Abstract:
A handheld reader for testing the validity of a transponder in a mobile communications system, such as an electronic toll collection system. The handheld reader interrogates the transponder under test and receives a response signal. The response signal contains a data string having a sequential plurality of fields, including one field earlier in the sequence than another field. The handheld reader tests the later field for validity and, if invalid, tests the earlier field for validity. Based upon the results of the tests, the handheld reader outputs an indicator signal that provides an assessment of the degree of validity of the data string.