China RFID Manufacturing Facility

Implanet RFID Tracks Medical Devices in the Supply Chain

Implanet, a medical device manufacturer, will use IBM RFID sensor tech to enable its BeepNTrack service, which tracks the company's knee and hip implants throughout the healthcare supply chain. ...

... "The company's BeepNTrack service uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags to track medical devices from Implanet to hospitals. Prior to shipping, Implanet affixes an RFID tag bearing a unique serial number to the packaging of each individual device. Before a surgical procedure takes place, a hospital uses a handheld device to scan the tag from the medical device being implanted and stores that information along with the patient's records. The tag is given to the patient after surgery so he or she will have all available information concerning the implant in the event of future concerns. " ...

Via IBM: Software Protects Patients in the Event of Medical Device Recalls

RFID Joint Venture to Manufacturing Printed Inlays

ASK and WS Packaging Group form joint venture, ASK-intTag. The jv is scouting US-based manufacturing locations for development in 2009. ...

... "The new company will be the first RFID manufacturer in the U.S. to print silver-based inlays on paper, the composition of which is highly resistant to forgery. ASK-intTag will initially produce a range of products for markets involving secure identification, mass transit, and bankcards. Secondary markets will involve food, healthcare, gaming, and event ticketing, among others. " ...

Via WS Packaging Group: Joint Venture Formed to Manufacture and Market Contactless Cards

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

RFID Supply Chain Visibility

Aberdeen Group reports on RFID in the supply chain and provides insights into the use of radio frequency identification among the multiple participants. Aberdeen is seeing disparity among supply chain partners and sees potential for less collaboration. ...

... "Aberdeen Group reveals that RFID costs a distribution company nearly 30% more than it costs a manufacturer and more than twice what the average retailer spends. It is a rare technology that can address the myriad objectives and constraints of a cross-enterprise RFID initiative. " ...

Via Yahoo! Finance: Achieving Total Supply Chain Visibility with RFID ...

RFID Pharma Supply Chain: Track and Trace EPCIS Pilot

AmerisourceBergen announces innovative Track and Trace Program that will benefit the pharmaceutical supply channel. Its pilot program connects AmerisourceBergen's EPCIS directly to other business partner EPCIS systems and to specific pharmaceutical manufacturer systems. In Q1-2007, VeriSign will provide authentication services and enable visibility across multiple EPCIS systems. ...

... "AmerisourceBergen has been a leader in protecting the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply channel, first by pledging over one year ago to purchase 100 percent of its pharmaceutical and other products directly from the product manufacturer, and now by launching a unique Track and Trace initiative which will utilize RFID and Electronic Product Code Information System (EPCIS) technology to track and trace products throughout the entire distribution process. AmerisourceBergen plans to formally launch the Track and Trace pilot program at its largest distribution center in California by the end of 2006. In the pilot, AmerisourceBergen will use IBM's RFID middleware and embedded software on readers to read RFID tags currently used by certain pharmaceutical manufacturers as those products enter the distribution center. The unique product ID from each RFID tag will be electronically stored in IBM's EPCIS, which will be the platform for secure electronic communications back to the product's manufacturer. This secure information exchange will allow AmerisourceBergen and its trading partners to work collaboratively to share transaction information and further secure the supply channel. As new orders come into the AmerisourceBergen distribution center, the RFID system can monitor product placed in shipping totes as they move through the picking, packing, and shipping processes. As each tote leaves the distribution center the EPCIS software will record the time and location of each unit leaving the premises as well as its intended destination so that AmerisourceBergen has a complete record of the history of all RFID tagged drugs. " ...

Via AmerisourceBergen: AmerisourceBergen Announces Innovative Track and Trace Program for the Pharmaceutical Supply Channel

RFID SmartCards AccessControl ...

ASSA ABLOY Identification Technologies supplies the Cartes conference with RFID-enabled smart card for access control. ...

... "ASSA ABLOY Identification Technologies (ITG) will provide 30,000 contactless smart cards to be used by exhibitors, visitors, VIP guests and the organizers themselves. The cards are manufactured by VisionCard, a leading European card manufacturer based in Austria and part of ITG. Among the special features of the card is the printed antenna, which represents a complementary technology to ITG's other core transponder technologies, wire-embedding, wire-transfer and coil winding. VisionCard's long track record and their expertise in high volume printing allow the company to produce high quality printed antennas very cost efficiently and to connect them to any 13.56 MHz IC module available in the market. The cards for the CARTES exhibition are based on Philips mifare 1k chips. Set up of the access control system at the exhibition has been entrusted to French system integrator Tech-Event. For this application, Tech-Event has chosen RFID reader modules manufactured by ACG Identification Technologies, another ASSA ABLOY ITG company. The reader modules provided by ACG, compatible with multiple ISO standards including ISO 14443A/B and ISO 15693, will be used to read all the entry badges issued for the exhibition. " ...

Via ASSA ABLOY Identification Technologies: CARTES exhibition goes contactless with RFID technology from ASSA ABLOY ITG ...

Logistics RFID: Inbound Process ...

TNT NV, a global provider of mail, express and logistics services, pilots RFID in inbound logistics processes for manufacturing firm. ...

... "Supply chain processes covered by the projects ranged from inbound logistics and warehousing to multi-country distribution. In the US, TNT worked closely with an automotive manufacturer to improve the inbound process to one of its main manufacturing facilities. The use of RFID led to quicker and more accurate scanning of cargo and therefore resulted in shorter delivery times, simplified processes and a significant decrease in identification errors. Especially in a time-sensitive environment of assembly line manufacturing, RFID has proven to make a critical difference by reducing the likelihood of costly mistakes. TNT is already discussing with its client how RFID can help further achieve cost reductions and apply the solution to other manufacturing facilities. Based on the successful outcome of the six projects, TNT is further implementing RFID technology throughout its divisions. The experience gained from the projects, both on the technology itself and in how to apply it in order to gain maximum benefit, will be used to further roll out the technology within suitable customer operations. For this reason and following the early successes, TNT has already started the second phase of the RFID programme in which the company aims to turn the projects into successful industry sector solutions in very close collaboration with its clients. " ...

Via TNT: TNT successfully finishes phase one of RFID programme ...

China RFID Pilot Projects ...

RFID pilot projects planned in China by IPICO and local alliance. ...

... "IPICO Inc. and the China RFID Alliance have announced that IPICOs IP-XTM Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology will be tested in four RFID pilot projects in China. This announcement follows the China RFID Alliance IP-X Forum event held in Beijing this past July, where IPICO presented its IP-X RFID technology to various RFID experts from government, industry and academic institutions. The pilot projects will be deployed in Qingdao, a port city of the Shandong province in China and will include the respective Government bureaus and organizations in Qingdao, as well as Haier. Haier is the world's fourth largest white goods manufacturer and one of China's top 100 electronics and information technology companies. David Ou-yang, Secretary General of China RFID Alliance, indicated that it will support RFID technologies, such as the IP-X technology platform, as well as other advanced technologies in the world that are suitable for key application areas, as defined in the recently published Ministry of Science and Technology White Paper on the adoption of RFID technology in China. " ...

Via IPICO: IPICO's RFID Technology To Be Piloted In China ...

RFID Antenna Plater: Europe

European semicon manufacturer reports significant RFID order ...

... "BE Semiconductor, a leading manufacturer of assembly equipment for the semiconductor industry, announced that the Company's Meco unit received an initial multi-million euro order for its newly developed Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) Flexible Antenna Plater. The specific value of the order was not disclosed. List prices for such systems typically range between EUR1.5 million and EUR4.0 million depending upon the configuration. The order was placed by a major European industrial company for which delivery is anticipated in the first quarter of 2007. " ...

Via BE Semicon: BE Semiconductor Industries Receives Initial Order for RFID Flexible Antenna Plater ...

