Solar RFID: RPI Pilot

RPI pilots solar-powered RFID readers to collect traffic data and monitor flow. The portable RFID reader has the potential to decrease traffic congestion and enable travel time estimation in real-time, using intelligence dynamically about work zones, events, etc. When fully networked, the RFID-enable database can recommend the best driving routes and avoid construction zones and accidents. ...

... "In the coming months, the units will be deployed to collect traffic data during the morning commute on busy Capital Region roads. The portable units, which are based on the same technology as E-ZPass tag readers, could eventually be used to provide valuable data for a variety of applications, from decreasing congestion in work zones to assisting emergency evacuations. A portable, solar-powered tag reader that collects data to monitor traffic flow. The research is funded through a $3.9 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration to the Center for Infrastructure and Transportation Studies (CITS) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. " ...

Via Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute: Portable, Solar-Powered Tag Readers Could Improve Traffic Management

RFID Gen2 Chip Supply for Alien ...

Tower Semi will manufacture Generation 2 RFID chips for Alien Technology. ...

... "Tower Semiconductor Ltd., a pure-play independent specialty foundry, announced that it is the manufacturing supplier for Alien Technology's internally-designed Gen 2 RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) integrated circuits. These ICs recently achieved the EPCGlobal certification mark. The RFID ICs are produced at Tower's Fab2 in an advanced 0.18-micron manufacturing process. Market analysts forecast the RFID IC's market to grow significantly to between $500 millions and $1 Billion by 2010, mainly due to the Gen 2 impact. RFID tags help enable supply chain efficiency, visibility and security and are being deployed in retail, defense, transportation and health markets. Some of the implementation initiatives are being led by major US retailers. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, 13 federal agencies are already using or plan to deploy RFID technology. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), has mandated RFID's use across its suppliers for increased supply chain visibility and improved forecasting. The newly certified Alien Gen 2 RFID chips include some new CMOS devices which were jointly developed with Tower. IC development efforts focused on the low-power requirements for such an RFID tag which draws its power solely from transmitted Radio Frequency energy. " ...

RFID Gen2 Chip Supply for Alien: Via Tower Semiconductor: Tower Semiconductor Manufactures Gen 2 RFID Tags for Alien Technology ...

RFID InterModal Asset Movement ...

RFID InterModal Asset Movement: ITS Road Trip is the Theme for Intelligent Transportation Society of Georgia 2005 Annual Meeting ...

ITS annual meeting will cover topics such as intermodal asset management using RFID technology ...

... "Advances in ITS for Freight, Ports and Transit. The use of RFID for tracking inter-model asset movement, best practices for secure movement of freight and the future of ITS for bus rapid transit (BRT). " ...

ITS Georgia is a group of organizations that support ITS technology as a way to significantly reduce congestion and improve the performance, safety and efficiency of our transportation system. ITS Georgia provides a forum for advocacy, facilitation, integration, and for learning more about Intelligent Transportation Systems. ITS Georgia members include federal, state and local transportation agencies, ITS technology and service providers, large private and commercial transportation system users, universities, and other interested parties with missions that involve, or are affected by, the transportation system. ITS Georgia is the state Chapter of ITS America. ITS America is the organization that provides technical advice and assistance to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

RFID Tagging Authentication: Encrypted Shipping Manifest ...

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

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

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

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

RFID Intelligent Transportation Systems

Committee Reports: INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS (RFID)

... "The Committee recommends $14,000,000, for architecture and standards work. The Committee understands that the Department has proposed a national standard under a mandate in the TEA21 legislation based on the use of an active radio frequency identification (RFID) technology for Commercial Vehicle Operations utilizing Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC). This is of concern because it minimizes, if not ignores, the significant presence of passive RFID technology equipment in transportation operations nationwide. As many states utilize an alternative passive system for transportation-related DSRC functions, particularly electronic toll collection, concerns have been shared with the Committee over not creating an architecture that precludes the application of passive RFID technologies in the search for a standard under the TEA21 mandate. " ...

RFID Biometric Access Control: High Security Environments ...

RFID Biometric Access Control: High Security Environments: BioSecurIT Announces First Customer – The Federal Aviation Administration – to Secure Facilities Using Biometric Access Controls ...

... "BioSecurIT, Inc., a newly established manufacturer of systems for high security environments employing integrated biometrics, high resolution digital video, voice, RFID, and secure archiving, today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today took delivery of BioSecurIT's first SentryPort system. SentryPort makes certain that persons attempting to gain access to secure facilities actually are who they purport to be and are permitted to access the area. SentryPort uses unique biometric traits to confirm the identity of individuals, eliminating the possibility that a lost, stolen, duplicated, or transferred ID card could be used for unauthorized access." ...

BioSecurIT, Inc. is a manufacturer of access control, surveillance, threat prediction, and investigation systems for high security environments employing integrated biometrics, high resolution digital video, voice, RFID, and secure archiving. The Federal Aviation Administration is a unit of the U. S. Department of Transportation that is responsible for the safety of civil aviation. Among its duties are safety regulation, airspace and air traffic management, air navigation, civil aviation abroad, commercial space transportation, aircraft registration, and research, engineering, and development related to aviation.

RFID EPC Management for Warehouse Solutions ...

RFID EPC Management for Warehouse Solutions: Manhattan Associates' Warehouse Management and RFID Solutions Selected by ManTech International Corporation ...

ManTech Intl will leverage Manhattan's RFID capabilities for client security projects ...

