Alien Tech RFID Solution Center Accredited

EPCGlobal has awarded its accreditation to the Alien RFID Solution Center for completing the reassessment audit. This audit validates that Alien uses standard test profiles to create real-world conditions for RFID readability testing for EPC tags. ...

... "GS1 EPCglobal Inc. has awarded its Accredited Test Center Program (v.2.0) Mark to the Alien RFID Solution Center (Alien RSC). Located in the Dayton, Ohio region, the Alien RSC is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to bringing the benefits of RFID technology to applications ... " ...

Via Alien Technology: Test Center Accreditation Certificate

AIDG RFID for Automotive

EPCGlobal reaches out to automotive industry participants to engage in discussion on current or future applications of RFID technology in the industry's supply chain. The first meeting is expected to take place on Mat 29. ...

... "The objective of this group is the development of RFID standards for the capturing of events and exchange of data within the automotive industry – including its trading partners – as an enabler for increased efficiency, enhanced visibility, traceability and anti-counterfeiting measures. The EPCglobal Automotive Discussion Group seeks participation from OEMs, logistics providers, n-tier suppliers and aftermarket producers. " ...

Via EPC Global: Automotive Industry Discussion Group on EPC and RFID

RFID Reader Performance Boost

Sirit releases firmware upgrade for the INfinity 510 UHF RFID reader, that delivers important enhancements that extends its feature set. ...

... "The new version 2.0 firmware includes advancements in Sirit's proprietary tag acquisition algorithms, enhancing tag singulation performance capabilities and reader sensitivity. The Dense Reader Mode interference tolerance has been further improved to new benchmark levels for the industry. The IN510 continues to be the only UHF reader with EPCglobal certification for use under both FCC and ETSI regulations. New features added to the IN510 include support for the EPC Gen 2 custom commands built into NXP's UCODE G2XM and G2XL chips. The custom commands extend the functionality of EPC Gen 2 applications beyond simple compliance tagging and provide extended value for end-users. " ...

Via Sirit: INfinity 510 RFID Reader Performance Enhanced

RFID Drug ePedigree Standards Achieved by IBM

The ePedigree feature in IBM's WebSphere RFID Information Center is certified and fully compliant with GS1 EPCglobal's Drug Pedigree Messaging Standard, or DPMS. ...

... "To be certified as DPMS compliant, the IBM WebSphere RFID Information Center's ePedigree feature passed a battery of tests to ensure that it can be used to create, receive, and append drug pedigree documents. Testing was conducted on EPCglobal's behalf by an independent company, MetLabs.

WebSphere RFID Information Center is a proven solution for companies seeking to share product movement information with trading partners using EPCIS or DPMS-compliant solutions. The software includes an optional ePedigree feature that provides all participants in the pharmaceutical supply chain with secure access to historical data on individual bottles of medicine to enable compliance with current and emerging regulations. In the pharmaceutical business, the product will be used successfully by drug distributor AmerisourceBergen in its Sacramento pilot, and by a large global pharmaceutical manufacturer. " ...

Via IBM: EPCIS and Drug Pedigree Messaging Standards

NXP RFID Tags G2X IC Based

UPM Raflatac introduces UHF EPC Class1 Gen2 products that are built on UCODE G2X ICs from NXP. The G2X IC performns over the entire range of UHF frequency and can manage 240 bit EPC numbers. ...

... "It also offers reliable operation across long read ranges and in dense reader environments. G2X ICs are EPCglobal Class1 Gen2 1.2.0 compliant. UPM Raflatac is launching four different products with the G2X IC: Web, Belt, DogBone and ShortDipole. Sample quantities of Web are available immediately; Belt, ShortDipole and DogBone from January 2008 onwards. " ...

Via UPM Raflatac: New RFID tags based on NXP G2XM/L ICs

BlackFriday RFID Retail Pilot Locates Stock

Electronic Product Code (EPC) RFID technology will be used on new DVD releases in a pilot test scheduled at select stores around the country. The RFID tags are expected to help retailers locate stock that is in their stores to improve the customer experience. ...

... "The EPC uses radio frequency identification (RFID) to uniquely identify an object. Retailers can use the EPC to ensure that products are kept in stock to meet shopper demand as well as helping shoppers find the right product in the right place inside the store. Over the last few years, the EPC has become a popular way to identify pallets and cases of goods on their way to retail stores. Electronic readers inside the store read the unique serial numbers from EPC labels and relay this information back to store staff. EPC labels do not contain, collect or store any personal information. The EPC label has no power source and can only transmit its unique number when it is less than about 10 feet from a reader that activates the label. The power – or strength – of readers is strictly regulated by the Federal Communications Commission. The actual distance from which an EPC label can be read may be shorter because barriers such as shopping bags and other factors such as the presence of metal materials or nearness of walls or other obstructions weaken a reader’s signal. The labels can be removed after purchase. " ...

Via epcGlobal: SHOPPER BENEFITS (PDF)

LongRange RFID Reader EPC HF Version2 Compatible

TAGSYS launches the Medio L400 long-range HF RFID reader, which delivers self-diagnostic and self-correcting capabilities. This RFID reader will be future compatible with the EPCglobal RFID standard HF Version 2 (V2) using a simple firmware upgrade. ...

... "The Medio L400 uses advances in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and RF Front End technology to achieve an industry-leading signal-to-noise ratio. The result is breakthrough performance in read range and read speed. The Medio L400 has been specifically designed to operate in noisy environments such as manufacturing plants and distribution facilities while maintaining the highest levels of data integrity for item level tracking and tracing, inventory management and security applications. Designed as a network device, the Medio L400 conserves critical network bandwidth by filtering tag data to remove redundancies before sending data to the host. It is available with two or four antenna ports, supports a wide array of TAGSYS antennas and provides connectivity through Ethernet, USB and serial communication modes. An integrated LCD screen allows floor operators to easily configure and maintain the Medio L400 without the use of peripheral equipment such as computers or PDAs. " ...

Via TAGSYS RFID: Infrastructure For RFID Networks

Chemical Industry RFID Use

Chemical Industry Data Exchange (CIDX) explores RFID use in its white paper, Chemical eStandards Initiative on Radio Frequency ID. ...

... "An outline of how CIDX will collaborate with EPCGlobal, an RFID industry trade group focused on RFID technologies and standards; A Business Value Model for determining return on investment (ROI) based on common chemical business scenarios; A method for providing input and exchanging critical information that will affect ongoing RFID standards development. " ...

Via CIDX: RFID Use in Chemical Industry

Intel-Reva RFID Reader LLRP Developer Trial

Reva and Intel collaborate to enable equipment vendors to trial LLRP protocol for RFID readers. ...

... "Intel will provide Reva's Low Level RFID Reader Protocol (LLRP) developers' kit and test tool to reader vendors employing Intel's R1000 radio chip. This is in addition to the ongoing LLRP development activities Reva and several leading reader manufacturers started earlier this year. LLRP is an EPCglobal standard for reader control and communications that is paving the way to industry‐wide reader interoperability. Upon completion of a 30‐day prototyping period among reader manufacturers, the Reva LLRP developer's kit, implementation code and supporting documentation will be turned over to an open source project available to any individual or company who wishes to participate." ...

Via Reva Systems: Reva Systems and Intel Collaborate to Drive RFID Reader Standard (PDF) ...

RFID Open-Standards Benefits Container Tracking Per Pilot

Recent active RFID pilot project using Oracle and Savi Technology infrastructure validates the need for common standards to realize benefits in port operations. RFID-enabled seaborne shipping containers provide real-time tracking status in the Asian supply chain tested in the pilot, using EPC Information Services (EPCIS), a draft standard championed by GS1 EPCglobal. The objective of this effort is to enable greater transport visibility across stakeholders, countries and continents. ...

... "The benefits seem clear, but many vendors and end users believe that the prerequisites for greater RFID adoption in this sector are a common nomenclature for RFID data, and a standard framework for the way in which that information is shared via open standards such as EPCIS. The EPCglobal pilot with Savi and Oracle represents a significant step towards the practical realization of a truly useful standard, notes Liard. It is the first real-world demonstration among port operators of the potential created when multiple trading partners and service providers can speak the same language. " ...

Via ABI ResearchContainer Tracking Pilot Highlights the Benefits of RFID Standards in Port Management

RealTime RFID Cargo Tracking Pilot in Asia

Oracle and Savi Technology collaborate to implement real-time the location tracking of cargo containers shipped from Hong Kong to Japan. The pilot project with GS1 EPCglobal has been completed. ...

... "The milestone project was the first time that real-time information generated from active, battery-powered RFID tags on sea containers was exchanged with EPC Information Services (EPCIS), a draft GS1 EPCglobal standard enabling trading partners to communicate in a common computer language on objects moving throughout the supply chain. The communication interface with the EPCIS Server and Repository was enabled through integration of Oracle Sensor Edge Server, a component of Oracle Fusion Middleware, as well as Savi Site Manager operating software and active RFID tag and data collection systems. " ...