RFID Supply Chain Company Acquired ...

Illinois Tool Works acquires Click Commerce, a growing supply chain software company that leverages RFID technology to create real-time visibility. ...

... "Illinois Tool Works reaches an agreement to make a cash tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Click Commerce, Inc., a leading provider of on-demand supply chain management solutions. As part of the agreement, ITW would purchase all of Click Commerce's outstanding shares for $22.75 per share. The total value of the transaction, including outstanding stock options, is approximately $292 million. The boards of directors of both companies have approved the transaction.



With trailing 12 month revenues of $74 million, Click Commerce's supply chain software solutions enable millions of users around the globe to collaborate, in real time, with partners across their extended enterprises. The company's range of software products includes B2B e-commerce solutions for demand chain management, real time RFID-enabled supply chain management, service supply chain management providing visibility at all levels of the service network and master data management allowing harmonization of master data across an extended enterprise.

ITW is a $12.8 billion in revenues diversified manufacturer of highly engineered components and industrial systems and consumables. The company consists of approximately 700 business units in 48 countries and employs some 50,000 people. " ...

Via Illinois Tool Works: Illinois Tool Works Inc. to Acquire Click Commerce, Inc. ...

RFID Manufacturing Shipping Implementation ...

Peg Perego wil imeplement Northern Apex RFID in the manufacturing process for tracking WIP work-in-process materials and finished goods. ...

... "Peg Perego USA Inc., a subsidiary of Peg Perego SpA, Italy, manufacturer of high quality children's riding vehicles and the exclusive U.S. distributor of Italian infant products manufactured by Peg Perego SpA, Italy, which include baby strollers, car seats and high chairs, has awarded Fort Wayne-based Northern Apex Corporation a contract to integrate Apex's RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) equipment in Peg Perego's Indiana manufacturing and shipping facilities. Northern Apex will install a solution that incorporates automated RFID label applicators, RFID readers, antennas and software into Peg Perego's manufacturing and distribution center for WIP (work in process) and finished goods tracking. UHF 900 MHz Gen 2 RFID tags will be automatically applied to each box, at the end of the production line, to initiate the tracking system. " ...

RFID Manufacturing Shipping Implementation: Northern Apex To Provide RFID Technology to Peg PeregNorthern Apex To Provide RFID Technology to Peg Perego ...

RFID Automated Application System Supports Supply Chain Strategy ...

Dairy Fresh implements Xterprise RFID automation system to support supply chain performance. ...

... "Dairy Fresh chose Xterprise to deploy the XARM 4000 solution on two manufacturing lines so that supply chain strategies and their customer mandates could be met in a timely manner, without the need for added labor to accomplish the RFID tagging requirements. The XARM 4000 is a fully integrated, automated, RFID application solution that enables Dairy Fresh to easily transition from non-tagged production line packaging to RFID tagged production line packaging. The XARM 4000, designed and built by Carrollton, Texas based Xterprise, is designed around a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) software platform that enables real-time monitoring and control of the complex production line material handling system and RFID printer applicators and verification readers. The system can accommodate full pallet single SKU tagging (case and pallet) and pallet only tagging for their various retailer’s requirements. In addition to using the latest technology to ensure maximum readability of RFID tags in the retailers supply chain, the Xterprise automated solution also provides the lowest cost per case application and the highest case per minute throughput in the industry. " ...

Via Xterprise: Dairy Fresh Deploys Xterprise RFID Source Tagging Solution: WalMart Beverage manufacturer chooses automated solution for RFID case and pallet tagging ...

IBM RFID Pharma: Drug License Plate ...

IBM unveils RFID system that creates a digital license plate for drugs through the pharmaceutical supply chain. The system is comprised of software and services that leverage RFID technology to provide unique identification as the item and sku level. The identifier instantly connects the item to the proper pharmaceutical data. ...

... "The system makes it more difficult for counterfeit drugs to get to market, protecting consumers by helping ensure the drugs they receive match the prescription from their physician. With nearly 8 percent of the world's prescriptions proving counterfeit each year, the US Food and Drug Administration has cited RFID as the most promising technology to ensure that the medicine in the bottle is exactly what the doctor ordered. The global pharmaceutical supply chain is highly complicated. From the point of manufacture to the point of sale, drugs can change hands as many as ten times. IBM's software and services are designed to help manufacturers protect product from theft and fraud and avoid replacement costs for product recalls and tarnished brand value. The IBM RFID system for pharmaceutical track and trace uses blended RFID software and services to automatically capture and track the movement of drugs through the supply chain. RFID tags are embedded on products at the unit, case and pallet level and authenticate the product from manufacturer to wholesalers to hospitals and pharmacies. Each tag contains a unique identifier -- like a license plate -- that can be linked back to descriptive product information such as dosage and strength, lot number, manufacturer and expiration date. " ...

IBM RFID Pharma: Drug License Plate: Via IBM: IBM Taps RFID for Pharma Industry ...

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 Phase Jitter Modulation Technology ...

Zebra licenses Magellan's PJM Phase Jitter Modulation technology to support its RFID produtct development. ...

... "Under the license agreement, Zebra has the right to develop and commercialize RFID reader modules and tags that incorporate Magellan's patented PJM technology. In 2006, Zebra plans on embedding the reader modules in its printer/encoder products to enable more efficient programming of smart labels and tags. Ratified in 2004, PJM is an HF RFID system specified in an existing global standard: ISO/IEC 18000-3 mode 2, RFID for Item Management. Because the technology is optimized for applications where many hundreds of tags are packed tightly or need to be read reliably in dynamic situations, it is an ideal solution for pharmaceutical e-Pedigree, document control, gaming and other applications." ...

RFID Phase Jitter Modulation Technology: Via Zebra Technologies: ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES ANNOUNCES NEW RFID LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH MAGELLAN TECHNOLOGY ...

Magellan Technology Pty Ltd, Sydney, Australia, is a technology developer, manufacturer and licensor of advanced read and write 13.56MHz RFID systems. Magellan designs and offers RFID chips, inlets and a complete reader portfolio (multi channel, multi antenna, tunnel, and tray readers) and all operating software. Magellan’s Phase Jitter Modulation (PJM) technology complies with the International Standard ISO/IEC 18000 Part 3 Mode 2. PJM is optimized for applications where many hundreds of tags are stacked tightly or need to be identified reliably in dynamic situations including pharmaceutical authentication, document control, jewelry tracking and gaming management. The technology is also optimized for conveyor fed applications where tags are presented in all orientations. Typical applications are in the airline baggage, postal and courier markets. Magellan develops and licenses its PJM technology world wide to interested parties including other manufacturers and system integrators.

RFID Peel and Apply Solution: NCR ...

NCR provides peel-and-apply RFID technology solution. ...

... "The NCR TagWorks solution provides a turnkey offering to meet EPCglobal standards and major manufacturer, distributor and retailer guidelines. The cost-effective solution addresses the need for businesses to readily access the benefits of RFID-enabled inventory tracking and supply-chain visibility. NCR makes the transition toward RFID more manageable by offering a complete end-to-end solution including tags, hardware, software and services allowing companies to quickly and efficiently begin tagging cases and pallets of product. Touching industries around the world, the NCR TransitionWork portfolio of global RFID solutions encompasses thoughtware, hardware, tags, services and software, including Teradata data warehouse solutions, to help customers solve real business problems.

NCR TagWorks is a stand-alone, fully integrated, peel-and-apply solution including tags, readers, servers, printers and NCR software. NCR installation, training and support services help ensure reliability and disruption-free environments. Because NCR serves as the single point of contact, businesses can avoid the hassle and confusion of dealing with multiple vendors for their RFID solutions. NCR also makes it simple to expand and customize the NCR TagWorks solution by providing a range of additional products and services. As their business grows, customers have the option to incorporate other advanced features such as handheld RFID scanners, conveyor installations, a selection of tag sizes and inlays, and enterprise system integration. " ...

