Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Alien EMEA Gen2 RFID Reader

Alien Technology launches the ALR-9900-EMA reader focused on delivering European capabilities, ETSI regulations, and other differentiating features. ...

... "This new generation architecture delivers exceptional performance within a compact package. It is designed to the new ETSI EN 302-208-2 regulatory compliance standards, more commonly known as the four-channel-plan. It supports near-field and far-field coupling, and includes the powerful Alien Reader Protocol (ARP) engine for stand-alone autonomous mode of operation as well as full support of all custom commands for Alien’s industry leading Higgs-3 based inlay portfolio, including extended memory, anti-counterfeit authentication, and read cloaking. " ...


Via Alien Technology: ALR-9900-EMA RFID reader supports new European Four Channel Plan Regulations

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Saturday, August 01, 2009

European Healthcare RFID Pilot to Establish Improvement

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Monday, July 13, 2009

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

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Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Europe RFID Privacy

Europe adopts RFID privacy policy as a fundamental principle when smart chips are applied. ...

... "On May 12, 2009 the European Commission adopted a set of recommendations to make sure that everyone involved in the design or operation of smart chip applications respects the individual's fundamental right to privacy and data protection, contained in the charter of fundamental rights of the European Union. " ...


Via Europa: RFID Policy

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Tuesday, March 03, 2009

RFID Waste Management Process Implements Access Control and Tracking

Alien Technology and Creativesystems collaborate to deliver a process-integrated RFID solution for LIPOR, the municipal Waste Management organization for Greater Oporto, Portugal. The RFID technology support a more streamlined and automated process, which was previously manual. ...

... "LIPOR has installed the Alien-Creativesystems RFID tracking solution to verify if a certain truck is allowed to unload its garbage at the waste management disposal center. Alien’s ALR-8800 passive UHF reader/writer, controls the gate barrier’s opening and closing by first reading the tagged vehicle to determine if the vehicle is allowed entry. Once the barrier opens, the truck proceeds to a designated weigh bridge where the weight of the vehicle is recorded and is assigned to a tag on the windshield. This weight is then communicated to the driver via a display, and the vehicle then travels to a specific unload point inside the facility, where the waste is unloaded. The RFID solution also ascertains that the driver went to the correct unload point since there are readers mounted throughout the facility. When the truck exits LIPOR’s facility, the tag is once again read to determine if the truck is allowed to exit. Periodic, real-time reports are issued to the municipalities via email to for billing purposes. " ...


Via Alien Technology: Waste Management Application in Portugal

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Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Retail RFID Implementation Tracks Clothing Through the European Supply Chain

Alien Tech RFID for retail
Alien Technology teams up with Eren Holding to implement a high-volume RFID garment tracking installation in Istanbul, Turkey. The solution will provide end-to-end RFID traceability in the garment supply chain of retail stores (88) with a volume of nearly two million items. Eren Holding manufactures and distributes high-end garments, with brand names such as Lacoste, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Coach and Blank. ...

... "Eren Holding had a need to enhance its supply chain traceability process and reduce inventory control/labor costs, so it approached the Alien integrator, STS for a complete hardware and Oracle based software solution. Eren Holding’s main objective in adopting RFID was to provide 100 percent traceability of the clothing articles, from the manufacturing site to the distribution centers, and, finally, to the retail outlet. " ...


Via Alien Technology: RFID Retailing Installation in Europe with Lacoste, Calvin Klein and Burberry

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Friday, February 13, 2009

Harvest RFID from Oyster

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Saturday, January 31, 2009

SAP Intermec Kraft RFID Experience

Kraft Europe experience with RFID technology ...

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Monday, December 08, 2008

EU RFID Reader

ThingMagic launches Astra integrated RFID reader and antenna in the European Union market. The Astra reader enables simple installation and supports Power over Ethernet and WiFi. ...

... "Driven by ThingMagic's Mercury5e UHF RFID embedded reader module, Astra has a read range of over nine meters for Generation 2 RFID tags and can read up to 190 tags per second. Fully supporting ThingMagic's enterprise-class MercuryOS software, Astra's network management and security features include DHCP for configuration and firmware management, and SSL/SSH–based security. Astra has ETSI and CE certification and meets all European Union RFID and environmental requirements. " ...


Via ThingMagic: RFID Reader for European Union

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Monday, September 15, 2008

Handheld RFID Reader Europe

Motorola introduces new RFID product enhancements expands geographic availability to meet the business needs of customers globally. ...

... "Rugged, lightweight and ergonomically well-balanced, the new European R1 version of Motorola's high-performance RFID handheld reader is compliant with current ETSI 302 208 standards required for operation in countries in the European Union. The new R1 version offers integrated RFID reading/writing and barcode scanning and is able to seamlessly switch to multiple channels and transmit 100 percent of the time. The long read ranges produced by the linear antennae make the reader ideal for a variety of retail, manufacturing, transportation and logistics applications including shipping and receiving, work-in-process, item-level in-store inventory management and asset, baggage and cargo tracking. " ...


Via Motorola: RFID reader performance enhancements

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Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Healthcare RFID Proof of Concept

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Saturday, June 21, 2008

SkyTrain RFID

Vancouver Skytrain RFID controversy - uses same technology as in London, UK ...

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Wednesday, June 11, 2008

RFID Horse Passport

European Union issues requirement for horses that involves RFID chipping and passport documents. ...

... "The new system will build on a single identification document--one passport, issued for lifetime when the animal is born or imported. The document will be linked to the animal by an electronic microchip (also known as radio frequency identification, or RFID) ... " ...


Via The Horse: European Union Requires Horse Passports

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Monday, March 10, 2008

RFID Solution Solves Reusable Item Tracking in Europe

Xterprise releases its RFID solution for Reusable Transport Items (RTIs) into the European supply chain market. ...

... "Reusable transport items play a critical role in many environments to help ensure the timely, continuous flow of materials and products to production lines, distribution and ultimately customers. Xterprise and third-party research indicates that more than 50 million RTIs are lost, damaged or otherwise removed from service each year at an estimated cost, globally, of close to $1 billion – a significant portion of which are in Europe. Without proper visibility and management of these valuable assets, stockpiling occurs at artificially high levels at critical choke points, resulting in unnecessary replenishment to meet demand. Xterprise has purposely built the Clarity RTI application to address the unique uses and resulting challenges of managing RTIs as they move between stakeholders in closed-loop environments typically found in retail, 3pl, and manufacturing organisations." ...


Via Xterprise: RFID-Enabled Reusable Transport Item (RTI) Application

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Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Global RFID Interoperability Standards

GS1, ETSI and CEN have joined forces to create the Global RFID Interoperability Forum for Standards (GRIFS) project. The project is supported by funding from the European Union to collaborate on the standards that drive global interoperability of RFID technology. ...

... "The project is funded by the European Commission's Framework Programme 7 for Information and Communication Technologies, in which the European Union has recognised the importance of inter-enterprise interoperability as we move towards ambient intelligence environments where most devices are connected to seamless, ubiquitous networks. GRIFS will work to characterise the variety of standards activities taking place globally: (1) To create a number of liaison activities to disseminate information about the importance of global standards; (2) To align RFID standards development globally; (3) To put in place the Global RFID Interoperability forum for Standards (GRIFS) comprising global stakeholders; (3) To ensure continuing close collaboration between standards activities. " ...


