RFID Manages Metro Shrinkage

Metro partners with Checkpoint to implement RFID source tags to reduce shrinkage across a significant number of stores across multiple countries. ...

... "The strategic agreement, which includes worldwide store installation of NDRF (New Digital Radio Frequency) technology and source tagging, will help METRO Cash & Carry to minimize shrinkage and reduce operational costs by using only one supplier, Checkpoint Systems, and implement source tagging, with the ultimate aim of improving their customers' shopping experience. Installation of 3G NDRF (called Liberty PX in North America) antennas and deactivators is planned for the more than 425 Cash & Carry self-service wholesale stores in 28 countries, making it the most international EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) roll out of its kind. The global shrink management solution provides METRO Cash & Carry (under METRO and MAKRO brand names), with product protection throughout the entire supply chain, from manufacturing and distribution to the point of sale, where the RF tags on the item are deactivated. This eliminates the need for employees to spend time physically securing the tags in-store or removing them at point of sale. " ...

Via Checkpoint Systems: METRO Cash & Carry Selects Checkpoint Systems as Their Exclusive Shrink Management Global Partner

RFID Enterprise Service Upgrade ...

BEA WebLogic RFID product family is a component of the BEA's service oriented architecture. RFID Enterprise Server 2.0 is available for download. The RFID system's event repository is interoperable with the Electronic Product Code Information Services (EPCIS) standards. ...

... "A core component of the BEA WebLogic RFID product family, BEA WebLogic RFID Enterprise Server is designed to help enable central management of RFID data collected at the edge of an enterprise, i.e. inside a retail store, warehouse or data center. With enhanced support for industry standards and Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA), the 2.0 release of BEA WebLogic RFID Enterprise Server provides a suite of six services that can help manage and coordinate RFID data and edge operations globally. BEA WebLogic RFID Enterprise Server 2.0 complements the BEA WebLogic Edge Server and BEA WebLogic Compliance Express products, and is designed to make it easier to bridge the gaps between people, processes, applications and systems across enterprise and trading partners. BEA WebLogic RFID Enterprise Server 2.0 can provide customers unprecedented visibility into product movement data, and is designed to help enable them to derive business value more quickly from RFID data collected at the edge. " ...

Via BEA Systems: BEA Strengthens RFID Infrastructure Software for Enterprise-Grade Deployments ...

Hospital RFID: High Value Asset Management ...

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

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

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

RFID Library Applications: Shenzhen and NOLA ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RFID Shelf Edge Management ...

Vue, Pricer, and IBM collaborate to deliver RFID technology that supports shelf edge management. ...

... "Vue Technology, the leading provider of item level RFID solutions, and Pricer AB, the leading supplier of electronic display and information systems, announced that they have collaborated with IBM to provide retailers with a breakthrough solution for RFID enabled shelf edge management. The new solution leverages real time item level data collected via RFID to expand the use of electronic shelf labels (ESLs) beyond static price and stock displays. The new innovation will be on display in IBM's booth at the Retail Systems 2006 Conference & Exposition, May 22-24. The shelf-edge management solution enables retailers to consistently deliver the right item level inventory information to their store associates and customers; and for suppliers it is an opportunity to ensure that their new products are not sitting in the store back room. Through the integration of Vue Technology's TrueVUE RFID Platform, Pricer's integrated ESL solution, and IBM's Store Integration Framework, retailers can now cost effectively deploy a seamless solution for item-level inventory tracking and shelf-level management. Displaying critical retail store information directly at the shelf edge enhances the overall customer experience while reducing out-of-stocks and increasing sales.

With critical item level retail information now available at the shelf edge, through the integration of RFID and ESL technology via IBM's Store Integration Framework, sales associates can quickly and efficiently identify exact inventory needs and expedite restocking while business operations staff can remotely monitor inventory levels across stores and generate critical inventory alerts. At the same time, the TrueVUE RFID Platform provides visibility for the IT operations staff to remotely monitor and maintain the RFID network. " ...

RFID Shelf Edge Management: Via Vue Technology: Vue Technology and Pricer AB Team with IBM to Deliver Breakthrough in Shelf Edge Management for Retail ...

RFID: RealTime Promotion Execution

OatSystems and ADT combine to deliver a real-time promotion execution process, enabled by RFID technology. RFID applied to the execution of promotions, help track the inventory used in promotions in real-time and create immediate feedback for marketers. ...

... "OATSystems, Inc. and ADT, a unit of Tyco Fire & Security, announced a proof of ROI program designed to validate the return on investment from standards-based RFID-enabled promotions and ignite the next phase of RFID deployments. Together with Intel Corporation, the companies will provide RFID hardware, software and services necessary for a 10 store retail deployment to help retailers track promotional products and provide critical information back to suppliers such as Proctor & Gamble and Kimberly-Clark. To help validate the ROI, an independent academic institution of the retailer's choosing will establish the parameters of the study, monitor control stores and deliver a final report on the ROI.

Trade promotion spending by manufacturers is a massive budget item, representing 12%-15% of sales for most companies. Unfortunately, study after study and the day-to-day experiences of manufacturers and retailers show that the returns on trade promotions are far less than satisfactory. Real-time Promotion Execution (RPE) is a new, RFID-centric business process that can help consumer products manufacturers and retailers to dramatically increase promotion effectiveness which may result in increased promotional sales, decreased execution costs, and greater shopper satisfaction. According to Cheryl Perkins, senior vice president and chief innovation officer for Kimberly-Clark, RFID technology can be used as a business tool to help deliver greater value to K-C and its retail customers.

RPE uses RFID-tagged displays and promotion product cases to measure in-store promotion execution by tracking where and when the displays and promotion inventory are in the store. Manufacturers and retailers can track when the items reach the store, when they're moved to the sales floor, and how long they are there - all in near-real time. This information is then integrated across many stores and manipulated with powerful analytic tools. Illustrated by the recently released MIT study on RFID-based promotions, this enables a new business process that is cost-effective and dramatically increases promotion sell-through, correction of poor in-store execution and promotion intelligence, and lowers the cost of promotions management. " ...

Via OATSystems: OATSystems and ADT Announce Promotions-on-Standards Program to Ignite RFID ROI: Leaders Rally Retailers and Suppliers to Validate ROI in Standards-Based Real-time Promotions Execution ...

RFID Research Lab ...

RFID research lab at Kimberly-Clark ...

... "Research is a key facet of the work being done at K-C, Perkins said. She pointed to the company's RFID lab, which is developing and using technology to help track K-C products from the manufacturing facility to the store shelves. " ...

RFID Research Lab: Via Post Crescent: Kimberly-Clark's Valley presence still strong: After potential cuts, firm will employ 4,400 locally ...

RFID Discover Wall: Product Information Pieces ...

Umpqua Bank plans RFID-enabled product information pieces built into its RFID Discover Wall concept. ...

... "In addition, Umpqua's neighborhood stores will feature a Discover Wall. This one-of-a-kind interactive, multi-screen display covers an entire store wall and will deliver a choreographed video experience to customers. Using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags embedded in product information pieces, the Discover Wall will respond to areas of customer interest with personalized information and direct customers to more in-depth information and financial tools on nearby tablet PCs and displays. For example, if a customer is interested in buying a home, the Discover Wall will present information about area home prices, and Umpqua's available mortgage products. The neighborhood store concept grew from Umpqua's belief that it's possible to create community and foster connections between businesses, organizations and consumers by offering a thoughtful combination of products, services, information and resources. The stores are an extension of Umpqua's commitment to community banking. " ...

RFID Discover Wall: Product Information Pieces: Via Umpqua Bank: Umpqua Bank Unveils New Store Concept: Neighborhood Store Design Revolutionizes Approach to Construction and Cost, Enhances Customer Experience ...