RFID Peel and Apply Solution: NCR: Via NCR: NCR TagWork Provides Essentials for Rapid RFID Implementation ...

RFID Technology Healthcare Purchasing Partnership ...

Healthcare purchasing organization partners with Zebra Tech for RFID technology needs. ...

... "According to The Institute of Medicine, medical errors cause up to 98,000 deaths annually in the United States alone. Bar coding applications have been shown to substantially reduce costly and dangerous medical errors, and the recent 17th Annual HIMSS Leadership Survey found that medical error reduction and patient safety will remain top business objectives for hospital IT executives in 2006. Zebra's bar coded wristbands, unit-dose pharmacy labeling and employee badge solutions help enable patient safety improvements at the bedside and throughout the hospital with patient registration/identification, medication labeling, lab specimen collection, radiology film labeling and surgical instrument tracking applications. Bar coding and RFID are at the heart of many patient safety initiatives, says David Crist, vice president of sales at Zebra Technologies. Zebra is committed to working with Amerinet and its members to deliver these solutions in a way that minimizes medical errors and enhances safety. Zebra is a leading manufacturer of specialty thermal printing solutions including wireless, mobile and high-performance label and wristband printers designed to meet the needs of the healthcare market. Zebra also offers printing supplies, including highly durable, ready-to-print ZBand Direct wristbands, which were awarded the 2004 Frost & Sullivan Product Leadership of the Year Award in the field of medical informatics. Use of these wristbands ensures accurate patient identification and enables healthcare providers to meet patient safety and privacy standards, such as those set by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). In addition, Zebra's newly introduced antimicrobial wristband coating further improves the safety and quality of care by reducing the spread of dangerous and costly hospital infections. " ...

RFID Technology Healthcare Purchasing Partnership: Via Zebra Technologies: ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES AND AMERINET ANNOUNCE NEW TWO-YEAR AGREEMENT: Zebra to provide Amerinet members with its full line of bar code, card and RFID printers, supplies and services ...

RFID Printer SAP AutoID Certified ...

Printronix RFID print solution achieves AutoID certification with SAP infrastructure. ...

... "Printronix Inc., the leading integrated supply-chain printing solutions manufacturer, announced that its radio frequency identification (RFID) label printing solution has achieved SAP certified integration. SAP has certified the Printronix XML Forms Module 1.0 for integration with the Device Controller Interface of SAP(R) Auto-ID Infrastructure Release 2.1 and the SAP NetWeaver(R) platform in Printronix's 5r Multi-Technology Thermal Printing Platform. With this certified solution, Printronix customers can expect low-cost, rapid integration of RFID label printing into SAP solution-based environments. The pre-designed label templates, XML test files and label-design software yield the dual benefits of lower maintenance and increased reliability. This scalable solution grows with users' information-processing needs, eliminating need for costly middleware. SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure 2.1 enables RFID-based supply chain management (SCM) and supply chain execution processes across the enterprise. Printronix worked with SAP to enable smart label creation within SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure 2.1 on the industry's best-selling RFID printers and encoders. " ...

RFID Printer SAP AutoID Certified: Via Printronix Printers: Printronix RFID Label Printing Solution Achieves SAP Certified Integration ...

Japan RFID Gen2 Readers ...

Partners collaborate to deliver Gen2 RFID readers to the Japanese market. ...

... "Under the agreement, Impinj will adapt its Speedway Gen 2 RFID readers to conform to Japanese radio frequency regulations. NEC TOKIN will develop and market its own brand of RFID reader products based on the Speedway platform for the Japanese market. The agreement also includes a partnership with NEC Corporation, NEC TOKIN's parent company. NEC will offer the Powered by Impinj readers, with NEC's RFID Manager middleware, as part of its systems integration business. The middleware manages the electronic product code (EPC) information streaming from the readers and sends the data on to warehouse and enterprise management systems. The companies' first joint deployment will be an installation at NEC's Personal Products Co., Ltd, the PC manufacturer, in Yonezawa. Impinj's Speedway reader received the EPCglobal Gen 2 standard certification mark and has been successfully installed in large North American retail and distribution environments that require RFID technology to improve supply chain efficiency. Speedway exhibits unprecedented levels of performance and was recently demonstrated to support item-level RFID tracking for pharmaceuticals, apparel, CD/DVDs and many other high value products. " ...

Japan RFID Gen2 Readers: Via Impinj: Impinj, NEC TOKIN and NEC Partner to Deliver High Performance Gen 2 RFID Readers in Japan ...

RFID Garment HangTags Manage Inventory ...

Checkpoint implements RFID garment hangtags for Lemmi to management apparel inventory in the supply chain. ...

... "Checkpoint Systems, Inc., one of the largest manufacturers and marketers of RF and RFID based solutions for security, identification, tracking and merchandising applications in the world, announced they were chosen by Lemmi Fashion, a Fritzlar, Germany-based producer of children's apparel, to supply the company and its strategic partners with RFID (radio frequency identification) hangtags. The RFID consumables will be used as part of a strategic initiative to help improve Lemmi's speed to market, inventory management, and order accuracy. Checkpoint Systems is supplying Lemmi's manufacturing partners in Asia and Europe with Performa(R) 13.56 MHz RFID-enabled hangtags. The hangtags, which include a visible version of the RFID tag and a traditional bar code, contain data such as article number, size, and color. The tagging process begins when Lemmi's partners apply Performa RFID-enabled garment tags to items at their production sites. The goods are recorded when they are shipped from the manufacturer to Lemmi's distribution center (DC), and upon receipt at the DC. Movements within the DC are also recorded, and Lemmi reads the RFID tags a final time at the shipping area to confirm that all items required for the shipment have been packed." ...

RFID Garment HangTags Manage Inventory: Via Checkpoint Systems, Inc.: Lemmi Fashion Selects Checkpoint Systems RFID Hangtags to Improve Customer Service and Delivery Reliability; Apparel Manufacturer Partners with Checkpoint to Ensure RFID Tag Performance, Production and Fulfillment Requirements ...

RFID Hospital: Blood Tracking ...

IBM collaborates with Japan hospital to track blood samples using RFID technology. ...

... "At the Kyoto Medical Center, under the new project, RFID tags were attached to dummy samples of plasma derivatives (about 50 units) and successfully traced. Using these RFID tags, information on the distribution and use history of the products - from the pharmaceutical manufacturer via the wholesalers to the medical institutions through to use - can be shared (federated), and the basis for a tracking mechanism can be established. In the future, multiple users, beyond the boundaries of individual industries, can make use of this kind of historical information to provide a system for enabling safe medical care. IBM Japan has built a distributed information system for seamless operation of RFID tags, while protecting a variety of highly classified medical information, such as personal information. Moreover, from the point of view of privacy, it has become possible to provide access control technology, which strictly limits access to the database and displays only the information necessary for the business at hand in systems used by multiple businesses or departments. " ...

RFID Hospital: Blood Tracking: Via IBM: Japan's first RFID tag drug-shipment-to-in-hospital medication traceability successfully demonstrated ...

Walmart RFID: Vehicle Mounted Reader ...

Vehicle-mounted RFID reader will be presented at Walmart Supplier Forum. ...

... "LXE Inc., a leading manufacturer of rugged wireless computers that improve the performance of supply-chain execution applications, announced that it will be unveiling its ultra-rugged RX2 lift truck mounted RFID reader at WalMart Supplier On-Boarding Forum and EPCglobal US Tech Expo, April 25 and 26 at the Adam's Mark Hotel in Dallas, Texas. The RX2 is the second lift truck mounted RFID reader being developed by LXE, the first one being the RX1 announced last September. The RX2 addresses a need for a simple, easy-to-install, vehicle mounted RFID reader that can be used for standard RFID based forklift pallet move applications such as shipping, receiving, picking and put-aways where EPC RFID based identification of pallet loads and locations are used. The RX2's mounting solution requires no permanent lift modifications or lift truck downtime for installation. The unit is ultra-rugged and has been designed to operate in the extreme environment found on the business end of a lift truck. " ...

