A wireless sensor reader includes at least one antenna configured for communication with one or more radio frequency (RF) addressable sensors; a controller; a network communications module coupled to the controller, the network communications module having an interface for coupling to a communications network; a logic module coupled to the controller; and a user interface. The logic module includes a sensor communications module for receiving sensor data from the one or more RF addressable sensors. The wireless sensor reader is configured for common designation network communications. The wireless sensor reader is capable of powering down to conserve energy and capable of powering up in response to an electronic signal. The wireless sensor reader includes (i) a transmitter and a first receiver, and (ii) a second receiver that is configured to screen a radio frequency transmission and provide the electronic signal in order to power up the wireless sensor reader.