Handheld RFID for Goods Receipt

Gerry Weber International selects Nordic ID handheld RFID to enable its global RFID project where high mobility was part of the requirements. ...

... "The RFID handhelds will be most heavily used in goods receiving and inventory management at about 150 stores. Nowadays it takes us about two days to complete the inventory on a 200-square-foot retail space, says Christian von Grone, CIO at Gerry Weber. After the rollout, this process will take only about ten minutes.

Nordic ID handsets were chosen after a meticulous selection process, including extensive testing of different devices. The fact that the PL3000 Cross Dipole is able to read tags from up to four feet away, even through closed boxes, was the deciding factor in its choice. For Gerry Weber, this is especially important when tagged goods, in individual boxes, are transported in bulk on pallets. " ...

Via Nordic ID: Gerry Weber

GERRY WEBER International RFID Project: "The GERRY WEBER group is the first company in Germany to use RFID as article surveillance technology. A further innovation, are the RFID labels made of fabric, which the company will sew directly into the garments in future. "

Vancouver RFID Technology Application Tracks Hotel Inventory

Fujitsu Frontech will supply RFID solution to the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel in Vancouver to enable inventory management processes and drive operational efficiency. ...

... "New Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada is using the new Fujitsu WT-A511 UHF-Band RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags to more accurately manage its inventory of 10,000 employee uniforms and 25,000 bathrobes, towels, tablecloths, sheets and other linens. The advanced tracking system enables the Fairmont Pacific Rim staff to quickly and accurately monitor its outgoing and incoming laundry while significantly reducing the costs of replacing missing items and the operational costs associated with a manual tracking process. " ...

Via Fujitsu: Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel for Advanced Inventory

JNJ RFID Depuy Facility

RFID applied high value inventory tracking at Johnson & Johnson's Depuy facility.

RFID Inventory Management

American Apparel realizes tangible benefits from its implementation of an RFID inventory management system from Xterprise. ...

... "By deploying the Clarity ARS solution from Xterprise, American Apparel now has the visibility and control of inventory at the item and store network levels, delivering a rapid return on investment. The solution automates many previously manual, time-consuming processes, including merchandise receiving and matching, restocking and cycle counts. It also features integrated loss prevention using RFID, providing a low cost alternative to traditional stand-alone electronic article surveillance (EAS) hardware solutions. The retailer is now able to improve the speed and precision of cycle counts, to gain a comprehensive view of in-store inventory, reduce shrinkage and out-of-stocks. " ...

Via Xterprise: American Apparel RFID Benefits

RFID Forklift Tracking Solution

Impinj reader will be integrated into forklift RFID solution by Rush Tracking. ...

... "Rush Tracking Systems has selected the Speedway Revolution reader for the VisiblEdge RFID lift truck solution. VisiblEdge is a complete, turnkey solution ideally suited for industrial manufacturing and warehousing operations supporting business processes such as WIP tracking, automated shipping and receiving, returnable container tracking, waste management and other hands-off asset tracking applications. To enhance real-time inventory accuracy, the VisiblEdge solution automatically captures product or asset identification and location information without operator interaction. " ...

Via Impinj: Revolution Reader Selected by Rush Tracking Systems for RFID-Enabled Lift Truck Solution

Gerry Weber RFID Garment Management

Fashion leader Gerry Weber will implement Avery Dennison RFID technology to manage inventory and prevent loss. The company will deploy RFID chips in the care labels of approximately 25 million garments a year. ...

... "The Avery Dennison RFID fabric care labels will be applied in the manufacturing process, eliminating the need for retail staff to fit and remove conventional bulky security tags in-store which can be time-consuming and costly. The Avery Dennison RFID label is automatically deactivated after the customer has paid for the goods at the checkout. " ...

Via Avery Dennison: Global Fashion Group Gerry Weber

RFID Solutions for Asset Tracking

Eminencia RFID Solutions: "Inventory management and cycle counting are greatly facilitated by using EMIspheres RFID solution. "

RFID Sensors Enable Shipping Container Logistics

IBM integrates RFID sensors and software to enable the tracking of returnable shipping containers used to transport goods globally. The software creates supply chain visibility and supports inventory reduction goals of customers. ...

... "Clients using IBM's Returnable Container Management capability affix sensors such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags to each of their reusable containers. Through the use of both standing and mobile devices that read the tags, all relevant data is captured, including place and date of manufacture, serial number, and other necessary details. IBM's software, based on industry standards, allows clients and their trading partners to use a Web browser to determine where each container is at any given point. If a container reaches the wrong location, the system will alert management.

For example, an automobile manufacturer using the software can track containers filled with parts from suppliers to their manufacturing plants and ultimately back to container storage facilities. In doing so, they can expect to improve container turnaround time by as much as 20 percent; reduce container loss by between 5 and 15 percent, reduce container inventory by 10 percent; realize a 30 percent savings in container carrying costs; and reduce the need for one time packaging and expedited shipping costs by 80 percent. " ...

Via IBM: Software Uses Sensors to Speed Movement of Container Shipments

RFID Inventory at Saint Joseph Hospital

Wavemark CIMS RFID will enable St Joseph Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia to manage their medical inventory. Link.

Container Centralen RFID Deployment for Asset Returns Process

Container Centralen will deploy Fluensee's AssetTrack RFID solution to drive visibility, control and utilization of its returnable product racks distributed to North American customers. ...

... "The initial roll out of the RFID asset tracking system will include approximately 150 locations and 250,000 CC racks supplied to horticultural customers throughout North America. Austin, Texas-based RF Code, Inc. will provide the active tags, readers and infrastructure for the tagging of CC’s fleet of shipping racks in North America. Fluensee’s AssetTrack will provide Container Centralen with improved visibility, tracking, accountability and utilization of the CC racks as they move through the supply chain. Believed to be the largest active RFID deployment in the industry to date, this solution will provide Container Centralen with up-to-date, accurate inventory information to help the company streamline its container shipping activity and automate current manual processes, resulting in reduced labor costs and improved customer service. " ...

Via Fluensee: Container Centralen RFID Returnable Asset Tracking Solution

RFID Asset Management in the Office

Item-Level RFID Drives Apparel Business Advantage

Research suggests that market growth for RFID will accelerate in the retail apparel space. ...

... "item-level RFID systems have become a key competitive advantage and business process automation differentiator for apparel companies due to their ability to drive increased sales and facilitate significant labor cost reductions by providing improved inventory visibility. " ...

Via Reuters: RFID in Fashion Apparel and Footwear

WalMart RFID Manages Inventory Driving Sales

Walmart sees strong benefits from RFID program if inventory stock-outs are eliminated and the customer experience is improved. The key is improving inventory accuracy so that the right product is available at the right time. ...

... "The key behind it all is making sure RFID tags are installed on all products, and using a forklift with RFID equipment installed to show the driver exactly where merchandise is inside store warehouses. " ...

Via CIO: WalMart RFID Benefits

Bloomingdale RFID Improvements

The ITRI at the University of Arkansas shares results of study at Bloomingdales that show significant improvements in inventory metrics using item-level RFID tracking. ...