Via Oracle: Oracle and Savi Technology Provide Critical Information Link to Track Active RFID-Tagged Containers Shipped from Hong Kong to Japan ...

RFID Technology Enables Asia Logistics for Metro Supply Chain

The METRO Group and Savi Networks will collaborate to implement the Advanced Logistics Asia (ALA) project. The project will deploy RFID radio frequency identification technology to monitor the location and security of inventory shipped from Asia to Europe in real-time through the supply chain. ...

... "The ALA project, managed by METRO Group Buying Hong Kong (MGB Hong Kong), will utilize SaviTrak(TM), a web-based, real-time information service that leverages automatic data transmissions from Electronic Product Code (EPC) - compliant passive and active RFID tags, among other wireless devices, on shipments transported throughout the global supply chain. MGB Hong Kong manages METRO Group imports from sourcing to delivery at Distribution Centers in Germany. Under the ALA project, SaviTrak will monitor a variety of retail products while they are transported through a global RFID reader network, stretching from a consolidation center in Hong Kong, through the Port of Hong Kong, to the Port of Rotterdam, the inland Port of Duisburg in Germany and finally to a METRO Group distribution center in Unna, Germany.



Active, battery-powered RFID tags on containers will be utilized to automatically transmit information into the SaviTrak information service. As a six-month pilot, the ALA project is designed to evaluate improvements in the visibility, management and security of inventory while it is transported end-to-end. The project will further evaluate investment returns in reduced lead times and inventory, improved customer service as well as supply chain and financial performance." ...

Via Savi Networks: The METRO Group and Savi Networks Launch Real-Time Information Service on Inventory Shipped From Asia to Europe

EPCGlobal RFID Conference This Week ...

This week: EPCGlobal Conference ...

... "The EPCglobal US Conference 2006 will be held October 17-19 in Los Angeles, California at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This year's three-day event will feature interactive workshops, an expanded tradeshow floor, live technology provider demonstrations and the opportunity to problem solve and network with global thought leaders and experts. " ...

Via EPCGlobal: 2006 Conference: Industry-leading EPC/RFID event to be held October 17-19 in Los Angeles, California ...

RFID Battery-Assist Passive Tag: Supports Logistics and Manufacturing ...

Intelleflex RFID tags can be used by logistics companies and in manufacturing in long-range, battery-assisted mode for real-time inventory tracking of assemblies in the warehouses. The RFID system can automatically generate a proof of shipment when assemblies are shipped. When used in maintenance operations in passive mode, companies can realize significant benefits from having actionable manufacturing and repair history data in the 64Kb user memory of the RFID tag at the point of use. ...

... "Intelleflex's InfoSure tags and the I-Beam reader are multi-protocol, ensuring global interoperability using EPC standards. InfoSure tags can be used as passive C1G2 tags with any other C1G2 reader or used in the battery-assisted passive mode at long ranges with the I-Beam reader. InfoSure tags offer up to 100-meter read/write range in free space, which translates to 100 percent read/write reliability at standard working ranges in industrial environments. They also offer 64 kb user memory, which is segmented into 1 kb blocks so they can be independently protected for read/write access through passwords. The I-Beam reader can read any EPC C1G2 tag as well as the Class 3 InfoSure tag. Initial product shipments of both the tags and readers are targeted for asset management, yard management, manufacturing and zonal access control applications. " ...

Via Intelleflex Corporation: Intelleflex Announces Availability of its RFID Battery-Assisted Passive Tag and Reader Products ...

RFID Cargo Terminal Operational: Chain of Custody ...

Savi implements RFID-enabled chain of custody process at the Port of Felixstowe (PFL) in the UK. The system, called SaviTrak, automates the tracking of cargo as it is processed through the supply chain, while monitoring security. ...

... "Network infrastructure, including SaviTrak software and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers, are now installed and operational at PFL's Trinity Terminal, the largest cargo-handling facility in the United Kingdom. The readers, which are placed on dockside cranes and at entry and exit gates, automatically capture chain of custody handoff points for containers equipped with international standards-based RFID tags. The real-time data is routed to the web-based network software, which transforms it into actionable information that enables SaviTrak customers to make better supply chain decisions. The SaviTrak information service is offered via an open technology platform, which accommodates multiple and interoperable Automatic Identification and Data Collection (AIDC) technologies, such as barcodes, EPC-compliant passive and active RFID technologies, and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) used to track ships and trucks that transport ocean containers. Active RFID technologies used are compatible with the ISO 18000-7 standard, and sensor seals are compatible with the ISO 18185 draft standard. " ...

Via Savi Technology: SAVI NETWORKS EXTENDS SAVITRAK REAL-TIME INFORMATION NETWORK TO UNITED KINGDOM'S PORT OF FELIXSTOWE ...

Monza RFID Tag Readers Gen2 Interoperable ...

Impinj's Monza RFID chip and Speedway readers are certified for Generation-2 interoperability. ...

... "Leading Gen 2 RFID solution provider, Impinj, Inc., announced that EPCglobal Inc., the not-for-profit standards organization dedicated to driving global adoption of the Electronic Product Code (EPC) for supply chain excellence, has awarded interoperability marks to Monza tag chips and Speedway readers, certifying that these Impinj products comply with EPCglobal's Gen 2 standard and interoperate with other certified devices. Third-party testing firm MET Laboratories conducted EPCglobal's product interoperability testing as part of an extensive hardware certification and standards compliance program for RFID chips, tags, readers, and printers. MET Laboratories also performed EPCglobal's RFID Gen 2 compliance testing in September 2005, awarding Gen 2 compliance certification marks to Impinj's Monza chip and Speedway reader at that time.

Impinj is the only company to have earned Gen 2 interoperability certification for both tag chips and readers. Monza chips and Speedway readers enable Powered by Impinj solutions available from a variety of RFID vendors and are key components of recent RFID deployments. Impinj has shipped Monza chips in high volume to the industry's leading RFID tag and inlay vendors worldwide since the Fall of 2005. " ...

Via Impinj: Impinj’s Gen 2 RFID Monza Tag Chips and Speedway Readers Earn EPCglobal Interoperability Certification ...

Omron RFID Inlay: Single Tag Design ...

Omron develops single RFID tag design to support international markets, perform under challenging configurations, and with varying materials and radio frequencies. ...

... "Omron RFID announced availability of the Gen2 Global Loop inlay which can be used under North American, European and Japanese radio frequency bands in a single tag design. The Gen2 Loop is optimized to ensure robust read performance when the tag is applied to items containing materials unfriendly to RFID, including electronics equipment and products with high moisture content. The Loop tag also delivers reliable read ranges when the orientation on the product is not fixed or could change after application. As a direct result, the Loop inlay can improve pallet tag read rates. Because it has dimensions of 68m x 70 mm, the Loop inlay will fit 3-in. x 3-in., 4-in. x 3-in. and 4-in. x 6-in. spaces. Omron's Gen2 Loop inlays can be used with all international UHF RFID frequencies from 860 to 960MHz with little or no performance degradation. The addition of the inlay to the already announced Wave tag expands Omron's ability to meet a wide range of applications for today's international supply chain needs. " ...

Omron RFID Inlay: Single Tag Design: Via Omron: OMRON Introduces EPC Gen2 Global Loop Inlay ...

Unilever RFID: Open Standard Supply Chain Data ...

Unilever collaborates with IBM and T3Ci to test interoperability of the emerging EPCIS RFID data standard. The standard focuses on the efficient use of real-time data among partners in the supply chain. ...

... "The standard is designed to help better enable retailers, manufacturers and organizations throughout the supply chain to overcome information overload and share information to improve business processes. This milestone marks the first step toward delivering interoperability based on the Electronic Product Code Information Services (EPCIS) for exchange and query of RFID data. IBM and T3CI are the co-chairs of the EPCglobal EPCIS Working Group. The objective of the Working Group is to create common interfaces among RFID software, allowing organizations to exchange and leverage RFID data independent of the applications in which data is created or stored. For organizations throughout the supply chain, this will deliver greater value by allowing them to inexpensively capture large volumes of detailed data at each stage of the supply chain and share that data among trading partners. While retailers today can provide manufacturers with large amounts of data about RFIDtagged products, until now there has been no simple and standardized way for manufacturers to sort through the volumes of raw data and perform queries to use it to improve product introductions, promotions and distribution of new products.



