Sunday, December 11, 2005

RFID Airline Luggage: Low ROI?

Airlines are not aggressively investing in RFID given their financial situation. ...

... "Radio frequency tags, or RFID, could reduce the losses, but the airlines aren't really using that because of their financial situation, Cantrell said. Delta, which is operating under bankruptcy protection, tested RFID bag-tracking but put off using it in favor of technology projects which return value more quickly than RFID would, Black said. " ...

RFID Airline Luggage: Low ROI?: Via Statesman: Lost luggage lands in Alabama

Via Computerworld: Delta to Test RFID Tags on Luggage: "Delta will give RFID devices a trial run on selected flights from Jacksonville, Fla., to its headquarters hub in Atlanta. It said the 30-day test will involve the use of more than 40,000 disposable RFID tags that operate at 900 MHz and are being made by two vendors: Matrics Inc. in Columbia, Md., and SCS Corp. in San Diego. "

Delta Says RFID Devices Pass First Bag-Tag Test: "The success rate of the RFID technology was far better than the 80% to 85% accuracy rate that's typically provided by bar code scanners, according to officials at Delta and the IT vendors that took part in the test. Pat Rary, manager of baggage strategy at Atlanta-based Delta, said the trial run at the airport in Jacksonville, Fla., also met a key requirement: It was invisible to the airline's check-in agents and required no new training. "

Via Silicon.com: Delta promises end to lost luggage with RFID: "The company announced that it is to spend between $15m and $25m to roll out an RFID system across its American network. When the system is installed, it will be able to track bags from check-in, where RFID tags will be attached, until they are dropped off at the baggage carousel at the customer's destination. "

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Sunday, June 12, 2005

RFID Temp Sensor: MicroSensys

RFID Temp Sensor: MicroSensys: MATRICS Group Offers RFID products and sensor tags by MicroSensys

... "The TELID 1T module with a integrated temperature sensor. The measured temperature value will be read contactlessly from outside by standard iID 2000 components from MICRO-SENSYS. Dimensions - 28mm x 6 mm.; Antenna - coil on chip; distance - short, closed coupling. " ...


The company microsensys is a specialist in manufacturing and developing of radio frequency identification components. In this wide field of possible products microsensys focuses on wireless closed coupling, low power, 13.56MHz RFID transponder and reader technologies. microsensys strategy is to offer the most innovative technology and the true realistically technical solution as far as this product portfolio is concerned. Located in Erfurt, founded in 1991, microsensys has dedicated his 12 years history to supplying RFID products for niche markets in Europe every time.

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Tuesday, June 07, 2005

Award for RFID CEO: Turnaround Strategy ...

Symbol Technologies President and CEO Bill Nuti Garners Best Turnaround Executive Award at the 2005 American Business Awards

... "Since he joined Symbol in 2002, Nuti has developed and executed an enormous and an all-encompassing change management turnaround program at Symbol. His successful efforts have resulted in creating a new brand for Symbol, The Enterprise Mobility Company, instilling a new corporate culture and improving the Company's business performance. Nuti also led the Company's strategic acquisition of Matrics, Inc., a pivotal business decision that has strengthened Symbol's position as a leader in the emerging RFID market. " ...


Symbol Technologies, Inc., The Enterprise Mobility Company™, is a recognized worldwide leader in enterprise mobility, delivering products and solutions that capture, move and manage information in real time to and from the point of business activity. Symbol enterprise mobility solutions integrate advanced data capture products, radio frequency identification technology, mobile computing platforms, wireless infrastructure, mobility software and world-class services programs under the Symbol Enterprise Mobility Services brand. Symbol enterprise mobility products and solutions are proven to increase workforce productivity, reduce operating costs, drive operational efficiencies and realize competitive advantages for the world's leading companies.

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Wednesday, May 11, 2005

RFID Venture Capital Investments ...

Industry Heavyweights Join Forces at Sennari to Solve Mobile Carriers' Biggest Problem: Senior executives create mobile loyalty services firm, attract over $2 million in Series A seed financing from investors ...

... "Novak Biddle Venture Partners, located in Bethesda, Maryland is a leading early stage venture capital firm focused on unique, cutting-edge technology investments. With over $350 million under management, Novak Biddle operates four venture funds that currently provide equity financing and management assistance to 31 portfolio companies. Novak Biddle continues to seek business situations where the combination of ideas, dollars, experience, and relationships can create long term, sustainable value. A sampling of companies funded by Novak Biddle include: RFID first-mover Matrics, VOIP trailblazer Telogy, education technology leader Blackboard Inc. and intelligent video surveillance pioneer ObjectVideo. " ...


Sennari provides mobile carriers, game publishers, music and video publishers and other content based entertainment companies with solutions for maintaining customer loyalty, reducing churn and creating new revenue streams.

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Saturday, March 12, 2005

RFID Industry Patent Infringement Developments ...

RFID Industry Patent Infringement: Intermec Rejects Symbol's Unfounded Claims; Company Welcomes...

Intermec responds to Symbol patent infringement suit, which pits the two RFID leaders against one another ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... lawsuit. The suit is an apparent reaction to Intermec's RFID patent-infringement lawsuit against Matrics Inc., filed in June 2004. ...

... Intermec Technologies Corp. has learned that Symbol Technologies, of Holtsville, New York, has filed a lawsuit in Delaware alleging that Intermec has infringed Symbol patents in the area of wireless communications. Intermec strongly believes there is no basis for this lawsuit. The suit is an apparent reaction to Intermec's RFID patent-infringement lawsuit against Matrics Inc., filed in June 2004. Symbol knowingly acquired the lawsuit in September 2004 when it purchased Matrics. Intermec has charged that Matrics willfully and deliberately made, used, sold and offered for sale in the United States RFID products known to infringe Intermec's RFID patents. ...


Intermec Technologies Corp., a UNOVA Inc. (NYSE:UNA) company, develops, manufactures and integrates technologies that identify, track and manage supply chain assets. Core technologies include mobile computing systems, bar code printers, label media and Intellitag(R) RFID. The company's products and services are used by customers in many industries worldwide to improve the productivity, quality and responsiveness of business operations.

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Tuesday, March 08, 2005

RFID Company CEO Success ...

RFID Company CEO Success: Symbol Technologies President and CEO William Nuti Named to Fast ...

Symbol's CEO is recognized for reinventing his company in the RFID market ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... Nuti also led the Company's strategic acquisition of Matrics, Inc. -- an integral part of Symbol's move to lead the emerging RFID market. ...

... Symbol Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: SBL), The Enterprise Mobility Company(TM), today announced that William Nuti, president and chief executive officer, has been named one of Fast Company magazine's 2005 "Fast 50" winners. Nuti was recognized in the "Reinvention" category for charting a new course for Symbol through innovation. ...


Symbol Technologies, Inc., The Enterprise Mobility Company(TM), is a recognized worldwide leader in enterprise mobility, delivering products and solutions that capture, move and manage information in real time to and from the point of business activity. Symbol enterprise mobility solutions integrate advanced data capture products, radio frequency identification technology, mobile computing platforms, wireless infrastructure, mobility software and world-class services programs under the Symbol Enterprise Mobility Services brand. Symbol enterprise mobility products and solutions are proven to increase workforce productivity, reduce operating costs, drive operational efficiencies and realize competitive advantages for the world's leading companies.

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Friday, February 04, 2005

RFID Sensors Deliver Temperature Sensing Capability ...