... "According to the study, the level of perfect inventory accuracy in the RFID store increased by 27%, as measured in the simulated system versus the actual PI. " ...

Via Supply Chain Digest: Item-Level Retail Apparel Tagging Study

DePuy Orthopaedics Uses RFID to Manage Inventory Availability

Supply Chain Visibility through RFID Garment Tracking

G&P Net implements Alien Technology RFID solution for garment tracking in Europe to enable supply chain traceability and channel efficiency. ...

... "We previously didn’t have adequate control of our distribution channels or the grey market, but now, with the Aton and Alien RFID item level tagging solution, we have 100% supply chain inventory and channel management control. Now we can take inventory in just a fraction of the time and we have implemented monthly inventory checks at all of our channel retail stores. This increased visibility greatly reduces out-of-stocks which leads to better sales turnover and results in a win-win situation for everyone. " ...

Via Alien Technology: G&P Net of Italy

RFID Case Study Video for American Apparel

Avery Dennison presents the benefits of RFID application at retailer American Apparel, who has seen success with item inventory availability. A case study video is available. ...

... "American Apparel RFID inventory management pilot stores have achieved the Holy Grail of retail—99 % on-floor availability of all the items stocked. " ...

Via Avery Dennison: Radio Frequency Identification Case Study

RFID Reduces Shipment Errors for ABB

ABB Oy is achieving benefits from its RFID application in the management of outbound goods processing, where movements are automatically reflected in the inventory management system supporting the elimination of loading errors of consignment material. ...

... "ABB’s system uses UPM Raflatac’s RFID tags that were implemented by Vilant Systems. All transport units belonging to a consignment are marked with adhesive RFID tags at parcel level. The trailer loading docks are equipped with RFID readers, which scan all loaded parcels. Vilant's RFID software has been integrated with ABB's own SAP system.

The registration number of the vehicle arriving for loading is recorded in the SAP-system and the progress of the delivery is automatically controlled. The system knows what the consignment should include and the gate issues an error warning if there is an attempt to load the wrong goods onto a vehicle. Furthermore, the gate will not close until all goods belonging to a consignment have been loaded onto a vehicle. All this makes it virtually impossible to make incorrect deliveries. " ...

Via UPM Raflatac: ABB RFID technology application

Ford Transit RFID Integration

Ford van gets a test drive. The model integrates RFID technology to support inventory management. ...

... "A device called Tool Link builds RFID sensors into the van so at the press of a button the driver can see an inventory of all the tagged tools aboard the van. " ...

Via Popular Mechanics: 2010 Ford Transit Test Drive

Ford Vehicle Work Solutions: "The innovative Ford Work Solutions Tool Link from DeWalt uses RFID technology to track what's in your cargo box ... "

RFID Smart Container Takes Inventory

ODIN will supply the Department of Defense / DOD with self-inventorying SMART Containers that provide a detailed view of items inside the container via passive UHF RFID. ...

... "The ODIN self-inventorying SMART Container was initially conceived to close the gap in the supply chain where items were put into closed containers. It has been refined over the past several years to help fulfill the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) order to suppliers to provide low cost passive RFID (pRFID) tags on assets shipped to the government, and provide visibility from the factory to the foxhole. The ODIN self-inventorying SMART Container automatically reads the tagged items from suppliers as they are loaded or unloaded from shipping containers of various sizes and configurations. The items can also be inventoried from anywhere in the world with the click of the mouse. The SMART Container depends on ODIN’s patented Blackbird technology to provide unparalleled visibility, security, accuracy and efficiency. " ...

Via ODIN Tech: Self-Inventorying SMART Container

RFID Spine Tags for Item Level Retail Tracking

UPM Raflatac collaborates with partners to create an integrated RFID-enabled retail solution that performs item-level tracking and provides business intelligence. ...

... "The solution, an industry first, pairs a free-standing, RFID-enabled MAXRPM retail display, developed, built and sold by Alliance, with Seeonic’s SmartWatch service and UPM Raflatac UHF Gen2 DVD Spine tags, to create actionable intelligence that business users can use to optimize the manufacturing, distribution, management and marketing of high margin promotional inventory such as entertainment DVDs. " ...

Via UPM Raflatac: RFID-enabled item-level inventory management system for retail promotions

RFID Inventory Process Productivity Improvement

RFID Tool Tracking for Ford Commercial Vehicles

DeWalt RFID-enabled Tool Link will support asset management on Ford vehicles for commercial use. This RFID asset tracking capability is integrated into an in-dash mobile computer that is internet-connected. ...

... "You fasten standard second-generation RFID tags to tools and other items and then scan the tags. With the vehicle running, a pair of RFID antennas inside the pickup bed or van cargo box scans for tagged items. The result is displayed on the In-Dash Computer screen. And you’re alerted if any inventoried items have not been loaded on the truck. " ...

Via Ford Work Solutions: Keep Track of Tools

RFID Tracks Inventory at Nuclear Power Plant Warehouse

Pacific Gas & Electric will deploy Sirit's RFID solution at its Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant, in Avila Beach, California, to enable parts tracking in its plant warehouse. ...

... "The Sirit IN510 readers and RFID tags solution, installed by Cal Poly Global Automated Identification Technology Center (PolyGAIT), have been deployed in a project to identify and locate critical spare parts in a massive warehouse at Diablo Canyon. Accurate availability for the $65 million of inventory at Diablo Canyon is essential for both effective operations and maintenance of the power plant. In addition, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission requires a complete physical count of Diablo Canyon’s inventory every two years. Following the RFID implementation, spare parts are tagged with Sirit’s Corkscrew RFID tags upon receipt at the facility. The tags are then read by Sirit’s IN510 readers, installed at specified locations, providing visibility into which material or items are located within a precise location range. While employees perform their regular picking functions, the RFID system transmits the material and location range to Diablo’s SAP computer system. " ...

Via Sirit: Solution for Inventory Tracking Program

RFID Inventory Tracking Application

RFID Success Story Warehouse Management

Library RFID Solutions Partnership

Texas Instruments and 3M Library Systems have sustained their partnership in library RFID applications for 10-years. ...

... "To date, millions of TI Tag-it HF-I chips help libraries track periodicals in 3M Library Systems worldwide. Developed with a memory that reliably retains its data for an estimated 60 years at 131 degrees Fahrenheit (55 degrees Celsius), TI supplies its durable, high-quality HF chips in inlay format to 3M Library Systems, which manufactures RFID labels to tag library assets as part of its full-line of RFID solutions. The 3M RFID System streamlines the checkout and return, sorting and inventory management of library materials to better serve customers. Libraries are providing more services without an increase in funding and are turning to technologies like RFID to automate routine tasks and free staff to spend more time with patrons. " ...

Via 3M: RFID Innovation to Libraries

Library RFID Security Focus

Cynthiana-Harrison Public Library deploys 3M Library Systems for security management this fall. The library will install 3M Series 8900 single-corridor detection units leveraging RFID technology to enable checkout process. Books will be marked with an RFID tag to signal check-in and check-out. ...