The new EPCIS standards-based ability to query RFID data will provide organizations with near real-time RFID data from their trading partners, for the first time giving manufacturers access to the precise information they need. Unilever North America, a global manufacturer of foods, home care and personal care products, also announced today its plans to pioneer use of the EPCIS standard to query RFID data provided by retailers. Unilever will conduct a trial using IBM's EPCIS implementation to collect and access information from within the company's manufacturing environment and from trading partners. By leveraging IBM and T3Ci reports and analysis, Unilever is looking to create additional business value in the areas of promotion management, supply chain visibility and metrics, as well as RFID readability. " ...

Unilever RFID: Open Standard Supply Chain Data: Via T3Ci: IBM and T3Ci Successfully Pilot Open Standard to Enable Manufacturers to Leverage RFID Data and Improve Supply Chain Processes: Unilever Among First Manufacturers to Pioneer New Interface to Connect Data Among Trading Partners ...

EPCIS standard ...

Software Action Group: "EPC Information Services (EPCIS) Phase 2: Create one or more normative technical specifications that will facilitate the development of interoperable EPCIS systems. "

Background on Unilever ...

Unilever awards HR outsourcing contract to Accenture: "Unilever's mission is to add vitality to life. We meet everyday needs for nutrition, hygiene and personal care with brands that help people feel good, look good and get more out of life. Unilever is one of the world's leading suppliers of fast moving consumer goods with strong local roots in more than 100 countries across the globe. Its portfolio includes some of the world's best known and most loved brands including twelve EUR1 billion brands and global leadership in many categories in which the company operates. The portfolio features brand icons such as: Knorr, Hellmann's, Flora, Bertolli, Dove, Lux, Pond's, Lynx, Sunsilk, Persil, Cif and Domestos. Unilever has around 206 000 employees in approaching 100 countries and generated annual sales of EUR40 billion in 2005. "

Info on T3Ci ...

T3Ci: The RFID Analytics and Applications Company: "T3Ci, the leading RFID analytics and applications company, offers a broad range of RFID software and services, representing the most comprehensive RFID vision in the industry. T3Ci develops software and provides enterprise-class solutions for managers of RFID initiatives who are responsible for delivering business value from their company's RFID investment. T3Ci's enterprise-class solutions include RFID analytics as well as a suite of high-value applications for retail suppliers, pharmaceutical companies, and major retailers. Applications include Out-of-Stock Management, Promotions Execution Management, Deductions Management, and Product Authentication. "

RFID 3Gen Reader Chipset ...

Anadigm introduces 3rd generation RFID reader chipset, that can be leveraged in high and ultra-high frequency applications and RFID tag types. ...

.... "Anadigm announced the immediate availability of RangeMaster5, the company's third-generation RFID reader 3.3 volt chip set solution that allows system vendors to design and maintain a single combination HF and UHF reader. The Rangemaster5-based system can be customized to read different radio frequency identification (RFID) tag types, with different modulation types and frequencies. RangeMaster5 also fully supports current HF standards as well as the newer standards under study by EPC (Electronic Product Code) Global, Inc. Like previous RangeMaster devices, RangeMaster5 will support UHF protocols- EPC Global Gen 1 and Gen 2 (class 0, 1, 2) as well as ISO18000-6 standards. RangeMaster5 is the third in a family of RFID reader solutions that Anadigm is developing for the rapidly expanding RFID markets. RFID technology is revolutionizing markets as diverse as retail sales - by managing inventory and electronic payments via mobile phones - to medical applications by ensuring that hospital patients receive the correct treatments and medications.

RangeMaster5 is a three-chip set comprised of two dynamically programmable analog signal processors (dpASP) in conjunction with an RFID State Machine. This enables system designers to develop universal RFID readers that can support both HF and UHF, changing between HF and UHF baseband frequencies dynamically, in a few microseconds. RangeMaster5 also features the ability to dynamically change between protocols and frequencies allowing for optimized RFID tag reading. By allowing standardization around a single printed circuit board to support multiple end products and markets, RangeMaster5 simplifies and improves product development. This next generation of RangeMaster not only reduces development time and ownership costs of fixed systems, but also enables portable designs by reducing supply voltage requirements and power consumption. " ...

RFID 3Gen Reader Chipset: Via Anadigm: Anadigm Reveals Third Generation Chipset for Combination HF and UHF RFID Readers ...

Rugged RFID Tag: Reuse ...

Intermec launches RFID tag that is reusable and performs well in extreme, rugged environments. ...

... "Because the Intermec RFID LR Tag is reusable, each use of the tag costs only fractions of a cent. The tag can be rewritten thousands of times, providing lower cost per use on reusable assets than even disposable labels. And because of its ability to function in demanding industrial environments and to provide reliable performance on multiple materials, enterprises can use a single tag to identify and track items such as subassemblies, work-in-process components, finished goods, material handling equipment and logistics containers through production, supply chain and asset management operations. The Intermec RFID LR Tag measures 3.2 cm x 14.27 cm (1.26 in x 6.1 in). Its rugged impact-resistant plastic packaging survives hazardous chemical exposure and withstands temperatures from -40 to 250F, -40 to 121C. The tag is compatible and interoperable with RFID readers that support EPC Gen 2 or ISO 18000-6B standards. Organizations that already have EPC- or ISO 18000-6B-based standard systems in place can conveniently and cost effectively introduce the Intermec LR tag for a variety of industrial, material handling and asset management applications. " ...

Rugged RFID Tag: Reuse: Via Intermec: New Rugged, Reusable Intermec RFID Tag Withstands Temperature Extremes and Hazardous Exposures for True Global Industrial and Logistics Tracking ...

RFID Supply Chain Pilot: China EPC Initiative ...

VTech implements RFID supply chain pilot to enable Walmert compliance ...

... "Cisco Systems and Intel Corporation announced that VTech (Telecommunications division), a leading supplier of corded and cordless telephones, has selected a radio frequency identification (RFID) solution from Cisco and Intel for its pilot participation in the Hong Kong EPCnetwork initiative directed by EPCglobal Hong Kong. Upon completion, VTech will be able to comply with Wal-Mart's RFID request requiring key suppliers and business partners to become RFID-compliant. This will also help VTech improve the efficiency of warehouse operations and management through automation, as well as serving to enhance visibility throughout the supply chain.

VTech's pilot participation demonstrates that the Hong Kong EPCnetwork of EPCglobal Hong Kong has made significant strides since its launch last year. The Hong Kong EPCnetwork initiative aims to bring end-to-end supply chain visibility to the Pan Pearl River Delta (PPRD) region through the use of a common, standards-based data exchange allowing easy, secure, real-time communication between manufacturers, logistics companies and retailers. Manufacturers and logistics companies in the PPRD can expect to enhance their connections and relationships with retailers worldwide through the EPCnetwork initiative.

The RFID solution, comprising Cisco AON for RFID and Cisco Services for RFID, is based on platforms powered by Intel technologies including Intel Xeon-based servers, RFID readers and PCs. The solution delivers integrated and intelligent RFID capabilities that connect the VTech and Wal-Mart RFID systems. The Hong Kong EPCnetwork project will enable VTech to take advantage of next generation RFID technology to track telecommunications products from the Dongguan factory to Wal-Mart distribution centers in the US. " ...

RFID Supply Chain Pilot: China EPC Initiative: Via Cisco: VTech Selects Cisco and Intel RFID Solution for Supply Chain Pilot ...

RFID Generation 2 Technology Standards ...

Manhattan Assoc supports compliance with the Generation 2 RFID Technology Standards ...

... "This latest evolution in RFID technology and standards, commonly referred to as Generation 2, is being adopted by Wal*Mart and Target. The two retailers plan to have their suppliers begin using these new standards to move goods through their supply chains. Suppliers to the two companies are expected to make this transition by mid-year. Manhattan Associates supports the migration to these latest RFID standards and can help companies with new RFID deployment. Generation 2's major goal is to ensure interoperability between all EPC Global Generation 2-compliant devices and tags. " ...

RFID Generation 2 Technology Standards: Via Manhattan Associates: Manhattan Associates Helps Companies Achieve Compliance with Class 1 Generation 2 RFID Technology Standards ...

Use Gen2 RFID for Pilots Starting Now ...

With EPCglobal Class 1 Generation 2 radio frequency identification (RFID) products reaching the market, Zebra Technologies shares its experience as a ten-year veteran of RFID innovation with Gen 2 do’s and don'ts to help companies avoid potential implementation issues. ...

... "Do go straight to Gen 2 if you are starting RFID pilots now: Gen 2 protocols offer significant performance enhancements over the first generation of EPCglobal UHF protocols, including superior tag throughput, improved accuracy and compliance with global spectrum regulations. Many new vendors have committed to supporting EPC Generation 2, allowing users to leverage standards-based interoperability among tags, interrogators, printer/encoders, etc. as well as aggressive pricing spawned by competition. " ...