Umpqua Bank, headquartered in Roseburg, Ore., is a subsidiary of Umpqua Holdings Corporation and has 95 locations between Sacramento, Calif. and Bellevue, Wash., along the Oregon and Northern California Coast and in Central Oregon. Umpqua Bank's hometown is Roseburg, Ore., where it was established in 1953. Recently recognized as the most admired banking services company in Oregon by Oregon executives, and by BusinessWeek magazine as one of the "best ideas" of 2005, Umpqua Bank continues to gain attention for its innovative customer experience. Umpqua Holdings also owns retail brokerage subsidiary Strand, Atkinson, Williams & York, Inc., which has locations in Umpqua Bank stores and in dedicated offices throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. Umpqua Bank's Private Client Services Division provides tailored financial services and products to individual customers. Umpqua Holdings Corporation is headquartered in Portland, Ore.

RFID Real-Time Demand Insight

Blue Agave partners to provide RFID-enabled real-time insight into product demand. ...

... "Blue Agave Software, Inc., a provider of software solutions for improving replenishment, demand management and fulfillment execution, and VeriSign, the leading provider of intelligent infrastructure services for the Internet and telecommunications networks announced a strategic relationship to promote the benefits of integrating real-time RFID product movement data and Point-of-Sale (POS) data from VeriSign's Intelligent Supply Chain Services platform into Blue Agave's Retail Channel Execution applications. The combined solution can provide consumer goods manufacturers with real-time insight into actual consumer demand down to the most granular levels of store and product (SKU) sales, along with the predictive execution capabilities necessary to respond effectively to variability in consumer demand. In the $800 billion retail marketplace, consumer goods manufacturers are continuously seeking to improve visibility and collaboration around critical sales and operational processes. Advancements in technology are driving new levels of information availability to both consumer goods companies and their retail partners, including product movement data from RFID and POS data. Retail Channel Execution applications make this data actionable, enabling decision-makers to respond rapidly to changes in consumer demand in order to preempt revenue-impacting issues like out of stock, excess inventories, forecast variances, promotion variances, and store-level anomalies. " ...

Via Blue Agave Software: Blue Agave Software and Retail Solutions Team Up ...

RFID Competency Center ...

Click Commerce creates RFID competency center to showcase the use of RFID technology in the extended enterprise ...

... "Click Commerce, Inc., a leading provider of on-demand supply chain management solutions, announces the opening of its radio frequency identification (RFID) Competency Center. Located at company headquarters in Chicago, the RFID Competency Center showcases how RFID enhances Click Commerce solutions. In addition, the Center showcases the next-generation extended enterprise with solution demonstrations. The Competency Center features the Intelligent Supply Chain, a RFID solution created by Click Commerce and Vue Technology, a leading provider of item-level RFID. This demonstration tracks the movement of inventory through a multi-tier supply chain from manufacturing through distribution to the retail store shelf. Item, case, and pallet level RFID tagging is used to provide inventory visibility and management across the supply chain. This visibility and control increases supply chain agility and accuracy, allowing inventory to be pulled through the network based on real-time demand conditions to avoid stock-outs. Within the distribution center, RFID drives labor productivity and accuracy by automatically sensing inventory throughout the warehouse, eliminating labor associated with check-in, bar code scans, and cycle counts. The resulting benefits of the Intelligent Supply Chain include fewer lost sales, increased customer service levels, and lower supply chain costs. " ...

RFID Competency Center: Via Click Commerce: Click Commerce Unveils RFID Competency Center

RFID Jewelry Inventory Management ...

De Grisogno implements Tagsys RFID for inventory management in its extended supply chain ...

... "TAGSYS, the global leader in item-level RFID infrastructure, announced that Geneva-based watchmaking and jewelry company de GRISOGONO has adopted the company’s RFID track and trace solution for inventory management across its stores worldwide. Under the terms of the rollout, the luxury retailer will utilize TAGSYS' Reliable, Accurate and Secure (R.A.S.) High-Frequency RFID readers and tags in its efforts to reduce theft and minimize loss of its valuable jewels and watches. The project begins immediately in the company's Paris and Geneva branches, with future deployments in the company's European, Asia-Pacific and North American outposts, expected at the rate of one store every two months. De GRISOGONO initially considered the use of traditional bar codes as a means to track individual items, such as gems, from its distribution center through the shipment process to the retail shop. However, the threat of theft or loss of assets required the deployment of a near errorless tracking technology. By leveraging the tagging capabilities of TAGSYS' RFID jewelry application, developed in conjunction with system integrator SOLID, the accessories company has enabled a real-time RFID-based detection system that monitors stock location at any point in the supply chain. " ...

RFID Jewelry Inventory Management: Via TAGSYS RFID: De GRISOGONO Finds a Gem of an Inventory Management Solution With SOLID and TAGSYS Item-Level RFID Jewelry Application: Item level track and trace technology minimizes threat of theft, loss and counterfeiting of luxury accessories ...

RFID-Enabled Shopping Cart ...

Fujitsu and partners collaborate on an RFID shopping cart prototype. ...

... "Now, that's possible with the super electronic shopping cart that comes loaded with an RFID scanner, an LCD screen, all hooked to a kart for purchasing up at the register. You never have to ask for assistance about how much something costs, or maybe even the location of products in the store - if the technology includes a search feature. " ...

RFID-Enabled Shopping Cart: Via DLMag: Shop Smart, Literally

RFID Enabled Customer Card ...

NEC Solutions Asia Pacific Pte Ltd launches the first-of-its-kind RFID-enabled customer card (NECare Customer Card) which will improve customers' experience. NECare Customer Card will store relevant details of customer's purchase, warranty, and service records. The details are maintained in the central database for quick retrieval. ...

... "With the incorporation of NEC's Ubiquitous Can Change concept and the utilisation of advanced RFID technology, NEC is proud to be the first in to introduce RFID-enabled customer-centric card. The advent of the NECare Customer Card marks another milestone in the customer-centric approach to our business for which we have always been recognised in the IT market. It also speaks volumes of our commitment to customer care, said Mr. David Ng, Senior Vice President, Business Services Group, NEC Solutions Asia Pacific. " ...

RFID Enabled Customer Card: Via NEC Solutions Asia Pacific: NEC launches first-of-its-kind RFID-enabled customer card, NECare Customer Card: Instant identification and prompt service for card holders at NECare Centre ...

Retail RFID: View Product Movement in Supply Chain ...

BEA has released the software solution, AquaLogic High-Performance (HiPer) Workspace for Retail, which is a closed-loop notification and task management product for improving store operations. Using RFID technology, AquaLogic HiPer Workspace for Retail allows retail store managers to consistently execute company objectives at the highest quality, communicate their store performance and share best practices. ...

... "Deployed along with BEA's WebLogic RFID Edge Server and WebLogic RFID Enterprise Server, the AquaLogic HiPer Workspace for Retail provides corporate headquarters and field and store managers with a central view of product movement throughout the supply chain as well as notifications of critical activity occurring within that supply chain. As a result, retailers are better able to identify bottlenecks and share information with key trading partners. Combined, the two technologies illustrate an innovative end-to-end retail product that integrates the supply chain through to the store floor. The BEA RFID products and solutions rapidly turn raw RFID data into business relevant information, which help address several industry challenges such as reducing out-of-stocks for major retailers; improving public safety through targeted product recalls and reduced product counterfeiting; mobile asset tracking for high value goods; and enabling compliance for both retail and defense mandates. " ...

Retail RFID: View Product Movement in Supply Chain: Via BEA: BEA Helps Companies Streamline Store Operations, Improve Real-Time Communication and Automate Business Processes with the Release of AquaLogic High-Performance Workspace for Retailers ...

ItemLevel RFID: Manage StockOuts Shrinkage ...

Vue and Symbol collaborate to develop RFID solutions that minimize retail stock-outs and inventory shrinkage. ...