... "Tagging of some 50,000 circulation items has begun, and installation is expected to be completed by the end of November. Cynthiana Library Director Pat Barnes says the RFID tags eventually may serve more than one purpose, enabling the library to automate such circulation management functions as checkout and return, sorting and inventory. " ...

Via 3M RFID: RFID Security System

RFID Retail Book Management

Selexyz sees success in inventory management, using RFID to streamline its processes and improving customer service. ...

... "RFID scanners can read each book's RFID tag without employees removing it from the shelf -- and the store can remain open during the inventory process. ... Selexyz also uses the RFID system to check in books as they arrive and track shipments from its distributor, Centraal Boekhuis. ... " ...

Via Computerworld: Managing Book Inventories

RFID Optimizes the Sales Chain

SkyeTek introduces MetaFi which is an application that will provide sales chain optimization. Using RFID technology, MetFi will improve the visibility of goods as they move outside the factory to customer locations through the sales chain. ...

... "Manufacturers currently struggle to gather accurate and timely data on inventory levels throughout the sales chain due to manual tracking methods used inconsistently by time-constrained field sales and service representatives. MetaFi leverages RFID and wireless technologies to provide manufacturers with the means to automatically collect, analyze, and act on real-time data from mobile field representatives and remotely located smart-containers including cabinets, totes, and shelves. " ...

Via SkyeTek: MetaFi Application for RFID-Based Sales Chain Optimization

Checkpoint RFID Strategy Gaining Traction

Checkpoint discusses quarterly results and sees the Oatsystems integration proceeding as planned. ...

... "Our Evolve RF and RFID-enabled product line continues to be well received by our customers and is gaining traction in the marketplace. The addition of OATSystems puts key aspects of Checkpoint's developing strategy for RFID EAS in place as the combination of Checkpoint and OATSystems uniquely positions us as a one-stop-shop for solutions that enable retailers and their supply chains to gain deeper inventory visibility, further reducing shrink and increasing bottom-line profits by enhancing on-shelf merchandise availability for consumers. " ...

Via Checkpoint Systems: Integration of OATSystems progressing as planned

NineWest RFID Pilot

Jones Apparel Group launches program to pilot Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in specific Nine West retail locations to determine its impact on item tracking and service, operational efficiency, and inventory. ...

... "The goal of this pilot program will be to study the benefits that item-level RFID provides in the areas of enhanced productivity, customer service and inventory accuracy. The team of companies with whom Jones is partnering on this initiative consists of: Vue Technology, which will provide the RFID software and system management solutions; Motorola's Enterprise Mobility Business, which will provide fixed and handheld RFID readers and antennas; Avery Dennison, which will provide RFID tags and printers; inCode Wireless, which will provide installation and integration services and, along with RFID Sherpas LLC, will perform operational and business case analysis. " ...

Via Jones Apparel Group: Item-Level RFID Pilot in Select Nine West Retail Locations

RFID Yard Management Implementation at John Taylor Site

John Taylor Fertilizers partners with Intelleflex and InCom to automate the tracking of agricultural equipment at its Yuba City, California location using RFID-enabled processes. The RFID technology will track equipment in the yard, understand inventory that is in use by customers, and provide visibility to usage statistics. The implementation is expected to increase asset utilization and improve the customer experience. ...

... "Using a solution called OnSite, which was developed by InCom based on the Intelleflex RFID platform, John Taylor is now able to automatically track equipment inventory in real-time: the time the equipment leaves the yard, the location to which it is delivered, when it is returned to the yard, and how often it is used. " ...

Via Intelleflex: John Taylor Fertilizers Company

RFID, The Boxes Know ...

IBM vid on RFID inventory tracking ...

Medical RFID Supports Safe Surgery

ClearCount integrates RFID into the surgery process. ...

... "The Smart Sponge system places all its components on one cart. Nurses waive a package of sponges past a reader built into display device on the cart to create an inventory. " ...

Via EETimes: RFID in operating room

RFID Retail Checkout

Freedom Shopping has launched a solution that plugs into existing cash registers and point-of-sale terminals to enable RFID checkout, inventory tracking and security. ...

... "The core of the solution is a software wedge (Freedom-ID) that operates on the point-of-sale (POS) terminal. It communicates with a counter-top RFID reader pad (EasyRead Pad) and/or other readers in the checkout lane. Inventory is monitored with mobile RFID readers and security gates also are RFID-enabled. Data is passed to existing cash registers and POS infrastructure at all points in a SKU format so it can be instantly integrated. Consumer privacy is protected using a variety of technical safeguards. " ...

Via Freedom Shopping: Offering for Retail RFID Checkout & Security

RFID Portal Education Program

OCC offers hands-on experience in RFID to its students through an RFID lab program, that uses real-world scenarios such as warehouse RFID portal. ...

... "The portal is designed to emulate a factory portal where workers move tagged boxes or pallets through the passageway allowing inventory processing to occur automatically." ...

Via Oakton Community College: RFID Program

Walmart RFID Inventory Management Improves Accuracy

Airfreshener RFID-enabled inventory management study shows improved out-of-stock situations for Walmart stores. ...

... "The study's findings that RFID has a positive effect on inventory accuracy underscore the promise that the technology could streamline the supply chain. A more efficient and effective supply chain translates down the line to fewer out-of-stock items or excess inventory. " ...

Via Northwest Arkansas News: RFID improves inventory accuracy, study finds

Vehicle RFID Inventory Control and Asset Tracking

ThingMagic partners with DEWALT and Ford Motor Company to integrate embedded RFID asset tracking system into the 2009 Ford F-150, F-Series Super Duty pickups and E-Series vans. The Ford Work Solutions Tool Link by DEWALT uses RFID reader system to enable Ford and DEWALT customers to track RFID-tagged assets and validate inventory is under control. ...

... "Ford is the first automotive manufacturer to offer passive, embedded RFID technology in its vehicles, allowing customers to capitalize on RFID's capabilities, including asset tracking and inventory control, to ensure crews arrive and leave the job site with the right tools and materials for their jobs. As part of the Ford Work Solutions, a collection of affordable technologies that will assist Ford customers in better running their business, Tool Link by DEWALT is the result of a partnership between leaders in the embedded RFID technology space, professional power tool industry and the automotive business.

Building on DEWALT's knowledge of the professional power tool market, ThingMagic's Advanced Development Group has also designed rugged, reliable RFID labels that allow truck operators to tag, scan and track expensive tools, equipment and other assets using the ThingMagic-designed system. Additionally, Ford Works Solutions Tool Link by DEWALT is designed to support loss prevention of equipment and supplies through real-time inventory updates. Ford is debuting the ThingMagic RFID-enabled vehicle line during the industry’s annual Chicago Auto Show. " ...