Use Gen2 RFID for Pilots Starting Now: Via Zebra: ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES REVEALS TOP 5 RFID GEN 2 DOs and DON'Ts ...

Gen2 RFIDReader Chipset: RangeMaster2 ...

RangeMaster2 is Generation 2 RFID reader chipset ...

... "Anadigm announces immediate availability of RangeMaster2, the company's second generation RFID reader 3.3 volt chip set solution that allows system vendors to design and maintain a single universal reader that can be customized to read different radio frequency identification (RFID) tag types, with different modulation types and frequencies. RangeMaster family fully supports HF and UHF protocols- EPC Global Gen 1 and Gen 2 (class 0, 1, 2) and ISO18000-6 standards. RangeMaster2 is the second in a family of RFID reader solutions that Anadigm is developing for the rapidly expanding RFID markets. RFID technology is revolutionizing markets as diverse as retail sales - by managing inventory and electronic payments via mobile phones - to medical applications by ensuring that hospital patients receive the correct treatments and medications.

RangeMaster2 is a two-chip set comprised of a dynamically programmable analog signal processor (ASP) in conjunction with an RFID State Machine. This enables system designers to develop a universal RFID tag reader that can support multiple protocols and frequencies for Universal Fixed Readers, Portable/Handheld Readers, Combination Bar Code and RFID Reader/Scanners. By allowing standardization around a single printed circuit board to support multiple end products and markets, RangeMaster2 simplifies and improves product development. This next generation of RangeMaster not only reduces development time and ownership costs of fixed systems, but also enables portable designs by reducing supply voltage requirements and power consumption. " ...

Gen2 RFIDReader Chipset: RangeMaster2: Via Anadigm: Anadigm Introduces Second Generation Chipset for Universal HF and UHF RFID Reader Systems: RangeMaster2 - a Dynamically Programmable Analog Signal Processor Solution that Enables Fixed and Portable "Universal" RFID Reader Applications ...

RFID Gen2 Tag Benchmark ...

ODIN Technologies and Unisys create Gen2 RFID tag benchmark. ...

... "ODIN technologies, the leader in the physics of RFID testing and deployment, released the RFID Gen 2 Tag Benchmark, sponsored by Unisys. The report presents analysis of eleven of the leading EPC (electronic product code) compliant Gen 2 RFID tags. The benchmark was developed to provide end users with objective insight into how well tags actually work in the field and what criteria should be evaluated when making tag selection, placement and orientation decisions. The Benchmark is the first scientific and objective comparison of how Gen 2 RFID tags work with various standard materials such as corrugate packaging, water and metal. ODIN technologies President and CEO Patrick J. Sweeney II commented, Gen 2 is the foundation for the rapid growth of RFID. ODIN technologies is proud to once again lead the way in RFID by producing the industry's first and most comprehensive, scientific analysis of Gen 2 RFID tags. The RFID Gen 2 Tag Benchmark can save end users time, money and hassle during this important technology transition. ODIN technologies RFID Benchmark Series is the most read and referenced source for independent evaluation of leading RFID tags and readers. ODIN leverages its scientific lab combined with the industry's most experienced RFID deployment team to test products from an end user's perspective. The RFID Gen 2 Tag Benchmark is designed to be an end user's trusted source for comparing the performance of leading RFID tags. " ...

RFID Gen2 Tag Benchmark: Via ODIN Technologies: ODIN Releases Industry's First RFID Gen 2 Tag Benchmark: Unisys sponsors the first objective, scientific analysis of Gen 2 RFID Tags ...

RFID Lab Provides Hands-On Classroom Experience ...

Stratum Global will provide the RFID technology foundation for the hands-on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) lab in Illinois at Oakton Community College, serving fourteen northern Chicago suburbs.

... "The Community College RFID lab will be located at Oakton’s new Art, Science, and Technology Pavilion in Skokie. Stratum Global, William Frick, Intel and Intermec Technologies Corp. are providing Oakton with the tools required to develop an RFID lab and curriculum that will give students the opportunity to study the dynamics of how RFID infrastructure, readers, tags, and software logic solve business problems.

Stratum Global’s TagNet RFID solution suite will serve as the software application foundation for understanding the integration components and the dynamics between the infrastructure, tags and readers. Students will use the software to manage and configure readers, conduct remote diagnostics, commission and interrogate tags, verify tag reads against existing enterprise data and create rules to establish application level events. William Frick, based in Libertyville, IL, specializes in tag and labeling solution offerings. Frick will assist in developing the tag curriculum as it relates to tag materials, tags for high impact or rugged environments, application of active or passive tags, high visibility tags as well as tagging location. Frick will provide the lab with a variety of tag types for the students to work with on different materials, in multiple scenarios. Students will have a firm understanding of the differences between tags types, where those types are applicable and how to effectively construct a tagging methodology. Enterprise data will reside on an Intel based P4 and Xeon Server infrastructure. Data will be used to commission tags, construct work rules and manage events. Stratum Global’s TagNet® will ensure a seamless flow of data within the RFID environment, between the Intermec Readers, antennas, tags and the Intel platform.

RFID hardware will be provided by Intermec and will include Intermec’s IF5 fixed readers, IP3® portable readers, and a combination of Intermec Intellitag antennas. Students will use the hardware to understand how physical readers, handhelds and antennas are used to develop portals, and how portal development impacts read rates and the dynamics of hardware configuration. The hardware and curriculum will prepare students for careers in RFID, with a firm understanding of the technology required for a successful implementation and how that implementation can bring continuous process improvement to the business. " ...

Via Stratum Global: Hands-On RFID Lab at Oakton Community College: Industry leaders collaborate to develop lab and curriculum ...

Additional resources on university RFID labs:

Via Cal Poly: RFID HIGHLIGHTS: "Fred Abler, Tali Freed visited Sun Microsystems in Menlo Park, CA for a day of meetings to present the Cal Poly RFID Research and Testing Lab to a team of SUN executives. The meeting was arranged by Sema Alptekin, a Cal Poly IME professor currently on sabbatical at UC Berkeley. During the day-long series of meetings, the directors presented their vision for RFID Research at CAL POLY, resulting in the RFID Research and Testing Lab being nominated to become the SUN Center of Excellence for RFID."

Via University of Wisconsin: Headlines for March 21, 2005: "The RFID laboratory on the UW-Madison campus enables RFID workgroup members to conduct structured experiments ranging from tag placement to antenna design. "

Via University of Arkansas - Daily Headlines: "The University of Arkansas RFID Research Center laboratory has passed accreditation criteria established by EPCglobal Inc., a global not-for-profit standards organization commercializing the Electronic Product CodeT (EPC) and RFID worldwide. The UA lab is one of the first EPC/RFID research laboratories worldwide to receive the EPCglobal Performance Test Center accreditation. The RFID Research Center, a subunit of the Information Technology Research Institute, housed in the university's Sam M. Walton College of Business."

RFID Network: Web Services Architecture ...

The EPC information service, based on a web services architecture, is being created to enable collaboration and data sharing through RFID technology. ...

Via SYS-CON BELGIUM: RFID Network Based On Web Services Model Set To Launch In 2006 ...

... "Electronic Product Code Information Services (EPCIS) will provide a central system of record for all enterprise electronic product code-related RFID data by aggregating events from multiple technology platforms. " ...

New companies that provide RFID applications are architecting the systems using web services. ...

Via TC3I: EPCIS ++ provides capability for EPC data acquisition. It implements EPCIS standards and supports AS2 over webservices. ...

... "EPCIS++ facilitates EPC Data sharing across business partners, and also used for consolidating EPC events within a business. It supports a rich cross-enterprise representation of tagged objects, their histories and associated business context. It supports responsive, secure, controlled access to EPC data. " ...

The RFID architecture for the EPC services are a distributed model. ...

Via Institute for Manufacturing at the university of Cambridge: EPC Information Service ...

... "EPC Information Services are very different from the Global Data Synchronization Network [GDSN] (i.e. UCCNet, Transora, WWRE etc.). Whereas GDSN is primarily concerned with synchronization of class-level (SKU-level) master data about products, EPCIS is primarily concerned with sharing of serial-level data. EPC Information Services also have a much more distributed architecture - there is no central provider with EPCIS. " ...

Kimberly-Clark RFID Adoption Recognized ...

Kimberly-Clark is recognized for its adoption of RFID technology. ...

Kimberly-Clark RFID Adoption Recognized: Via Dallas Morning News: Honors and awards in the Dallas-area business community ...

... "Consumer Goods Technology magazine has presented Kimberly-Clark Corp. of Irving with its RFID Early Adopter Award. The new award recognizes the consumer goods company that has most successfully implemented tracking products with microchips. " ...

Kimberly-Clark is making serious investment and organizational committment to RFID technology for internal use and to support the industry. ...

