Intelligent station using multiple RF antennae and inventory control system and method incorporating same

An RFID reader, comprising:

• a) a controller;
• b) a transmitter for generating a transmitted RF signal operatively connected to said controller, said transmitter having an output;
• c) a receiver for receiving a received RF signal operatively coupled to said controller, said receiver having an input;
• d) a coupler operatively connected to said output of said transmitter and said input of said receiver;
• e) at least one antenna for alternately radiating said transmitted RF signal and receiving said received RF signal operatively connected to said coupler;
• f) means for sensing a loading condition of said at least one antenna and producing an output indicative of said loading condition;
• and
• g) means for selectively altering tuning of said at least one antenna operatively connected thereto and responsive to said output of said means for sensing.