Via ThingMagic: Ford Motor Company and DEWALT to Provide First RFID Enabled Trucks

Savi RFID Pilot Tracks Automotive Assets in the Supply Chain

Land Rover and Savi will pilot an active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) solution that will achieve synchronized auto parts deliveries from multiple suppliers in Land Rover's supply chain to the company's assembly plant in West Midlands (U.K.). ...

... "Savi is supplying RFID hardware and software to enhance visibility, inventory management, and asset utilization, and to reduce losses, assembly plant disruptions, and time spent locating assembly parts. Phase 2 of this pilot enables 18 suppliers and Land Rover to better locate, track, and deliver stillages (specialized steel conveyances) that carry bumpers, front grills, suspension parts, moon roofs, and vehicle bodies, among other parts. Real-time information on RFID-tagged assets is shared among the partners and is automatically transmitted to cell phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and web-based tracking software. " ...

Via Savi Technology: RFID PILOT TO TRACK AUTO PARTS BETWEEN SUPPLIERS AND ASSEMBLY PLANT

West Midlands Automotive Cluster

Medical Center RFID Achieves Benefits and Expands Use

Carolinas Heart and Vascular Institute expands its use of RFID tracking throughout its medical system, as the RFID-enabled process has shown improvements in utilization and accuracy of critical high-value equipment, which translates into financial benefits. ...

... "The cabinet-based system was initially deployed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory suite to store, track, and manage the utilization of high cost items such as Drug-Eluting stents and PTCA balloon catheters. The organization has now expanded its use of the system by deploying twenty-six units to manage those items for additional cardiac catheterization laboratories while also managing pacemakers and ICDs for the electrophysiology laboratories. With these additional units, CHVI will complete a broader deployment of the technology to support efforts to increase charge capture accuracy, eliminate product expiration, and optimize on-hand inventory levels to support organizational improvement initiatives. " ...

Via Mobile Aspects: Carolinas Medical Center

RFID Product DNA Creates Asset History Through Its Life

HP uses Oatsystems RFID solutions to track printers through their manufacturing process and into the supply chain. HP is recognized for its innovative application of RFID technology. ...

... "HP tracks its printers using OATSystems' Asset Tracking Solution integrated with existing SAP and Baan ERP systems as well as HP's proprietary manufacturing execution system. The system tracks each printer from its origin on the assembly line through critical transition points to its eventual outbound shipment. HP also uses the system to create product DNA, storing unique information on the RFID tag for each printer. By saving information such as install-by dates and testing results, HP tracks and identifies printers returned for repairs under warranty. Having a full record of the printer's history has enabled HP to improve its repair service and allowed it to return printers to customers much more efficiently. HP estimates that RFID-enabling its printer manufacturing operations has reduced the company’s printer inventory by 17 percent by increasing visibility into the location of its products. " ...

Via OatSystems: RFID to Reduce Printer Inventory by 17 Percent

RFID Cycle Counting Accelerator

Tracient Technologies will use SkyeTek M9 Reader Module in its Pad1-R UF Handheld RFID reader to enable retailers to conduct more frequent and efficient cycle counting of apparel stock, which will results in increased inventory accuracy and ultimately lower costs and improve customer service. ...

... "The apparel industry faces significant competition and there is an ongoing need to create supply chain efficiencies to help reduce costs. Tracient found that by embedding the SkyeTek M9 reader module into its Pad1-R UF reader, the complete package could slash cycle count times by over 95 percent providing more confidence in inventory levels and reducing the requirement for needless and costly stock transfers between stores. The reader can be connected quickly to any Bluetooth enabled device, such as PDA's, cell phones, PCs, and laptops, giving these devices rapid RFID capabilities. " ...

Via SkyeTek: Enhanced Handheld RFID Readers

Related:

Menlo RFID: "Menlo's RFID warehouse enablement solution seamlessly integrates with your warehouse processes allowing you to take advantage of RFID-tagged products in receiving, storage (put-away), cycle-counting, picking ... "

SATO America: "We want to save money for our customers by having consistent, stabilized inventories, and by taking human error out of the receiving, cycle counting, order assembly and ... "

NASCAR RFID: Goodyear Tire Annual Contract for 2008 Season

Advanced ID will supply Goodyear Tire & Rubber embedded RFID tags in its racing tires for the 2008 NASCAR racing season, which includes the NEXTEL Cup, Busch Series and Craftsman Truck series races. ...

... "Providing the potential for extraordinary visibility of the benefits of Advanced ID's tire tags, NASCAR is the #1 spectator sport, holds 17 of the top 20 attended sporting events in the U.S., rates as the #2 rated regular-season sport on television with broadcasts in over 150 countries, and boasts 75 million fans. Advanced ID has worked with Goodyear for over two years to develop an RFID tag that meets the challenging requirements of NASCAR racing and the Goodyear Racing Eagle and Wrangler tires used throughout the 2006 and 2007 NASCAR seasons which have had embedded Advanced ID tire tags. " ...

Annual Contract from Goodyear Tire for NASCAR RFID Tire Tags for 2008 Season

Staples RFID Long-Range Inventory Tracking

Fujitsu successfully implements AbsoluteSKY's Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-based intelliTRACKER suite in three months at STAPLES Business Depot’s first store. ...

... "STAPLES Business Depot, Canada's largest supplier of office supplies, business machines, office furniture and business services, worked with Fujitsu to install AbsoluteSKY's real-time, long range inventory tracking system in a 37,000 sq. ft. STAPLES Business Depot store in May 2007 as a test pilot. To date, roughly 1,500 SKUs have been tagged, and the system has been dynamically reporting inventory status and changes on a minute-to-minute basis as merchandise travels from receiving to store shelves, across retailer-defined zones and through the point-of-sale process. The results achieved illustrate a fully automated and highly accurate business system for item-level inventory tracking. " ...

Via AbsoluteSKY: Fujitsu Installation of AbsoluteSKY RFID System is Successful at STAPLES Business Depot

Dillards RFID Pilot Program Will Tag Merchandise Items with Electronic Product Code

Dillards. a national retailer that operates in 29 states, is beginning an item-level Radio Frequency Identification, RFID, tagging pilot in its stores this month, in order to assess the technology's impact on customer service through improved product availability. ...

... "The pilot will consist of certain styles of merchandise being marked with RFID-enabled tags. The RFID/EPC (Electronic Product Code) tags function like an intelligent barcode and contain only the Electronic Product Code unique to each garment. The tags are designed to be removed at the time of purchase. They are not required in the event that the customer wishes to return the garment. No link will be made between the garment information held by the tag and the customer's personal information. These new tags will enable store associates to perform more frequent inventory counts on merchandise, with the ultimate goal of more timely replenishment of out-of-stocks. We believe that the use of RFID technology can enable us to provide an even higher level service to our customers by enhancing our ability to have the right product available at the right time while providing us even more accurate information from our inventory control system. " ...

Via Dillards: RFID Pilot Program

OATSystems RFID Solution Tracks Assets and Work-in-Process to Lower Working Capital

OATSystems has implemented its RFID-based Asset Tracking and Work-in-Process Solution at customers, such as Hewlett-Packard Brazil. ...