Via Kimberly-Clark: Kimberly-Clark RFID Lab is One of Two in North America to Receive Accreditation as a Global Performance Test Center: Accreditation underscores Kimberly-Clark's leadership in the adoption and implementation of RFID technology ...

... "The accreditation also certifies that Kimberly-Clark's RFID lab capabilities, including the RFID tags, readers, printers, and applicators used in the facility, have been rigorously tested against EPCglobal standards, and have demonstrated the ability to present retail customers winning, innovative and cost-effective EPC and RFID solutions for the global supply chain. As we continue to explore the potential of RFID technology, we believe it will enable Kimberly-Clark to become an indispensable partner with our retail customers, allowing us to be more responsive to their needs and to provide them with accurate and up-to-the-minute EPC information to jointly enhance supply chain applications, concluded Perkins. " ...

Kimberly-Clark maintains its focus on leadership of the latest RFID standards and is involved in shaping the Generation 2 RFID standards. ...

Via Kimberly-Clark: Kimberly-Clark Leads Consumer Products Industry in the Adoption of RFID Technology; Begins Testing Generation 2 RFID Hardware ...

... "The Generation 2 RFID hardware to be tested includes tags, readers, printers, and applicators. The tests, scheduled to begin July 6th at Kimberly-Clark's dedicated RFID research lab in Neenah, Wis., will allow the company to determine which hardware is the most compatible with its conveyor, packing, logistics and shipping systems. " ...

Kimberly-Clark and its well-known global brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 150 countries. Every day, 1.3 billion people – nearly a quarter of the world's population – trust K-C brands and the solutions they provide to enhance their health, hygiene and well being. With brands such as Kleenex, Scott, Huggies, Pull-Ups, Kotex and Depend, Kimberly-Clark holds the No. 1 or No. 2 share position in more than 80 countries.

RFID Interchange: Tibco MasterData Integration

Tibco expands capabilities in RFID master data integration through technology acquisition. ...

RFID Interchange: Tibco MasterData Integration: TIBCO adds Master Data Management Capabilities and Expands Focus on Consumer Markets: Technology Acquisition Strengthens Enterprise Software Portfolio with Industry Leading Platform; Drives Customer Success with Process-centric Master Data Management ...

... "Master data management is a strategic component of TIBCO’s industry-leading supply chain optimization and RFID offerings (refer to TIBCO’s July 25, 2005 RFID Interchange announcement). TIBCO defines a unique and comprehensive approach with out-of-the box information management processes and flexible data modeling capabilities. In addition to helping TIBCO customers gain competitive advantage, this new approach provides real-time access to accurate product information; enables the removal of value chain inefficiencies by eradicating duplications and errors in product and related information and by automating the processes required to maintain this dynamic information; and provides an ordered framework for the people, processes and systems that impact product information, both internally and amongst trading partners. " ...

TIBCO RFID Interchange is a non-intrusive solution that seamlessly incorporates RFID event data into business processes and provides business context to aid decision making across the supply chain. TIBCO RFID Interchange supports EPC Global’s Application Level Event (ALE) specifications and real-time streaming of information from RFID Edge devices. It also supports leading readers and printers, is fast and easy to deploy and enables centralized configuration and management of devices. TIBCO RFID Interchange’s browser and GUI-based, slap-and-ship business process templates are configurable to meet the unique distribution processes and various retail compliance mandates.

RFID Innovation: Grocery Industry ...

Partnership aims to sustain RFID innovation in Canadian grocery industry ...

RFID Innovation: Grocery Industry: Via Grocery Innovations Canada 2005: Global Standards Organization GS1 Canada Joins Grocery Innovations Canada ...

... "John F.T. Scott, President of CFIG said, CFIG’s partnership with GS1 Canada, who is responsible for EPC/RFID standards in Canada, sends a clear signal to the industry that GIC continues to grow and remains the place for the grocery industry to converge and learn about the very latest in technology, new product development, innovative retail strategies and upcoming trends that influence and impact the grocer’s day-to-day business. " ...

Grocery Innovations Canada 2005 (GIC), is Canada’s premier grocery industry exposition and conference. The event is considered a must-attend by key industry players and attracts more than 6,000 industry attendees. GIC runs October 24 through 25 at the Toronto Congress Centre. GIC 2005 is produced in partnership by Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG); with the Food and Consumer Products of Canada (FCPC); and the Canadian Association of Sales and Marketing (CASMA) with support from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Canadian Grocer. These organizations represent the strength, innovations and leadership behind Canada’s $70.1 billion grocery industry.

GS1 Canada is a not-for-profit organization that promotes and maintains global standards for the identification of goods, locations and related e-commerce communication, such as bar code issuance and maintenance. GS1 Canada is the only authorized source for globally unique company prefixes in Canada, a standard term and condition of trade globally. It provides a range of educational opportunities, maintains ECCnet Registry, Canada’s national product registry, and offers one-stop access to product images and dimensions. As technologies like Electronic Product Codes (EPC) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) continue to drive the e-commerce revolution, GS1 Canada will provide the leadership to help ensure that Canadian companies can participate competitively.

RFID SOA Architecture: OpenSource ...

RFID integration middleware offered in SOA service oriented architecture in an open-source format ...

RFID SOA Architecture: OpenSource: Via i-Konect LLC: i-Konect Announces First Milestone Release of Singularity: An Open Source RFID/Sensory Integration Platform ...

... "Singularity's M1 release focuses on the Middleware component that captures and filters RFID data. Complex event processing, coupled with business context and process control, integrates key information with existing enterprise systems (e.g., CRM, ERP, WMS), as well as new or customized user applications. Singularity also supports standards developed by EPCglobal (e.g., ALE, EPC-IS). The Information Services component is an Enterprise Service that would ultimately reside as a member of a company's Enterprise Service Bus (ESB). Although an ESB is not required, utilizing a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) is a best practice approach for providing EPC event information to the enterprise as well as to external business partners via the EPCglobal Network or the DoD's Wide Area Workflow (WAWF). An SOA approach with Singularity's EPC-IS provides a federated deployment model that enables global Track and Trace visibility with the logical appearance of a single EPC-IS repository. " ...

i­-Konect is a privately owned integrator providing software solutions that promotes the use of open-source development platforms and adheres to the latest industry standards. i-Konect designs solutions to maximize scalability, reliability, as well as improving the ease to adapt, extend, and maintain. The company's expertise includes globally distributed enterprise solution architectures as well as the seamless integration of new technologies such as RFID, smart cards, and mobile devices with legacy systems.

RFID Laboratory and Program Planned

RFID program will launch, including a radio frequency identification equipped laboratory, at Middlesex Community College. Tom Spoth reports on the exploration of RFID at MCC. ...

Founded in 1966 as a branch campus of Manchester Community College, Middlesex Community College became an independent member of the Community College System in 1968. In 1973, the college moved to its present 38-acre campus, which overlooks the scenic Connecticut River and the City of Middletown. Middlesex Community College is conveniently located in Central Connecticut and is easily accessible via major interstates.

RFID Laboratory and Program Planned: Via Lowell Sun Online: Grant allows MCC to launch RFID program ...

... "Using a grant of more than $850,000 from the U.S. Department of Labor, Middlesex Community College plans to establish a radio frequency identification program at its Lowell campus. ... " ...

Additional references on RFID at university research laboratories:

A popular radio-frequency ID system that is used to deter car thefts and as a convenience device for the purchase of gasoline can be defeated with low-cost technology, computer scientists from The Johns Hopkins University and RSA Laboratories have determined. ...

The University of Arkansas RFID Research Center laboratory has passed accreditation criteria established by EPCglobal Inc., a global not-for-profit standards organization commercializing the Electronic Product CodeT (EPC) and RFID worldwide. The UA lab is one of the first EPC/RFID research laboratories worldwide to receive the EPCglobal Performance Test Center accreditation. The RFID Research Center, a subunit of the Information Technology Research Institute, housed in the university's Sam M. Walton College of Business. ...

The University of Wisconsin-Madison unveiled its new radio-frequency identification test laboratory Friday, which will help Wisconsin businesses find ways to use the technology in their operations. ...

Toyota RFID Project: Accelerated Processes ...

Toyota project will implement Alien RFID technology to drive accelerated supply chain processes. Anticipated benefits exceed the RFID project's capex investment. ...

Toyota RFID Project: Accelerated Processes: Via Alien Technology: Toyota South Africa Motors Ltd. Selects Alien Technology® RFID Solution for Vehicle Identification: Automated vehicle tracking will accelerate throughput of produced assets in the supply chain, resulting in reduction of time to invoice dealers and thus time-to-cash ...