Via GRIFS: Launch of a Global RFID Interoperability Forum for Standards

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Tuesday, February 05, 2008

RFID Paris Library System Implementation

Paris will implement radio frequency identification (RFID) systems from 3M at 42 city branches. The technology is expected to increase efficiency, improve security, and boost customer service. ...

Paris implements RFID technology in libraries

... "According to Rory Yanchek, 3M Library Systems business manager, the agreement with the Paris library system calls for 3M to provide at least three million RFID tags, as well as workstations, readers, detection gates and SelfCheck Systems that allow customers to check out and return items, and in some cases even pay fees and fines, without staff assistance. Installations are scheduled to begin later this year.

For the Paris libraries, 3M will supply tags incorporating Geneva-based STMicroelectronics Company's LR12K chips, which are warranted for the life of the library items to which they are affixed. " ...


Via 3M Library Systems: City of Paris Conversion of 42 Branches to RFID

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Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Bookstore RFID Implements Item Level Tracking in SuperStore Format

Byblos implements item-level RFID tracking in its large-format bookstore in Portugal, using solutions from Vue Technology. ...

Byblos implements RFID tracking system in its superstore

... "Byblos is using the TrueVUE RFID Platform to help track more than 150,000 items across its 35,000 square foot retail outlet. Every individual item within the new Byblos Amoreiras store is equipped with a UHF RFID tag. The company is using the item-level RFID solution to help maximize store operational efficiencies and on-shelf product availability, as well as provide a better customer experience. The Lisbon store is the first in a series of superstores planned to launch across Europe. " ...


Via Vue Technology: Largest Item-Level Retail RFID Deployment

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Saturday, November 24, 2007

RFID Mobile Phone Enables NFC Payments

Mobile phone incorporates near field communications, NFC, and RFID technology to support contactless playment and identification with mobility. ...

Nokia's 6131 mobile phone uses NFC and RFID technologies

... "Explore mobile weather and news by touching your phone to radio frequency identification (RFID) tags ... " ...


Via Nokia Europe: Nokia 6131 NFC

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Tuesday, November 06, 2007

Alien RFID European Implementations in Various Markets

European businesses are looking to differentiate themselves and gain efficiencies by applying RFID technology in their business processes. Here is evidence of the adoption as Alien gains customers in Europe in the food and retail industries. The companies are looking to increase the performance and responsiveness of their supply chains. ...

... "Penam, a leading bread producer in the Czech and Slovak republics, will use Alien tags and readers to track three hundred thousand crates throughout their supply chain. Additionally, Portuguese fashion retailer Throttleman, has specified Gen 2 Alien Squiggle inlays be used for the roll-out of its RFID pilot. " ...


Via Alien Tech: Czech Bread Producer and Portuguese Retailer Select Alien

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Saturday, July 14, 2007

RFID Fast Moving Consumer Goods

TOSHIBA TEC is working to demonstrate fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) in an integrated Supply Chain Management system, called the RFID EXPRESS POS Project. ...

RFID pilot by Toshiba TEC focuses on consumer goods

... "The TOSHIBA TEC set up consisted of a barcode printer at the manufacturing side to print RFID tags and the innovative RFID-driven Express POS terminal in the retail shop. The combination of barcode and RFID technologies allows a gradual integration of RFID into the retail organisation while at the same time protecting their ICT investment. " ...


Via TOSHIBA TEC: TOSHIBA TEC tests Supply Chain Management program for item-level RFID consumer goods

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Saturday, May 26, 2007

Europe RFID Poised For Growth

European RFID markets will grow in the near term and have to deal with rising volume of data generated by RFID devices. Middleware is the best means for addressing the data flow. Europe has location-specific issues that need to be considered in RFID middleware. ...

... "However, several issues which will present significant challenges for the European RFID middleware market remain. Some of the immediate challenges include meeting regulatory requirements such as Listen Before Talk (LBT), which are unique to Europe. In addition, to the Europe wide issues, certain countries such as France have dedicated frequencies in the UHF band for military and defence, which clash with RFID frequencies. " ...


Via Frost & Sullivan: RFID in Europe

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Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Metro Supplier RFID Tag Pilot

METRO Group's Tag It Easy! pilot uses Checkpoint RFID labels to manage the inbound supply-side of its supply chain in Asia to Germany. ...

... "The METRO Group expects that the RFID pilot will optimize efficiency and transparency in the international flow of goods. Access to more-accurate, real-time shipment data will help the retailer improve control over its international supply chain, resulting in lower warehousing costs and reduced out-of-stock situations.

METRO Group has standardized on UHF EPC Gen 2 tags for compliance to all regional requirements: 917 - 922 MHz for China; 920 - 925 MHz for Hong Kong; and 865.6 - 867.6 MHz for Europe. The RFID tags on the labels provided by Checkpoint will store the Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC), which will be read at several points along the supply chain from Hong Kong to Unna, Germany. The METRO Group will receive an electronic delivery note in advance of the shipment, detailing the container content. The supplier also benefits, by gaining detailed proof of package delivery. The pilot will run for three months, and the METRO Group expects to extend the project to include several other Asian suppliers at a future date if the concept proves to be feasible. " ...


METRO Group and Checkpoint Systems Partner to Help Suppliers Tag it Easy

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Monday, April 30, 2007

RFID Retail Enables Book Sales Growth

BGN, Boekhandels Groep Nederland, the Netherlands largest book retailer, selects Vue Technology's TrueVUE item level RFID infrastructure platform. This infrastructure enables BGN RFID initiative to create operational benefits and improve customer service. ...

... "As a leading adopter of item level RFID, BGN has already achieved success with the technology through a proof of concept deployment in two of its retail stores in the cities of Almere and Maastricht. Results have shown a 12% increase in sales, a significant decrease in receiving and inventory costs, a reduced risk of books being out of stock, and have provided BGN the ability to track which books are selling quickly and which haven't moved recently. As a result of this success, BGN has publicly announced it's commitment to rolling item level RFID across all of its retail locations. " ...


Via Vue Technology: Building upon initial proof-of-concept successes, the Netherlands largest book retailer selects Vue as it prepares for nationwide rollout

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Wednesday, April 18, 2007

RFID Tech Enables Lafinca Reebok Sports Club Customer Experience

LEGIC all-in-one-card goes well beyond access control for European sports club

The Reebok Sports Club La Finca leverages an efficient access control system, installed by LEGIC Identsystems' impolementation partner, Gantner Technologies. LEGIC's RFID contactless technology is installed at the Calle Serrano Reebok Club in Madrid. The LEGIC partnership is realizing benefits, through efficiency that resulted EUR70,000 in annual savings. Members benefit from simple access control, increased security, and the ability to obtain various services. The Club has implemented the contactless credentials for 6000 members using these form factors: fabric and plastic bracelet, a watch, and a card. Access turnstiles at the club support two readers (one for entry and one for exit). The company is able to better understand the customer experience at the club. ...