... "HP Brazil estimates that OAT's new solution has reduced its printer inventory by 17 percent by increasing visibility into the location of its products. Using OATSystems Asset Tracking Solution, HP tracks its printers from their origin on the assembly line through critical transition points to their eventual outbound shipment. HP also uses the system to create product DNA to save unique information on the RFID tag for each printer. By saving information such as install-by dates and testing results, HP tracks and identifies printers returned for repairs under warranty. Having a full record of the printer's history has enabled HP to improve its repair service and allowed it to return printers to customers much more efficiently. Today, the OAT solution is supporting nine RFID-enabled manufacturing and product completion lines producing over three million products annually. " ...

Via OATSystems: HP Brazil Reduces Printer Inventory by 17 Percent

RFID Medical Inventory Management System

DMC Harper University Hospital will implement Mobile Aspects' radio frequency identification, RFID-enabled, inventory management system to manage its utilization of high cost materials that support the delivery of cardiology services. DMC Harper University Hospital is part of the Detroit Medical Center. ...

... "Developed by Mobile Aspects, Inc., of Pittsburgh, Pa., the system, called iRISupply, uses an RFID tracking architecture to automate charge capture, inventory management, device expiration management, and other key operational processes within the patient care setting. The organization will implement fourteen iRISupply cabinet units to manage the storage and utilization of implantable stent devices within their cardiac catheterization laboratory suites at the DMC Harper University Hospital location. In leveraging the RFID-enabled technology, the organization seeks to create a more efficient, automated process for managing these high-cost items and in turn, realize more streamlined and accurate processes in documenting device utilization for billing and inventory management. " ...

Via Mobile Aspects: DMC Harper University Hospital to install RFID technology

Retail RFID Strategy Enables Customer Experience in Mexico

Levi Strauss deploys TAGSYS UHF RFID readers in its Mexico retail outlets, using Grupo Hasar for system integration into its business systems. ...

... "The TAGSYS/Grupo Hasar deployment represents an expansion of Levi Strauss' RFID strategy to improve the customer purchasing experience by expediting the checkout process (especially during peak seasons) and to improve inventory management. For this application, Levi Strauss required a unique, cost-effective solution that offered high performance, reliability, an ergonomic design and easy integration capabilities. The TAGSYS reader combines leading UHF reader technology with a unique embedded antenna design that reliably inventories multiple stacked garments while not erroneously reading nearby items (a critical requirement in point-of-sale applications). The TAGSYS readers will be deployed in 40 Levi Strauss stores throughout Mexico. " ...

Via TagSys: In-Store Apparel RFID Deployment

RFID Pharmaceutical Inventory Management

Avery Dennison and RedPrairie will collaborate on pharma RFID solutions. ...

... "A leading pharmaceutical supplier has chosen the Avery Dennison and RedPrairie RFID solution for visibility and inventory management of its extensive pharmaceutical line. The solution consists of Avery Dennison's industry-leading Monarch 9855TM RFID printer/encoder and RFID supplies combined with RedPrairie's world-class enterprise software. The recent RedPrairie and Avery Dennison partnership helps ensure that RedPrairie's customers have reliable RFID printing/encoding capabilities with Monarch brand printers already pre-integrated into RedPrairie software solutions. " ...

Via Red Prairie: Leading pharmaceutical supplier chooses RedPrairie Enterprise Software and Avery Dennison's Monarch brand RFID hardware and supplies

Metro RFID Rolls Out Network Infrastructure

Reva enables Metro Group's RFID capability with its network infrastructure. ...

... "Reva's RFID network infrastructure provides a key component that enables Metro's RFID architecture to support current and future RFID initiatives. METRO Group has one of the most sophisticated RFID research and testing organizations in the world. Their process for evaluating innovative technologies is thorough, their requirements for standards-based performance are exacting, and their criteria are stringent for moving from RFID pilots to production. Reva's TAP products will be used to manage the distributed network of RFID installations, to produce accurate data from each site, and to provide rapid operator feedback. For the initial phase of the rollout, METRO Group is primarily using RFID to enhance its distribution and store receiving processes by using accurately located tag data for more efficient operations, better customer service and improved inventory management. " ...

Via Reva Systems: RFID Network Infrastructure for Europe's Largest Retail RFID Rollout at Metro Group

RFID Legal Document Management Reduces Lost Files

TAGSYS and IDENT implement RFID system to track and manage law firm client files at Lhermet, La Bigne & Remy. ...

... "TAGSYS and IDENT deployed the system at Paris-based Lhermet, La Bigne & Remy (LLR) for the firm's tens of thousands of archived legal documents. The deployment denotes significant implications both for the RFID industry and for any business seeking to manage high volumes of densely stacked documents. After its initial RFID deployment on 10,000 client files, LLR reported a considerable reduction of lost files and, most importantly, a decrease in time required to take daily inventory from one hour to a few minutes. The firm is currently converting its next set of 10,000 documents. " ...

TAGSYS and IDENT Announce Breakthrough RFID System for the Management of Legal Documents

Staples Active RFID Pilot

Reusable tags are being piloted by Staples to validate effectiveness for item-level tracking. A sampling of its products will be tagged in the pilot with active RFID tags. Early data shows 100% accuracy for the active technology, cutting down on the cycle-counting process for retail inventory. The active tags are reclaimed at the point-of-sale and reused. ...

... "Staples in late May started its trial at one of its Montreal stores, selectively tagging about 2,000 items, representing some 300 SKUs out of the 7,500 SKUs in a typical location ... " ...

Via eWeek: Staples RFID

RFID Research in Retail Supply Chain

Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals funds RFID research. ...

... "Hardgrave's research team has already been collaborating with WalMart Stores Inc. in the use of RFID at the pallet and case level, and found that using the tags can reduce out-of-stock inventory by 30 percent. " ...

Via The Morning News: RFID Lab

RFID Document Control for Regulated Business Processes

RFID LTD. implements 3M file tracking solution, based on RFID technology, at Idaho National Laboratories to improve its document control process and storage needs for regulated business processes. ...

... "The 3M RFID File Tracking solution is designed to keep track of fast-moving personnel files as they change hands within the organization. This is a better alternative to the manually signing of files in and out of the file room which is often complicated by ineligible signatures and lost files. 3M File Tracking expedites inventory management, scanning and storing file locations, and quickly identifies lost and misplaced files. " ...

Via RFID LTD: 3M File Tracking to Idaho National Laboratories

RFID Moves Food at Sushi Restaurant

Microsoft and Intermec collaborate to deliver RFID application at Blue C Sushi. The implementation of RFID (radio frequency identification) from Intermec and business process software technology from Microsoft and Kikata enables this sushi restaurant to track food, calculate customer bills, and improve the experience. The system is comprised of: Intermec RFID readers and antennas, Microsoft BizTalk RFID, and Kikata's Ebisu Live Inventory Management software. ...