... "Traditionally, RFID-based vehicle tracking applications have been hampered by the use of costly microwave systems and proprietary RFID protocols. Toyota's application will benefit from the use of open, global-standard EPC RFID technology that combines consistent reads, even in a heavy metallic environment, with the ability to leverage extremely low-cost RFID tags. In Toyota's implementation, an Alien RFID tag will be applied to each vehicle during production. The tags will then be accurately read by field-proven Alien ALR-9780 readers at ranges exceeding six meters as the vehicle is tracked from within the Assembly Plant, through the Plant Exit, into, through and out of the Vehicle Distribution Yard. The resulting precision tracking will enable Toyota to both streamline and accelerate its vehicle shipping and invoicing processes, and thus its time-to-cash. According to Stoop, the anticipated savings on interest for the targeted reduction of Stock (vehicles-on rubber) of one day is expected to more than off-set the CAPEX for this RFID Project. " ...

Toyota South Africa, established in 1961, has been the overall market leader in terms of domestic vehicle sales for more than 25 consecutive years. The company has now been integrated into the global supplier network of Toyota Motor Corporation after TMC took a 75% majority shareholding in the company in 2002. The current production capacity of Toyota SA’s plant in Durban is in excess of 100 000 vehicles annually. This is set to expand to 220 000 units per annum by 2008. The South African operation now exports built up units to both Australia and Europe.

Alien Technology Corporation is a leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) products for global customers in government, retail, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, transportation, and other industries. Using its patented manufacturing process, Fluidic Self Assembly (FSA®), Alien manufactures EPC tags in very high-volumes and at low cost. The company provides a family of RFID readers for a variety of applications including supply chain management, logistics, and anti-counterfeiting, to improve inventory management and reduce operating costs. Alien is an active member of EPCglobal.

Microsoft on RFID

Microsoft and its partners have a vibrant RFID program underway. Much of Microsoft's focus is on the mid-market: small and medium sized businesses. They are developing an RFID services architecture and have multiple pilots underway to build their competence in the RFID marketplace.

Via Microsoft Business Solutions: The Little Chip That Will Change Your Supply Chain Forever: Microsoft Business Solutions recently announced that it was expanding the scope of its RFID initiative to help small and midmarket businesses meet RFID technology compliance mandates from large trading partners and drive efficiencies in internal operations. For example, Microsoft and several partners recently are collaborating to assist a U.S.-based midmarket snack manufacturer in their RFID implementation.

Microsoft RFID Architecture: Microsoft Architecture for RFID: The fully integrated Microsoft architecture for RFID embraces a vision for increased operational efficiency and reduced costs. It provides a framework for enabling the exchange of RFID related data in near real time across disparate systems and corporate boundaries. It also supports standards for global data synchronisation and interoperability with EPC.

Reference materials on Microsoft RFID Technology:

Microsoft Unwraps Technology at TechEd 2005 to Spark Greater Adoption of RFID: Microsoft's RFID infrastructure taps the power of the .NET Framework, SQL Server and Visual Studio .NET to make integration and deployment of RFID easier and less cost: Businesses around the world are evaluating how RFID technologies can enable them to streamline business processes and provide real-time visibility into their supply chain. However, adoption of RFID is hindered by many factors, including complexity of device management, lack of standards, limited solutions to cleanse volumes of data, and costly integration with existing business applications. Microsoft Corp.'s RFID infrastructure is intended to address these pain points and stimulate faster adoption of RFID. Built on top of the .NET Framework, Microsoft's RFID technology can be embedded within third-party applications or used on its own to capture and interpret data from sensors and manage business events in an easy-to-deploy, user-friendly environment. Companies may use RFID technology to enhance business processes, saving them time and money and improving their visibility into key business performance metrics.

Microsoft plans RFID software in 2006: Via CNET News.com: Microsoft plans early next year to release the RFID Services Platform, a middleware product that connects the hardware that monitors RFID signals with the business software that can make sense of the information.

Microsoft offers RFID system for postal services: Via InfoWorld: Microsoft is marketing an RFID (radio frequency identification device) package for postal services at a stamp exhibition in Taiwan, hoping to woo the government's post office and potentially forge a new line of business for the software maker.

RFID Standard ALE Ratified: Application Level Events

RFID Standard ALE Ratified: Application Level Events: Via EPCGlobal: EPCglobal Ratifies First Software Standard for EPC/RFID As Build-Out of the EPCglobal Network Continues: Standard Enables Efficient Collection and Movement of EPC Data, Making Supply Chains Visible and Traceable in Real Time; Opens Door for Proliferation of Standards-Based Software ...

... "EPCglobal Inc, a subsidiary of GS1, a not-for-profit standards organization entrusted with driving the global adoption of Electronic Product Code (EPC) technology and the EPCglobal Network, announced the ratification of a new software standard for using EPC technology in the supply chain. The standard, known as the Application Level Events standard, or ALE, is the first created by the EPCglobal community specifically for software. ALE was developed by more than 100 leading companies within the EPCglobal Software Action Group and establishes the approach EPC-enabled software products will take in collecting, managing and routing data EPC technology generates in the supply chain. " ...

EPCglobal Inc is a joint venture between GS1 (formerly EAN International) and GS1 US (formerly the Uniform Code Council). GS1 is a leading global organization dedicated to the design and implementation of global standards and solutions to improve efficiency and visibility in supply and demand chains. GS1 US is a not-for-profit member organization of GS1 and is dedicated to the development and implementation of standards-based, global supply chain solutions.

SaviTrak RFID SourceTagging NestedVisibility

SaviTrak RFID SourceTagging NestedVisibility: Via Savi Technology: SAVI NETWORKS LAUNCHES SAVITRAK WITH 1ST RFID-TAGGED CONTAINERS FOR MAJOR SUPPLIER OF CONSUMER GOODS FROM ASIA TO THE U.S. : Network-Enabled Active RFID Container Tags and EPC Compliant Carton Tags Offer Japanese CPG Manufacturer Source Tagging and Nested Visibility: Network Solution Designed to Help Major Consumer Goods Supplier Meet and Exceed RFID Mandates While Providing Logistics and Security Value ...

SaviTrak enables RFID compliance while adding value through source tagging and nested visibility of intransit container shipment ...

... "Savi Networks LLC, a provider of RFID-enhanced information services for global container shipments, today announced the operational launch of its SaviTrak information network with the first commercial shipments of consumer product goods from a factory in China to a distribution center in Southern California. Savi Networks and Mitsui & Co. (U.S.A.) Inc. (Mitsui USA) are providing real-time information and logistics services within the Network to a large Japan-based supplier of consumer goods to major U.S. retailers, including Wal-Mart. The shipments, currently on the water, are proving the commercial benefits the Network brings to major consumer goods suppliers in meeting and exceeding Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) compliance mandates while improving security, logistics data accuracy, visibility, and the operating metrics of containers and their contents. The information services, called SaviTrak, are provided on a per-container trip basis. " ...

RFID Solution Portfolio Expands ...

RFID Solution Portfolio Expands: Via AllStream: Allstream Announces Expansion of RFID Solution Portfolio: Allstream's Innovative and Flexible Solutions Are Now Available NationWide ...

AllStream expands RFID solution portfolio in Canada ...

... "Allstream, one of Canada's leading national business communication solutions providers, today announced at the EPC Global U.S. Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, the expansion of its recently launched Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) solution portfolio. Allstream's portfolio of innovative end-to-end solutions, which includes a hosted RFID trial solution, are now available in all major centres across Canada. " ...

Second Generation RFID Solutions Partnership Drives Adoption ...

Second Generation RFID Solutions Partnership Drives Adoption: Via HP: HP and Philips to Drive Adoption of Second Generation RFID Solutions

... "HP and Royal Philips Electronics announced that they are partnering to accelerate the adoption of the latest global RFID standard, which is designed to provide customers with interoperable technology, solutions and services for migration from previous RFID standards. This new global EPC Class 1 Generation2 (Gen2) standard allows a single tag to now travel globally and still be read by most readers, something that wasn't previously possible. For example, most first-generation Class 1 RFID tags used in the United States cannot be read in Europe due to bandwidth limitations. Gen2 makes it possible to track a tag sent from the United States through Europe with ease. Having already successfully embraced RFID technology in their respective supply chains, both companies will leverage their complementary leadership in RFID chip development, business process design and systems integration to further drive adoption of Gen2 RFID technology. " ...

DOD HandHeld RFID Computer ...

DOD HandHeld RFID Computer: Via Psion Teklogix: Psion Teklogix Rugged RFID Hand-Held Only One Tough Enough For DoD

Psion Tek secures DOD HandHeld RFID Computer contract ...