La Finca Reebok Sports Club in Madrid, Spain uses RFID access control to improve the customer service experience

... "But the services provided by the LEGIC all-in-one-card go well beyond mere access control. Members can use their contactless smartcard to reserve the locker they want, and they can purchase minutes in the sun cabin by using their LEGIC smart card. Lastly, the Club is about to install a new LEGIC based application on the all-in-one-card so that members do not need to worry about having small change and notes on them if they want to purchase food and drink in the Club's cafeteria, because they will be able to pay for it using their card or bracelet with integrated LEGIC chip. " ...


LEGIC RFID contactless smart card

Via LEGIC Identsystems AG: Reebok Sports Club La Finca opts for LEGIC technology at its sports facilities

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Monday, April 02, 2007

Government RFID Position

US and EU position on RFID technology is cautiously optimistic, with an eye toward protecting privacy. In order to enable efficient and effective commerce, governments appear willing to allow the technology to mature without the burden of legislation, at this time in the development lifecycle. ...

... "We were afraid the EU would mandate RFID legislation and would perhaps fail to understand where the technology was going. Instead, they took a step in the direction of monitoring the technology to prevent consumer harm. " ...


Via GCN: Commerce Dept, Robert Cresanti Interview

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Thursday, March 29, 2007

RFID Technology Goes Postal in Spain

Spanish Postal Service, Correos, deploys the RFID Anywhere platform in Europe. its implementation of a radio frequency control system, called Q-RFID, is in a number of Automated Processing Centers and bulk Admission Centers. The RFID technology deployment enables the company to drive quality control and traceability of deliveries. ...

RFID technology power Spain post office

... "Correos' successful implementation of one of the largest RFID projects in Europe highlights the potential of RFID solutions. The state-controlled company required its RFID solution to be integrated into the Correos computer systems, resulting in the purchase of 13,000 passive electronic labels and installation of more than 2,300 permanent antennas and over 331 readers for the 16 APCs and the additional Admission Centers. The RFID Anywhere-powered solution gives Correos the ability to monitor the status and transit time of a letter at each stage of the delivery process, allowing the company to oversee the entire process and adopt corrective measures when a fault is detected in the system. Correos is one of the earliest to use RFID technology to comply with the standards set by the European Union (ETSI EN 302 208-1 and EPC GEN 2) and to be approved at the state level by the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade. " ...


Via Sybase iAnywhere: Spanish Postal Service Deploys Sybase iAnywhere RFID Technology

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Thursday, March 15, 2007

European Perspective on RFID Technology

European Union provides results of regional survey on RFID technology. ...

... "RFID – smart radio tags - are the keystone of the emerging Internet of Things that will connect objects and places. " ...


Via European Union: Radio Frequency IDentification RFID - The Internet of things - European Perspective

EU Telecom Commissioner Viviane Reding discusses RFID technology

Survey reveals key findings, such as mixed views on the benefits of RFID, belief in a higher risk to privacy due to RFID, and a general lack of adequate information on RFID to support education of citizens. Europeans want to continue the dialogue on the privacy risks of RFID. ...

... "Overall, 60% of respondents feel that there is insufficient information available to make an informed analysis of RFID technologies. There is therefore considerable support for awareness and information campaigns. Views on whether RFID can improve the lives of Europeans are evenly split. The benefits mentioned include food safety (identification of allergens, more comprehensive information, easier product recalls), healthcare (prevention of drug misuse, authentication) or supply chain management (fewer stocks-out, better after sales service). Privacy, health and environmental risks are among the RFID concerns given." ...

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Sunday, March 04, 2007

Retail RFID Implementation: European Shoes

Checkpoint Systems enters into a strategic agreement with RENO, European shoe retailer. The agreement will enable an RFID source-tagging program and implementation at 700 retail locations across six countries with NDRF-based (New Digital Radio Frequency) RFID tagging system. The implementation will be completed in May. The RFID system will support reduction of shrinkage and improvement of the customer experience. ...

Checkpoint supports RENO implementation of RFID in the retail customer experience

... "Switching from EM to NDRF technology, RENO wants to further optimise both its market presence and its operational processes. To be successful in the shoe retail trade the goods have to be presented in the right way. As well as displaying shoes in pairs and in boxes, an open shop construction is also particularly important, says Konigs. With NDRF, the current aisle widths in the branches could be increased from 90 cm to 1.80 m and a more customer friendly entrance introduced. Further improvements in the business process include simpler deactivation of the tagged goods at the point of sale. The cashier transaction is sped up while it guarantees that no customer will leave the store with a tag that accidentally remains activated, thereby triggering a false alarm. RENO's decision for radio-frequency source tagging is a further step towards a uniform standard in security technology, not only in Germany, says Ulrich Schafer, Vice-President and General Manager NCE Unit, of Checkpoint Systems. For retailers, radio-frequency source tagging is the best option for reducing the costs of shrinkage. At the same time they are able to create a customer-friendly shopping atmosphere, which will help to boost sales. " ...


Via Checkpoint Systems: RENO Partners with Checkpoint Systems for Its Source Tagging Programme

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Saturday, February 24, 2007

RFID Internet of Things at EU Forum 2007

Upcoming European Union Forum on RFID will explore the internet of things. ...

Europe RFID conference will explore the concept of the internet of things ...

... "13 - 14 March 2007, Brussels, Belgium: The event calls for an identification of research needs from RFID towards the Internet of Things with respect to different application areas. The Forum also act as a platform to continue the dialogue with RFID stakeholders on a European level. The first conference stream is part of a series of meetings of the RFID Academic Convocation, driven by the Auto-ID Labs at MIT and being organised around the world to build collaboration across academic disciplines, institutional and geographic boundaries. " ...


Via European Information Society: The EU RFID Forum 2007

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Wednesday, January 17, 2007

Honda RFID Assemply Line: Critical Component Traceability

Honda and IBM will implement RFID technology in motorcycle manufacturing processes
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.

Honda and IBM collaborate on RFID technology implementation

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 ...

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Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Checkpoint RFID Metro Pilot Implementation Solves Technical Challenges

Checkpoint supports RFID pilot and implementation for Metro Group
Checkpoint Systems is involved in pilot of UHF RFID technology at METRO Group's Distribution Centres near Hamm, Germany, under supervision of the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) task group 34 (TG34). The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) plays a major role in the global standardization of Information and Communication Technologies. This pilot has been created to improve the read performance of RFID tags in a high-density UHF reading environment and validate the performance of portal dock door solutions. The successful pilot solves UHF RFID challenges and supports Metro's plan to implement RFID more broadly in 2007. The Metro RFID implementation is aimed at enhancing customer service and increasing the efficiency of its supply chain. METRO Group is an international retailing company with 2005 sales of EUR55.7 billion. The company has a headcount of about 250,000 employees and operates more than 2,200 outlets in 30 countries. ...