... "Vue Technology, a leading provider of item-level RFID (radio frequency identification) technology, and Symbol Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:SBL), The Enterprise Mobility Company, announced that they will jointly develop and deliver integrated item-level RFID solutions for retailers and manufacturers. The integrated item-level RFID solutions will offer visibility into inventory levels, location and authenticity, resulting in significant reductions in out-of-stocks, shrinkage and labor costs. The TrueVUE RFID Platform is an ROI-driven solution that supports end-to-end item level RFID, enabling manufacturers and retailers to streamline the tracking of individual items throughout the supply chain. Vue Technology will combine their patent-pending RF Networking technology and EPC management software with Symbol's RFID fixed and handheld readers, tags and peripheral devices to deliver a cost-effective platform, enabling customers to reap the benefits of item-level RFID. The joint item-level RFID solutions will expand the reach of RFID from traditional pallet and case-level distribution applications that focus on broad supply chain visibility to in-store applications which focus on achieving enhanced on-shelf availability and sales for specific product categories. " ...

ItemLevel RFID: Manage StockOuts Shrinkage: Via Vue Technology: VUE TECHNOLOGY AND SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES TO DELIVER ITEM-LEVEL RFID SOLUTIONS TO RETAIL AND MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY: Integrated Solutions Will Reduce Out-of-Stocks, Shrinkage and Labor Costs ...

Vue Technology is the leading provider of item level RFID, delivering breakthrough technology that provides the most scalable, reliable, and ROI-driven solutions on the market. With patent-pending technologies, VUE allows standard RFID readers to network across thousands of antennas, exponentially increasing the number of zones a typical reader can support. Vue provides customers unprecedented visibility into inventory levels, location and authenticity while eliminating the prohibitive cost barriers previously associated with item-level RFID roll-outs. With its TrueVUE™ RFID Platform, Vue offers the most complete suite of integrated RF networking hardware and EPC management software for item-level RFID, maximizing the benefits to our customers while minimizing implementation risks – at the lowest TCO.

Zigbee RFID Sensor Network Passes Regulatory Tests ...

Bulldog's Zigbee RFID sensor network has met regulatory requirements of agencies. ...

Bulldog Technologies RFID (ZigBee) Data Collection Tag and Reader System: Passes FCC and Industry Canada Regulatory Testing ...

... "The Bulldog-developed and deployed sensor network solution measures and monitors the temperature of produce containers, refrigerated trucks, milk tankers and grocery store coolers while delivering real time data to a PC based monitoring application. This wireless sensor network consists of 2.45GHz IEEE 802.15.4 (ZigBee; similar to Blue Tooth) based RFID tags and readers. The tags are designed to collect temperature data and transmit the data in real-time to a network of readers. The application monitors predetermined thresholds and, if exceeded, an alarm is issued via an email or a SMS text message. This alarm alerts personnel and enables corrective action to be taken before spoiling can occur, preventing complete or partial losses, insurance claims and delayed delivery. ZigBee is a global standard that addresses the unique needs of remote monitoring & control, and sensory network applications; enables broad-based deployment of wireless networks with low cost, low power solutions; and provides the ability to run for years on inexpensive primary batteries for typical monitoring applications. Bulldog had selected ZigBee as the preferred platform to develop wireless security and sensor network applications. " ...

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. " ...

End-to-End RFID Value Chain: NCR ...

NCR has put together an end-to-end capability for RFID implementation through the value chain ...

End-to-End RFID: NCR: Via NCR: NCR Announces European Launch of RFID One-Stop-Shop Offer

... "NCR is the first company to cover the whole chain of RFID deployment from manufacturing, through supply chain distribution to back-of-store, center-of-store and through to consumer-facing technology such as contactless payment methods, self-checkout and kiosks. The NCR global RFID solution includes design, deployment and support for the full spectrum of RFID technologies through a combination of consultancy, hardware, software, labeling and services. To help users implement RFID more effectively, NCR will open a European RFID TransitionWorks demonstration center in Peterborourgh in the UK in 2006. The center will be one of three global centers demonstrating the range of solutions in NCR's RFID offer. Companies across the region will be able to visit TransitionWorks to learn about the possibilities, best practices and pitfalls associated with implementing RFID in their businesses, drawing on NCR's global experience, including NCR's TransitionWorks in the United States and Asia Pacific. " ...

RFID Contactless Payment Cards ...

Axalto RFID contactless payment cards are being supplied to KeyBank for contactless debit role ...

RFID Contactless Payment Cards: Via Axalto: Axalto Provides Contactless Payment Cards for KeyBank Debit Card Rollout in the United States ...

... "Axalto, the world's leading provider of microprocessor cards, is supplying more than two million MasterCard® PayPass™ cards to KeyBank for the first contactless debit card rollout in the U.S. Axalto contactless payment smart cards enable cardholders to simply tap their card on the reader or within one inch of a point-of-sale terminal at checkout, instead of swiping their card or handing it to a store employee. The terminal quickly emits a signal acknowledging payment confirmation. The payment transaction is then processed. The KeyBank MasterCard PayPass card – available beginning September 1 – also includes a magnetic stripe, allowing consumers to use it at any location that accepts MasterCard debit cards. " ...

RFID Biometric ID System: Germany

RFID is converging with biometrics technology to create mobile identification capability. John Blau updates on progress of companies in Germany collaborating on an RFID biometric IDentification system for the airline industry. ...

RFID Biometric ID System: Germany: Via Computerworld: Airline biometric ID system gets a demo in Germany ...

... "The new passport, valid for 10 years, will include an embedded RFID (radio frequency identification) chip that will initially store a digital photo of the passport holder's face. Starting in March 2007, the holder's left and right index fingerprints will also be stored on the chip. " ...

RFID Industry Consolidation: BEA Acquisition

RFID middleware and service oriented architectures SOA are an enabling infrastructure for the RFID future. Consolidation in the RFID industry continues, as BEA Systems acquires ConnecTerra, a leading RFID middleware technology provider, to drive their SOA vision to the edge ...

RFID Industry Consolidation: BEA Acquisition: Via BEA Systems: BEA Acquires Pioneering Provider of RFID Infrastructure Software; Extends Infrastructure Offering to the Edge: ConnecTerra Adds World-Class RFID Expertise and Products to the BEA Infrastructure Portfolio; Can Help Companies Integrate Growing Volumes of Supply Chain Data Using SOA ...

... "BEA Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: BEAS), today announced the acquisition of ConnecTerra, a privately-held pioneer in RFID middleware technology based in Cambridge, Mass. The acquisition is designed to immediately extend the range of the BEA infrastructure portfolio to easily integrate Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and other device data as liquid assets available across a company's business units, applications and processes. The acquisition can help customers address the growing amount of RFID data captured across supply chains. ... ConnecTerra's RFID infrastructure software is designed to provide the core communications, security, policy and device management services which can be used to integrate devices into a wide range of applications. This includes software at the edge for filtering and device management at the local store, manufacturing plant or distribution center level; enterprise level software for centralized RFID data management; and compliance software to address RFID retail and defense mandates. BEA can augment ConnecTerra’s RFID software with its industry-leading infrastructure components to help provide a complete solution for customers looking to build new RFID enabled business processes. ConnecTerra and BEA have already worked together successfully over the past year with key customers to create market-specific solution bundles for pallet and case tracking applications in retail as well as mobile asset tracking in transportation. " ...

RFID Future Shopping Experience ...

RFID Future Shopping Experience: Via NBC5.com: RFID Technology: Futuristic Shopping In The Works At Chicago Lab

Article about the Accenture RFID technology laboratory in Chicago ...

... "Suppose I went to store in a couple of years and bought this jacket. This jacket will probably have an RFID tag, which is a Radio Frequency Identification Tag, in the label, said lab tech Anatole Gershman. Now, I can ask the store to zap it, just destroy it. ... " ...

SAP Retail RFID Growth

SAP Retail RFID Growth: Via SAP: SAP Racks up Retail Customers in Asia Pacific: SAP Asia Sees Threefold Revenue Growth for SAP for Retail Industry Solution ...

... "Demonstrating leadership and vision for the retail industry in the Asia-Pacific region (APA1) and continued evidence of its global leadership in providing retail solutions, SAP AG (NYSE: SAP) today announced that revenue from customers in APA using SAP for Retail solutions has more than tripled over the past two years. These retail customers have selected SAP to improve their business processes and create a strong and adaptive environment for business growth and profitability. The announcement was made at the SAP Global Leadership meeting being held this week in Shanghai, China. " ...