Walmart RFID: Vehicle Mounted Reader: Via LXE: LXE Inc. To Unveil RX2 Vehicle Mounted RFID Reader At Wal-Mart Supplier On-Boarding Forum And EPCglobal US Tech Expo ...

RFID GlaxoSmithKline Technology Test ...

GlaxoSmithKline tests RFID technology on HIV drug to combat counterfeiting. ...

... "GlaxoSmithKline has begun distributing a medicine tagged with radio frequency identification (RFID) technology as part of a pilot project to help protect patient safety. The tags will be placed on all bottles of Trizivir (an HIV medicine) distributed in the United States. When scanned at close range, the tags will help verify that the medicine bottle contains authentic Trizivir. This specific medicine was selected for the project because it has been listed by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy as one of 32 drugs most susceptible to counterfeiting and diversion. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked the pharmaceutical industry to develop standards and pilot processes for RFID that may lead in the next few years to broad adoption and use of the technology. RFID uses a tiny silicon chip and antenna about the size of a postage stamp that is attached to each bottle of medicine. The chip stores a unique product code that reflects information about the drug's manufacturing and shipping history. The product code can be read by pharmaceutical wholesalers and pharmacists using a hand-held or stationary electronic device that is placed within 2-18 inches of the tag. The tag can be read by wholesalers when it is received from the manufacturer and when it is shipped to pharmacies, who would then record when they have received the medicine. This allows manufacturers to more precisely account for medicine as it moves through the distribution chain and to authenticate medicine at the point of dispensing. " ...

RFID GlaxoSmithKline Technology Test: Via GlaxoSmithKline: GlaxoSmithKline begins testing new technology ...

RFID Gen2 Strap-on-Box Case Tracking ...

TI and Smurfit-Stone collaborate to deliver case tracking capability through Gen2 strap-on-box RFID tags. ...

... "Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) and Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation, the industry's leading integrated manufacturer of paperboard and paper-based packaging, is demonstrating the first Electronic Product Code (EPC) Generation 2 (Gen 2) radio frequency identification (RFID) strap-on-box prototypes at RFID World 2006, in Dallas, at the Texas Instruments booth #701. Using TI's Tag-it™ EPC Gen 2 Strap, Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation has developed an innovative process for attaching Gen 2 straps to printed antennas directly on a corrugated box. The company is introducing its technology to consumer products goods (CPGs) manufacturers applying Gen 2 technology to cases for supply chain tracking applications. " ...

RFID Gen2 Strap-on-Box Case Tracking: Via Texas Instruments: Texas Instruments and Smurfit-Stone Demonstrate EPC Gen 2 Strap-on-Box Application at RFID World 2006 ...

RFID Drives Supply Chain Efficiency ...

RFID implementation will drive supply chain efficiency for pharmaceutical manufacturer ...

... "Roex Inc. and Pro-X Pharmaceuticals announced that they have engaged ODIN technologies to deploy RFID to enable greater supply chain efficiency and quality control in its manufacturing processes. Led by the innovations of founder Rod Burreson, Roex Inc. is a leading manufacturer and distributor of high quality nutritional supplements. Pro-X Pharmaceuticals, a division of Roex Inc., is an independent contract manufacturer that produces Roex products and also provides manufacturing and packaging services for other leading nutritional companies. " ...

RFID Drives Supply Chain Efficiency: Via ODIN Technologies: Roex / Pro-X Select ODIN technologies for RFID Deployment: Roex Inc. and Pro-X Pharmaceuticals to leverage RFID to drive Supply Chain Efficiency and Quality Control ...

ODIN technologies is the leader in the physics of RFID infrastructure testing, deployment and certification. ODIN technologies leverages its team of RF engineers, physicists and software developers combined with its laboratory facilities to provide RFID consulting services to major retailers, consumer goods manufacturers, United States government agencies and other RFID early adopters. In addition to client deployment services, ODIN technologies is also the publisher of the RFID Benchmark Series, the industry’s first and most referenced head to head performance analysis of leading RFID tags and readers. ODIN’s President and CEO, Patrick J. Sweeney II is also author of RFID for Dummies published by John Wiley & Sons. ODIN technologies is privately held and has labs and offices in Dulles, Virginia.

RFID Forklift of the Future ...

Intermec and Cascade collaborate to develop an RFID technology-enabled forklift ...

... "There's more to a forklift than first meets the eye. In the emerging world of RFID-enabled inventory tracking, the forklift can become a powerful supply-chain information tool. Intermec Inc., an RFID pioneer and leading supplier of Gen 2 RFID technology and equipment, and Cascade Corp., the world's largest manufacturer of forklift attachments, are teaming to develop a forklift system that incorporates RFID technology into a forklift's very infrastructure, replacing today's cumbersome and inefficient bolt-on approach to data collection.

Forklifts envisioned by Cascade and Intermec incorporate powerful dashboard computers positioned for maximum safety and efficiency, easy-to-reach RFID controls assimilated into the lift's control mechanisms, wireless real-time location tracking and navigational LEDs for optimal routing, and easy-to-adjust RFID readers designed into the frame of forklift attachments for flexible and accurate use with a wide range of goods and supplies. The system, designed specifically for the rugged environment of daily warehouse use, also engineers in a sophisticated cable management system, state-of-the-art wireless scanning capabilities and a built-in camera for cargo documentation. Cascade and Intermec unveiled a prototype future forklift today at Intermec's 2006 Global Partner Conference in Dallas. " ...

RFID Forklift of the Future: Via Intermec: Intermec and Cascade Collaborate to Create RFID Forklift of the Future to Enhance Warehouse Worker Productivity and Efficiency ...

RFID Credit Card Solution ...

SmartCode launches RFID-enabled solution for the credit card market ...

... "SmartCode Corp. - The RFID Company, the world’s leading manufacturer of low cost, high performance RFID hardware solutions announced its new SmartPay RFID solutions for the Contactless RFID Credit Card Market. Specially designed for the Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Chase Blink, SmartCode's new SmartPay RFID solution enables a time efficient contactless procedure for credit card transactions. Not requiring any physical contact between the credit card and the terminal, the SmartPay Credit Card RFID solution enable Merchants and Consumers to reduce card processing time and increase Point Of Sale throughput. The SmartPay Credit Card RFID solution also translates to lower maintenance costs and increased flexibility of terminal positioning such as on the counter, drive through installations or embedded into a variety of fixtures. Wall Street Journal and research firm TowerGroup estimates the market for transactions valued at less than $5 accounted for $1.32 trillion in consumer spending in 2003, representing more than 400 billion transactions. In addition, more than 37 million Americans are willing to use their cards for $5 or less and an estimated 6.5 million Americans would be comfortable using cards for transactions of less than $1, according to a study released late last year by the research firm Ipsos-Insight. " ...

RFID Credit Card Solution: Via SmartCode: SMARTCODE CORP. unleashes low cost RFID TO THE $1.32 trillion micro payments market: SmartCode Corp.'s new SmartPay Product line offers embedded RFID solutions for Visa, MasterCard and American Express RFID Credit Card solutions ...

RFID GPIC 13Mhz Gaming Chips ...

GPIC and Progressing partner to deliver 13.56 Mhz RFID chips to the gaming industry. ...