... "Utilizing equipment from numerous RFID suppliers in Europe and North America, Checkpoint served as a hardware integrator for the trials. In this capacity, Checkpoint helped with the design work for the hardware solution and procurement, configuration and installation of the 36 RFID-enabled dock door portals which were used to validate successful simultaneous operation of multiple dock doors using a 4-channel synchronized approach under the ETSI 302 208 standard. Pallets containing 62 individually tagged cases largely containing RFID unfriendly materials (such as cans, liquids and metal lined items) were simultaneously transported at warehouse speeds through 36 adjacent loading dock doors. Some 4.5 million individual reads were recorded over the course of the trials. Complying with the ETSI listen before talk (LBT) requirements, the tests achieved a 98.5%+ read rate simultaneously from multiple pallets as they were wheeled through the dock doors. " ...


Via Checkpoint Systems: Checkpoint Systems Partners with Metro Group to Successfully Deploy UHF RFID Dock Door Solution: 98.5%+ Read Rate Represents Milestone in European RFID Deployment ...

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Friday, December 15, 2006

RFID Drug Authentication eCustoms

RFID enables drug authentication in the value chain
IBM announces solution that provides ability to share and analyze real-time RFID sensor data to enable drug authentication and e-customs for clients in the pharmaceutical value chain. ...

... "The new technology, WebSphere RFID Information Center, is based on a recently completed EPCglobal standard called EPCIS, which provides a standard way to securely communicate the data created by sensors and RFID tags, and tie it to existing business information and trading partners. The growing trend of item-level tagging will create exponential growth in sensor data well beyond that generated from conventional barcode technology. This creates a need for a new way to manage this explosion of data in a manner that does not overwhelm a business and its supply chain partners. In addition to managing the massive amount of data RFID creates, two other barriers to widespread RFID adoption to date have been the lack of standards and data sharing capabilities. RFID Information Center solves all of these issues, clearing the way for wider-spread RFID adoption in various industries.

The IBM WebSphere RFID Information Center has already been successfully deployed for a number of early-adopter IBM clients across several industries, including consumer packaged goods company Unilever, the e-customs project ITAIDE in Europe, and Big Three pharmaceutical distributor AmerisourceBergen. " ...


Via IBM: IBM Enables Drug Authentication, E-Customs With Release of New RFID Technology ...

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Saturday, December 09, 2006

RFID Casino Gaming Chips: Holland Order

Philips Hitag RFID
Gaming Partners International receives order from Holland Casino for the Bourgogne et Grasset (B&G) brand of gaming chips. ...

... "The order, for over 950,000 gaming chips with denominations ranging from 2euro to 500euro, includes RFID 125KHz Hitag Vegas-S microchip embedded gaming chips, as well as non-RFID chips. The gaming chips, or casino currency, will be manufactured by the group's subsidiary, GPI SAS, in Beaune, France, with delivery expected before the end of 2006. " ...


Via Yahoo News: Gaming Partners RFID Chip Order

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Wednesday, November 29, 2006

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. ...

Metro will use Savi RFID technology in its Asian 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.

RFID readers will provide real-time visibility to Metro's supply chain throughout the Asia Pacific region

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

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Monday, November 27, 2006

RFID Reader: European Channel Strategy

SkyeTek uses the VAR approach as its channel strategy to Spain and Portugal. ...

SkyeTek targets European markets of Spain and Portugal with VAR channel strategy

... "SkyeTek, Inc., the leading provider of embedded RFID reader technology, announced the addition of a value added reseller (VAR) that will provide the company with a specialized sales, systems integration, and support presence in Spain and Portugal, one of the largest European markets for RFID. NextPoint Solutions will carry SkyeTek's M1, M2, and M9 HF and UHF reader modules. These reader modules are based on SkyeTek's simple common architecture and powerful ReaderWare software. " ...


Via SkyeTek: SkyeTek Signs Value Added Reseller to Serve Growing RFID Reader Markets in Europe

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Thursday, November 02, 2006

Savi RFID: China Ready

China State Radio Regulation Committee (SRRC), a division of the China Ministry of Information Industry, grants Savi Tech approval to implement its family of active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) products throughout the country. Savi's tags and readers are compatible with the ISO 18000-7 (International Standardization Organization) standard for active RFID products. ...

... "By approving Savi's hardware equipment, China has authorized the use of active RFID products compatible with ISO-18000-7. These product approvals in China, combined with similar prior approvals in North America, South America, Europe and Pacific Rim markets such as Australia, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, and Hong Kong, clearly show the solid support for the 433 MHz frequency as the worldwide choice for active RFID, Jennings said. Following extensive testing and document reviews, SRRC has issued Savi Technology a Radio Transmission Equipment Type Approval Certificate and Code for five of the company's flagship hardware products, including tags, readers and signposts. " ...


Via Savi Technology: SAVI TECHNOLOGY'S ACTIVE RFID SUPPLY CHAIN PRODUCTS APPROVED FOR USE IN CHINA ...

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Thursday, October 19, 2006

RFID Partnership Implement Location Tracking ...

Atos Origin and Globe Ranger partner to deliver RFID location tracking solution for FloraHolland to automate the auction inventory process. ...

FloraHolland uses RFID technology to support auction inventory tracking

... "Atos Origin and GlobeRanger, the leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), mobility and sensor-based software solutions, announced a strategic partnership that will offer innovative RFID services to the market. FloraHolland, the largest flower auction company in the world, is the first customer where their joint RFID solution is implemented. FloraHolland is a co-operation of flower and plant growers worldwide that had a turnover of over 2 billion Euros in 2005. Each day approximately 4,000 buyers (dealers and exporters) from around the world purchase fresh flowers in its international trade center, using 26 auction clocks online or using FloraHolland's direct sales force. FloraHolland houses flowers from approximately 7,000 growers worldwide. FloraHolland is a warehouse that is about the size of 100 football fields and one of the largest commercial warehouses in Europe. During the daily auctions, more than 100.000 trolleys of flowers are constantly being moved from one location to another for selling and shipping to the world wide customers. Atos Origin's implementation of GlobeRanger's iMotion solution for FloraHolland applies RFID technology to capture location data of flowers in moving trolleys, as well as to make this information available instantly for the auction's IT systems, and employees. RFID makes it possible to log all movements of every individual trolley and control the process. The trolleys and tractors have RFID tags and there are RFID loops embedded in the floor. " ...


Via Atos Origin: Atos Origin and GlobeRanger start implementation of innovative RFID solution at FloraHolland

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Wednesday, September 20, 2006

RFID Antenna Plater: Europe

European semicon manufacturer reports significant RFID order ...

Large RFID order in Europe ...

... "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 ...

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Wednesday, August 09, 2006

RFID Live Spain Military ...

Spain's military has gone-live with Savi RFID-enabled consignment management that is interoperable with other NATO forces for integrated supply chain visibility. ...

Spain military implements Savi RFID technology and is live with consignment management in the supply chain ...