RFID Sensors Deliver Temperature Sensing: Digital Angel Corporation Delivers 50,000 Bio-Thermo RFID ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... Digital Angel Corporation (Amex: DOC) announced today that it has delivered 50,000 Bio- Thermo (temperature-sensing) implantable RFID Microchips to its ...

... Digital Angel Corporation (Amex: DOC) announced today that it has delivered 50,000 Bio-Thermo (temperature-sensing) implantable RFID Microchips to its distributor in the United Kingdom. The company also announced that it plans to offer Bio-Thermo for U.S. distribution this summer. Bio-Thermo is the first temperature sensing implantable RFID Microchip for the companion pet (dog and cat) world. The Bio-Thermo Chip is a first of its kind in implantable RFID technology. ...

a temperature sensing implantable RFID Microchip ...

Digital Angel Corporation develops and deploys sensor and communications technologies that enable rapid and accurate identification, location tracking, and condition monitoring of high-value assets. Applications for the Company's products include identification and monitoring of pets, fish and livestock through its patented implantable microchips; location tracking and message monitoring of vehicles and aircraft in remote locations through systems that integrate GPS and geosynchronous satellite communications; and monitoring of asset conditions such as temperature and movement, through advanced miniature sensors.

Additional resources on temperature sensors with RFID ...

New Low-cost Temperature Sensor: KSW-Microtec of German has introduced a new RFID temperature sensor to safeguard meat, produce and other products. ...

MATRICS Group Offers RFID products and sensor tags by MicroSensys: RFID Products MATRICuS is pleased to offer fine IC Products from ... for Low Proximity Applications The TELID® 1T module with a integrated temperature sensor. ...

DeltaTRAK launches RFID humidity sensor: ... equipment manufacturer DeltaTRAK has launched the FlashLink Wireless System, a temperature and humidity sensor that expands the use of RFID technology in food ...

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Friday, January 21, 2005

Four Sigma Level RFID Read Rates Achieved ...

Four Sigma Level RFID Read Rates Achieved: Intermec and METRO Group Achieve 99 Percent RFID Pallet Tag Read ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... METRO Group, the world's third-largest retailer and an RFID pioneer, and Intermec Technologies Corp. ...

... METRO Group, the world's third-largest retailer and an RFID pioneer, and Intermec Technologies Corp. today announced the successful completion of implementation of RFID readers and tags at METRO Group's largest and busiest distribution center in Germany. Located in Unna, Germany, the distribution center is equipped with Intermec IF5 Intelligent RFID readers and RFID tags powered by Intermec. With more than 50,000 pallets read to date, METRO is enjoying 99% tag read-rates, as well as complete compliance with ETSI radio standards for operation in Europe. ...


Additional resources on sigma level and read rates for RFID ...

RFID Demystified” National Institute of Industrial: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat ... Sigma and Lean Manufacturing. ... should be considered. This will often be impacted by the level of partnering that ... block, citing read rates in the 80%-90% range. ...

RFID - Tag ,You're Late - Why Wal-Mart's suppliers think RFID: on products to get the best read-rates." Unilever's Ellis ... Coming from a 6 Sigma headset (DMAIC process ... technology commensurate with the same level that industry ...

Apriso News and Events: bar code systems, RFID tags can be read even when ... management, lean supply, successive refinement (kaizen), six-sigma quality levels, demand-driven ...

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Monday, January 17, 2005

Noisy RFID Environments ...

Noisy RFID Environments: HP Unveils ''Noisy Lab'' for RFID Technology Development; Company ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... HP (NYSE:HPQ) (Nasdaq:HPQ) today announced plans to open an RFID Noisy Lab in Omaha, Neb., next month to further the development of radio frequency ...

... HP (NYSE:HPQ) (Nasdaq:HPQ) today announced plans to open an RFID Noisy Lab in Omaha, Neb., next month to further the development of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. Announced at the National Retail Federation 94th Annual Convention and Expo, the HP facility will be one of the most comprehensive RFID labs in the industry, simulating a real-world manufacturing and distribution center where HP, its customers and its partners can pilot and evaluate RFID technology and solutions. ...


HP is a technology solutions provider to consumers, businesses and institutions globally. The company's offerings span IT infrastructure, global services, business and home computing, and imaging and printing. For the four fiscal quarters ended Oct. 31, 2004, HP revenue totaled $79.9 billion.

Additional resources on RFID in noisy environments ...

RFID Reader Matrics Radio Frequency Identification RF Tags: read rate supplies the muscle to overcome interference in noisy environments, and to ... port reader designed for embedded applications, such as RFID printers and ...

RFID with Tagsys: and Power Levels The read range achieved in an RFID system is ... with the smart label - The coupler' sensitivity, especially in noisy environments - The smart ...

Impinj Readies A Next-Generation RFID Tag: For companies who haven't yet implemented RFID, Impinj recommends they start ... ZumaRFID chip, the Gen2 RainierRFID chip is designed for noisy environments and 32 ...

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Wednesday, September 08, 2004

RFID Partners: Matrics & epcSolutions Deliver EPC/RFID Solution

From PR Newswire (press release) ... 8 /PRNewswire/ -- epcSolutions, Inc., an industry leading EPC(TM)/RFID middleware provider and Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of ...

... epcSolutions, Inc., an industry leading EPC(TM)/RFID middleware provider and Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, today announced a partnership. This partnership will combine the strengths of epcSolutions' ThingsNet(TM) middleware server platform and Matrics' UHF RFID tags and readers. ThingsNet(TM) is freely downloadable at http://www.epcsolutions.com/downloads.html ...


Based in Great Falls, Virginia, epcSolutions, Inc. delivers a complete, out-of-the-box EPC/RFID middleware solution, ThingsNet(TM). ThingsNet, which runs on all existing JVM platforms and connects to any application including Oracle, SAP, an ERP or any external system, consists of an EPC compliant Middleware Server, EPC Information Service, the ThingsNet Control Center, and the ThingsNet RDK.

Matrics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant RFID systems and the recipient of the Frost and Sullivan Award for Entrepreneurial Company for 2004. Matrics, named to Red Herring's prestigious list of top 100 technology companies for 2004, along with its partnership network, provides RFID solutions to many of the Fortune 1000 companies, government, as well as international businesses. Current customers include Airport Authority Hong Kong, H.D. Smith Wholesale Drug Company, International Paper, and McCarran Airport.


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Wednesday, August 04, 2004

RFID Best Practices: FIVE STEPS TO RFID DEPLOYMENT

From Ferret, Australia ... Matrics and Alien, the main EPC tag and reader providers today, will have to ... There are also interference issues since many traditional RF systems also use the ...

" ... WHETHER you are responding to EPC-based mandates or simply trying to gain competitive advantage through RFID, this five-step process will make for successful RFID deployment. Contrary to perceptions fostered by the recent buzz around mandates from Wal-Mart, Target, Albertsons, the Department of Defense (DOD) and others, RFID is not a new technology. It was first used more than 60 years ago by Britain to identify friend and foe aircraft in World War II. For more than 20 years, every railroad car in North America and many other countries have had RFID tags on them. And if you have an ExxonMobil Speedpass or use a tollway transponder in your car, you are using RFID technology. ... "


Alien Technology is a leading supplier of radio frequency identification (RFID) hardware that enables consumer packaged goods companies, retailers, logistics companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and defense industries to improve their operating efficiency by implementing RFID solutions throughout their supply chain. Alien was the first company to deliver electronic product code (EPC) Class 1 hardware, and the company's unique patented manufacturing process, Fluidic Self Assembly™ (FSA), ensures the reliable and cost-efficient delivery of RFID tags in high volumes. With a manufacturing facility in Morgan Hill, California and a planned expansion facility in Fargo, North Dakota, Alien offers industry-leading manufacturing capacity to meet the rapidly growing market demand.