Built on the open architecture of the SAP NetWeaver platform, SAP for Retail includes core capabilities for financial management, human resources, supplier relationship management and customer relationship management, as well as support for industry-specific merchandise management and planning, store and channel management, demand forecasting, replenishment, sophisticated allocation, workforce management, POS data management and RFID.

Tag: RFID

Managing RFID Data Volume

Managing RFID Data Volume: Via Intelligent Enterprise Magazine: Tapping the RFID Data Flood

Rajeev Kasturi summarizes insights from Mark Palmer, Progress Software on management of RFID data volumes ...

... "The most cited example has been the estimate that Wal-Mart's in-store implementation will generate about 7.5 terabytes of RFID data a day. Certainly we haven't seen this scale of implementation yet, but the example speaks to the possibility that the volume of information could be overwhelming in larger operations. Therefore, it's important to have new data management approaches. " ...

Radio Frequency Identification Data

Radio Frequency Identification Data: Via COPPEREYE GREENWICH: CopperEye Greenwich is a software solution for the storage, management and rapid retrieval of large volumes of read-only business event data ...

... "In addition to the well publicized mandates by the US Department of Defense and Wal-Mart for their top suppliers to use RFID, the US Food and Drug Administration has identified RFID as the technology of choice for enabling electronic drug pedigrees as a means of eliminating counterfeit drugs reaching the market. CopperEye offers a compelling, cost-effective solution for capturing, storing and providing quick access to enormous volumes of data generated by RFID monitoring systems. CopperEye can be implemented either as a standalone solution for historical business event data, or as a complementary solution to improve the performance of an existing data management technology such as a commercial relational database management system (RDBMS). " ...

CopperEye is a provider of enterprise data management software that delivers an order-of-magnitude cost savings for companies needing to capture, store and quickly access business event data where the volume is measured in the tens- or hundreds-of-terabytes. This is increasingly important as corporate data volumes more than double every year and government regulations require companies to keep data longer. Using CopperEye, companies are able to improve global business and implement more powerful business applications at dramatically lower costs than competing solutions. CopperEye's underlying technology is a new, patented indexing approach that delivers a quantum leap in performance over traditional indexing alternatives.

Japan RFID Platform Alliance ...

Japan RFID Platform Alliance: IIJ, IIJ-Tech, and HP Japan Form Alliance to Deliver RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Tag) Platform ...

Japan Alliance targeting RFID platform development leveraging EPCGlobal RFID standards ...

... "Internet Initiative Japan Inc. (IIJ; headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; president and CEO: Koichi Suzuki), IIJ Technology Inc. (IIJ-Tech; headquarters: Chiyoda-ku; Tokyo; president and CEO: Ryosuke Ariga), and Hewlett-Packard Japan, Ltd. (HP Japan; headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; president and CEO: Shingo Oda) have formed a business alliance for the commercialization of an RFID (radio frequency identification, a general term for the technology to store and remotely retrieve information using wireless IC tags) platform using networks based on international RFID standards called the EPCglobal Network ..." ...

Founded in 1992, Internet Initiative Japan Inc. (IIJ, NASDAQ: IIJI) is one of Japan's leading Internet-access and comprehensive network solutions providers. The company has built one of the largest Internet backbone networks in Japan, and between Japan and the United States. IIJ and its group of companies provide total network solutions that mainly cater to high-end corporate customers. The company's services include high-quality systems integration and security services, Internet access, hosting/housing, and content design.

RFID DualInterface Smart Card

RFID DualInterface Smart Card: Raak Technologies Joins HID’s Development Partner Program to Supply Strong Authentication Products and Services to HID’s Reseller Channel ...

... "Raak's solution supports HID's dual-interface SMARTS program cards, which combine HID's proven RFID technologies with powerful smart card chips from various contact smart card suppliers. The solution also includes RaakSign, Raak's comprehensive cryptographic middleware package, smart card readers, and deployment services: everything a customer needs to enable strong authentication security for Network Logon, VPN, Citrix, Web Access, WLAN, E-mail and a wide variety of other applications." ...

Based in Austin, Texas, Raak Technologies, Inc. is a privately held firm that provides products and services that enable the deployment of strong authentication. Raak's solution is built around RaakSign, a powerful and cost effective middleware solution for USB Tokens and smart cards. By implementing RaakSign an organization can securely store their digital certificates and keys on a USB Token or smart card for use with any standards based Digital Certificate capable application, including Windows Log On, VPN Authentication, Web Access, WLAN Security and E-mail Signing & Encryption.

RFID UID Differences ...

RFID UID Differences: Defense Procurement and Acquisition Policy - Unique Identification (UID), Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

... "UII is a piece of data associated with an item that uniquely identifies it through out its life. RFID is a vehicle for holding and sharing data. IUID of tangible items deals with physical marking as prescribed in the policy and are applied directly on items or on labels themselves. IUID also requires data to be captured about the item and submitted electronically to a registry database. Think of this as creating a birth certificate for the item. RFID is either a passive (unpowered) or active (powered) transmitter/receiver that stores information on the case or pallet in which UII'd and non-UII'd items are placed. The RFID tag may store the unique item numbers for the items in the case or pallet or simply a different unique packaging number that when accessed in a transportation or logistics database provides an inventory of the items in the case or pallet. " ...

RFID EAS RF Readers

RFID EAS RF Readers: Checkpoint Systems Introduces the Liberty CFX Floor System; Provides Superior EAS Security in an Invisible Floor System ...

Checkpoint introduces RFID readers for the high-end retail market ...

... "The Liberty CFX system, designed with high-end apparel and specialty retailers in mind, is the latest addition to Checkpoints successful Liberty family of radio frequency (RFID) readers. These retailers often have very specific requirements when it comes to store design and decor. The Liberty CFX, a transceiver-based single antenna system, is installed into the floor and is available to span the retailers specific door opening. Checkpoint will work with the retailer to provide the best EAS system for their specific needs. This system is the only hidden EAS system capable of detecting at heights up to 5 feet with a variety of 8.2MHz tags and labels including integrated RF-EAS labels. Used with RF source tagging and Checkpoints non-contact deactivation technology, the Liberty CFX is the ultimate EAS solution for todays image-conscious retailer. " ...

Checkpoint Systems, Inc. (NYSE: CKP) is a multinational manufacturer and marketer of technology-driven solutions for retail security, labeling, and merchandising. Checkpoint is the leading provider of radio frequency (RF)-based shrink management solutions to the global retail industry, including over half of the worlds top 200 largest global retailers. In addition to its shrink management capabilities, Checkpoints end-to-end supply chain technology helps apparel and consumer product manufacturers and retailers brand, track and secure goods worldwide. Checkpoint has a presence in more than 80 countries and a global network of more than 25 service bureaus located in the worlds apparel manufacturing capitals. Checkpoints technology solutions include digital RF-EAS systems, RF source tagging, RFID solutions, barcode-labeling systems, handheld labeling systems, and retail merchandising systems.

RFID Biometric Passport

Non-Immigrant Visas - Biometric Passport

... "These passports feature an RFID chip, or Radio Frequency Identification chip, which can store and retrieve data using RFID tags/transporters. It is a small chip that is incorporated into the new passports of the 188 member countries of the new program. In accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization, it provides for a more secure, faster, way of traveling with a passport that allows the customs agent to bring up, electronically, your personal data (the information that is found inside of today's passports). " ...

RFID Automatic Identification Technology: EAN UCC

Combating Counterfeiting and Enabling Traceability in the Global Healthcare Supply Chain by using the EAN.UCC System

... "Automatic Identification is the umbrella term for technologies that allow machines (typically computers) to automatically identify objects. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is one type of automatic identification technology. Objects are labeled with "tags" (a microchip with a radio frequency antenna) that store data, which defines that object in a structured manner. Using radio waves, the reader wakes up the tags and automatically captures that data, which can then be processed. " ...

RFID Movie from RFID Innovation Center

RFID Movie: METRO Group Future Store Initiative: RFID Innovation Center

... "RFID - Efficient paths to the future is a movie of the METRO Group RFID Innovation Center, showing the future of the RFID technology " ...