... "The Spanish Armed Forces (SAF) now is up and running with an active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) network and software platform that can be interoperable with similar network solutions deployed by NATO and other allied defense forces. The compatible RFID networks provided by Savi Technology, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Corporation, now enable SAF and NATO to automatically track and manage national and multi-national, joint force consignments as they're transported through each other's far-reaching supply chains, extending through Europe, the Middle East and elsewhere worldwide. The RFID platform was installed through the Savi Consignment Management Solution (CMS), which consists of Savi SmartChain Site Manager, Savi SmartChain Enterprise Platform and Savi SmartChain Consignment Management Application. The solution also includes Savi's data-rich, active RFID tags, fixed readers and handheld reader kits based on Echopoint technology - a highly configurable system using dual frequencies for spot-level and wide-area locating of consignments and supply chain assets. " ...

Via Savi Technology: SPAIN'S MILITARY NOW UP AND RUNNING WITH SAVI TECHNOLOGY'S RFID-BASED CONSIGNMENT MANAGEMENT SOLUTION ...

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Saturday, July 22, 2006

RFID Europe Bridge Project ...

Europe organizes to leverage research in RFID technology. ...

... "The BRIDGE project will focus on business-based research, provision of information services and hardware (sensors, tags) and software development. This will lead to pilots, deployment and comprehensive training materials in the use of RFID in a variety of business sectors. The BRIDGE project will help make this happen by contributing to the development of new solutions for all businesses, from small to large. Improving skills and expertise on RFID technology and network information sharing will lead to enhanced competitiveness of European companies and to benefits to customer and citizen.

The BRIDGE project is funded under the FP6 Information Society Technologies (IST) work programme supporting research into the development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for Networked Businesses. The strategic objectives of FP6 are to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of industry and encourage its international competitiveness while promoting research activities in support of other EU policies. " ...

RFID Europe Bridge Project: A Consortium of 31 global organisations supported by the European Commission launches a three year project in RFID application research and development ...

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Monday, June 26, 2006

RFID Europe: Workplace Uses ...

Europe discussion on usage of RFID in the workplace ...
Union Network International joins the European debate on the use of RFID in the workplace. ...

... "We ourselves have recently undertaken an extensive study of the use and potential use of RFID (and, more broadly, on the implications of other technologies, such as GPS tracking) in the workplace. This study identifies some ways in which RFID can be used positively in the workplace context but it also identifies a number of areas of concern, some of which we feel are significant. We look forward to the opportunity to contribute our perspective to the debate. More generally, we would welcome the issues raised by RFID in the workplace being addressed in Europe through a process of active social dialogue. " ...

RFID Europe: Workplace Uses: Via UNI : UNI's letter to EU Commissioner Viviane Reding on RFID technology in Europe ...

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Thursday, May 18, 2006

RFID Wristband Bowling Alley ...

RFID-enabled wristband supports age verification in bowling alley ...
Bolwing lanes supported by RFID wristband for age, identification, and access control ...

... "PDC's AgeBand system electronically scans and verifies a patron's age/identification and instantly prints a wristband with pertinent patron information, including Age ID Verified 21. AgeBand is ideal for bowling venues that sell alcohol and need positive patron identification to quickly and easily identify a patron's age. " ...

RFID Wristband Bowling Alley: Via Precision Dynamics Corporation: Precision Dynamics Showcases AgeBand System and Visa Band Wristbands for Bowling Venues at the International Bowl Expo ...

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Wednesday, April 26, 2006

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 ...

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Sunday, April 02, 2006

Successful RFID Container Tracking Trial ...

OxLoc meets with success in global tracking of hazardous material containers using RFID asset management system. ...

... "The trial supports the growing need for monitoring location and condition of containers in transit and beyond the ship or the port. Based on GPS technology for location and GSM for data communication, the OxLoc asset alert is completely self-contained with a battery source capable of up to 3 year operation, can be installed within 15 minutes and is capable of supporting a range of sensors to monitor condition during transit and RFID readers for individual consignment tracking. " ...

Successful RFID Container Tracking Trial: Via OxLoc: Successful Global Trials for Container Tracking from USA, to Europe and the Far East ...

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006

RFID Radar: Europe Deployment ...

Trolley Scan deploys RFID radar in Europe. ...

... "Trolley Scan (Pty) Ltd, a Johannesburg, South Africa based developer of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technologies announced the delivery of the first commercialised version of an amazing new RFID technology that they have trademarked RFID-radar. The first clients are an IT company based in Europe. Said Mike Marsh, Managing Director of Trolley Scan - The delivery of the first RFID-radar system to our client in Europe, marks the end of a hectic six months of development. Just six months ago we stumbled by chance on a method of measuring the distance, with great accuracy and over long distances, that a signal travelled from a transponder back to a reader. We have had to build concept proving equipment, conduct extensive field tests and design the first version of the commercial equipment. The testing included 14000 range measurements to verify consistency and accuracy. " ...

RFID Radar: Europe Deployment: Via Trolley Scan: TROLLEY SCAN (SOUTH AFRICA) DELIVERS FIRST COMMERCIALISED RFID-RADAR SYSTEM ...

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Sunday, March 12, 2006

European RFID Reader

Symbol launches European RFID reader compliant with ETSI standards and based on Microsoft Windows CE OS. ...

... "The XR480 reader builds on Symbol's commercially proven XR400 RFID reader platform and supports the European ETSI 302-208 standard reliable read performance for today's industrial-scale RFID implementations. The XR480 also delivers Generation 2 (Gen 2) dense-reader mode operation which enables the flexibility to support the European standard as it evolves. The XR480 is the only commercially available EPC-compliant RFID reader approved for use in Europe to provide support for up to eight read points which helps decrease deployment complexity and increases flexibility. The Symbol XR480 is also the first commercially available EPC-compliant RFID reader in Europe based on the Windows CE operating system. By utilizing Microsoft's Windows CE operating system, the XR480 RFID reader enables seamless integration and interoperability with existing IT infrastructure while reducing the support costs associated with multi-platform environments. " ...

European RFID Reader: Via Symbol: Symbol Launches RFID Reader for Europe

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Thursday, March 09, 2006

RFID European Union Public Hearings ...

EU starts public hearings on RFID technology, hoping to spark debate abd understand issues. ...

... "The European Commission last year established an RFID inter-service group to co-ordinate the gathering, analysis and internal dissemination of information concerning RFID technology and its uses. Building on this, the Commission has started today to launch a wide public debate on the opportunities and challenges associated with RFID. To exploit the economic potential of RFID, privacy and consumer concerns associated with the use of RFID tags need to be handled constructively, with the assent of all stakeholders. Furthermore, to enable RFID to deliver on its potential for growth and jobs, Europe needs to agree on common technical standards, to ensure RFID interoperability across borders, and also on a common radio spectrum band for RFIDs to use. The public debate on RFID launched by the Commission today will rely on a series of workshops to build consensus on key issues associated with the use of RFID. These workshops will address RFID applications, end-user issues, interoperability and standards, and frequency spectrum requirements. They will take place in Brussels between March and June 2006 and their conclusions will assist the European Commission in drafting a working document on RFID. This document will be published in September in an online consultation. Additional feedback obtained will then be analysed and integrated in a Commission Communication on RFID, to be adopted before the end of the year. This feedback could lead to amendments of the e-privacy-Directive which is up for review this year. The Communication will also address the need for other legislative measures for RFID, such as decisions on allocation of spectrum. " ...