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Tuesday, July 27, 2004

RFID Industry: Symbol Technologies Announces Agreement to Acquire Matrics, Inc. ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... to acquire Matrics, Inc., a leader in the design and manufacture of EPC (electronic product code)-compliant Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems. ...

" ... Symbol Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:SBL), The Enterprise Mobility Company(TM), today announced it has reached an agreement to acquire Matrics, Inc., a leader in the design and manufacture of EPC (electronic product code)-compliant Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems. Privately held Matrics is based in Rockville, Md. The purchase price is $230 million in cash ... "


Matrics has focused its strategic RFID solutions efforts on EPC standards. Matrics provides EPC-compliant RFID systems for retail, defense, transportation and other vertical markets. The Matrics product portfolio features RFID systems including multi-protocol, EPC-compliant fixed readers; readers designed for embedded applications, such as RFID printers and handhelds; high-performance antennas for RFID tag reading; and EPC labels that can be attached to items such as containers, pallets, cartons and more. The RFID tag family includes both read-only and read/write functionality that addresses a wide range of asset visibility applications. Today, Matrics RFID readers and tags are used by customers to help track inventory across the supply chain, ensure compliance in regulated industries, track the location of baggage throughout airports for security purposes and facilitate a more effective logistics process within the defense sector.

Symbol Technologies, Inc., The Enterprise Mobility Company(TM), is a recognized worldwide leader in enterprise mobility, delivering products and solutions that capture, move and manage information in real time to and from the point of business activity. Symbol enterprise mobility solutions integrate advanced data capture technology, mobile computing platforms, wireless infrastructure, mobility software and world-class services programs under the Symbol Enterprise Mobility Services brand. Symbol enterprise mobility products and solutions are proven to increase workforce productivity, reduce operating costs, drive operational efficiencies and realize competitive advantages for the world's leading retailers, transportation and logistics companies, manufacturers, wholesale and distribution centers, government agencies and healthcare facilities.

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RFID Conference Event: Frontline 2004 -- Set to Be the Largest Event for Supply Chain ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Technology, and VeriSign are among the vendors slated to showcase the latest real-world solutions in radio frequency identification (RFID); electronic product ...

" ... Advanstar Technology Group, a division of Advanstar Communications, Inc., will bring together the best-of-breed automatic identification (Auto-ID) and supply chain organizations at this year's Frontline Solutions 2004 conference and exposition. IBM, Intermec, Philips Semiconductors, Alien Technology, Datamax, Matrics, Northrop Grumman Information Technology, Savi Technology, and VeriSign are among the vendors slated to showcase the latest real-world solutions in radio frequency identification (RFID); electronic product code (EPC); bar code; industrial mobile and wireless; and supply chain efficiency solutions. Taking place September 13-15 at the Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois, Frontline 2004 brings together key decision makers from major industries, including: manufacturing; retail and consumer packaged goods; government and defense; as well as pharmaceutical and healthcare. These supply chain professionals converge to form valuable business partnerships and learn about new technology solutions that provide an optimal return on investment ... "


Advanstar Communications Inc. is a worldwide business information company serving specialized markets with high quality information resources and integrated marketing solutions. Advanstar publishes 92 business magazines and directories, 79 exhibitions and conferences, numerous Web sites, and a wide range of direct marketing, database and reference products and services. Advanstar serves targeted market sectors in such industries as art, automotive, beauty, collaboration/e-learning, CRM/call center, digital media, entertainment/marketing, fashion & apparel, healthcare, internet/e-business, manufacturing and processing, pharmaceutical, power sports, science, telecommunications, and travel/hospitality. The Company has more than 1,300 employees and currently operates from multiple offices in North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia.

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Sunday, July 18, 2004

RFID Middleware Download: ThingsNetTM Platform Evaluation Kit

From epcSolutions, Inc. ... ThingsNet Platform is an EPC Global, Inc. compliant EPC / RFID Networking platform. The platform includes a Reader Simulator as well as a Reader Connector for the Matrics RDR 001 RFID Reader ...

" ... Additional Reader Connectors will be added in the coming months. Check back periodically for the Reader Connector Developer Kit which will allow you to integrate your own reader into the ThingsNet Platform. Evaluation Information: Use this page to download the FREE evaluation version of the ThingsNet Platform. Test drive the only evaluation EPC-compliant RFID Networking solution available today. ThingsNet System Requirements: Windows NT, Windows 2000 or Windows XP; Java JDK 1.4.1 or higher; System memory: 512MB (minimum); 1GB (recommended); Processor: Pentium III (minimum); Pentium 4 (recommended); 200MB of free disk space; A network of things. That is the vision now taking giant steps forward with the recent pushes from US powerhouses. There is little doubt that we are on the verge of a global phenomenon. The question no longer begs “f, but when. The potential advantages of RFID to global trade are too great to ignore. In the coming years we will observe the deployment of tens of billions of autonomous devices: manufactured goods, products and distributed assets linked to, or sensed by, the network. Meanwhile, companies are beginning to consider the effects of attempting to conduct business via these devices; for example, the reduction in supply chain costs and the future efficiencies associated with RFID-tagged goods. Do not stop there. There's much more. ... "

The overall foundation of epcSolutions, Inc. is built on strong industry domain knowledge and business fundamentals uniquely contributed by each of the respective individuals - coupled with the synergy in working as a team and working together with our strategic partners for the benefits of our customers and shareholders... The solution provider for EPC-enabled RFID middleware applications. epcSolutions has taken a strong leadership role in developing the standards that guide EPC-enabled RFID technology currently, and in ensuring the effectiveness of those standards in the future. epcSolutions, Inc. have joined forces with EPCglobal, which, through a joint venture between the Uniform Code Council (UCC) and EAN International, is charged with establishing and supporting the EPC Network as the global standard. Prior to the formation of EPCglobal, epcSolutions had worked closely with its predecessor, the Auto-ID Center, which developed the initial EPC and related technologies.

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Wednesday, July 14, 2004

RFID Reader: Matrics Announces the Most Versatile RFID Reader on the Market ...

From PhysOrg.com, United States ... Matrics' AR 400 RFID reader announced earlier this year is already becoming the preferred reader within a wide range of vertical markets including retail ...

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Tuesday, July 13, 2004

Gen 2 RFID: Matrics Announces the Industry's First RFID Reader With an Upgrade ...

From Yahoo News (press release) ... ROCKVILLE, Md., July 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, today ...

Matrics Inc. announced that the company will soon begin shipping "Gen 2-ready" AR 400 RFID readers. The AR 400 already operates in a multi-protocol mode, which includes Class 0, Class 0+, and Class 1 protocols. With the inclusion of Gen 2, it is the most versatile RFID reader on the market today. Matrics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant RFID systems and the recipient of the Frost and Sullivan Award for Entrepreneurial Company for 2004. Matrics, named to Red Herring's prestigious list of top 100 technology companies for 2004, along with its partnership network, provides RFID solutions to many of the Fortune 1000 companies, government, as well as international businesses. Current customers include Airport Authority Hong Kong, H.D. Smith Wholesale Drug Company, International Paper, and McCarran Airport.

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Monday, June 14, 2004

Drug RFID: First Drug Wholesaler, HD Smith, to Implement Matrics' EPC RFID...