... "Blue C Sushi restaurants are based on the concept of kaiten sushi where customers select plates of sushi from a rotating conveyor belt that winds through the restaurant moving past every table. Customers pay based on the number and types of plates they choose. At Blue C Sushi, plate colors indicate prices for specific items. RFID technology replaced the original tracking system, which used bar codes on the bottom of the plates. That system could only track the time a plate was put on the conveyor belt and that a customer had pulled it off. The new RFID system provides much more detailed business intelligence, like what item is on the plate, how long it has been on the conveyor, which chef produced it and which menu items are running short. The system uses the Intermec IF5 fixed mount RFID readers in conjunction with customized Intermec RFID antennas that are placed into the chefs' cutting boards and integrated into the conveyor. Intermec worked with 3M to create tags that adhere firmly to the bottom of the plates and can withstand restaurant wear and tear, including hot dishwashing cycles with harsh detergents. " ...

Via Intermec: RFID System That Keeps Food Moving at Blue C Sushi

RFID Module Innovation Awarded

SkyeTek wins the EDN 17th Annual Innovation Award in the Computers, Boards, and Buses category for its M9 SkyeModule. The M9 is half the size of a business card and is targeted to item-level inventory, product authentication, and patron management. ...

... "Based on SkyeTek's Advanced Universal Reader Architecture (AURA), the M9 leads the RFID industry in UHF reader price-performance and meets regulatory compliance requirements for the world's major markets including North America, Europe (ETSI 302 208), Korea, and Japan. The M9's ReaderWare Embedded software stack allows application logic, policies, and advanced security to be executed on the reader allowing unprecedented levels of intelligence to be delivered to the products in which the M9 gets embedded. This award is the second distinction for SkyeTek in the past week. On March 29, SkyeTek's customer ADASA was announced the winner of CMP's Excellence in RFID Technology Award for its SkyeTek-enabled PAD3500, a low-cost, wearable mobile encoder that supports the encoding of UHF RFID tags anywhere. " ...

Via SkyeTek: M9 RFID Reader Module Wins Electronic Design News 17th Annual Innovation Award

Pretec RFID USB

Pretec integrates RFID with USB for application in healthcare and other industries where information and identification convergence is critical. ...

... "Pretec i-Disk RFID leads the new trend of Store with Innovation, combines the smallest USB flash in the world and RFID technology to a tiny form factor in a sturdy and waterproof construction, which can be conveniently incorporated with any systems in need of both digital mass storage and easy identification. The feature of being automatically identified and data remotely retrieved when i-Disk RFID passes within the proximity of a RFID reader and the added feature of ubiquitous USB flash drive, Pretec i-Disk RFID can be widely applied to variety of markets and applications such as hospitals, airports, warehouses, POS systems for access control, asset or inventory management, etc. " ...

Via Pretec: Pretec i-Disk RFID

Bookseller RFID Enables Growth

Bookseller implements RFID technology from its supply chain throughout the customer experience and shows increased sales. ...

... "Selexyz, the Netherlands's largest book chain, has been testing an RFID inventory-management system at an outlet in the town of Almere. " ...

Via CNN-Money: Bookseller uses RFID technology

Marks & Spencer RFID Pilot

Marks & Spencer continues to pilot RFID across a range of clothing and a higher amount of stores. ...

... "M&S is quick to point out that the only purpose in using RFID is for improving its stock-taking process. The RFID tags are not scanned at the checkout, nor is any link made between the garment information held by the tag and the customer's details ... " ...

Via Computerworld, Australia: Marks & Spencer RFID trial

RFID Supply Chain Implementation at SSA: Intermec Technology Deployed

Intermec implements RFID (radio frequency identification) technology for the United States Social Security Administration, that improves data collection accuracy and reduces labor costs. The SSA automated data collection in its warehouse and supply chain which resulted in accurate data and increased customer service performance. A 70% labor savings is targeted in its inventory management processes. ...

... "The SSA deployed Intermec RFID hardware in its Supply Chain Management program to fulfill more than 42,000 orders for forms, publications and other documents each year and ship 240,000 line items to SSA office locations worldwide. Operating from an 80,000 square-foot supply building at SSA headquarters in Woodlawn, Md., the agency implemented a paperless warehouse management control system upgrade that integrates the Intermec IP3, IP4 and 1555 portable RFID readers and PM4i printers with RFID software from System Concepts and warehouse management system software from Radio Beacon. The system tracks and validates each warehouse operation and incorporates workload scheduling software to optimize employee productivity and provide control over the inventory management processes. " ...

Via Intermec: Social Security Administration Uses Intermec RFID Technology to Improve Data Collection Accuracy, Reduce Labor Costs ...

RFID Readiness Assessments: Tagging Objects

Avnet Technology Solutions and Stratum Global create partnership to focus on enterprise mobility solutions incorporating the RFID capabilities of TagNet. TagNet enables tracking of RFID-tagged objects (products, assets, or individuals). ...

... "The Avnet Enterprise Mobility team leverages its technical expertise and market experience to help partners develop and implement complete, custom enterprise mobility solutions encompassing hardware, software and services. The new relationship with Stratum Global complements Avnet's Enterprise Mobility initiative by providing RFID solutions for access control, asset management, compliance, high-volume conveyor tagging and closed-loop inventory location management. Stratum Global's TagNet RFID solution suite supports a variety of vertical industries, including defense, education, healthcare, hospitality and manufacturing. TagNet seamlessly integrates with most enterprise resource planning and business intelligence applications for complete end-to-end RFID event management.

As part of the new relationship between Avnet and Stratum Global, participating Avnet partners will be trained and certified to perform comprehensive RFID readiness assessments. The readiness assessments include an in-depth business analysis for end customers and the creation of a roadmap for developing and implementing RFID solutions. By working with Avnet and Stratum Global, channel partners can design and implement custom, integrated RFID hardware and software solutions for their customers, as well as establish plans for long-term scaleable end solutions. " ...

Via Avnet Inc.: Enterprise Mobility RFID Solutions

Lower RFID Pricing: Inventory Solutions

Axcess reduces pricing for its Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) enabled asset management solution, called Asset Activator, in order to support faster return on investment for its customers. ...

... "The unique active RFID system automatically provides precise automatic location determination, tracking, inventory counts, and physical protection for all types of enterprise assets. The reduced pricing is designed to generate an ROI for the customer of less than six months for all system sizes. The low cost RFID asset management solution enables corporations to manage assets and effectively protect intellectual property and customer privacy data. Corporations can more easily comply with state personal privacy notification laws. AXCESS' unique solution provides both management and security in one standalone package which is also capable of interfacing with the full range of existing enterprise systems. Asset Activator is installed and operating in several corporate facilities worldwide. " ...

Via Axcess: AXCESS Introduces Scalable System Pricing for RFID Physical Asset Inventory and Security Solution ...

Honda RFID Assemply Line: Critical Component Traceability

Honda Italia partners with IBM to implement RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology and infrastructure in production processes at its plant located in Atessa, Italy. The solution will enable Honda Italy to increase efficiency and accuracy in managing its motorcycle production in Italy. ...

