# RUFUS Tag Writer

The **RUFUS Tag Writer** is a desktop UHF RFID reader/writer designed to help you code UHF chips for your events. It works with **RUFUS wet chips** and other compatible UHF tags, giving you a simple way to prepare participant tags before race day.

With the Tag Writer software you can:

* Encode EPC values into UHF chips.
* Prepare tags for use with **RUFUS CloudBox** and the RUFUS Timing ecosystem.
* Verify chips before deployment.

## Credentials

To use the Tag Writer software you will need a **username and password**.

* These credentials are **different from your RUFUS Cloud account**.
* To request access, please contact us at: **<help@runonrufus.com>**

## Download Software & Drivers

* **Tag Writer Software (Windows)**\
  [Download here](https://rufus-web-downloads.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/Macsha+Tag+Writer+V3.1.6.rar)
* **Windows Drivers**\
  [Download here](https://rufus-web-downloads.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/CP210x_VCP_Windows.zip)

## Video Tutorial

Watch this short video to see how to install the software, connect the device, and start writing chips:

[How to Use the RUFUS Tag Writer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpEb-eq3Apw)

## FAQ

**Does the Tag Writer work only with RUFUS tags, or with any other?**\
The Tag Writer works with any UHF chip, as long as the chip’s read or write memory is not blocked.

**When are credits consumed?**\
You need to purchase coding credits only if you want to write blank chips into **RUFUS 2.5 encryption** (for closed systems). Re-coding those chips will not consume credits. Any coding into **RUFUS Free** or **CUSTOM EPC** will not consume credits.

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## Notes

* The Tag Writer is **Windows-only**.
* Install the drivers **before** connecting the device to your PC.
* Once installed, open the Tag Writer software, log in with your credentials, place your chip on the reader, and follow the on-screen steps to encode.