... "Gaming Partners International Corporation, a leading manufacturer and supplier of casino chips and other table game supplies, and Progressive Gaming International Corporation, a leading provider of diversified products and services used in the gaming industry worldwide, announced that Progressive Gaming has granted GPIC the exclusive rights in the United States and non-exclusive rights outside the US to manufacture gaming chips with 13.56 MHz RFID technology. GPIC has now confirmed its ability to successfully embed the faster 13.56 MHz RFID microchips in each and every one of its popular brands of gaming chips: Bourgogne et Grasset, Paulson and Bud Jones. " ...

GPIC 13Mhz RFID Gaming Chips: Via Gaming Partners International Corporation: Progressive Gaming and Gaming Partners International Team Up to Provide 13.56 MHz RFID Chip Technology ...

RFID: Volvo Asset Tracking ...

Volvo continues to embrace RFID technology and drive its adoption in various opportunity areas. ...

... "Truck and bus manufacturer Volvo is considering using radio frequency identification (RFID) tagging to track equipment in its warehouses. " ...

RFID: Volvo Asset Tracking: Via IT Week: Volvo studies RFID for tracking assets ...

Additional references on Volvo and RFID ...

Via Volvo: Mats Boll to speak at the RFID Europe conference: "Mats Boll, Business Develop Project Manager at Volvo Logistics, will speak at the RFID Europe conference in Frankfurt, Germany, on October 21. Mats Boll will discuss some of Volvo's case studies involving containers and packaging, security, distribution of finished vehicles and distribution of hazardous material. He will also review a solution introduced within manufacturing facilities of Commercial Vehicles. "

Via RFID Journal LIVE! Europe: Agenda 11 October: "Volvo has been using RFID in production and logistics for a long time and continues to launch new pilot tests on a regular basis. This session will communicate how RFID has improved Volvo's visibility, traceability and lead-time reduction. Besides demonstrating where Volvo is today, the leaders of the company's RFID projects also will look into Volvo's future, where RFID seems destined to enhance its entire supply chain. Speaker: Stina Apel, RFID Project Manager, Volvo; Annika Johansson, RFID Project Manager, Volvo "

Via IT-universitetet i Goteborg | Nyheter: Students in successful pilot project for Volvo logistics: "They carried out an RFID - Radio Frequency Identification pilot project at the cross-docking terminal at Arendal. Volvo Logistics were very pleased with the result of the project and all three of these students are today employed at Volvo Logistics. "

Casino RFID Solutions at ICE Conference ...

Gaming Partners International will participate in the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) in London, England from January 24-26, 2006, where it will present casino RFID solutions ...

... "The Company -- a leading manufacturer and supplier of casino table game supplies under the brand names Bourgogne & Grasset, Bud Jones and Paulson -- will have its sales team at ICE next week to showcase a broad range of well known chips, plaques and jetons, all of which can be produced with Radio Frequency Imbedded Devices (RFID). GPI owns several international patents and several other patent applications on RFID embedding technologies. Live presentations of some of the latest RFID readers and software for RFID chips will be held throughout the show.
The Company announced that, along with the state-of-the-art RFID chips, it will be displaying several types of readers for use in casino operations, in various formats, capable of being configured and installed at various locations, including: cashiering points, on tables for quick verifications, embedded in float trays on all table games enabling instant authentication and reconciliation of floats, in cages, vaults, or near the pit bosses. " ...

Casino RFID Solutions at ICE Conference: Via Gaming Partners International: Gaming Partners International Corporation, a World Leader in RFID Technology, to Participate in ICE Show in London; Company Also Announces Production Expansion to Accommodate Significant Order Backlog ...

RFID Gen2 China Project ...

UPM Rafsec’s RFID Class 1 Generation 2 technology has a single, globally applicable antenna design and provides higher read ranges and faster response times than RFID tags of previous generations and will implement Novetex’s complete RFID identification and tracking solution by early 2006. ...

... "UPM Rafsec, a leading RFID tag and inlay manufacturer, announces that it has entered into an agreement with Supply Chain and Logistics Technology Holdings Limited (SCL), a joint-venture of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), to deliver UPM Rafsec Gen 2 RFID tags. UPM Rafsec together with SCL will supply tags to Novetex Spinners Limited (Novetex), the world’s largest single site woollen spinner, for the project that will mark the first Gen 2 RFID initiative in Hong Kong and the South China region. The new RFID system being deployed for Novetex by SCL, consultant as well as hardware & solution provider for the project will touch three different processes in Novetex’s Zhuhai warehouse - the receiving process, cycle counting and the delivery process.

UPM Rafsec’s Gen 2 RFID tags will be instrumental in achieving real-time visibility of raw materials and product inventory, leading to fewer production delays and faster response times to customer requests. Novetex expects substantial enhancements in operating efficiency at its warehouse when the project is fully deployed. " ...

RFID Gen2 China Project: UPM RAFSEC PROVIDING RFID TAGS FOR THE FIRST GEN2 PROJECT IN HONG KONG AND THE SOUTH CHINA REGION ...

Tags: Radio Frequency Identification, RFID, RFID Tag

RFID Simulated Supply Chain in Educational Environment ...

Students are learning about RFID using a simulated supply chain. ....

... "Indiana University is one of the first business schools to decide to build a working model of a RFID environment. Davison Schopmeyer, senior director of RFID Professional Services at Manhattan Associates, invited Venkataramanan, Ashok Soni, chairperson of the Operations and Decision Technologies Department, and Daniel Conway, a Kelley School professor, to tour Manhattan Associates' RFID Lab in Atlanta earlier this year. The professors have created an RFID lab that is used to teach RFID to the university's graduate and undergraduate classes. This lab uses miniature train sets and radio-controlled trucks, RFID tags, readers and antennae to create a scale model of how goods flow through the supply chain-from manufacturer to warehouse to retailer. The trains and trucks carry goods with product names and equipped with tags. Antennae read the tags as the miniature carriers pass by. The students track how the tags are read, collected and presented on a computer. The school will continue to move ahead with RFID as an important part of its curriculum. " ...

RFID Simulated Supply Chain in Educational Environment: Via Manhattan Associates: Indiana University and Manhattan Associates Bring RFID to the Classroom ...

Additional resources on RFID in the classroom:

Via RFID Journal - RTI, DeVry Team Up to Teach RFID: "RFID Technical Institute (RTI) has partnered with DeVry University to offer business and technical courses in radio frequency identification, beginning in July. RTI, a Cambridge, Mass., startup launched in January, develops RFID educational services. "

Via EIS - EIS Assists University of Arkansas with RFID Lab: "Enterprise Information Systems, Inc. (EIS), an RFID systems integrator and member of EPCglobal US, announces it has joined with leading RFID manufacturers and The University of Arkansas to sponsor a lab dedicated to the study of the engineering aspect to RFID. The Engineering RFID lab is located in the Bell Engineering Center at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The RFID lab is part of the Engineering Center's Material Handling lab that provides students practical experience with different aspects of a production environment, which includes a conveyor system that incorporates alerting systems, scanning technologies and now RFID. "

UW-Madison RFID technology lab debuts Friday | Via WTN: "The lab involves more than 40 companies from the UW RFID Industry Workgroup, plus UW-Madison students and faculty - all focusing on keeping Wisconsin industry competitive through RFID technology. The UW RFID Lab also is available to individual companies for sponsored company-specific projects."

RFID Lab Teaches University Students ...

Manhattan and IU collaborate to create learning environment that teaches University students in a state-of-the-art RFID laboratory. ...

... "Indiana University is one of the first business schools to decide to build a working model of a RFID environment. Davison Schopmeyer, senior director of RFID Professional Services at Manhattan Associates, invited Venkataramanan, Ashok Soni, chairperson of the Operations and Decision Technologies Department, and Daniel Conway, a Kelley School professor, to tour Manhattan Associates' RFID Lab in Atlanta earlier this year. The professors have created an RFID lab that is used to teach RFID to the university's graduate and undergraduate classes. This lab uses miniature train sets and radio-controlled trucks, RFID tags, readers and antennae to create a scale model of how goods flow through the supply chain-from manufacturer to warehouse to retailer. The trains and trucks carry goods with product names and equipped with tags. Antennae read the tags as the miniature carriers pass by. The students track how the tags are read, collected and presented on a computer. The school will continue to move ahead with RFID as an important part of its curriculum. " ...