... "IBM Global Business Services will support Honda Italia in the design and development of the RFID implementation, which will enable the real time, automatic identification of each vehicle along the entire production chain. The RFID tags will also be used on micro-lots of critical components, such as engines. IBM business and technology consultants have been collaborating for a long time with Honda Italia engineers in the design of the new processes and in the identification of the best solution. The RFID technology will be then completely integrated with Honda's existing IT systems through an open standards-based, Linux and Java (J2EE) application built on the IBM WebSphere Application Server to track inventory and to monitor ways to improve efficiency.



The first phase of the project, completed earlier this year, simultaneously with the celebration of the 35th anniversary of Honda Italia, calls for the transformation of Honda's large-displacement bikes (Hornet 600, CBF1000/600/500) assembly line. The RFID tags were used to monitor the traceability of critical components, WIP (Work In Progress) management and inventory replenishment. In the future, RFID tags will also be applied to Honda's scooter production line, starting with the European best seller SH150i/125i and the bigger SH300i. " ...

Via IBM: Honda Italia and IBM Revolutionize Motorbike Production With RFID: Innovation Project at Honda's Plant in Italy Expected to Improve Efficiency and Accuracy ...

Secure RFID through Partnership

SkyeTek and Atmel will partner to create secure HF reader and tag platforms for the RFID market. ...

... "The partnership between Atmel and SkyeTek will provide customers with an ultra-secure option for embedded RFID applications. Resulting solutions leverage CryptoRF's security features and the enterprise-class reliability and price-performance of the SkyeTek ReaderDNA and ReaderWare technology. This combination will provide customers with the ability to adapt RFID technology into existing applications and is well positioned to provide valuable solutions addressing ePedigree, patient safety, consumables authentication, item-level inventory management, and ticketing. SkyeTek's ReaderWare also provides the capability to upgrade the reader to support future tags, protocols, and cryptography via a firmware upgrade. " ...

Via SkyeTek: SkyeTek and Atmel Partner to Offer Industry Leading Secure RFID Technology ...

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

RFID Track Trace System ...

Infosys has successfully implemented SAP RFID solution to enable CHEP's Global Track and Trace System. CHEP will use this system to provide real-time visibility to its customers for their products and to track the shipping assets. CHEP is the global leader in pallet and container pooling services and serves many of the world's largest companies. The company has more than 7,700 employees and operates in 44 countries. CHEP manages over 280 million pallets and containers through a global network of service centers. It identified product and asset visibility as a significant opportunity to leverage RFID technology. The Global Track and Trace System at CHEP enables vendor managed inventory (VMI), yields increased asset control, and optimizes inventory management. ...

... "This project is a significant step forward for global RFID adoption, combining SAP's RFID platform and applications with Infosys' strong thought leadership and robust implementation model for the RFID-enabled enterprise. By delivering innovative, value-added solutions with a low total cost of ownership (TCO), Infosys and SAP aim to help organizations adopt RFID technology to both enhance their existing business models and pursue new ones. " ...

Via Infosys: Infosys Deploys SAP Solutions for RFID for CHEP's Global Track and Trace System

RFID Library System: Working Through The Issues ...

Implementation of RFID system at local library works through typical start-up issues: customer communications, data management, and interesting suprises, such as more accuracy inventory. ...

... "The RFID system uses stamp-sized electronic tags to track the location of library materials, permitting librarians to more effectively manage the collection and decrease thefts. " ...

Via LongmontFYI: City library struggles ...

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 ...

Hospital RFID: High Value Asset Management ...

THE HEART HOSPITAL Baylor Plano will be dedicated solely to providing inpatient and outpatient cardiovascular care. The $100 million, 68-bed hospital is scheduled to open in January 2007 on the campus of Baylor Regional Medical Center in Plano., Texas Hospital will automate the storage, tracking, utilization, and billing of clinical resources through RFID technology to realize benefits in enhanced care quality, increased productivity, accurate billing, and significant inventory cost savings. ...

... "To support the opening of the facility in January 2007, THE HEART HOSPITAL Baylor Plano will implement a radio frequency identification (RFID) enabled inventory management system to store, track, and manage the utilization of high cost cardiovascular devices and supplies. Developed by Mobile Aspects, Inc., of Pittsburgh, Pa., the system, called iRISupply, uses a RFID tracking architecture to automate charge capture, inventory management, device expiration management, and other key operational processes within the patient care setting. THE HEART HOSPITAL will implement fourteen iRISupply cabinet units to manage items such as stents, catheters, and guide wires that are commonly used during cardiovascular procedures. In leveraging the RFID technology, the organization seeks to efficiently and accurately automate device and supply utilization processes without manual tracking approaches such as paper documentation, stickers, bar coding or button pushing. " ...

Via Mobile Aspects: THE HEART HOSPITAL Baylor Plano selects RFID system from Mobile Aspects ...

RFID Middleware: Automate Integrate ...

Reltronics Technologies has made their system, SmartInstrument, a versatile middleware for automatic Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, widely available in the marketplace. Reltronics strengths lie in automation and identification using remote RFID technology. The SmartInstrument middleware system plays a role in supporting interoperability and integration of multiple, potentially incompatible, solutions. ...

... "One of Reltronics Technologies' fortes is in creating and supporting RFID systems that assist in automating asset and inventory management, identifying drug pedigrees, etc. and which rely upon storage and remote retrieval of data using RFID hardware (Readers, Antennas, Tags or Transponders). Retailers such as Wal-Mart and Target have whole-heartedly accepted the RFID concepts to implement efficiencies in their workflow and to limit inventories in their warehouses and they have subsequently initiated mandates to their vendors to implement RFID technology in their supplies within set timelines. These mandates are allowing shorter timelines and the industry not only needs many new deployments but also sustain existing deployments. SmartInstrument is a step forward to facilitate transparency in the RFID systems deployment thereby bringing commonality between various RFID protocols and hardware technologies (reader, antenna, and transponders or RFID tags), irrespective of the technology being new or old.

For instance, SmartInstrument enables end-users to deploy new RFID systems while seamlessly supporting all existing RFID systems and eliminating the need for single- sourcing thereby achieving a better return of investment. It fills the need by interpreting any RFID system utilizing any reader (Active, Passive), working on any frequency (LF, HF, VHF, UHF), with any communication protocol (Ethernet, WiFi, RS-232, RS-485), any transponder (Active, Passive), and any standard (EPCGlobal, ISO, AIMGlobal) bringing the much needed commonality into the RFID infrastructure. Reltronics Technologies' focus on bringing interoperability and sustainability into the RFID technology environment is the result of industry satisfaction with the RFID initiative, to enable overcoming the customer perception of which RFID technology to deploy, to enable commonality between the various RFID protocols, to enable a more cost-effective RFID system deployment, and finally to allow the end-users to start small with one RFID system and expand at their own financial pace without having to worry about the RFID system being antiquated. " ...

Via Reltronics: A Novel Idea to Harmonize Automatic Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Systems ...

RFID Oracle EdgeServer Success ...

Noel SA, South American CPG company, successfully uses Oracle RFID edge services to understand the application of RFID to logistics business processes. ...