From Yahoo News (press release)  ... wholesaler, and Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, today announced ...

Matrics provides EPC compliant RFID systems for retail, CPG, defense, transportation and other vertical markets. Matrics' commitment is to customer success which is measured by increased asset visibility and an easy route to compliance. RFID technology offers viable solutions to these serious problems and is revolutionizing the way companies in the healthcare industry are doing business. Recent FDA recommendations promoting the use of RFID technology, coupled with numerous retailer mandates requiring its utilization, is propelling RFID use to the next level. Businesses around the world are turning to this flexible, highly effective technology to ensure a safe and secure supply chain, facilitate recall processes, and control costs.

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Zebra Technologies Begins Shipping First High Performance RFID...

From Yahoo News (press release)  ... on-demand printing solutions for business and process improvement, and a pioneer in the targeted adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) for global ...

Zebra R110XiIIIPlus: R110XiIIIPlus™ features an integrated RFID reader/encoder for UHF Class 0 Matrics ® EPC-compatible tags and Matrics’ Class 0+ read/write tags with all the features and functionality of the Zebra 110XiIIIPlus printer.

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Tuesday, May 25, 2004

RFID Baggage Tracking: Hong Kong International Airport Selects Matrics' RFID System

From PR Newswire (press release) ... Baggage Tracking Infrastructure System to Be Largest, Single RFID Deployment in Asia ROCKVILLE, Md., May 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Matrics Inc., a global leader in ...

Matrics provides Multi-Port and Single Port Readers. Multi-Port readers are industrial strength fixed readers offering superior and robust read range capabilities, anti-collision features, and very high data read rates, unmatched by other systems. Matrics' Single-Port reader is an industrial strength, single port reader designed for embedded applications, such as RFID printers and handhelds.

RFID solutions from Matrics provide the fast, accurate information required to improve operational efficiencies in virtually any transportation application. By automatically tracking assets like tugs, baggage, and more throughout the course of transit, RFID transforms the tracking process and yields unsurpassed asset management and visibility.

Matrics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant
RFID systems and the recipient of the Frost and Sullivan Award for
Entrepreneurial Company for 2004. Matrics, named to Red Herring's prestigious
list of top 100 technology companies for 2004, along with its partnership
network, provides RFID solutions to many of the Fortune 1000 companies,
government, as well as international businesses. Current customers include
International Paper and McCarran Airport.

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Sunday, May 23, 2004

RFID Technology: Allixon consults on Seoul local government's RFID strategy

From UsingRFID.com, UK ... Seoul, Korea, has selected a consortium led by Allixon to provide consulting services for ISP (Information Strategy Planning) based on the RFID business model. ...

... Allixon is a leading provider of RFID Middleware and Mobile Internet solution for device computing. Allixon's products based on ubiquitous technologies direct companies looking to tap into the wealth of data captured by networked devices such as RFID readers or handhelds to extend the quality of information to any device where they want. URIS, the RFID middleware, consists of three parts - RFID Multi-Adapter, Savant, and RFID Enterprise Middleware. RFID multi-adapter middleware consists of reader interface module and reader adapter module that make real-time data from RFID readers handled considering each characteristic product. Allixon has developed interfaces for RFID readers of Intermec, Matrics, and Alien Technology and interface development for RFID readers of other companies is available. Savant, as the central nervous system of the EPC Network and the core component of RFID middleware, filters real-time data from RFID readers and distributes real-time data shaped EPC (Electronic Product Code) to pointed computer systems enabling track products movement through EPC Network ...

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Tuesday, May 11, 2004

RFID Systems: Matrics Named Top 100 Technology Company by Red Herring

From Yahoo News (press release)  ... Md., May 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, has ...

Matrics provides EPC compliant RFID systems for retail, CPG, defense, transportation and other vertical markets. Matrics´ commitment is to customer success which is measured by increased asset visibility and an easy route to compliance. We deliver high performance, cost-effective RFID systems scalable to our customer´s requirements.

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Saturday, April 24, 2004

RFID Tracking: Kabayan explores Mt. Apo slopes

From Minda News, Philippines ... Kabayan was fitted with an aluminum leg band and has a radio frequency identification (RFID) microchip implanted in its breast muscle...

Developed by International Paper, with tag and reader technology from Matrics, Inc., the WTS operates at the company's Texarkana, Texas mill and warehouse. Using proprietary technology developed by IP, the WTS is a fully functional warehouse management solution that covers all stocking, storage, movement and shipping within the facility. The system ensures inventory certainty, eliminates lost product, reduces operating costs and decreases inventory by providing real-time inventory routing instructions and movement confirmation to forklift operators without the need for manual intervention. It utilizes the EPCglobal Inc.'s Electronic Product Code (EPC(TM)) standards, ensuring compatibility throughout the supply chain.

Under the terms of the two-year contract, Matrics will supply at least 10 million passive, non-battery UHF disposable tags for International Paper's expansion of its WTS technology. International Paper plans to install the new WTS using Matrics' RFID tags at most of its U.S. mills over the next several years.

Matrics, Inc., based in Columbia, Md., is a provider of EPC(TM)-compliant RFID technology and visibility solutions for supply chain, asset management and security, a corporate sponsor of the Auto-ID Center and developer of PICA(TM), a new high-speed RFID tag assembly system. Patented wireless tracking technologies provide users with the most reliable and cost-effective solutions to provide the comprehensive visibility of assets throughout the enterprise. Matrics is presently engaged in rollout applications with several Fortune 100 companies. For more information, visit Matrics on the Web at http://www.matrics.com/.

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Friday, April 23, 2004

RFID Technology: RFID to be used to track global post systems

From InSourced, UK ... Key to the project is radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. RFID uses small transponders that communicate to electronic receivers via radio waves. ...

Airgate Technologies is a development stage company specializing in wireless technologies. The Company designs and develops network applications utilized in WiFi ("hotspots") and RFID ("radio frequency identification") deployments. According to Allied Business Intelligence, annual shipment volume of RFID tags, or transponders, is expected to grow from 323 million in 2002 to several billion in 2007. RFID integration will occur at all levels -- government, manufacturing, distribution, health care, retail, even Homeland security. Retail giant Walmart is asking suppliers to attach RFID chips to their crates and cases of products. At this point, only those large shipping containers would be tagged, not individual products. Most suppliers have until 2006 to add the chips, but the top 100 suppliers have to do it by 2005, the retailer says.

RFID technology uses tags or transponders to transmit EPCs and communicate wirelessly to readers over radio frequency waves. Attached to physical objects, including items, cartons, pallets and containers, the tags uniquely identify objects. Readers receive data from the RFID tags via radio frequency waves once the tags are within reading range. This data is captured, accepted and executed against by RFID solutions, such as those offered by Manhattan Associates.

The Matrics RFID system is comprised of EPC-compliant RFID tags (Class 0 read only and read/write) and its new, multi-protocol reader (AR 400 RFID Reader), which is designed to enable real-time, seamless tag reading and writing capability for all EPC-compliant tags including Class 0 and Class 1. Matrics' RFID technology reads farther and faster and costs less than comparable systems, providing unsurpassed real-time visibility into products and assets in factories, distribution centers and retail outlets.

Wal-Mart announced plans back in June that it will require their suppliers to place EPC transponders on pallets and cases beginning in January 2005. RFID vendors finally got what they had asked for years ago: a public commitment from Wal-Mart.