RFID Database: Multiple Tag Values ...

RFID Database: Multiple Tag Values: Multiple RFID Tags, One Record: FileTrail can store multiple RFID Tag values for each Item ...

... "FileTrail can record more than one value for an RFID Tag in its database. This allows Staff to have an RFID Tag on their Employee Badge, and another on their door for Audit purposes. " ...

Headquartered in San Jose, California, FileTrail, Inc. is a leading Enterprise Records and Information Management (ERIM) provider of records tracking and management software. FileTrail's family of web software solutions allows companies to efficiently manage business processes and transactions. FileTrail enables companies to automate records handling, automating manual tasks, streamlining processes across the organization and externally, and leveraging existing ERP and mission system investments to eliminate data entry and replicate existing data standards.

Item Level RFID Tagging: Microsoft RFID ...

Item Level RFID Tagging: BT and Microsoft to Deliver Pioneering Implementation of Item-Level RFID Tagging: The two companies are jointly working on an RFID trial.

... "BT and Microsoft Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) announced today that they will be working together to provide an RFID managed service to the retail sector. The new offering combines BT's RFID data management and systems integration expertise with Microsoft's proven experience in data capture and analysis to make it easier for European retailers and their suppliers to adopt item-level RFID technology for pilots or full-scale rollouts. The first customer to take up this managed service is Marks & Spencer. In February 2005, BT was selected by Marks & Spencer as the main contractor to extend the RFID trial in its clothing supply chain. " ...

The Microsoft Smarter Retailing Initiative helps retailers win today by leveraging current investments, and win tomorrow by easing delivery of new retail experiences. Consisting of Smarter Shopping, Smarter Selling and Smarter Operations, the Smarter Retailing Initiative is designed to close the loop between the retailer's strategy, the in-store execution and familiar technologies already in the consumer's hands.

BT Auto-ID Services is a market leader in the provision of complete, scalable and affordable Automatic Identification solutions including RFID and barcoding. As part of the BT Retail business, it combines the resources of a large corporation with the agility and flexible approach of a new technology start-up. The BT Auto-ID Platform managed service is helping customers manage inventory control, increase sales, provide electronic proof of delivery, and comply with mandatory track, trace and authenticate requirements throughout the supply chain.

RFID Pharmacy Account Management

RFID Pharmacy Account Management: CVS/pharmacy Purchases 12,000 Hypercom RFID-Enabled Payment Terminals: Hypercom Becomes Pharmacy's Preferred POS Vendor with Optimum L4100 Device ...

... "Hypercom Corporation (NYSE: HYC) announced that CVS/pharmacy, the 5,400-store retail pharmacy chain, has named Hypercom its preferred supplier of card payment terminals based on the advanced functionality of the Optimum L4100, a compact, high-speed signature capture card device specifically designed to speed checkout lines in multi-lane retail environments. The Hypercom terminals, configured to CVS/pharmacy specifications, accept magnetic stripe cards, smart cards, and contactless cards or key fobs that eliminate swiping and signature requirements through the use of embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) tags that transmit consumer account information over radio frequency waves. " ...

Widely recognized as the global payment technology innovator, Hypercom delivers complete card payment terminal, network access device, server and transaction networking solutions that help merchants and financial institutions generate revenues and increase profits. Hypercom's card payment terminal, network and server solutions are leading the transformation of electronic payments in more than 100 countries. The company is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona.

Metro RFID Congress: Gen2 RFID Compliance

Metro RFID Congress: Gen2 RFID Compliance: SAMSys showcasing Gen 2 RFID readers at the Metro Group RFID Congress ...

At Metro RFID Congress in Germany, SamSys demonstrates its latest Gen2-compliant RFID readers ...

... "SAMSys Technologies Inc. (SMY: TSX), an international provider of Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) hardware solutions, will be showcasing its new Gen 2 ready RFID readers at the Metro Group RFID Congress in Cologne, Germany on June 8-9. These readers are the first of its products capable of reading tags that conform to the new EPC Generation Two (Gen 2) standard. The MP9320 v2.8 reader is the latest addition to the SAMSys family of multi-protocol, multi-regional, RFID readers that, in addition to Gen 2, supports the full array of legacy UHF protocols; e.g., EPC Class 0 and 0+; EPC Class 1, ISO 18000-6A, ISO 18000-6B, Philips UCODE 1.19, EM 4222 and Intellitag. Adding support for the EPC Gen 2 tag protocol represents the next step in the migration path to the emerging global standard tag protocol; and in the ability to support this new standard alongside existing legacy installations. The MP9320 reader has already been endorsed by many current adopters of RFID technology such as the U.S. Dept. of Defense (DoD), and other major retailers and consumer packaged goods companies. " ...

SAMSys Technologies Inc. (SAMSys), founded in 1995, is a world-leading provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) hardware solutions and RFID integration consulting services designed to evaluate and recommend optimal RFID solutions to enhance existing business process. SAMSys offers a family of products to simplify the installation and ensure the ongoing performance of the overall RFID hardware infrastructure. SAMSys is a public company whose shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol: “SMY”. The Company has a total of 47.8 million shares outstanding.

RFID Embedded Systems ...

Embedded Systems RFID: Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an automated data-capture technology that can be used to electronically identify, track, and store information contained on a tag that is attached to or embedded in an object, such as a product, case, or pallet ...

... "An embedded system is a special-purpose computer system that is used within a device. An embedded system has specific requirements and performs predefined tasks, unlike a general-purpose personal computer. To date, embedded RFID chips have been tested in smart test tubes that store data about the tube's contents, which has facilitated obtaining correct information for identifying specimens and time-stamping doctor's orders. Embedded chips in credit cards and mobile phones for contactless payments are also expected to become increasingly popular in Asia. Embedded RFID chips are being proposed for use in numerous applications, including electronic passports, tires to determine wear, drug containers for tracking and theft control, and aircraft for maintenance. " ...

Walmart RFID Testing ...

RFID technology is making its way into people’s everyday lives in a number of areas ...

... "Wal-Mart and Procter & Gamble have tested RFID tags on Max Factor Lipfinity lipstick sold at the Wal-Mart store in Arrow, Oklahoma. Store shelves equipped with Webcams allowed Procter & Gamble researchers in Cincinnati, Ohio, to watch customers as they picked up and looked at the lipsticks. In a separate trial, Wal-Mart and Gillette have tested the usefulness of placing RFID tags on Gillette razor blades sold at Wal-Mart stores. RFID antennas on store shelves tracked when customers picked up razors, when they put them back on the shelf, and when they carried them to the register. The tests were designed to give insight on shopping behavior, prevent shoplifting, and to alert employees when shelves needed to be re-stocked. " ...

RFID Blink Smart Cards: Speed and Convenience

RFID Blink Smart Cards: Speed and Convenience: Chase To Roll Out Next Generation Payment Product This Summer

Chase will release RFID smart cards with blink capabilities ...

... "Chase Bank U.S.A., N.A., a division of JPMorgan Chase & Co. [NYSE: JPM], announced today that it will become the first bank to increase the speed and convenience of a credit card by broadly rolling out consumer cards with contactless functionality, called blink. Chase will begin a market-by-market rollout of the Chase credit cards with blink this summer, after working closely with merchants in each market to ensure the broadest possible acceptance at launch. Working in conjunction with Visa U.S.A. and MasterCard International Incorporated, Chase has identified merchants where speed and convenience are important to consumers, and has been actively building a roster of merchants in each market. Initially, Chase cardmembers will be able to blink at well-known movie theaters, convenience and specialty retailers such as 7-Eleven, quick service restaurants and drug stores. Chase will announce additional lists of specific merchants when they issue cards with blink in each market. " ...