... "Psion Teklogix (LSE: PON), a global provider of solutions for mobile computing, wireless data collection, imaging and RFID, announced that its rugged EPC-compliant 7535 Hand-Held Computer with RD7950 Integrated UHF RFID Reader has been the only hand-held reader selected for use by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), U.S. Coast Guard and several other federal agencies. Psion Teklogix partners CDO Technologies, SYS-TEC and WFI Government Services have each been awarded a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) from the Army Contracting Agency Information Technology, E-Commerce, and Commercial Contracting Center (ITEC4), for passive Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Electronic Product Code (EPC) -1 for Multi-protocol (Class 0 and 1) Hand-held Readers. " ...

1Million RFIDLabels 12.9Cents Each: SALE!

1Million RFIDLabels 12.9Cents Each: SALE!: Via Alien Technology: Alien Technology Corporation Achieves Another Step Toward Pervasive, Economic RFID with Announcement of 12.9 cent RFID Labels ...

RFID labels reach the 12.9cent level in quantities of 1million, courtesy of Alien Tech ...

... "Alien Technology Corporation today achieved another RFID industry milestone with the announcement of EPC Class 1 RFID labels priced at 12.9 cents. This represents a 44% decrease in the price of 96-bit RFID labels from Alien in the past 12 months reflecting significant progress towards the goal of widely available, economic RFID labels. The Alien Technology ALL-9338-02, a fully converted EPC Class 1 tag, can be purchased today for 12.9 cents in order quantities of 1 million or more. " ...

Alien Technology Corporation is a leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) products for global customers in government, retail, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, transportation, and other industries. The 12.9 cent RFID label offered by Alien is made possible by the company's patented manufacturing process, Fluidic Self Assembly (FSA®) and Alien's new cost efficient High Speed Strap Attach Machine (HiSAM) assembly technology. These manufacturing technologies allow for low-cost packaging of very small semiconductors in very high volumes that in turn are packaged as low-cost RFID tags.

New EPC Gen2 RFID Chips ...

New EPC Gen2 RFID Chips: Via ST: New EPC Gen2 RFID Chips from STMicroelectronics Ready to Facilitate Supply Chain Management ...

STMicro introduces new UHF (Ultra-High Frequency) RFID chip, compliant with Gen2 Electronic Product Code™ (EPC) specifications ...

... "ST's new UHF chip is a full-featured, low-cost integrated circuit designed for use in RFID tags, or electronic labels, operating at a range of UHF frequencies from 860 to 960MHz. This frequency agility ensures the same tag can be applied and read at any place in the world, regardless of the geographically varying wireless regulations. The universal appeal of EPC Generation 2 products is set to stimulate unprecedented economies of scale for RFID product manufacturers. Widespread adoption of RFID systems depends on their robustness and reliability. The XRAG2 features a fast and flexible anti-collision mechanism that allows the reader to detect and correctly identify all tags in its operating range. Designed for the noisy and unpredictable radio conditions typical of RFID applications, ST devices use a reliable tag-unique selection based on a 16-bit random handle. " ...

STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets.

SAMSys RFID Module Paxar Printer ...

SAMSys RFID Module Paxar Printer: Via SAMSys: SAMSys RFID module to power Paxar printer/encoders,supporting multiple tag protocols including EPC Gen 2 ...

Samsys RFID module will be used in Paxar RFID printers ...

... "SAMSys Technologies Inc. (SMY: TSX), an international provider of Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) hardware solutions, announced that it will supply its new embedded MP9311 RFID UHF Reader Module for use in Monarch RFID printer/encoders manufactured by Paxar Corporation (NYSE: PXR). SAMSys multi-protocol, multi-frequency module will enable Paxar to meet the RFID printing/encoding needs of customers anywhere in the world using a variety of legacy tag technologies as well as the new EPC Generation 2. Effective immediately, the SAMSys module will come standard in all Paxar Monarch 9855 RFID tabletop bar code printers sold in the U.S. and Europe. " ...

SAMSys Technologies Inc. (SAMSys), founded in 1995, is a world-leading provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) reader solutions. SAMSys offers a family of products to simplify the installation and ensure the ongoing performance of the overall RFID hardware infrastructure. SAMSys is a public company whose shares are listed for trading on the TSX Exchange under the symbol: “SMY”. The Company has a total of 47.6 million shares outstanding.

Paxar Corporation is a global leader in the identification and tracking of consumer products worldwide. Paxar products are used the world over by leading apparel brands. Monarch products are used by 90% of the top 100 U.S. retailers and their supply chain partners to identify, track and price all varieties of consumer goods. Paxar is a member of EPC Global, the agency managing the emerging standards for RFID.

Zebra RFID Smart Labels Supply Alien Tech ...

Via Zebra Technologies: ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES EXPANDS RFID SMART LABEL BUSINESS: Zebra adds smart label converting equipment to its supplies plant and qualifies as a supplier of Alien Technology EPC Class 1 RFID labels ...

Zebra supplies RFID Smart Labels with Alien Technology ...

... "A smart label is created by embedding a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and antenna within the label material. Zebra is working closely with chip providers, such as Alien Technology, to ensure the quality and performance of each tag. With its expanded RFID label converting capabilities, Zebra can offer a wide range of high- and ultra-high frequency inlays to meet a variety of application needs as well as customized label facestocks, adhesives, sizes and formats. " ...

Alien Technology Corporation is a leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) products for global customers in government, retail, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, transportation, and other industries. Using its patented manufacturing process, Fluidic Self Assembly (FSA®), Alien manufactures EPC tags in very high-volumes and at low cost. The company also provides RFID readers for a variety of applications including supply chain management, logistics, and anti-counterfeiting, to improve inventory management and reduce operating costs. Alien is an active member of EPCglobal.

Zebra Technologies Corp. (Nasdaq: ZBRA) delivers innovative and reliable on-demand printing solutions for business improvement and security applications in 100 countries around the world. More than 90 percent of Fortune 500 companies use Zebra-brand printers. A broad range of applications benefit from Zebra-brand thermal bar code, "smart" label, receipt, and card printers, resulting in enhanced security, increased productivity, improved quality, lower costs, and better customer service. The company has sold more than four million printers, including RFID printer/encoders and wireless mobile solutions, and also offers software, connectivity solutions and printing supplies.

Alien RFID Walmart Exec Joins Board

Alien RFID Walmart Exec Joins Board: Via Alien Technology: Alien Technology® Announces Election of Bob L. Martin, Retired Wal-Mart Information Technology Innovator, to Board of Directors ...

Walmart Exec joins Alien Tech's board of directors ...

... "Alien Technology announced the election of Bob L. Martin to the Board of Directors. Mr. Martin, a retired Wal-Mart executive and member of the Wal-Mart Executive Committee from 1985 to1999, is widely recognized for his leadership role in bringing innovative information technology to the retail segment. " ...

Alien Technology Corporation is a leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) products for global customers in government, retail, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, transportation, and other industries. Using its patented manufacturing process, Fluidic Self Assembly (FSA®), Alien manufactures EPC tags in very high-volumes and at low cost. The company provides a family of RFID readers for a variety of applications including supply chain management, logistics, and anti-counterfeiting, to improve inventory management and reduce operating costs. Alien is an active member of EPCglobal.

RFID Pilot Produce SupplyChain

RFID Pilot Produce SupplyChain: Via RedTail Solutions, Inc.: University of Florida Research Center Launches RFID Pilot to Improve Fresh Produce Supply Chain

Univ of Florida CFDR is sponsoring RFID pilot in the produce supply chain to determine impact of increased material visibility ...

... "The University of Florida IFAS's Center for Food Distribution and Retailing (CFDR), Gainesville, FL announced the launch of a research pilot featuring RFID technology and network-based information exchange to improve the distribution of fresh produce. The pilot, named Visibility Validated (V2), will measure the impact of improved supply chain visibility between suppliers and retailers. The V2 project is focused on the publishing of observation events to a virtual test bed simulation of the EPCglobal NetworkTM. It is the hope of the V2 project participants to show how EPCglobal-based RFID technology will and can provide valuable supply chain visibility. The V2 project is being conducted in cooperation with its participating members; suppliers, a retailer, and technology providers. " ...

RedTail Solutions, Inc. is a privately held company that was formed in 2000 and is located in Westborough, MA outside of Boston that provides internet EDI (electronic data interchange) and other managed services for electronic trading designed expressly for middle-market businesses. RedTail handles the EDI mapping and exchange of thousands of purchase orders, invoices, and shipping transactions every month between suppliers and their large customers in retail, grocery and industrial segments. RedTail’s simple-to-use, cost-effective EDI solution works directly with the most popular back-office accounting systems used by middle-market manufacturers and distributors enabling them to fully participate in the global electronic supply chain.

RFID Tagging Authentication: Encrypted Shipping Manifest ...

RFID Tagging Authentication: Encrypted Shipping Manifest: SupplyChain Guardian: Multi-product, Multi-supplier, Multi-retailer and Multi-frequency ...

RFID system supports DOD standards for tagging, authentication ...