Highlights of Wal-Mart's RFID system requirements are as follows:

- Transponders: Durable, temporary or permanent read-only 96-bit Class 0 (factory programmed), Class 0+ (read-write version of Class 0), or Class 1 version 1 (write once-read many) EPC-compliant transponders (supplier's choice dependent on number of turns). Existing 64-bit EPC are not compliant with the mandate. Wal-Mart noted they are driving toward Class 1 Version 2 whenever the specifications and compliant products are available.

- Antennas: 1 antenna required on each side of dock door/portal; 1 antenna above dock door; 1 antenna on each side or underneath a conveyor moving up to 600 ft/min for case tagging (cases have to be read 100% of the time at 540 ft/min).

- Readers: Should be agile (largely due to eventual migration to Class 1 version 2 EPC transponders that allow for one common protocol); be Power over Ethernet-based; have flexible output options and RF environment awareness; include security; and have the ability to disable unused features such as Web servers. More details on reader deployment are expected in the weeks and months ahead.

EM Microelectronic is a semiconductor manufacturer that designs and produces ultra-low-power, low-voltage, digital, analog and mixed-signal integrated circuits for battery-operated and field-powered devices in consumer, automotive and industrial applications. The company's product portfolio includes RFID circuits and transponders, ultra-low-power microcontrollers, voltage reset ICs and microprocessor supervisors, regulators, smart card ICs, LCD drivers and displays, sensor and optoelectronic ICs, mixed analog and digital gate arrays and application- specific integrated circuits (ASICs). EM also produces LCD modules and offers bumping services.

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Walmart RFID: R4 Global Services Answers the Call for WalMart RFID Compliance

From SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 22, 2004-- R4 Accelerate(SM) Solution Enables WalMart Suppliers to Meet Schedule II Pharmaceutical RFID Compliance Initiative Requirements

R4 Global Services(TM) (www.r4gs.com), a leading solutions provider of RFID-enabled technology and services, today announced the R4 Accelerate Solution for Schedule II Compliance to meet the needs of the 18 pharmaceutical suppliers working to fulfill the requirements of WalMart's Schedule II RFID initiative. As of the March 30th compliance target date set by WalMart, a number of suppliers had not met the overall requirements for RFID compliance on Schedule II pharmaceuticals. U.S. DEA Schedule II pharmaceuticals are highly regulated prescription narcotics such as Ritalin and Morphine. The R4 Accelerate Solution is a simplified, pre-packaged suite of hardware, software and services that provides all the necessary components required to meet Schedule II compliance in eight weeks or less...

The pharmaceutical market is one of the most attractive application areas for RFID technology due to the relatively high cost of pharmaceutical product and readily apparent benefits to corporations and consumers. For example, a case of Schedule II pharmaceutical product might cost $40,000 - a high enough price point to justify the cost of RFID technology. Additionally, industry analysts estimate that up to 10% of the U.S. drug supply is counterfeit. Thus, the ability to track and trace pharmaceuticals in the supply chain has the potential to save suppliers hundreds of millions of dollars per year, in addition to saving human lives and reducing overall cost.

"Given the timeline, complex nature of suppliers' systems and necessary configuration required to integrate RFID into existing business processes, some delays in RFID compliance were to be expected," said Ryan Lange, senior vice president of sales for R4 Global Services. "At this point, suppliers are looking for complete, pre-packaged solutions versus components of solutions which are time intensive and costly to deploy. Our work with leading suppliers to WalMart, as well as with Schedule II and generic pharmaceutical product lines, gives us the expertise and vendor relationships needed to deliver an efficient, cost-effective solution to pharmaceutical suppliers. We also wanted to dispel the myth that compliance is a 'million dollar exercise' - we are able to deliver a complete compliance package in under eight weeks for less than $100,000, in many cases, depending on the volume of product being shipped to WalMart."

The R4 Accelerate solution for Schedule II compliance addresses both the short-term need for basic Schedule II compliance with WalMart, and the longer term need of developing a scalable plan of attack and technology architecture for the use of RFID in the pharmaceuticals supply chain. Schedule II RFID compliance has several basic requirements, including:

-- ePC compliant UHF RFID tags, applied at the item level

-- The ability to collect and store RFID tag information for future use

-- The ability to synchronize product data with UCCnet

"We believe the overall move towards the use of RFID in the global supply chain, though in its infancy, remains on track," said Jeff Richards, CEO of R4 Global Services. "There have certainly been challenges along the way, but WalMart is an incredibly efficient and focused organization. Schedule II utilization of RFID is an excellent precursor to overall adoption as the benefits to corporations and consumers start to become apparent."

Pricing for the R4 Accelerate Solution for Schedule II compliance ranges from $50,000 - $175,000 depending on the number of shipping locations involved and the volume of product being shipped to WalMart, as well as all hardware, software and services needed to meet compliance requirements. R4 has developed the offering in conjunction with its key alliance partners, including RFID technology vendors Alien Technology and Matrics. Suppliers purchasing the R4 Accelerate package will meet Schedule II compliance requirements in eight weeks or less.

About R4 Global Services

R4 Global Services is a leader in delivering RFID technology solutions to clients in the Retail, Consumer Packaged Goods, Manufacturing, Transportation & Logistics, Defense and Pharmaceutical industries. R4 solutions enable clients to realize the full benefits of RFID and RFID-related technologies, including increased sales, increased visibility and control, decreased labor costs, and dramatic improvements in key business processes such as inventory management and supply chain management. R4 and the R4 RFID Lab are headquartered in San Francisco, California, with additional locations in Michigan, Virginia and New Jersey. R4 is a sponsor of EPC Global. For more information visit R4 Global Services on the Web at www.r4gs.com or send an email to info@r4gs.com.

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Wednesday, April 21, 2004

RFID Partners: Manhattan Associates and Matrics Announce Alliance to Aid RFID Adoption

Partners to Deliver Best-in-Class RFID Solutions to Consumer Goods Industry

ATLANTA, April 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Manhattan Associates, Inc. (Nasdaq: MANH), the global leader in providing supply chain execution (SCE) solutions, and Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of electronic product code (EPC)-compliant Radio Frequency identification (RFID) systems, announce an alliance to accelerate adoption of RFID technology throughout the consumer goods supply chain.

The primary goal of this alliance is to help clients reduce overall costs and increase profitability by combining RFID tag and reader technology, with RFID-enabled supply chain execution solutions. The benefits to customers include improved accuracy and distribution efficiencies, shorter order cycle times, elimination of unnecessary handling and expenses and enhanced customer satisfaction, for an overall competitive advantage.

Manhattan Associates offers a variety of Integrated Logistics Solutions, including RFID. As the first supply chain software provider to join the Auto-ID Center (now EPCglobal), Manhattan Associates was an early adopter of EPC-compliant technology. The company has continued to build a solid leadership position with the development of its RFID in a Box solution(TM), which incorporates Integration Platform for RFID, RFID-enabled SCE applications and Implementation Services for RFID. Manhattan Associates has partnered with best-in-class RFID suppliers such as Matrics in order to leverage its solutions to its target markets.

"Teaming with Matrics allows us to offer the consumer goods industry a smart, reliable choice for complete RFID solutions," commented Greg Gilbert, RFID strategist for Manhattan Associates. "By aligning our RFID solutions with Matrics tag and reader functionality, we can ensure that customers who face pending compliance mandates meet deadlines, while realizing the added benefits of source to consumption supply chain operations."

RFID technology uses tags or transponders to transmit EPCs and communicate wirelessly to readers over radio frequency waves. Attached to physical objects, including items, cartons, pallets and containers, the tags uniquely identify objects. Readers receive data from the RFID tags via radio frequency waves once the tags are within reading range. This data is captured, accepted and executed against by RFID solutions, such as those offered by Manhattan Associates.