The most significant timesavings can be realized in the drive-thru environment, where transaction time was reduced by as much as 20 seconds as compared to cash. Consumers also liked the convenience of not carrying cash for everyday purchases, meaning they no longer needed to fumble around for change and small bills, or be confined by the cash in their purses or wallets. In fact, 60 percent of respondents to a recent MasterCard survey said they use cash less often today than they did five years ago. For merchants, blink transactions speed checkout times and allow consumers to spend less time waiting in lines. Research has shown that customers who use blink cards often spend more per transaction and are happier with their store experience. Chase cards with blink also provide a reliable, trusted payment method that works well in environments where speed is important. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) is a leading global financial services firm.

Innovative RFID Card System: Enhance Retail Experience

Innovative RFID Card System: Enhance Retail Experience: RadioShack Unveils Innovative Retail Experience in Fort Worth: Grand Opening Events Scheduled for 10 a.m., May 20: StoreOne to Serve as Learning Portal for Enhancing Customer Experience: Leverages RFID Technology ...

RadioShack leverages RFID card system to enhance it's innovative retail experience ...

... "Located at the southeast corner of RadioShack's new Riverfront Campus, StoreOne is a 10,000-square-foot retail store modeled after the ultimate modern home of the future. Featuring a Family Room, Home Office, Garage, Game Room, Kitchen and more, StoreOne lets customers experience a broad assortment of consumer electronics in a real life setting that is fun and interactive. Customers can try out virtually any product in the store, learn about them using the interactive, touch-screen Easy Answer Center in each room, and even have information e-mailed to them through an innovative RFID (radio frequency identification) card system. " ...

Fort Worth, Texas-based RadioShack Corporation (NYSE: RSH) is North America’s most trusted consumer electronics specialty retailer and a growing provider of business-to-business retail support services. The company operates a vast network of sales channels, including: nearly 7,000 company-owned and dealer stores; more than 100 RadioShack locations in Mexico; more than 500 SAM’S CLUB wireless kiosks; and a growing number of mall-based Sprint PCS wireless kiosks. RadioShack’s knowledgeable and helpful sales associates deliver convenient product and service solutions, which in the United States is within five minutes of where 94 percent of all Americans either live or work. For more information on RadioShack Corporation, visit www.RadioShackCorporation.com.

RFID Asset Visibility ...

ACC: Acquisition Community Connection

... "Asset identification, visibility, and tracking can be significantly improved through utilization of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. RFID is a wireless technology that includes passive, semi-passive and active tags. Active RFID systems have the ability to store large amounts of information using an internal power source within the tag. Passive RFID tags operate without a separate external power source and obtain operating power generated from the tag reader. Semi-passive RFID uses an internal power source to monitor environmental conditions, but requires RF energy transferred from the reader/interrogator similar to passive tags to power a tag response. RFID tags can contain various amounts of data ranging from a simple item number to detailed instructions on how to assemble an item. " ...

AIAG RFID AIT Forum: Learning ...

AIAG Hosts 10 Annual Forum for Automatic Identification Technologies, RFID ...

... "What do the automotive industry, the family dog, and Wal-Mart all have in common? Radio frequency identification (RFID). ... RFID technology is used to identify lost pets, track stock on store shelves, and control and error proof the production process. Direct-part marking (DPM) uses a two-dimensional (2-D) symbol and contains information like supplier identification and serial lot traceability information, which is encoded on the part, and is used now on vehicular engines, axles and many other parts. " ...

Founded in 1982, AIAG is a globally recognized organization where OEMs and suppliers unite to address and resolve issues affecting the worldwide automotive supply chain. AIAG’s goals are to reduce cost and complexity through collaboration; improve product quality, health, safety and the environment; and optimize speed to market throughout the supply chain. Headquartered in the metro Detroit area, its more than 1,500 member companies include North American, European and Asia-Pacific OEMs and suppliers to the automotive industry.

RFID Consumer Protection Concepts ...

PETITION -- HOUSE

An Act RELATIVE TO CONSUMER PROTECTION AND RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS, Massachusetts ...

... "A commercial entity that uses an RFID system in their normal course of commerce that includes readers placed in the customer shopping area, shall display a sign placed in a conspicuous location printed in a conspicuous type size, in contrast with the background against which it appears. The sign shall be readable by a consumer before the consumer comes in contact with the RFID system. The sign shall state that: (1) the store uses radio frequency identification technology; (2) the radio frequency identification tag contains information about the product that can be accessed by a reader both before and after the purchase; and (3) a description of the purpose of the readers. (b) Any product that utilizes an RFID tag shall contain a logo or identifier on the product or packaging, and a label placed in a conspicuous location and printed in a conspicuous type size, in contrast with the background against which it appears. The label shall state that: (1) the product contains a radio frequency identification tag; and (2) the radio frequency identification tag contains information about the product that can be accessed by a reader both before and after the purchase." ...

RFID Automated Data Collection ...

Checkpoint Systems Expands Automated Data Collection Capabilities to Help Retailers Control Shrink; Provides Actionable Information for In-store Loss Prevention Processes ...

Checkpoint acquires security solutions to complement their RFID and EAS capabilities ...

... "Checkpoint Systems, Inc. (NYSE: CKP), the leading provider of radio frequency-based product identification and shrink management solutions for retailers and consumer package goods manufacturers worldwide, has expanded its automated data collection capabilities with the acquisition of three asset protection solutions from Security Source, Inc., a provider of loss prevention solutions to the retail industry." ...

Checkpoint Systems, Inc., is a multinational manufacturer and marketer of technology-driven solutions for retail security, labeling, and merchandising. Checkpoint is the leading provider of radio frequency (RF)-based shrink management solutions to the global retail industry, including over half of the worlds top 200 largest global retailers. In addition to its shrink management capabilities, Checkpoints end-to-end supply chain technology helps apparel and consumer product manufacturers and retailers brand, track and secure goods worldwide. Checkpoint has a presence in more than 80 countries and a global network of more than 25 service bureaus located in the worlds apparel manufacturing capitals. Checkpoints technology solutions include digital RF/EAS and RFID systems, RF source tagging, bar code labeling systems, EAS, handheld labeling systems, and retail merchandising systems.

RFID Loyalty Cards Drive Customer Service

RFID Café ™ is a proof of concept solution that enables the use of ABCO's RFID preferred customer cards in self-service kiosks to promote higher-efficiency line-busting in busy restaurant operations ...

... "In the RFID Cafe card and platform demonstration, preferred customers are issued special loyalty cards that store dollar values for purchasing food; tally award points based on frequency of purchases; and record quick-order preferences to speed order processing and eliminate long lines at the register. " ...

IBSS is the creator of Synapse, a groundbreaking software technology. Synapse is a complete framework and methodology used to create, implement and manage a wide variety of dynamic, distributed, networked, and real-time enterprise applications including RFID, quickly and efficiently. Global enterprises utilizing Synapse leverage the power of its single, flexible framework to enjoy tremendous time and cost advantages, in the development, deployment and on-going management of customized applications. Enabled by Synapse to take competitive advantage of cutting-edge technologies such as wireless networking, mobile computing and RFID, IBSS and its strategic partners bring solutions to customers for mission-critical applications in manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, finance, insurance, retail, education, and government. IBSS is headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina.

Arthur Blank & Co., Inc., founded in 1934 and located in Boston, Massachusetts, specializes in all facets of custom printed plastic cards. Products include private label loyalty, gift, phone, credit, debit, membership, security I.D., access cards, RFID and Smart cards, as well as complete card numbering and personalization. The company produces more than 600 million plastic cards a year, and its manufacturing capacity exceeds one billion cards annually. With its distributor partners, Arthur Blank serves many of today's Fortune 1000 companies.

RFID Drug Pedigree Requirement ...

Implementation of SB 1307 (Chapter 857, Statutes of 2004) Relating to Wholesalers: Pedigree Requirement

... "McKesson reported that EPCglobal, a non-profit organization, has developed broad industry standards for the use of electronic product codes (EPC) in global commerce. An EPC is a simple license plate that uniquely identifies objects (items, cases, pallets) in the supply chain. Multiple committees within EPCglobal are currently working to develop standards and fully examine both the feasibility and the ramifications of implementing EPCs to support the use of RFID with pharmaceutical products. EPCs can securely store information about a specific product in a tag that is affixed by the manufacturer. With the development of global standards and the utilization of RFID technology, EPCs will provide for immediate, automatic, and accurate identification of any pharmaceutical item in the supply chain and will enable the industry to track a product’s distribution history, which constitutes an e-pedigree." ...