RFID European Union Public Hearings: Via EUROPA: Commission launches public consultation on radio frequency ID tags ...

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Friday, February 03, 2006

RFID Network Information Service ...

Savi Networks ramps up RFID information service in Asia ...

... "Savi Networks, operator of the RFID-enhanced global information service for container shipments, announced that SaviTrak information services is now fully operational at major port facilities in Asia. The SaviTrak information service that enables automated tracking, management, and security is now commercially available at two of the world’s busiest ocean terminals -- in Hong Kong and Shenzhen (China). Savi began developing the SaviTrak solution commercially in 2002 as a provider of networking technology to the Smart and Secure Tradelanes initiative, which included thousands of RFID-tagged container journeys from origins in Indonesia, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Germany and South Africa. The system was further refined in several other global transportation security initiatives, including the STAR BEST program conducted in cooperation with the Asia Pacific Economic Coalition (APEC) , and with the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) in a South Africa-to-Europe program. " ...

RFID Network Information Service: Via Savi Technology: SAVI NETWORKS EXTENDS RFID-ENHANCED SAVITRAK™ INFORMATION SERVICES TO PORTS IN HONG KONG AND CHINA: SaviTrak and RFID Network Infrastructure Now Fully Operational at Key Asian Ports to Track, Manage and Secure Global Container Shipments in Real-time ...

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Wednesday, January 25, 2006

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. "

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Monday, January 23, 2006

RFID Standards Workshop Europe ...

Upcoming RFID standards workshop in Europe ...

... "Workshop on Networked RFID: Systems and Services, 14-15 February 2006, ITU Headquarters, Geneva
Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) is the much-touted system that enables data to be transmitted by a tiny portable device, called a tag, which is read by an RFID reader and processed according to the needs of a particular application. Analysts predict that RFID will revolutionize areas of industry including supply chain management, security and mobile telecommunication services. Additionally, RFID is expected to play an important role in the realization of the Ubiquitous Network Society. All this will create a yet unquantified demand on telecommunication networks. " ...

RFID Standards Workshop Europe: ITU Workshop to Survey RFID Standards ...

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Tuesday, January 10, 2006

RFID Savings Program: Discounted Rates ...

... "The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) announced a new program designed to help member companies implement Radio Frequency Identification technology (RFID) and save money at the same time. AAFA has signed an agreement with Avery Dennison – Retail Information Services, a leading supplier of labels, tickets, and tags to the Apparel & Footwear industry, to provide sharply discounted rates for RFID labels to AAFA member companies. These rates are available exclusively to AAFA members who are producers and providers of apparel and footwear products. Under the agreement, Avery Dennison will provide Gen 1 RFID labels as well as the new Gen 2 AD-220 label. AAFA members that need to meet RFID requirements can use these labels for shipments to customers such as WalMart, Target, and the Department of Defense. Minimum orders can be as low as 5,000 labels. " ...

RFID Savings Program: Discounted Rates: Via American Apparel and Footwear Association: AAFA and Avery Dennison Launch New RFID Savings Program (RSP) for AAFA Members ...

Avery Dennison - Retail Information Services provides a global offering of information management, brand identification and solution-enabling products. Brand identification products include woven and printed fabric labels, heat transfers, graphic tags, integrated bar code tags, leather patches, sock bands, size stickers . . . and more. Among the company's Information management products are RFID and bar code price tickets, and carton and pallet labels; webenabled order entry systems; and the InfoChain Express supply chain management solution. Solution enabling products include RFID printers and print/apply systems, bar-code printers, heat-transfer bonders, molded plastic fastening and application devices, anti-counterfeiting and diversion tools. The organization operates ticketing centers and service bureaus in 35 countries and maintains mature, highly reliable global distribution processes throughout Asia, North and South America, Europe and Africa. Avery Dennison Corporation is a Fortune 500 company and member of EPCglobal.

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Wednesday, December 28, 2005

RFID Visibility Solution for Supply Chain

TNT Express will implement Xterprise’s TraX Visibility, a real-time supply chain execution solution. The system will track high value electronics movement in the supply chain from China to Europe. The solution was piloted in 2004 and will now be expanded. ...

... "Phase II involves deployment of an enhanced TraX Release 2.0 application with multi-stakeholder enterprise system integration, including SAP. In addition, the solution will enable streamlining and higher accuracy sorting at the TNT facilities in Europe and enable Item-level shipment visibility for supply network partners. TraX 2.0 is expected to improve TNT customer service through a higher fidelity Track and Trace features which allows for better inventory planning and management and more accurate shipping performance, resulting in a value-added service offerings to TNT’s customer base. Xterprise technology partners in the project included Alien, Zebra Technologies and Apriso. The introduction of the latest RFID tag antenna designs and new multi-static European RFID readers both from Alien increased the read reliability dramatically. Tests have shown up to 100% read performance of a full pallet of notebooks as they are unloaded through the Xterprise XPort™ RFID reader portals in multiple locations throughout Europe. Xterprise’s TraX RFID enhanced visibility application, built on Apriso’s Flexnet SOA platform, enables customers, suppliers and logistics service providers to view real-time status of shipments around the globe. " ...


RFID Visibility Solution for Supply Chain: Via Xterprise: TNT Express Deploys Xterprise TraX Real-Time RFID Visibility Solution for China-Europe Supply Chain ...

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Saturday, December 17, 2005

DataRich Active RFID: Nato SupplyChain ...

NATO awards Savi contract to sustain operations of its RFID-based network, built to track the supply chain between Europe and Afghanistan. ...

... "The contract followed a year-long assessment of the RFID backbone Savi deployed for NATO. The contract calls for purchase of additional data-rich active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags and readers as well as network wide software enhancements to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) supply chain, stretching from the Netherlands and Germany through Uzbekistan to Kabul in Afghanistan.

The contract calls for purchase of additional data-rich active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags and readers as well as network wide software enhancements to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) supply chain, stretching from the Netherlands and Germany through Uzbekistan to Kabul in Afghanistan.

The new NATO contract calls for additional units of Savi’s readers (Savi Reader SR-650) to be placed at key transportation nodes along the ISAF Network, more Savi tags (ST-654) to be affixed to containers and air pallets, and for a network wide software upgrade to CMS 1.0, which will be hosted at NC3A’s facility in The Hague, Netherlands, where CMS will interface with the NATO LOGFAS Logistics IT system. " ...

DataRich Active RFID: Nato SupplyChain: Via Savi Technology: NATO AWARDS SAVI TECHNOLOGY A NEW CONTRACT FOR RFID NETWORK UPGRADES TO TRACK DEFENSE CONSIGNMENTS: Savi’s New SmartChain® Consignment Management Solution Brings Real-Time Visibility of Joint Force, Multi-National Shipments from Europe to Afghanistan ...