... "Noel SA used RFID-enabled Oracle Warehouse Management (WMS), part of the Oracle E-Business Suite, as the logistics platform for the pilot, which included tagging 2,000 pallets of Ducales cookies that were sent to the distribution center in Medell? Colombia. Noel SA used Oracle Sensor Edge Server, a component of Oracle Fusion Middleware, to connect and manage all the devices on the RFID system, including tag printers and readers. Data captured from the system was processed by Oracle WMS and synchronized with the Oracle enterprise resource planning (ERP) applications. Each pallet received a passive RFID tag, which included important order information such as the lot number and product expiration date.



The RFID-tagged pallets were read throughout the supply chain from the production floor to the final distribution center to ensure proper delivery of orders. Once the pallet arrived at the distribution center of Medell? it was read again to reconcile the sales order and fulfillment information held in the Oracle order management system. At the conclusion of the pilot, Noel SA uncovered that the bar code process prior to the RFID pilot was being executed incorrectly, rendering inventory and shipment data inaccurate. Noel SA gained valuable visibility into its operations such as inventory management and order fulfillment using RFID. The company plans to begin the roll out of a full-scale RFID system in the future. " ...

Via Oracle: Noel SA Successfully Completes RFID Pilot Based on Oracle Solutions

RFID Library Applications: Shenzhen and NOLA ...

TAGSYS delivers library RFID applications in New Orleans and Shenzhen, China with local development / deployment partners. ...

... "TAGSYS and Integrated Technology Group (ITG), an established developer and provider of cutting-edge library RFID systems, have combined forces to donate a fully-automated, item-level RFID infrastructure to the Alvar branch of the New Orleans Public Library located in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans. The branch, which was completely destroyed in the Katrina disaster, will officially reopen its doors on Sunday, June 25, 2006 in conjunction with the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference.

Traditionally, libraries have relied on employees manually scanning each item as it went through the book handling process. As a result, valuable staff resources were directed to time-consuming checkout and inventory management procedures, while patrons faced long lines and moderate customer service due to the demands placed on library staff. RFID-based library material handling systems provide library staff with the ability to computerize the entire material handling process. With the RFID system in place, staff can be relieved of checkout duties, and can spend more time providing other services to library patrons. " ...

RFID Library Applications: Shenzhen and NOLA: Via TAGSYS RFID: TAGSYS and ITG Donate Fully Automated, Item-Level RFID Infrastrusture To New Orleans Public Library ...

... "TAGSYS, announces that it has been awarded the largest library RFID project in China at the Shenzhen Library. By the end of June, nearly two million TAGSYS RFID tags will be integrated and installed on books, CDs, VHS tapes, patron cards, and other library materials by TAGSYS' local integration partner, Shenzhen Seaever Enterprise Co. Ltd. The complete and fully automated RFID system is the second largest in the world – second only to the system developed by TAGSYS for the Seattle Public Library in Seattle, WA. It includes security gates, automatic self check out and return stations, as well as programming and circulation stations.

The Shenzhen Library has been recognized worldwide for its technological and architectural innovations. The 50,000 square meter library features an open space, partition-free design and has the capabilities to store over four million books, service 8,000 patrons and circulate 50,000 volumes per day. Scheduled to open to the public in July 2006, it will serve as the documentation and information service center and regional library network center for Shenzhen. " ...

RFID Library Applications: Shenzhen and NOLA: Via TAGSYS: TAGSYS Equips China’s Shenzhen Library With Fully Automated RFID Infrastructure ...

RFID Chips Smart Library ...

Philips Electronics announces next-generation ICODE product, ICODE SLI S, which is based on RFID technology and enables controls in the smart library ...

... "Librarians are able to address many of the challenges found in library management, including reader logistics, material identification and inventory and information storage. The ICODE SLI-S offers increased read performance and is specifically well suited for automated management of media in libraries. With Philips RFID technology embedded, consumers can also enjoy an enhanced library visit, with faster check-out of books, CDs and DVDs. In addition to this self-service checkout, consumers can also serve themselves when making returns. At return, the item is scanned in and automatically sorted by electronic sorting stations which saves library staff time. With RFID technology embedded, consumers and library staff alike enjoy a simpler, more efficient experience. To date, several hundreds of libraries worldwide have installed RFID for self-service check-in and check-out, automatic sorting and cataloguing, as well as advanced theft protection; more than 50 percent of these libraries use Philips ICODE technology. As the largest producer of RFID ICs worldwide, Philips has secured design-ins in the public library in Singapore with the largest RFID installation globally of more than 10 million RFID labels in use; the public library of Shen Zhen; Jimei University Library in Xiamen, China, and Europe's largest RFID installation in libraries, the Munich Public Library. " ...

RFID Chips Smart Library: Via Philips: Libraries around the world are becoming smarter with Philips RFID chips

RFID Privacy Guidelines: Ontario Canada ...

Ontario Commissioner for Information and Privacy releases privacy guidelines for the field of radio frequency identification (RFID). ...

... "RFID tags contain microchips and tiny radio antennas that can be attached to products. They transmit a unique identifying number to an electronic reader, which in turn links to a computer database where information about the item is stored. RFID tags may be read from a distance quickly and easily, making them valuable for managing inventory but pose potential risks to privacy if linked to personal identifiers. RFID tags are the next generation technology from barcodes.

Although RFID technology deployed in the supply chain management process poses little threat to privacy, item-level use of RFID tags in the retail sector, when linked to personally identifiable information, can facilitate the tracking and surveillance of individuals. The goal of these Guidelines is to alleviate concerns about the potential threat to privacy posed by this technology and to enhance openness and transparency about item-level use of RFID systems by retailers. The Guidelines address key privacy issues regarding the use of RFID technology at an item-level in the retail sector, said Commissioner Cavoukian. The Guidelines are based on three overarching principles:

Focus on RFID information systems, not technologies.

Build in privacy and security from the outset – at the design stage.

Maximize individual participation and consent. " ...

RFID Privacy Guidelines: Ontario Canada: Via Canada IPC: Commissioner Cavoukian issues RFID Guidelines and Practical Tips aimed at protecting privacy

RFID Warehouse Automation: Receive Putaway Pick Ship ...

Click Commerce upgrades warehouse software to enable automated warehouse transactions for receiving, putaways, picks, and shipments. ...

... "This release also provides RFID capabilities integrated with basic warehouse operations such as receiving, putaway, picking and shipping, and is an upgrade to the Intelligent Supply Chain solution offered by Click Commerce. In partnership with Vue Technology, the Intelligent Supply Chain is a cost-effective, RFID-integrated solution that increases productivity and inventory accuracy in the warehouse. It also enables the ability to pull inventory through the supply chain network based on real-time demand demands to avoid stock-outs. The solution is designed to deliver increased customer service levels, and lower supply chain costs. " ...

RFID Warehouse Automation: Receive Putaway Pick Ship: Via Click Commerce: Click Commerce Launches MOVE 8.1 at Distribution/Computer Expo 2006