The Matrics RFID system is comprised of EPC-compliant RFID tags (Class 0 read only and read/write) and its new, multi-protocol reader (AR 400 RFID Reader), which is designed to enable real-time, seamless tag reading and writing capability for all EPC-compliant tags including Class 0 and Class 1. Matrics' RFID technology reads farther and faster and costs less than comparable systems, providing unsurpassed real-time visibility into products and assets in factories, distribution centers and retail outlets.

"We are pleased to be partnering with Manhattan Associates, a leader in the supply chain execution space," said Bob McFarland, senior vice president of supply chain sales for Matrics. "Manhattan's pioneering approach to RFID, now combined with Matrics' tags and readers, will deliver a higher return on investment to our joint customers."

About Manhattan Associates, Inc.: Manhattan Associates, Inc., is the global leader in providing supply chain execution solutions. We enable operational excellence through our warehousing and distribution, transportation and trading partner management applications. These integrated solutions leverage state-of-the-art technologies, innovative practices and our domain expertise to enhance performance, profitability and competitive advantage. Manhattan Associates has licensed more than 900 customers representing more than 1,600 facilities worldwide, which include some of the world's leading manufacturers, distributors and retailers. For more information about Manhattan Associates, visit http://www.manh.com .

About Matrics, Inc.: Matrics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant RFID systems and the recipient of the Frost & Sullivan Award for Entrepreneurial Company for 2004. Matrics along with its partnership network provides RFID solutions to many of the Fortune 1000 companies, government, as well as international businesses. Current customers include International Paper and McCarran Airport. For more information visit Matrics on the web at http://www.matrics.com .

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Tuesday, April 13, 2004

RFID Tag Reader: Matrics Upgrades EPC Reader

From RFID Journal ... Apr. 14, 2004—Matrics, a Columbia, Md., company that makes RFID systems that comply with Electronic Product Code (EPC) standards, has launched its second ...

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Monday, April 12, 2004

RFID Company: Matrics wins Entrepreneurial Company Award

From UsingRFID.com, UK - 14 hours ago ... The EPC/RFID systems producer, Matrics Inc., has been selected for the 'Award for Entrepreneurial Company of 2004' by the strategic market consulting and ...

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Wednesday, April 07, 2004

Manhattan Associates to Speak at DoD RFID Summit for Industry

EVP Strategy and Business Development, Eric Peters, to Speak on Lessons Learned in Radio Frequency Identification Implementations

ATLANTA - April 7, 2004 - Manhattan Associates®, Inc. (NASDAQ: MANH), the global leader in providing supply chain execution (SCE) solutions, announced that Eric Peters, executive vice president, strategy and business development, will speak at the 2004 Department of Defense (DoD) RFID Summit for Industry, April 6 - 8, 2004, in Washington, D.C. The summit is being hosted by the Office of the Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Supply Chain Integration) and the DoD Logistics AIT Office. The DoD RFID Summit for Industry brings together leaders in the field of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to discuss RFID technology and strategies for taking advantage of the asset management efficiencies that can be realized through the integration of RFID throughout the DoD and commercial partners. This is the second year the summit has been held and Manhattan Associates has participated in both.

Mr. Peters will participate in the "Lessons Learned on Implementation" panel on Thursday, April 8, from 8:45 a.m.- 10:45 a.m. EDT. This panel, moderated by Alan Estevez, assistant deputy under secretary of defense, supply chain integration, will explore the expectations, limitations and lessons to be learned from real-world RFID implementations. In his role at Manhattan Associates, Mr. Peters has gained intimate knowledge of the steps companies are taking to meet RFID mandates, including those issued by the DoD as well as several major retailers. Other participants in the panel include: Simon Langford, RFID strategy, Wal-Mart; Tom Torre, associate director, B2B supply chain innovation, Proctor & Gamble; Stav Prodromou, CEO, Alien; Larry Blue, vice president of engineering development, Matrics; and David Cass, transportation systems analyst, Fleet & Industrial Supply Center, Norfolk Ocean Terminal Division.

"Organizations are thirsting for guidance on RFID. We've been at the forefront of the RFID movement and as a result understand the challenges associated with implementing RFID into logistics operations," said Mr. Peters. " We have invested a great deal of time and effort in delivering world-class RFID-enabled solutions, working closely with our customers to address their RFID needs and partnering with other leading RFID technology vendors. I look forward to sharing what we've learned at this important summit."

In October 2003, the Department of Defense announced that it is requiring its suppliers to be RFID-compliant by January 2005. This edict solidified the DoD's place as an early adopter and true pioneer in supply chain and logistics operations. The DoD RFID Summit for Industry will bring together suppliers, supply chain personnel, DoD personnel, Acquisition & Logistics Program Managers from the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Marines and representatives from USTRANSCOM, the Defense Logistics Agency and other industry associations to educate and discuss the DoD's RFID policies, requirements, business processes and pilot programs that are already underway.

For more information on the DoD RFID Summit for Industry, visit www.dodait.com.

About Eric Peters
Eric Peters is Manhattan Associates' executive vice president, strategy and business development. He is responsible for the global professional services, training and customer service organizations, as well as research and development for Manhattan Associates' Trading Partner Management (TPM) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS) application suites. Additionally, he leads Manhattan Associates' Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Distributed Order Management (DOM) initiatives. Mr. Peters joined Manhattan Associates in April 2002 as senior vice president, products and strategy. With nearly 20 years of marketing and strategy experience in the supply chain execution industry, Mr. Peters is instrumental in helping Manhattan Associates continue to extend its global leadership position in the supply chain execution (SCE) marketplace.

About Manhattan Associates
Manhattan Associates, Inc., is the global leader in providing supply chain execution solutions. We enable operational excellence through our warehousing and distribution, transportation and trading partner management applications. These integrated solutions leverage state-of-the-art technologies, innovative practices and our domain expertise to enhance performance, profitability and competitive advantage. Manhattan Associates has licensed more than 900 customers representing more than 1,600 facilities worldwide, which include some of the world's leading manufacturers, distributors and retailers. For more information about Manhattan Associates, visit www.manh.com.

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RFID Company Success: Matrics

LO ALTO, Calif. and COLUMBIA, Md., April 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost &
Sullivan, an international strategic market consulting and training firm,
today announced the selection of Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design
and manufacture of EPC-compliant Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, as the recipient of the Frost & Sullivan Award for Entrepreneurial Company for 2004.

This award is given each year to a company that demonstrates superior
entrepreneurial ability in its industry. It also signifies Frost & Sullivan's
identification of a breakthrough solution offering with significant market
potential. Additionally, the award certifies that the company's marketing
strategy is sound and poised for success. Matrics was chosen for the award
for emerging as the most promising company in the global RFID market today.

"In less than five years, Matrics Inc. has become a force to reckon with
in the logistics and supply chain segments of the world RFID market," says
Karthik Nagarajan, Frost & Sullivan industry analyst. "Matrics' cutting edge
technology innovations and globally pervasive partnership network have been
the most important reasons for this success. These achievements have been
demonstrated through Matrics' launch of the advanced, multi-protocol AR 400
RFID Reader, Class 0 read/write RFID tag (0+), and the recent alliance with
Checkpoint Systems for retail supply chain solutions."

Frost & Sullivan selected Matrics based on sound research methodology.
Entrepreneurial ability was assessed using mostly primary research with top
manufacturers and end-users in the industry.