RFID Lab Teaches University Students: Via Manhattan Associates: Indiana University and Manhattan Associates Bring RFID to the Classroom ...

Mobile Phone RFID NFC Trial France ...

A trial of mobile phones interacting with RFID objects through near-field communication (NFC) is planned in France. ...

Mobile Phone RFID NFC Trail France: Via Contactless News: Caen France hosts world's premier NFC trial with mobile phones enabling host of contactless applications ...

... "Philips is working with France Telecom R&D, mobile phone network operator Orange, handset manufacturer Samsung, and French retailers Groupe LaSer and Vinci Park, along with the City of Caen, which is allowing some of its tourist attractions to be tagged with RFID chips. " ...

RFID Inlay Acquisition By Sokymat

RFID Inlay Acquisition By Sokymat: Via Sokymat: Sokymat acquires IMASYS ...

... "Sokymat SA, the world's leading supplier of RFID transponders, announces today that it has acquired IMASYS, a leading German supplier of RFID inlay manufacturing equipment based in Pfronten, which joined the Sokymat Group effective November 1st, 2005. IMASYS is a designer and manufacturer of high frequency (HF) transponder inlay production machines based on the wire-embedding process. IMASYS current goal is to significantly increase the production capacity of its 13.56 MHz RFID inlay manufacturing machines, in order to respond to the tremendous growth of the markets for e-passports and contactless payment cards. " ...

Sokymat, the world’s leading supplier of RFID transponders, is present in all major market segments that express a strong interest in the benefits of RFID technology, namely access control and security, industrial automation and supply chain management as well as animal identification. Thanks to its 15 years of experience in transponder manufacturing technology and its know-how in packaging technology, Sokymat can design and manufacture virtually any type of custom-made transponder suited to the specific operating environment and packaging material requested by the customer – including metal. Alongside with its expertise in 125/134.2 kHz and UHF RFID technology, Sokymat boasts the most complete know-how in 13.56 MHz technology and serves fast growing industry segments such as the emerging market for government-issued electronic passports and travel documents. The group employs more than 300 people worldwide, has both research and development centers and manufacturing plants in Switzerland, Sweden, Germany and Malaysia.

RFID Training Initiative: RFID4U Printronix Collaborate

Printronix contributes its real-world knowledge of RFID technology applications to RFID certification training initiative. ...

RFID Training Initiative: RFID4U Printronix Collaborate: Via Printronix: Printronix Expands RFID Education Initiative With RFID4U Alliance: RFID4U Prepares Supply-Chain Leaders for CompTIA's RFID+ Certification While Printronix Imparts Real-World Knowledge Gleaned From Pilot Implementations ...

... "Printronix Inc. (Nasdaq: PTNX), the leading integrated supply-chain printing solutions manufacturer, and RFID4U today aligned to help train tomorrow's supply-chain leaders on radio frequency identification (RFID). RFID4U is a division of eSmart Source Inc. and a worldwide leader in vendor-neutral RFID learning solutions. The company delivers training content in a range of formats tailored to individual learning styles, including online courses, instructor-led training and publications. Printronix will contribute content to RFID4U's curriculum and offer its RFID demo center to students as a hands-on learning lab. RFID4U will incorporate Printronix's handbook, RFID Labeling: Smart Labeling Concepts and Applications for the Consumer Packaged Goods Supply Chain, into its program. The training provider also will engage Printronix's chief technology officer, Andy Chapman, who is one of the authors of 'RFID Labeling,' in an interactive ask the expert column. " ...

RFID Superior Supply Chains ...

Randy Weston and Robert Garf explore the superior supply chains of WalMart and UPS and how RFID technology is enabling world-class performance. ...

RFID Superior Supply Chains: Via AMR Research: Wal-Mart and UPS: Tales in Superior Supply Chains ...

... "Its well-publicized Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) project isn't just about tracking goods from manufacturer to distribution centers. For WalMart, it's vital for letting store associates know if product not on the shelf is actually in stock. " ...

RFID Technology ISO9001:2000 Certification ...

HID achieves ISO9001 certification for the design, manufacture, and distribution of RFID technology. ...

RFID Technology ISO9001:2000 Certification: Via HID: HID Achieves ISO9001:2000 Re-Certification for Design, Manufacture, and Distribution of RFID-Based Contactless Smart Cards and Readers: The Management System Certification Encompasses Excellence Meeting Customer and Regulatory Requirements While Continually Improving HID's Product Performance ...

... "HID Corporation, the premier manufacturer of contactless access control cards and readers for the security industry, announced that is has achieved ISO 9001:2000 re-certification for quality management and its system certification that encompasses manufacturing. HID first received ISO9000 certification on June 1, 1999, ISO 9001:2000 certification on June 1, 2002 and has been continuously certified while they maintain focus on continuous process improvements for the company's entire iCLASS 13.56 MHz, Prox 125 kHz, and Wiegand card and reader technology design, manufacture and distribution processes. To attain ISO9001 certification, all certified companies must be in conformance to the ISO9001:2000 standard that requires companies to do what is needed to fulfill the customer's quality requirements, enhance customer satisfaction, manage the processes or activities and to achieve continual improvement of their performance in pursuit of these objectives. " ...

As the largest manufacturer of contactless access control readers and cards for the security industry, HID has shipped over 250 million credentials to customers worldwide. HID pioneered the development of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology for physical access control. Proximity and iCLASS® technologies can be housed on the same credential and combined with other technologies such as magnetic stripe, barcode, or contact smart chip modules. This provides users the ability to leverage their investment in existing systems while seamlessly upgrading to new technologies and adding new applications. For increased security, users can add a photo ID or anti-counterfeiting element such as a hologram or ultraviolet ink. HID’s experience in developing card technologies enables them to play a critical role in the evolution and adoption of contactless smart card technology used for applications such as access control, IT secure authentication, digital cash, the storage of biometric templates, and the storage and retrieval of critical information.

RFID Catheter Data Transfer ...

Catheter manufacturer integrates RFID chip technology into latest model to support data transfer ...

RFID Catheter Data Transfer: Via Volcano Corp: Volcano Corporation Announces FDA Clearance of the Revolution™ 45 MHz IVUS Imaging Catheter: Novel Design will Allow Use of Phased Array and Rotational Catheters on Same IVUS Console ...

... "The Revolution Catheter has a center operating frequency of 45 MHz, making it the highest frequency intravascular catheter approved for sale in the U.S. The Revolution is built on intellectual property and technology recently licensed and acquired from Philips NV of The Netherlands. Volcano expects this imaging technology will appeal to a number of physicians who have trained using high frequency rotating IVUS imaging catheters. The Revolution also incorporates enhanced polymer transitions for improved handling and trackability, RFID chip technology for catheter data transfer, and a reinforced telescoping region for more reliable performance and reduced peri-procedural catheter failure and breakage. " ...

Volcano Corp. is a privately held medical device company founded in 2001. With over 475 worldwide employees, Volcano is dedicated to providing technologies leading to optimal management of coronary artery and peripheral vascular disease. Volcano products include Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) systems and catheters, as well as physiology guide wires. With global distribution, Volcano is a leading provider of innovative therapy-enabling and therapy-guiding technologies to the interventional cardiology and peripheral vascular fields.

Sub10Cent RFID Inlays

RFID tag and inlay manufacturer, UPM Rafsec, will ship UHF Gen 1 and Gen 2 inlays at sub-10 U.S. cent pricing in minimum order quantities of 50,000 pieces. Sub 10cent RFID inlays lay the foundation for the cheap and ubiquitous use of RFID technology ....