... "RFID Tagging and RFID Authentication: SupplyChain Guardian™ provides a complete turn-key solution at the source for a secure and trusted global supply chain. Our EPC compliant RFID tagging and RFID authentication system meets all world RFID commercial and U.S. Department of Defense standards and is double-byte language-enabled with full integration into major ERP platforms such as SAP and Oracle. Our Java-based system generates an encrypted shipping manifest that is securely transmitted via the Internet to suppliers, customers and Customs through network operations centers in the United States, Europe and Asia. " ...

ISR Systems Corporation’s multi-level secure, integrated and interoperable security systems provide surveillance, threat detection, and tracking to protect inter-modal transportation, seaport and airport facilities, and critical infrastructure from asymmetrical terrorist and security threats. ISR systems provide automated decision support from its command and control centers to coordinate notification and tactical responses among multiple agencies to interdict or respond to security threats.

Zebra TI RFID Gen2 Demonstrated

Zebra TI RFID Gen2 Demonstrated: ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES FIRST COMPANY TO SUCCESSFULLY DEMONSTRATE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS’ GEN 2 TECHNOLOGY: Zebra, Texas Instruments and ThingMagic demonstrate Gen 2 technology, proving Zebra’s flexibility to handle RFID tags from multiple sources, to help accelerate the adoption of Gen 2 ...

RFID leaders collaborate to demonstrate RFID Gen2 performance ...

... "Zebra Technologies (Nasdaq: ZBRA), a global leader in delivering on-demand printing solutions for business and process improvement, recently collaborated with Texas Instruments and ThingMagic to demonstrate EPC Gen 2 tags from Texas Instruments in a Zebra printer/encoder during the EPCglobal Fast Moving Consumer Goods Business Action Group meeting in Houston, Texas. Zebra is the only company to successfully demonstrate printer/encoder communication with Gen 2 inlays from several leading suppliers. Highlighting the meeting’s Gen 2 Live theme, the demonstration featured Zebra’s R110Xi printer/encoder, embedded with ThingMagic’s RFID reader module and Texas Instruments’ EPC Gen 2 inlays incorporated into label rolls. " ...

Zebra Technologies Corp. (Nasdaq: ZBRA) delivers innovative and reliable on-demand printing solutions for business improvement and security applications in 100 countries around the world. More than 90 percent of Fortune 500 companies use Zebra-brand printers. A broad range of applications benefit from Zebra-brand thermal bar code, "smart" label, receipt, and card printers, resulting in enhanced security, increased productivity, improved quality, lower costs, and better customer service. The company has sold more than four million printers, including RFID printer/encoders and wireless mobile solutions, and also offers software, connectivity solutions and printing supplies.

Texas Instruments Incorporated provides innovative DSP and analog technologies to meet our customers’ real world signal processing requirements. In addition to Semiconductor, the company’s businesses include Sensors & Controls, and Educational & Productivity Solutions. TI is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and has manufacturing, design or sales operations in more than 25 countries. Texas Instruments is the world’s largest integrated manufacturer of radio frequency identification (RFID) transponders and reader systems. Capitalizing on its competencies in high-volume semiconductor manufacturing and microelectronics packaging, TI is a visionary leader and at the forefront of establishing new markets and international standards for RFID applications.

Founded in 2000 and based in Cambridge, MA, ThingMagic is a leading developer of radio frequency identification (RFID), sensing and embedding computing technologies. Mercury4, ThingMagic’s fourth generation agile RFID reader, builds on and substantially enhances the company’s original platform created for early field tests of the Electronic Product Code (EPC). Designed to meet the business needs of a future where networked objects are pervasive, the Mercury4 line of RFID readers also includes an embedded reader, Mercury4e, and a handheld reader, Mercury4h. Mercury4 RFID readers are the only intelligent, network-ready RFID readers, and the only devices that can read any RFID tag.

Sato RFID Gen2 Printer Interoperability ...

Sato RFID Gen2 Printer Interoperability: Via Sato America: SATO Announces RFID Gen 2 Interoperability with CLe Series Printers ...

... "SATO America, Inc., a global leader in barcode printing, labeling, and EPC/RFID solutions, demonstrated RFID Gen 2 interoperability with its CL408e/CL412e RFID-enabled thermal barcode printers. The demonstration was conducted in SATO's RFID testing labs and is the latest development in SATO's continuing commitment to provide reliable and innovative RFID products based on customer demand. " ...

SATO is a pioneer in the Automatic Identification and Data Collection (AIDC) industry and the inventor of the world’s first electronic thermal transfer barcode printer. It revolutionized the barcoding industry by introducing the Data Collection System (DCS) & Labeling concept – a total barcode and labeling solution providing high quality barcode printers, scanners/hand held terminals, label design software and consumables. SATO is one of the first in the industry to introduce a complete, multi-protocol EPC-compliant, UHF RFID solution. SATO is publicly listed on the first section of Tokyo Stock Exchange in Japan. It has worldwide offices in the United States, Belgium, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Poland, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and China. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, it reported revenues of US$575 million.

Lowry RFID Uses TI Gen2 Inlays ...

Lowry RFID Uses TI Gen2 Inlays: LOWRY SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH TEXAS INSTRUMENTS FOR SMART TRAC™: EPC GEN 2 LABELS: Lowry is among the first label converters to offer EPC Gen 2 RFID labels ...

Lowry's RFID labels incorporate TI EPC Gen2 inlays to support Walmart and DOD RFID implementations ...

... "Lowry Computer Products, Inc., a leading provider of wireless, RFID-EPC, bar code, and data collection solutions, announced an agreement with Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI), a worldwide leader in radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. Under the terms of the agreement, Lowry’s label conversion facility will integrate TI’s Electronic Product Code™ (EPC) Gen 2 inlays into its Smart Trac RFID labels for retail and Department of Defense (DoD) RFID supply chain applications. " ...

Lowry Computer Products, Inc. is a synergistic organization made up of manufacturing, services, and systems integration, enabling the company to provide complete wireless, RFID, bar code, and data collection solutions in the vanguard of technology, equipment, and industry compliance. Lowry is a manufacturer of Print, Encode & Apply™ systems for case and pallet RFID labeling applications and Smart Trac™ RFID labels with tag inlays from leading suppliers, and a systems integrator of RFID printers, encoders, scanners and middleware from best-inclass partners. Lowry’s experienced professional services team has the skill set to conduct site surveys, recommend and install products, and determine optimal tag selection and tag placement for RFID supply chain applications. The company’s nationwide service network ensures that hardware is well maintained, whatever the location, and Lowry’s service team conducts authorized on-site and depot repair. Comprehensive service and media programs are available to customers. Lowry is a Founding Solution Provider of EPCglobal and a member of AIM Global, the organization for Automatic Identification and Mobility.

Texas Instruments is the world’s largest integrated manufacturer of radio frequency identification (RFID) transponders and reader systems. Capitalizing on its competencies in high-volume semiconductor manufacturing and microelectronics packaging, TI is a visionary leader and at the forefront of establishing new markets and international standards for RFID applications.

Gen2 RFID inlay references:

Texas Instruments (TI) recently announced a delivery milestone of pre-production samples of Gen2 UHF inlays and straps to label converter and printer customers. TI will begin ramping to volume production in the millions beginning in July 2005, starting with its ultra-high frequency (UHF) EPC Gen2 inlays.

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) a leading provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology (distributed in Australia through Electro-Com), today announced a delivery milestone of pre-production samples of Electronic Product Code™ (EPC) Generation (Gen) 2 inlays and straps to label converter and printer customers.

Tangible Value RFID Data ...

Tangible Value RFID Data: TrueDemand Launches with six million in funding to develop new class of predictive applications that will drive value from rfid implementations: Investments from Mayfield and Bay Partners Provide Capital to Create Applications that Enable Organizations to Gain Greater Value from RFID Investments ...

... "TrueDemand Software, Inc. announces the launch of the company and its strategy to deliver a suite of radio frequency identification (RFID) applications for manufacturers and retailers that will help organizations derive tangible and rapid value from the data generated by RFID tags. " ...

TrueDemand Software, a pioneer in the development of RFID-enabled enterprise applications, provides a new class of predictive supply chain solutions that help solve supply chain execution and planning problems to reduce out-of-stocks and excess inventory. By combining RFID-based information with TrueDemand’s business solutions, organizations can better manage the live replenishment of RFID-tagged inventory from production through sale across the supply-and-demand network. As a result, customers can better anticipate and proactively remedy supply chain problems before they occur, gaining greater value from their RFID investments. The TrueDemand team includes RFID innovators and proven supply chain experts instrumental in the advancement of RFID technology and the efforts of the Auto-ID Center, now EPC Global. Headquartered in Los Gatos, California, the company is backed by leading venture capital firms Mayfield and Bay Partners.