Frost & Sullivan analyst teams performed extensive interviews with vendors
to evaluate its products, business, and marketing plan. In addition, primary
research with leading manufacturers was performed to benchmark the award
recipient's strategy for growth against established players' strategies. Also
considered were elements such as strategic alliances, expected time to market,
and the senior management team. Finally, primary research with end-users was conducted to evaluate and compare the value of the award recipient's product solution.

"We are extremely pleased and gratified to accept this award," stated Dr.
William Bandy, Chief Scientist and Co-Founder of Matrics. "For Frost &
Sullivan, a world class company with worldwide recognition, to recognize
Matrics as the Entrepreneurial Company for 2004 is simply outstanding. This
award validates the diligence, perseverance, and dedication of our people and
our business plan."

About Frost & Sullivan
Founded in 1961, Frost & Sullivan is recognized as a global leader in
growth consulting. Frost & Sullivan Awards are presented to companies that
demonstrate excellence in their industry, commending the diligence,
commitment, and innovative business strategies required to advance in the
global marketplace. Frost & Sullivan rigorously analyzes specific criteria to
determine award recipients in a vast variety of market industries and
landscapes. For further information, visit http://www.frost.com.

About Matrics
Matrics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant
RFID systems. Matrics along with its partnership network provides RFID
solutions to many of the Fortune 1000 companies, government, as well as
international businesses. Current customers include International Paper and
McCarran Airport. For more information, visit Matrics on the web at
http://www.matrics.com.

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RFID Company: Frost & Sullivan Selects Matrics for 2004 Entrepreneurial Company ...

From PRNewswire (press release) ... today announced the selection of Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, as ...

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Sunday, April 04, 2004

Matrics hails its new advanced RFID reader

UsingRFID.com, UK ... The RFID manufacturer, Matrics Inc., has unveiled what it calls a "breakthrough device" that incorporates an RFID multi-protocol reader with enhanced network ...

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Friday, April 02, 2004

RFID Reader: Matrics introduces next-generation

From Mobile Radio Technology, Apr 2, 2004 ... Matrics this week announced the introduction of the AR 400 RFID radiofrequency identification reader the send generation of the company s RFID readers. In addition to providing typical RFID functionality the AR 400 enables users to manage and service the readers through an internal network or remotely including via the Web. This capability reduces time and maintenance costs associated with managing RFID systems Matrics said ...

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Tuesday, March 30, 2004

RFID Reader: MATRICS INTRODUCES THE INDUSTRY'S MOST ADVANCED RFID READER

True, multi-protocol AR 400 enables easy network integration and provides real-time reading and writing for all EPC-compliant tags

Columbia, MD - March 30, 2004 - Matrics Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), today announced the introduction of a breakthrough device that incorporates RFID multi-protocol reader technology with enhanced network features. The AR 400 RFID Reader has started shipping in limited quantities and the company is ramping up production based on strong customer demand.

The AR platform is the second generation of Matrics' RFID readers, which fundamentally changes the nature of the RFID reader from a static device into a network element that collects, writes, processes, and communicates information from all EPC classes of RFID tags.

The AR 400 RFID Reader will integrate easily into a customer's existing network infrastructure, while the AR platform is designed to be easily upgraded as new standards evolve in the marketplace, protecting our customers' investment. Customers will be able to manage and service their RFID readers through their internal network or remotely, including via the Web. This will dramatically reduce the time and maintenance costs associated with managing RFID systems.

"Our new AR platform is fundamentally different than anything on the market today," said Piyush Sodha, Chairman and CEO of Matrics. "Our customers are telling us that it is critical that RFID readers integrate into existing network infrastructure and not be managed as a separate technology tool."

The AR 400 is more than a typical RFID reader. It provides timely and pertinent information to customers' Network Management platform by real-time reporting of events and status using SNMP. To address security concerns, it provides security and privilege controls and full traceability of operator actions. The AR 400 is a ready-to-connect network element that provides a variety of options for connecting to customers' corporate networks via Ethernet or Serial connections and wirelessly via 802.11. A configuration Setup Wizard makes commissioning tags extremely easy.

A true, multi-protocol reader, the AR 400 RFID Reader provides real-time, seamless tag reading and writing capability for all EPC-compliant tags: Class 0 (read only, and read/write) and Class 1. This flexibility is critical to protect customers' RFID investment.

"We are working actively with RFID middleware and systems integration providers," said Bob McFarland, senior vice president of supply chain sales at Matrics. "Matrics is offering APIs to our partners for development of value-added applications and features that will further enhance the integration of the AR 400 RFID Reader into a customer's enterprise backbone."

About Matrics
Matrics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant RFID systems. Matrics along with its partnership network provides RFID solutions to many of the Fortune 1000 companies, government, as well as international businesses. Current customers include International Paper and McCarran Airport. For more information, visit Matrics on the web at www.matrics.com.

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RFID Partners: Checkpoint Systems and Matrics Announce Strategic Alliance to ...

From Business Wire (press release) ... manufacturers, today announced a contract with Matrics, Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of UHF Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems ...

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RFID Industry: Checkpoint Systems and Matrics Announce Strategic Alliance to ...

From TMCnet ... (Business Wire)-- March 30, 2004 -- Checkpoint Agrees to Purchase 100 Million RFID Tags for Integration into Client EPC Systems. Checkpoint Systems, Inc. ...

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Monday, March 29, 2004

Mobile RFID Asset Solutions: TrenStar and Matrics Announce Strategic Partnership to Deliver Standard Solutions to Select Industries

CLEVELAND – NA 2004 – March 29 – TrenStar Inc. and Matrics Inc. are partnering to deliver the first standard, UHF Radio Frequency Identification-enabled (RFID-enabled) mobile asset solutions to select industries.

TrenStar’s “pay-per-use” mobile asset management business model that combines RFID and asset tracking technologies with outsourced logistics services will now feature Matrics’ UHF Passive RFID technology in food, chemical and other selected industries where large numbers of assets are moving rapidly through global supply chains. Mobile assets are broadly used in many industries to transport raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods.

The combined solution includes RFID tags, handheld and vehicle-mounted readers, and antennae arrays designed specifically to support the unique business processes of the targeted industries. David Adams, TrenStar corporate strategy senior vice president, said that clients can expect improved efficiency of mobile asset management, reduced losses of both assets and contents and reduced operating costs.

“We’ve created an industry standard solution for managing mobile assets,” said Adams. “Our joint solution combines the right mobile assets with the right RFID infrastructure with the right technology layer for specific industries, therefore we offer them dramatically improved supply chain performance.”

“Passive UHF RFID technology is reliable and economical, and it meets the demanding requirements of industries like chemical and food,” said Girish Rishi, Matrics senior vice president, marketing. “Now, TrenStar and Matrics are offering RFID capability with world-class mobile asset technology. Our joint customers will be delighted with the operational efficiencies they will gain from our industry-focused solutions.”

The partnership expands upon a prior relationship between Matrics and TrenStar’s Global Container Management L.L.C. (GCM) unit. GCM has delivered a complete mobile asset management solution – containers, services and technology – to Kraft Foods.

About TrenStar: TrenStar’s supply chain technology and services heritage has evolved into a pioneering RFID-enabled, “pay-per-use” model of mobile asset management designed to reduce transportation and operating costs for companies invested in containers that move raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods through the supply chain. TrenStar’s three-part asset management, logistics services and supply chain technology solution, integrating RFID and container tracking software, is offered to qualified clients for no up front cost. This solution is intended to benefit multiple companies in an asset-intensive industry participating in TrenStar’s distinctive asset pooling operations.