Additional references on the NATO RFID supply chain network:

Focus on DLA: "In fact, asset tracking has become a NATO interest item with the recognition of the inability of traditional materiel management techniques to trace individual assets accurately. The 1998 NATO Ministerial Guidance prioritized the achievement of a common standard asset tracking system through the establishment of the Asset Tracking Interservice Working Group. "

International Asset Tracking & Materials Handling Standardization: "The aim of NATO standardization is to enhance the Alliance's operational effectiveness, achieve the closest practicable cooperation among forces, and to improve efficiency in the use of available resources. LOGSA PSCC supports NATO standardization under the NATO Standardization Agency for asset tracking and materials handling as to increase multinational force compatibility (MFC). As our defense resources diminish, we can make more efficient use of resources through MFC. Our prime goal is to establish Standardization Agreements (STANAGs), which are agreements among several or all 19 member nations to adopt like or similar military equipment, ammunition, supplies, and stores; and operational, logistic, and administrative procedures. "

Supply Chain Systems Transformation - Portfolio Management - Milestones: "IUID STANAG ratification by NATO Asset Tracking Working Group"

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Sunday, December 04, 2005

Library RFID: New Zealand Town Leads ...

Manukau city in New Zealand leads in the application of RFID in libraries and expects to increase adoption. ...

Library RFID: New Zealand Town Leads: Via Stuff.co.nz: Wider use of RFID likely in libraries ...

... "RFID pioneer Manukau City Council will consider extending its use of the much talked about technology so it can electronically track books in all its libraries. Libraries manager Chris Szekely says a study of Botany Downs Library, which became the first in New Zealand to introduce RFID (radio frequency identification technology) in October last year, supports the move. " ...

The use of RFID in library processes can have a positive impact on quality, throughput, and efficiency. ...

Via ALA: Richard W. Boss on RFID Technology for Libraries ...

... "RFID security and the tracking of materials throughout the library; or it is a hybrid system that uses EM for security and RFID for tracking, but handles both simultaneously with a single piece of equipment. [3M has developed readers that can do both concurrently except for videotapes and audiotapes. These have to be desensitized and sensitized in a separate operation]. In either case, there can be as much as a 50 percent increase in throughput. The time savings are less for charging than for discharging because the time required for charging usually is extended by social interaction with patrons. " ...

Vendors that focus on RFID library systems continue to innovate in the field. ...

Via Bibliotecha RFID Library System: New RFID Handheld Reader improves mobile inventory control ...

... "The data exchange via radio waves provides new possibilities for a mobile inventory control. Bibliotheca RFID Library Systems has now developed a specific RFID handheld reader – called BiblioWandTM – which can be used to maintain the complete inventory in the shelves. For the reader, there is no difference in the processing of books, VHS cassettes, CDs and DVDs. Only the attachment of all material with programmed BiblioChip® RFID labels is required. " ...

There will be challenges in the deployment of RFID in library applications, such as the facility, the age of the collection, and other environmental considerations. ...

Via Libramation: Libramation's RFID technology protects the valuable collection of the Zottegem Library ...

... "The introduction of RFID technology in the Castle a decade later posed unique challenges. Building elements like stone flooring made the physical installation problematic. Melding new technology into the interior design of the library was a high priority. Finally, the new system would need to be flexible, easy to use and adhere to international technology standards. The Libramation solution (installed by Kno-Tech, its sister company in Europe) exceeded all expectations. " ...

Here are a few vendors that specialize in RFID library applications. ...

Bibliotheca is specialized in designing, producing and marketing of RFID systems that is hard- and software for library automation and media security. In Europe the BiblioChip® System is the Number One RFID Library System. Bibliotheca was formed to exclusively focus on the needs of librarians. The BiblioChip® RFID Library System is the result of what librarians have requested.

Libramation is positioned as a leader in library automation equipment technology and ergonomic work environments. We take pride in knowing that our systems and service are continually evolving to meet the needs and expectations of our clients. With its new office in Utah Libramation continues to expand its sales and marketing efforts in the United States. Libramation headquarters is in Edmonton Alberta Canada and has a sister company, Kno-Tech, the Netherlands. The company's contemporary and functional automation products have progressed from front of the house Easy-Check units, to automated return and sorting systems, and our latest, the Lib-Chip RFID Library and Self Check solutions. Libramation systems are in use at libraries in Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin and throughout Canada.

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Sunday, November 27, 2005

FCC Enables RFID Odin Tech ...

Odin Tech receives permission from FCC to test RFID at a full range of global frequencies. ...

FCC Enables RFID Odin Tech: Via ODIN Technologies: FCC Grants ODIN technologies Restricted RFID Testing: ODIN's US lab will test Global Frequencies for multinationals ...

... "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted ODIN technologies broad ranging licenses to test RFID equipment in frequencies that are restricted in the United States. The FCC regulates the maximum power of unlicensed frequencies in the U.S. (such as the UHF ISM band used by most RFID systems) to one watt per cannel and does not allow operation in frequencies required for RFID use in Europe and Japan. However, ODIN technologies laboratory is no longer under these restrictions. With the new site licenses ODIN is permitted to test in frequencies ranging from 864 MHz up to 956 MHz spectrum utilizing up to 8 watts of power. " ...

ODIN can use a full range of frequencies to test at its RFID lab ...

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Tuesday, November 15, 2005

RFID SupplyChain Visibility Security ...

Universal Guardian sees increased revenue from new products, such as its RFID-enabled global supply chain visibility and security system. ...

RFID SupplyChain Visibility Security: Universal Guardian Records 5th Consecutive Quarterly Revenue Increase and Largest Quarterly Revenue to Date ...

... "We also launched our ISR Systems Trusted Shipper™ global supply chain security program with two new ground-breaking systems: The SupplyChain Guardian™ source-based RFID global supply chain security and visibility system and the Container Guardian™ integrated and interoperable internal container tracking system. " ...


ISR Systems, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Universal Guardian Holdings, Inc., provides multi-level secure, security systems that facilitate surveillance, threat detection and tracking to protect inter-modal transportation, seaport and airport facilities, and critical infrastructure from asymmetrical terrorist and security threats. ISR turn key sourced-based SupplyChain Guardian™ RFID systems and Container Guardian™ systems provide increased supply chain efficiencies, visibility and security with automated monitoring and decision support from command and control centers in North America, Europe and Asia to coordinate notification to shippers, customers and tactical responses among multiple agencies to interdict or respond to potential security threats.

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Saturday, November 12, 2005

RFID Growth Europe 5BnEuro ...

Recent market research shows growth of RFID technology in Europe to cross 5Bn Euro mark in 2007. ...

RFID Growth Europe 5BnEuro: Via RNCOS: The burgeoning RFID R&D centers across Europe

... "RFID has recently generated large-scale interest in Europe. This region has seen substantial research and development processes undertaken by a large number of RFID and contact less application vendors and developers. Nordic and Scandinavian regions are also characterized by a credible market for RFID. The new report, RFID Industry (2005-2007) - An Update (Insight to European Market), published by RNCOS, a renowned market research firm, provides a comprehensive coverage of the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, as the projects related to RFID technology have begun to thrive in various markets such as retail, transportation, pharmaceuticals, and livestock. The expert team of RNCOS has examined the changes occurring in the business processes and market sizes in the European RFID industry. Market analysis shows that RFID spending on hardware, software, and services in Europe is estimated to cross 5bn Euro in 2007. The major reason being the adoption of latest technology by the firms to ensure an efficient RFID supply chain model. " ...