The EPC Global Network ...

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology: What the Future Holds for Commerce, Security, and the Consumer: How RFID and EPC Technology Work ...

... "Because of these advances, it is now possible to store on a microchip a series of zeroes and ones -- digital bits -- that can uniquely identify trillions of different objects -- the way bar codes identify many of today's products, but with potentially much more information about a particular shipment of products. This unique series of digital bits is called the Electronic Product Code, or EPC. Attach a tiny radio antenna to this microchip and you have an EPC tag, a cheaper version of a toll pass which, when asked, can signal its assigned number. The tag is not transmitting information actively. Secure devices called readers that comply with global standards developed through EPCglobal send out radio frequency waves that wake up the tag for a short period of time, enabling it to transmit information stored on the RFID tag -- namely the Electronic Product Code. The EPC can then be matched to the specific product information contained in a corresponding database, which is accessed through a secure network: the EPCglobal Network. " ...

P+G EPC Electronic Product Code Enabled by RFID Technology ...

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology: What the Future Holds for Commerce, Security, and the Consumer: Why P&G is investing in EPC ...

... "Procter & Gamble is pursuing the use of Electronic Product Code (EPC) to create efficiencies in the supply chain. As you have heard from Dr. Sarma, EPC is a way to uniquely identify a pallet, case or individual product using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. It's similar to today's bar code, but with many more potential uses and benefits. P&G is a founding sponsor of MIT's Auto-ID Center because we realized the enormous potential to improve processes in the entire supply chain from our plants to retail distribution centers to store shelves. The real time, automated, accurate information that EPC generates will benefit manufacturers, retailers, suppliers and most importantly, consumers. Today's supply chain systems are outdated and not meeting the needs of our consumers. EPC offers potential solutions for problems like out-of-stocks, theft and counterfeiting, as well as reducing inventory levels. We know that out of stock levels are higher than we, our retail partners and our consumers want. It is frustrating when you go to your local supermarket to buy your favorite flavor of Pringles and the shelf is bare. It can result in a lost sale for P&G and for the retailer. To guard against out of stocks, we keep an average of 65 days worth of product inventory, which costs us $3 billion a year. Theft and counterfeiting are growing problems as well. Worldwide theft costs retailers $50 billion a year and counterfeiting is a $500 billion problem. " ...

RFID Visibility: Locate, Track, Trace ...

General Store Newsletter

Arleen Gearhart writes ...

... "The Material Handling Equipment section of DSCP's General & Industrial Directorate's Equipment CBU is purchasing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags - the latest and best technology tool for timely locating, tracking, tracing and deploying military supplies and managing resources throughout the world. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has directed that all containers for Operation Enduring Freedom include RFID tags. The RFID tag is a combination computer, memory, controller and two-way radio. They reduce or eliminate repetitive work and lower manpower requirements and associated costs." ...

Implantable Radiofrequency Transponder System

Implantable Radiofrequency Transponder System for Patient Identification and Health Information - Class II Special Controls Guidance Document ...

... "When discussing the issue of medical devices that store, access, and/or transfer information externally (RFID), you should address the concept of information security. Information security is the process of preventing the modification, misuse or denial of use, or the unauthorized use of that information. We recommend that your specifications for a compatible database address the following four components of information security: Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability, and Accountability (CIAA). " ...

RFID Drug Supply Chain ...

Prescription Drugs to Get Electronic IDs

... "RFID involves putting electronic tags on products to keep better track of them as they move through the supply chain. The technology is similar to that used for tollbooth and fuel purchasing passes. These electronic tags contain information on the entire chain of custody of a bottle, potentially allowing investigators to find out who might have stolen it or where it went from a specific store. The information on the tag lets pharmacists authenticate the product, verifying that it is legitimate." ...

Radio Frequency Technology Procedures ...

Procedures for the use of radio frequency technology

... radio frequency identification (RFID) is a generic term for technologies that use radio waves to automatically identify assets. The most common method is to store a unique number identifying the asset on a microchip that is attached to an antenna.

The tracking and identification of personal property has become a challenge for Federal agencies and the employment of RFID technology permits us to implement rules that allow us to reapportion critical human resources and streamline our business processes. ...

RFID Warehouse Location Tracking ...

RFID Warehouse Location Tracking: SAMSys' RFID Hardware Deployed at Bradshaw International for Wa ...

SAMSys RFID solutions are deployed at Bradshaw to support warehouse location tracking and Walmart RFID compliance ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... (SMY: TSX), an international provider of Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) hardware solutions has been deployed at kitchenware supplier Bradshaw ...

... SAMSys Technologies Inc. (SMY: TSX), an international provider of Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) hardware solutions has been deployed at kitchenware supplier Bradshaw International as part of an enhanced warehouse location tracking system designed to comply with Wal-Mart's RFID mandates. Bradshaw holds the No. 1 market share for kitchen accessories sold through the grocery, drugstore and mass merchandise channels with its Good Cook(TM) brand, and is among the 137 suppliers involved in the rollout phase of Wal-Mart's RFID project. ...

SAMSys Technologies Inc. (SAMSys), founded in 1995, is a world-leading provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) hardware solutions and RFID integration consulting services designed to evaluate and recommend optimal RFID solutions to enhance existing business process. SAMSys offers a family of products to simplify the installation and ensure the ongoing performance of the overall RFID hardware infrastructure. SAMSys is a public company whose shares are listed for trading on the TSX Exchange under the symbol: "SMY". The Company has a total of 47.6 million shares outstanding.

Bradshaw International, headquartered in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, markets a wide assortment of kitchen tools, gadgets, bakeware, cookware, food storage and tabletop products. Marketed under the Good Cook(TM) brand name, Bradshaw maintains the number one market share for kitchenware in grocery stores, currently distributing in more than 35,000 retail store outlets in North America, New Zealand and Australia.

Smart Card Interoperability Is A Challenge ...

NIST Smart Card Home

... "Smart cards provide greatly increased security for multiple applications. A smart card's usefulness is based on its intrinsic portability and security. A typical smart card has the same dimensions as a standard credit card and appears to be very similar with the exception of a set of gold contacts. When inserted into a reader, these contacts provide power to a microprocessor located on the smart card; the smart card is thus able to store and process information, in particular cryptographic keys and algorithms for providing digital signatures and for use with other encryption. A major impediment to the widespread use of smart cards has been interoperability: the majority of smart cards from different vendors are not interoperable and therefore must use specific software and smart card readers. " ...

RFID Pedigree Cheaper Than Paper ...

Prescription Drugs to Get Electronic IDs

... "RFID involves putting electronic tags on products to keep better track of them as they move through the supply chain. The technology is similar to that used for tollbooth and fuel purchasing passes. These electronic tags contain information on the entire chain of custody of a bottle, potentially allowing investigators to find out who might have stolen it or where it went from a specific store. The information on the tag lets pharmacists authenticate the product, verifying that it is legitimate. Although the initial financial investment would be significant, Rudolf said, he also expects prices to fall dramatically as demand increased. Readers that may cost $1,000 may come down to $200, and tags that cost 20 to 50 cents may come down to 10 cents, he said. This electronic system will also be less expensive than a paper pedigree system, which will benefit Florida, which has a new law requiring that a pedigree system be in place by June of 2006." ...

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) ...

GSA - FMR Bulletin B-7 Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

... "Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a generic term for technologies that use radio waves to automatically identify assets. The most common method is to store a unique number identifying the asset on a microchip that is attached to an antenna. The tracking and identification of personal property has become a challenge for Federal agencies and the employment of RFID technology permits us to implement rules that allow us to reapportion critical human resources and streamline our business processes. What are the benefits? This technology has great potential to improve our personal property management functions, asset visibility, maintenance, and facilitate aspects of an agency's supply chain and commodity ordering process." ...