Sub10Cent RFID Inlays: UPM RAFSEC KNOCKING DOWN UHF RFID ADOPTION BARRIERS WITH SUB-10 CENT INLAYS ...

... "This UPM Rafsec offer includes dry and wet delivery formats of the OneTenna™ short dipole which are compatible with existing converting technology for the insertion of inlays into smart labels and other substrates. UPM Rafsec UHF products have already been tested, approved and used by a large number of leading RFID adopters. The inlays are manufactured at UPM Rafsec's production facility in Fletcher, North Carolina (USA), with innovative technology for the volume production of EPC (Electronic Product Code) -compliant UHF tags and inlays. The unparalleled yields of this new, high volume production technology give UPM Rafsec competitive advantages and provide customers significantly lower applied tag costs. The patent pending process is cost-efficient, scalable and enables UPM Rafsec to rapidly increase its capacity according to market demand. " ...

References on inexpensive RFID inlays:

... "Via SATO: RFID Thermal Labels: SATO RFID labels can be made with any type of RFID inlay. Some examples of the other inlay types available include Ucode, UHF 868-928MHz ISO 18000, and Class 0 and 0+. RFID labels can be pre-printed, flood coated or laminated and can be converted in most popular finishing styles. " ...

... "Via Avery Dennison: INNOVATIVE AVERY DENNISON MANUFACTURING PROCESS BOOSTS RFID TAG PRODUCTION CAPACITY: Inlay is the term used for the electronic core of an RFID label. It typically consists of a metal pattern on a sheet of plastic film that functions as an antenna, onto which an integrated circuit (semiconductor chip) is attached. The inlay is then sandwiched between a paper facestock and an adhesive layer to form a self-stick RFID label. " ...

... "Via SmartCode: SmartCode Corp. beats any price for EPC Gen 2 Inlays for orders of 1 million - SmartCode prices EPC Gen 2 Inlays at 7.5 cents for quantities of 1 million and 7.2 cents for orders exceeding 10 million: The EPC Gen 2 Quickstart™ Program aims to accelerate the mass adoption of EPC Gen 2 solutions. Under the EPC Gen 2 Quickstart™ Program, SmartCode Corp. will offer the lowest cost EPC Gen 2 inlays at a price of 7.5 cents in orders of 1 million inlays or more and 7.2 cents in orders of 10 million or more. SmartCode Corp. EPC Gen 2 Quickstart™ Program is available for orders received until the 1st of January 2006. The delivery schedule can span throughout 2006. " ...

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 Casino Chip Technology ...

RFID Casino Chip Technology: Via VendingData Corporation: VendingData™ Enters High Frequency RFID Casino Chip Business: VendingData™ to Acquire Dolphin Products’ Intellectual Property Including Global Distribution Rights to High Frequency RFID-Enabled Casino Chip Technology ...

... "Dolphin Products began designing and manufacturing traditional gaming chips in 1994 and has become a significant casino chip producer internationally. Dolphin began work on an RFID-enabled casino chip in 1995 using the 125 KHZ frequency. Due to the technical disadvantages and relatively high costs of the low frequency RFIDs, Dolphin began looking for a solution in the high frequency 13.56 MHz range, and was granted a patent in 2004 for their unique method of tagging a casino chip or token with a high frequency (13.56MHz) chip within a casino chip. To date, Dolphin Products is the only casino chip manufacturer that has designed a commercially viable, high frequency RFID casino chip, utilizing the Magellan microchip, which is regarded as the International Standard. " ...

RFID AWID LowCost Gen2 Reader

RFID AWID LowCost Gen2 Reader: Via AWID: RFID Finally Becomes Affordable with the First Generation 2 Reader under $1,000 from AWID; 70% Price Drop Likely to Shake up Market ...

AWID challenges market with low-cost Gen2 RFID reader ...

... "RFID technology depends on tags being read automatically by receptors known as readers, which are typically sold separately from the antennas they need in order to function. AWID is revolutionizing the marketplace by offering the MPR-3014 reader as production units for $1,000 each, and including four circular polarized antennas at no extra cost. MPR-3014 reader development kits go for $1,600; and the MPR-1510 reader module production units sell for under $400 each, with development kits at $700. " ...

Founded in 1997, Applied Wireless Identification Group (AWID) is a profitable, world-class RFID reader and sub-system manufacturer. AWID supplies the highest performance - lowest cost EPC Certified Generation 2 readers and reader modules in the world, including a new family of fully extremely durable, water resistant, multi-port EPC readers for industrial applications. AWID supplied approximately 70% of all the UHF reader modules sold worldwide in 2004.

RFID Innovation Center: Supply Chain Visibility

RFID Innovation Center: Supply Chain Visibility: RedPrairie RFID Solution Powers CHEP Innovation Center with End-to-End Supply Chain Visibility: CHEP implements RedPrairie Solution to demonstrate RFID usage and benefits for customers ...

Innovation center uses RFID technology to demonstrate the value of supply chain visibility ...

... "CHEP, the global leader in pallet and container pooling services, is utilizing its Innovation Center to demonstrate usage and benefits of RFID for customers and prospects as well as representatives of the supply chains where CHEP participates. CHEP recently expanded the RFID capabilities of the Innovation Center to showcase end-to-end tracking of pallets, cases and items from receiving and put-away, to inventory management and shipping. RedPrairie provides the warehousing management solution and visibility to all supply chain participants involved in the movement of goods – including the manufacturer, transporter, distribution center and retailer for this demonstration. " ...

CHEP is the global leader in pallet and plastic container pooling services serving many of the world's largest companies. With Americas headquarters based in Orlando, the company has more than 7,700 employees in 42 countries. Combining superior technology, over five decades of experience and an asset base of more than 265 million pallets and containers, CHEP handles pallet and container supply chain logistics for customers in the consumer goods, produce, meat, home improvement, beverage, raw materials and automotive industries.

For over 30 years RedPrairie has enabled leading global companies to create competitive advantage through supply chain excellence. RedPrairie’s comprehensive technology solutions provide rapid and sustainable return on investment by optimizing the performance of people, places and processes. RedPrairie provides industry-tailored solutions for diverse markets, including consumer goods, direct to consumer and traditional retail, food and beverage, high tech / electronics, third party logistics, industrial / wholesale, automotive and service parts, and pharmaceuticals.

RFID Secure Mesh Network ...

RFID Secure Mesh Network: Via The Manufacturer.com: Safe and sound

Article explores the security aspects of wireless networking and the application of technologies, such as WIFI, mesh networks, and RFID sensors ...

... "Chen invested the next four years in making Wi-Fi, the WLAN infrastructure on these ships, secure to FIPS 140-2 validation, and the customer was satisfied. Today they're developing secure Wi-Fi solutions with a mesh network, RFID, and sensor applications. " ...

RFID RealTime Production Visibility ...

RFID RealTime Production Visibility: WHERENET'S LOCATABLE ACTIVE RFID TECHNOLOGY APPROVED AS A GLOBAL STANDARD BY LEADING LUXURY AUTOMAKER: German Automobile Manufacturer to Double WhereNet Deployments in 2005 as Worldwide Rollout Continues; Vehicle Location System Enhances Flexibility and Expedites Production of Custom-Ordered, Premium-Brand Automobiles ...

... "WhereNet Corp., the leader of wireless solutions for tracking and managing enterprise assets, announced that the BMW Group has approved the WhereNet® active RFID real-time locating system (RTLS) technology as a global standard and will accelerate its worldwide rollout in 2005. Already installed at BMW plants in Dingolfing, Munich, and Regensburg, Germany, WhereNet’s vehicle location system will go live this year at additional BMW plants in Leipzig, Germany and Rosslyn, South Africa, and at the MINI plant in Oxford, United Kingdom. " ...