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Wednesday, November 09, 2005

RFID Technology: Healthcare Pharma Recognition for Tagsys ...

TagSys RFID technology recognized for differentiation in healthcare and pharmaceutical capabilities. ...

RFID Technology: Healthcare Pharma Recognition for Tagsys: Via TAGSYS RFID: Press Releases

... "Frost & Sullivan's recent research service, World RFID in Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Markets, selected TAGSYS, one of the key players in item-level RFID infrastructure, as the recipient of the 2005 Product Quality Innovation Award for its end-to-end, reliable, accurate and secure (R.A.S) RFID solutions in the pharmaceutical sector. With an emphasis on delivering high quality products, TAGSYS' attention to quality testing has ensured the successful deployment of the company's products across various research institutes, laboratories, and hospitals in Europe. " ...

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RFID Patient Wristbands: Effieicnt European Hospital Care: Instant Information Availability ...

Zebra Technologies Europe Ltd launches RFID patient identification wristbands in Europe that will enable nursing staff efficiency gains in hospitals by enabling immediate access to information. ...

RFID Patient Wristbands: Effieicnt European Hospital Care: Instant Information Availability; Via Zebra: Next-generation patient wristbands to improve hospital care: Nursing staff use intelligent tagging to verify patient needs quickly and easily

... "Scanning a barcode or RFID tag in a patient’s wristband will quickly retrieve a range of information assigned to the individual patient, whether they are receiving medication, having a blood transfusion or giving a sample. As a result, nursing staff will immediately have bedside access to patient details and exact prescriptions without having to interpret a doctor’s handwriting or search hospital records to clarify medication instructions. Zebra believes that the wristbands will dramatically reduce the 200,000 medication errors each year in the NHS2. In addition, patient identification is rising up the agenda of UK hospitals as they are now legally required to comply with the EU Directive 2002/98/EC, which sets standards of quality and safety for the collection, testing, processing, storage and distribution of human blood and blood components. Zebra’s wristband and printer range deliver a simple means of identifying patients throughout the blood transfusion process. " ...


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Friday, October 28, 2005

RFID Sweden National Electronic Passport Initiative ...

RFID support the Swedish Police Department in their national electronic passport initiative. ...

RFID Sweden National Electronic Passport Initiative: Via Arcontia: ACG ID and Arcontia roll out the new passport reader chosen by the Swedish Police Department: 320 contactless readers will form the backbone of the Swedish Police Department’s electronic passport infrastructure ...

... "ACG Identification Technologies, a leading component and technology supplier in the smart card and RFID markets, and Arcontia AB, a contactless smart card reader supplier in RFID markets, announce that their customized passport readers were chosen by Setec and the Swedish Police Department for use within the country’s nationwide electronic passport project. In total, 320 units were installed in local police stations across the country to be used by citizens when collecting their newly issued electronic passports. " ...


ACG Identification Technologies is an independent component and technology supplier serving the entire value chain of smart card and RFIDbased systems. Headquartered in Walluf (Germany), ACG has 21 locations throughout Europe, the Americas, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa. Arcontia has been active in the RFID technology since 1996 and is today a developer of a comprehensive range of contactless smart card readers and terminals, complying with ISO14443 A/B and MIFARE standards. The product range addresses e-ticketing and e-government markets as well as the supply chain management and logistics market. Local office is based in Gothenburg, Sweden.

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Wednesday, October 19, 2005

Toyota RFID Project: Accelerated Processes ...

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

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

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


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

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

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Monday, October 17, 2005

RFID CEO Presents Europe Conference ...

RFID CEO Presents Europe Conference: Via TAGSYS RFID: TAGSYS CEO To Present To World IT and Business Leaders At The Exclusive European Technology Roundtable Exhibition (ETRE) 2005 ...

... " ... international audience of IT and business leaders will learn about how TAGSYS item-level RFID technology is helping customers to protect brand identity, automate-labor intensive processes, authenticate and safeguard goods, and enable real-time inventory and asset visibility. Using customer examples in the pharmaceutical and retail fashion sectors, Simon will emphasize the importance of establishing a clear business case and achieving measurable ROI.

WHO: Elie Simon, CEO of TAGSYS
WHEN: Monday, October 17, 2005 from 2:45 to 2:57 pm

WHERE: InterContinental, Athenaeum IC Athens, Greece " ...

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Tuesday, October 04, 2005

RFID Sense Respond Demand Signals ...

RFID Sense Respond Demand Signals: Via One Network Enterprises: On Demand Supply Chain Solutions and Network Applications ...

... "Food Lion is utilizing One Network Shipment Execution and Appointment Scheduling. The solution includes visibility and the advanced functionality needed to both sense and respond to demand signals, a vital requirement in creating a demand-driven network. " ...


Food Lion LLC is a subsidiary of Delhaize America, the U.S. division of Brussels-based Delhaize Group (NYSE: DEG). Food Lion operates more than 1,220 stores and employs approximately 70,000 associates, delivering great prices, neighborly convenience and quality products to its customers, in 11 Southeast and Mid-Atlantic states. Food Lion stores offer more than 28,000 different products.

One Network is the pioneer of next generation solutions for dynamic supply networks. The company delivers an advanced process-centric software architecture, robust supply network process templates and leading-edge mobile/RFID devices. The solution is delivered via an on-demand network, transforming slow moving, linear supply chains into responsive, adaptive supply networks. One Network is headquartered in Dallas, Texas and has offices in the United States and Europe.

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Tuesday, September 13, 2005

Second Generation RFID Solutions Partnership Drives Adoption ...

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

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

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RFID Intelligent Networking Foundation ...

RFID Intelligent Networking Foundation: Via Cisco: Cisco Delivers an Intelligent Networking Foundation for RFID Solutions to Help Enterprises Optimize Business Application Performance

Cisco launches the RFID Intelligent Networking Foundation ...

... "Cisco announced an Intelligent Foundation for Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to help enterprises introduce RF technologies into the supply chain to increase visibility into product information and optimize business flow for lower operating costs. The most agile, scalable and highly secure RFID solution portfolio offered in the industry, the Cisco RFID Solution delivers integrated RFID capabilities and the support that enterprises need to optimize available network capacity and simplify RFID infrastructure deployment. " ...


The Cisco AON for RFID Solution has a U.S. list price of $16,250 and is scheduled to ship in October 2005 in the U.S., Europe, the Middle East and Africa and in the second half of FY06 in Asia, Japan and emerging markets. Cisco services for RFID are available now worldwide. Cisco Wireless LAN Location Solution Planning and Design Services are currently available in the U.S., Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The Cisco 2700 Wireless Location Appliance has a U.S. list price of $14,995 and has been shipping worldwide since June 2005.

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