personal profiles.
- View and search available books.
- Request to borrow selected books.