WhereNet is the first company to deliver a single wireless location and communication infrastructure that reliably and cost-effectively manages valuable mobile resources and delivers a complete return on investment within 6-12 months. Based on patented, standards-compliant technology resulting from a collective 100+ years of development, the WhereNet real-time solutions enable companies such as BMW, Ford Motor Company, and NYK Logistics to reduce inventory, lower operating costs, and improve operations. The company has received the Henry Ford Technology Award; was recognized for strong ROI by Computerworld; was ranked among the top 10 in the InfoWorld 100; and has been recognized as a wireless innovator by Forrester Research, Computerworld ROI, Frontline Solutions, Plant Engineering, and Supply Chain Systems magazines.

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. " ...

Radio Frequency Identification RFID Label: Certified Preferred ...

Radio Frequency Identification RFID Label: Certified Preferred: Via Nashua Corporation: NASHUA CORPORATION NAMED AN ALIEN TECHNOLOGY® CERTIFIED PREFERRED CONVERTER PARTNER: Selection Recognizes Nashua Label Division’s RFID Capabilities and Positions Company to Help Customers Utilize Advanced RFID Solutions ...

... "Nashua Corporation (NASDAQ: NSHA), a manufacturer and marketer of labels, thermal and specialty papers, and imaging products, announced that Alien Technology Corporation has named the Company's Label Division a Certified Preferred Converter Partner. Partner status recognizes the Label Division's Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) capabilities and strengthens the relationship between Nashua and Alien Technology Corporation, a leading supplier of inlays and other RFID hardware and components. Alien Technology initiated the Certified Preferred Converter Partner program in order to team with key industry leaders such as Nashua, which utilizes RFID technology in the low cost, high quality inventory and product tracking solutions applications it provides its customers. " ...

Nashua Corporation manufactures and markets a wide variety of specialty imaging products and services to industrial and commercial customers to meet various print application needs. The Company's products include thermal coated papers, pressure-sensitive labels, bond, point of sale, ATM and wide format papers, entertainment tickets, as well as toners, developers, and ribbons for use in imaging devices. Alien Technology® Corporation is a leading supplier of radio frequency identification (RFID) hardware that enables consumer packaged goods companies, retailers and other industries to improve their operating efficiency throughout their supply chains. Through its patented manufacturing process, Fluidic Self Assembly (FSA®), Alien fabricates high performance electronic product code (EPC) Class 1 tags in unprecedented volumes at very low cost.

RFID WIP Work in Process ...

RFID WIP Work in Process: Via IBM: IBM Introduces New Work In Process and RFID Express Solutions ...

... "RFID for Work in Process helps manufacturers accelerate materials management within a plant floor environment. The SOA-based solution can help a manufacturer better manage assembly automation, track plant floor assets, and manage inventory by integrating applications inside a company, as well as externally with customers and suppliers. It offers customers real-time visibility of key assets to improve the identification and tracking of tools and equipment and also to comply with Sarbanes-Oxley and other mandates. The solution includes IBM's WebSphere RFID middleware, tags and readers from IBM Business Partners, as well as IBM's Global Services expertise implementing manufacturing and Work in Process solutions. " ...

IBM is the world's largest information technology company, with 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate. Drawing on resources from across IBM and key business partners, IBM offers a wide range of services, solutions and technologies that enable companies to take full advantage of the on demand era.

Walmart RFID Compliance Using SAP Netweaver Platform ...

Walmart RFID Compliance Using SAP Netweaver Platform: Via SAP: SAP RFID Rollout Signals Major Savings for Midsize Flag-Maker: Annin & Co. Gears up for Wal-Mart Requirement Within Three Months and Sets Cost-Cutting Course to Master Retail Market Challenges ...

SAP Netweaver Platform enables Walmart RFID Compliance for flag manufacturer ...

... "SAP AG (NYSE: SAP) today announced that Annin & Co., the world's oldest and largest flag manufacturer, has implemented the radio frequency identification (RFID) technology within the SAP NetWeaver platform to meet WalMart's RFID requirement for key vendors. Annin, a midsize enterprise that manufactures more than 10,000 different flags and flag accessories, implemented the pilot project within three months, which will allow the company to achieve Wal-Mart compliance by January 2006. Annin also anticipates that its investment in RFID technology from SAP will bring significant cost savings. The announcement was made at the EPCglobal U.S. Conference 2005, being held in Atlanta, Georgia, September 13 - 15. " ...

Annin & Co is the world’s oldest and largest flag manufacturer. Starting from a sail loft in downtown New York City making signal flags for sailing ships in the 1820’s, Annin incorporated in 1847 and has since grown to four manufacturing locations. Annin now has worldwide distribution. As the official flag manufacturer to the United Nations, Annin’s international flags are the standards for exactness, followed by the rest of the world.

Target RFID Compliance Enabled By Partnership

Via GlobeRanger: Nordic Ware: SoftBrands Partners with GlobeRanger for RFID; Implements Compliance Solution for Target Stores Supplier Nordic Ware: SoftBrands OEMs GlobeRanger technology for building integrated RFID solutionsfor the manufacturing ...

Target RFID compliance achieved through GlobeRanger, Softbrand partnership ...

... "GlobeRanger, the leading provider of RFID, mobility and sensor-based software solutions, and SoftBrands, a global leader in next-generation enterprise software for manufacturing and hospitality businesses, today announced an OEM partnership for RFID solutions. SoftBrands has leveraged Globe Ranger's iMotion edgeware platform to rapidly extend its existing solutions for RFID. Nordic Ware is the first SoftBrands customer to implement an RFID compliance solution based on the iMotion platform. Nordic Ware is a family-owned, American manufacturer of kitchenware products including the original Bundt pan and the Micro-go-round. Nordic Ware installed this RFID solution at its distribution center in Minneapolis, Minn. in August 2005 to meet Target Stores compliance deadlines. " ...

SoftBrands, Inc. is a global leader in providing solutions for small to medium-sized businesses worldwide, currently focused on the hospitality and manufacturing industries. With more than 4,000 customers in over 60 countries now actively using its manufacturing and hospitality products, SoftBrands has established a worldwide infrastructure for distribution, development and support of enterprise software. The company, headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has over 500 employees with branch offices in Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa.

RFID Maritime Security Technology ...

Via RedNova News - Technology - Using Technology to Bridge Maritime Security Gaps

... "A simple radio frequency identification (RFID) tag consists of a microchip attached to a radio antenna. The microchip contains information about the type of cargo, manufacturer, serial number, etc. A variety of tags are now available on the market: passive tags, active tags and low, high and ultra-high-frequency tags. " ...

RFID Gen2 Printer Upgrade ...

RFID Gen2 Printer Upgrade: Via Printronix: Printronix Delivers World's First Free Gen 2 Printer Upgrade: Lowry and Texas Instruments Cite Printronix's Gen 2 as a Smart Start to Gen 2 Label Encoding ...

... "Printronix Inc. (Nasdaq: PTNX), the leading integrated supply-chain printing solutions manufacturer, today introduced the industry's first free EPCglobal(TM) Generation 2 (Gen 2) printer firmware upgrade. With this release, Printronix customers using any of its SmartLine, multiprotocol, radio frequency identification (RFID) printing systems gain a cost-free upgrade path to the Gen 2 protocol and a means to immediately begin Gen 2 encoding. " ...

Printronix developed the Gen 2 firmware to work with its SmartLine RFID printer family, which includes the recently introduced 5r Multi-Technology Platform as well as SL5000e(TM) MP and SLPA7000e(TM) MP printers. There is no cost to existing Printronix customers using any of its SmartLine, multiprotocol printers. Customers may obtain the firmware immediately by contacting customer technical support at (714) 368-2686.