RFID Shipping Automation ...

RFID Shipping Automation: GXS Delivers Supply Chain Solutions to Piggly Wiggly; America's ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... suppliers. With the GXS Trading Grid, Piggly Wiggly is taking an important step towards leveraging RFID to optimize its supply chain. ...

... GXS, a leading provider of B2B e-commerce solutions, today announced that Piggly Wiggly Carolina, America's first true self-service grocery store, will utilize its global integration platform - GXS Trading Grid(TM) - to automate their warehouse receiving process. Piggly Wiggly will leverage the GXS Trading Grid to expedite receiving processes, lower inventory positions and reduce shipping errors with its more than 600 suppliers. With the GXS Trading Grid, Piggly Wiggly is taking an important step towards leveraging RFID to optimize its supply chain. The GXS Trading Grid will transmit electronic documents listing details of forthcoming shipments of goods, as well as other critical information such as carton identifications, content descriptions and transportation details. For retailers, exchanging Advanced Shipping Notices (ASN) with suppliers enables better planning for receiving and warehousing operations, and as a result reduces shipping errors by providing better visibility and validation through the transportation process. ...

GXS (Global eXchange Services) is a leading worldwide provider of B2B e-commerce solutions that simplify and enhance business process integration and collaboration. Organizations worldwide, including over half of the Fortune 500, leverage the GXS Trading Grid to achieve the perfect balance of supply and demand. Active in the global standards arena, GXS solutions enable customers both large and small, to connect with global partners, synchronize product information, optimize inventory levels and demand forecasts, and accelerate the execution of supply chains. Headquartered in Gaithersburg, Md., GXS provides sales and support to businesses and their partners worldwide.

Retail Apparel RFID Technology Event Upcoming ...

Retail Apparel RFID Technology: Upcoming RFID Symposium ...

... RETAIL RFID TECHNOLOGY SYMPOSIUM: Tuesday 15 March 2005 ... Overview: This fast-paced, hands-on symposium will look at applied technology and business challenges of adopting RFID driven systems in the retail, consumer products, and apparel industries during the next 12 months. The programme will examine implementation challenges at the store, in distribution centres, and throughout the supply chain. It will delve into retail-specific compliance issues as well as the technology of tags, readers, networks, and software applications. It also focuses strongly on transition from the current EAN.UCC System to an EPC System. ...

Additional resources on retail apparel RFID applications ...

Keeping tabs on RFID developments : Apparel / Textile Feature: Apparel retailers can also increase customer service levels with RFID. Prada is using the tool to communicate among associates so ...

RFID - How Far How Fast - Survey Results - Consumer Business: The survey provides the most recent snapshot of how 90 retailers, distributors, CPG companies and apparel manufacturers view RFID adoption and innovation in ...

Checkpoint Systems, Inc. : News : Press Releases: presented several new Electronic Product Code/Radio Frequency Identification (EPC/RFID) applications for use in the retail-apparel supply chain. ...

Manage RFID Networks

Manage RFID Networks: Blue Vector Enables Retail Operations to Manage RFID Network From ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Blue Vector Systems today announced its fully integrated RFID Configuration Management System (CMS), with a graphical user interface (GUI) for Blue Vector's ...

... Blue Vector Systems today announced its fully integrated RFID Configuration Management System (CMS), with a graphical user interface (GUI) for Blue Vector's RFID solution. The CMS creates the underlying network configuration enabling the retailer to easily configure, implement and manage their entire RFID system. As part of Blue Vector's comprehensive solution, the CMS quickly and easily enables deployment of an RFID system for a retailer -- reducing time and cost. For example, Blue Vector first works with a retail store to create a virtual representation of its physical retail environment, which is then configured for RFID functionality. Next, this new configuration is automatically downloaded to all of the Blue Vector network appliances in the physical environment. ...

Blue Vector Systems is a sensor-based distributed computing systems company focused on reducing RFID implementation costs and operational complexities for its customers. Through solutions that provide reliable and cost-effective means to implement RFID solutions, Blue Vector Systems enables companies to realize new efficiencies in functionality and operation. Blue Vector Systems was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in Mountain View, CA

Additional resources on managing RFID networks using a CMS ...

Software Controls RFID Network: “RFID networks will be managed by IT people who already want to manage that network the same way they manage their IT infrastructure,” says Sujatha Bodapati ...

Managing Data from RFID & Sensor-based Networks: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat ... is needed to manage the raw data generated by an RFID network. ... EdgeWare are software platforms specifically designed to manage RFID networks and handle the ...

VeriSign to manage RFID root server: VeriSign to manage RFID 'root' server. ... VeriSign has been awarded a contract to manage a key component of a coming global distribution network that uses ...

Metro RFID Program Leverages Guided Selling Systems ...

Metro RFID Program Leverages Guided Selling Systems: METRO Group's Future Store Implements Anyplace Kiosk From IBM

From Market Wire (press release) ... technologies, including kiosks, the intelligent "Veggie Vision" scale and the innovative "Everywhere Display." IBM is also integrating the RFID systems at the ...

... METRO Group will implement IBM's new "Anyplace Kiosk" as part of a guided selling system designed to deliver product information instantaneously to shoppers at METRO Group's Future Store in Rheinberg, IBM announced today. METRO Group is the first retailer to install the new IBM kiosk, which offers a compact design and fits virtually anywhere in the store environment to deliver a compelling, interactive experience directly to shoppers at the point of decision. It is designed to enhance shopping for consumers and potentially increase sales for retailers. ...

The METRO Group is the world's third-largest wholesaling and retailing group. With its powerful brands, the METRO Group operates successfully in 30 different countries around the world -- at almost 2,500 locations and with more than 240,000 employees. The METRO Group's six sales divisions operate independently on the market with their own specific sales concepts: Metro/Makro Cash & Carry -- the world's market leader in self-service wholesaling -- Real hypermarkets, Extra supermarkets, Media Markt and Saturn -- the leading consumer electronics centers in Europe, Praktiker home improvement and DIY centers, and the department stores of Galeria Kaufhof. IBM, the world's largest information technology company, is the leader in providing the Retail Industry with a full range of e-business solutions, including: point-of-sale systems, automated self-checkout systems, other hardware and software technology, consulting focused on business transformation, IT strategy and planning, store operations improvement, and supply chain optimization, and with services, such as outsourcing, managed operations, systems integration, and application development and design. IBM has a list of retail customers in 100 countries worldwide that reads like a "Who's Who" of retailing.

Additional resources on guided selling systems used on the Metro RFID program ...

IBM Launches New RFID And Sensor Software: retailers can link new or existing in-store systems, such as RFID-enabled applications, or point-of-sale systems. ...

Creating the Future at METRO Group: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat ... more details on the Intel technologies used, see the ... On the selling floor, staff had to learn to ... information from the merchandise management system directly at ...

Item-level RFID technology redefines retail operations with real: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat ... For example, shelf readers can be used to track ... Nearly Red” lipstick to maximize cross-selling opportunities. ... level RFID tags to notify store systems when a ...

Mobile RFID Solutions for Merchandise Management Capabilities ...

Mobile RFID Solutions for Merchandise Management: Symbol Mobility Solution Selected for Nationwide Deployment at 7 ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... "Symbol's level of commitment to mobility innovation, especially in the area of RFID, and the ability to go beyond our solution requirements with their new ...

... Symbol Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: SBL), The Enterprise Mobility Company(TM), today announced that 7-Eleven, Inc., the world's largest convenience store retailer has selected the new Symbol MC3000 mobile computer to improve productivity and merchandise management across its chain of 5,300 convenience stores nationwide. ...

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

Additional resources on mobile RFID solutions that enable merchandise management capabilities ...

Voice-Activated RFID Supply Chain Solution: data, and processes at the edge of the enterprise, enabling real-time ... and its partners to rapidly develop, deploy, and manage RFID and mobile solutions. ...

Mobile Computing / RFID: access device, Optimal can architect solutions that wirelessly ... design, build, test, and implement mobile applications for ... RFID: Success of RFID depends on how ...