TrenStar and its affiliates focus on the brewing, food & beverage, chemical, air cargo, automotive, healthcare, retail and other asset-intensive industries. Scottish Courage Breweries, Carlsberg UK , Kraft, Goodyear, Burberry, and Prada Stores use TrenStar’s products and services. Clients of TrenStar’s affiliates include Ford, Toyota, ExxonMobil, DaimlerChrysler and Dow Chemical. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado and recognized as one of the top Denver-area software developers, TrenStar has offices in the United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa. TrenStar is privately held, and investors include the venture arm of The Carlyle Group.

About Matrics: Matrics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC -compliant RFID systems. Matrics along with its partnership network provides RFID solutions to many of the Fortune 1000 companies, government, as well as international businesses. Current customers include International Paper and McCarran Airport . For more information, visit Matrics on the web at www.matrics.com

More RFID News...

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Saturday, March 27, 2004

From RFID to Smart Dust: The Expanding Market for Wireless Sensor Technologies

Wireless sensor technologies will be explored at a U.S. Department of Commerce Forum on April 1, 2004 that addresses the current and potential uses of sensor technologies by both industry and government as well as the public policy implications of widespread deployment. The forum is open to the public on a first come basis. Registration is onsite, no pre-registration required. A link to the forum webcast will be posted here on the day of the event.
DATE & TIME: The Wireless Sensor Technology Forum will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2004. Registration and demos open at 8:00 a.m.

LOCATION: The forum on wireless sensor technologies will be held at the U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Auditorium, Washington, D.C. (Enter through the Department of Commerce Main Lobby on 14th Street between Constitution and Pennsylvania avenues. Photo identification required.)

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wendy Lader, Office of Policy Analysis and Development, NTIA, at (202) 482-1880, or electronic mail: wlader@ntia.doc.gov. Please direct media inquiries to the Office of Public Affairs, NTIA, at (202) 482-7002.

Commerce To Host Wireless Sensor Technologies Forum April 1st, Panel Discussions Will Examine Marketplace Expansion “From RFID to Smart Dust”

Wireless sensor technologies, the next highly anticipated billion-dollar market for the information technology sector, will be explored at a U.S. Department of Commerce Forum on April 1, 2004 that addresses the current and potential uses of sensor technologies by both industry and government as well as the public policy implications of widespread deployment.

Panel discussions will be moderated by Federal Communications Commissioner Kevin J. Martin and senior Commerce Department officials including Jon W. Dudas, Acting Under Secretary for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office; Michael D. Gallagher, Acting Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information; Elizabeth Prostic, Chief Privacy Officer; and Benjamin H. Wu, Deputy Under Secretary for Technology.

"Designing an appropriate regulatory framework for wireless sensor technologies requires an understanding of different policy objectives. We look forward to a lively discussion," said Acting Under Secretary Dudas.

“Widespread use of wireless sensor technologies is moving from factory floors to store shelves to family living rooms,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Gallagher. “We want to make sure government is a smart consumer. We also need to explore the implications for spectrum management and privacy, and we must adopt policies that maintain our economic competitive advantage,” Gallagher said.

The Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and Technology Administration will host the half-day forum. The first panel will address the present and future market for sensor technologies. Panelists will include developers, manufacturers, market analysts, and industry and government users. The second panel will address public policy issues facing sensor technologies such as spectrum use, privacy and security, and intellectual property. Panelists will include representatives from industry and government, as well as public policy analysts.

The Wireless Sensor Technologies Forum will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Auditorium, Washington, D.C. More information is available on the NTIA Web site at www.ntia.doc.gov .

Program:

8:00 AM Registration and Demo Area Opens

9:00-9:15 Opening Remarks by Mario W. Cardullo, Counselor for Technology and Entrepreneurism,

Office of the Under Secretary, International Trade Administration



9:15-11:00 Panel 1: The Market and Uses for Sensor Technologies



Moderators:

Michael D. Gallagher, Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and

Information

Kevin J. Martin, Commissioner, Federal Communications Commission

Benjamin H. Wu, Deputy Under Secretary for Technology



Panelists:

Jon Brendsel, Director of Technology, VeriSign

Lyle Ginsburg, Managing Partner, Products Operating Group, Accenture

Ralph M. Kling, Principal Researcher, Intel

Ron Moser, Strategic Applications Analyst for RFID, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Thomas M. McAuliffe, Vice President, Strategy & Business Development,

Secure Asset Solutions, Motorola

Robert Poor, Chief Technology Officer, Ember

Piyush Sodha, President & CEO, Matrics, Inc.

C. Stewart Verdery, Jr., Assistant Secretary for Homeland Security for Border

and Transportation Security Policy and Planning



11:00 - 11:30 Break



11:30 –1:15 Panel 2: Policy Issues Related to Sensor Technologies



Moderators:

Jon W. Dudas, Acting Under Secretary for Intellectual Property and Director of the

U.S. Patent & Trademark Office

Michael D. Gallagher, Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and

Information

Elizabeth Prostic, Chief Privacy Officer, U.S. Department of Commerce



Panelists:

Paula Bruening, Staff Counsel, Center for Democracy and Technology

Sandra R. Hughes, Chief Privacy Officer, Procter & Gamble

Ari Juels, Principal Research Scientist, RSA Laboratories

Elliot Maxwell, Fellow, Center for the Study of American Government, Johns Hopkins University

Paul Moskowitz, Research Staff Member, IBM Watson Research Center

Ravi Rajapakse, Chief Technology Officer, Savi Technologies

Steven J. Winter, Senior Vice President, Global Service and Intellectual Property,

Intermec Technologies Corporation

Badri A. Younes, Director, Spectrum Management, U.S. Department of Defense

1:15 Close

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Thursday, March 25, 2004

Matrics to start making read/write RFID tags

UsingRFID.com (subscription), UK Matrics Inc. has announced the addition of read/write functionality to its RFID (radio frequency identification) tag product line. ...

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Wednesday, March 17, 2004

RFID Roundup

From Line 56 News ...Matrics has begun shipping read/write RFID tags for companies using the technology to track goods through the supply chain. The ...

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Tuesday, March 16, 2004

Matrics Adds Read/Write Tags to its Product Line

...Matrics Adds Read Write Tags to its Product Line Matrics Addresses Major Industry and Government Initiatives COLUMBIA Md. March 16 PRNewswire Matrics Inc. a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC-compliant Radio Frequency Identification RFID systems today announced the addition of read write functionality to its tag product line...

More...


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Friday, February 20, 2004

RFID Today...

Radio frequency identification has become a hot concept promising to streamline how businesses track and stock inventory. But companies may need to rethink their software infrastructures in order to make RFID work...

Interest in deploying RFID is being stifled by an outdated belief that 20 percent of all RFID tags fail to be read correctly if read at all...

The top 100 suppliers to Wal-Mart and the DoD will spend between 515 million and 3.8 billion in 2004 on technology and services to support RFID implementations...

A new level of interoperability between Matrics' hardware data transmissions and the SmartChain interoperability platform means that users gain real-time visibility of all types of supply chain assets as well as the items they transport...

Sun Microsystems has unveiled a radio frequency identification RFID product designed to combat the growing problem of drug counterfeiting...

Microsoft, IBM, and Oracle are the current industry leaders in the edge of enterprise space helping enterprises break traditional barriers and enable network-oriented business processes such as RFID extended supply-chain management...

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