... "Manhattan Associates®, Inc. (Nasdaq: MANH), the global leader in providing supply chain execution and optimization solutions, will deploy its Warehouse Management and EPC Manager solutions at ManTech Security Technologies Corporation, a division of ManTech International Corporation. ManTech is a leading provider of information technology services and integrated security and risk management solutions for mission-critical national security programs for the intelligence community and the Departments of Defense, State, Homeland Security and other U.S. government customers. It is expected that Manhattan Associates' solutions will provide inventory tracking, visibility and reporting and RFID capabilities that will enhance the value-added solutions that ManTech provides its customers. " ...

Manhattan Associates, Inc., is the global leader in providing supply chain execution and optimisation solutions. It enables operational excellence through its warehouse, transportation, distributed order management, reverse logistics and trading partner management applications, as well as its RFID, performance management and event management capabilities. These Integrated Logistics Solutions™ leverage state-of-the-art technologies, innovative practices and our domain expertise to enhance performance, profitability and competitive advantage. Manhattan Associates has licensed more than 900 customers representing more than 1,600 facilities worldwide, which include some of the world's leading manufacturers, distributors and retailers.

Headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, ManTech International Corporation is a leading provider of innovative technologies and solutions for mission-critical national security programs for the Intelligence Community and the Departments of Defense, State, Homeland Security, Justice and other U.S. federal government customers. The company's expertise includes systems engineering, systems integration, software development, enterprise security architecture, information assurance, intelligence operations support, network and critical infrastructure protection, information technology, communications integration and engineering support. The company supports the advanced telecommunications systems that are used in Operation Iraqi Freedom and in other parts of the world; provides the physical and cyber security to protect U.S. embassies all over the world and has developed a secure, collaborative communications system for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. With 2004 revenues of $842 million and more than 5,500 highly qualified employees, the company operates in the United States and 40 countries worldwide.

RFID Solution Demonstration ...

RFID Solution Demonstration: Robocom Systems International Inc. Announces Results of Rendezvous 2005

RIMS WMS has RFID compliance capabilities and will be demonstrated at upcoming conference ...

... "The three-day event included demonstrations of enhanced functionality in RIMS, Robocom’s Warehouse Management System. Attendees also participated in hands on demonstrations of RIMS’ RFID solution, which allows users to meet the requirements of leading retailers and the Department of Defense. The conference highlighted RIMS as it interfaces with partner solutions for load optimization, transportation management, document management, process-specific, onscreen user cue cards and RFID hardware. " ...

Robocom Systems International Inc. (www.robocom.com) develops, markets and supports advanced Warehouse Management Systems software that enables customers to expand productivity, reduce costs and increase profits.

EPC DOD RFID Capability ...

EPC DOD RFID Capability: New CatalystComplete™ Release Supports IBM Technology: Features Tightly Integrated Labor and Transportation Management Solutions: Supply chain software also offers RFID compatibility and out-of-the-box integration with SAP WM ...

... "In addition, the RFID capabilities of CatalystComplete 9.2 include customizable EPC and U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) tag assignments, enhanced filtering, support for additional RFID and related devices, and advanced process and event management capabilities. The SCE solution suite also offers device management integration to the SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure. " ...

Catalyst International, Inc., delivers software and solutions that enable companies to optimize the performance of their enterprise supply chains. Catalyst is the only resource that combines over 25 years of industry leadership in warehouse and logistics software development with an in-depth understanding of ERP systems. Catalyst has provided successful SCE solutions for customers around the world, including Boeing, Brown Forman, Reebok, Office Max, Panasonic, Rayovac, Subaru, and The Home Depot. It is headquartered in Milwaukee, WI and has offices or representatives in the UK, Italy, Mexico and South America.

RFID Global Positioning Integration ...

Latest RFID Tag Sharpens Asset Visibility ...

Jessica Walter-Groft, Defense Distribution Center’s Public Affairs Office, writes ...

... "Using the Iridium network of global satellites, the prototype is a combination unit that includes a traditional RFID tag along with global positioning system and satellite capabilities, giving defense transportation personnel access to the tag's location within feet of its exact position. As materiel release orders flowed in to DDSP, the Department of Defense's largest warehouse and the eastern strategic distribution platform for military supplies, a group of self-proclaimed wire heads from various federal agencies and private technology companies worked alongside DDSP information technology personnel to write shipment data onto the 3G prototype tags." ...

Contact: Jackie Noble 717 770-6223, Jackie.noble@dla.mil

RFID SST UDAP Integrated ...

Menendez

... "SST is an initiative to improve container security, utilizing a collection of interoperable technologies, ranging from Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) electronic seals and readers, GPS tracking systems, sensor and biometric technologies and gamma-ray image scanners - all seamlessly linked to software through the Universal Data Appliance Protocol (UDAP). Initially funded and driven by the world's largest port operators, SST is closely coordinated with the U.S. Customs Container Security Initiative (CSI), Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), and the U.S. Department of Transportation's Transportation Security Agency's (TSA) maritime security initiatives, such as Operation Safe Commerce. " ...

SaltLakeCity Airport RFID Trial ...

TSA | Transportation Security Administration | TSA Awards Additional $8.2 Million in Grants to Airports for Advanced Security Technology

... "Salt Lake City Department of Airports was awarded $924,000 to purchase and deploy a web-based RFID system to track the location of mobile resources, such as baggage carts and other vehicles near and around aircraft. " ...

RFID Smart Cards Identification Technology ...

The Committee on Energy and Commerce

... "Contactless identification technology is also used for personal identification, including in so-called smart cards. Smart cards typically come in a credit card form factor and carry sensitive, personally identifiable data. American consumers are likely to encounter smart cards and similar RF-enabled personal identification devices in their daily lives through applications such as secure access cards for building entry, speedy gasoline purchasing such as the Exxon Speedpass, vehicle anti-theft systems, and in transportation systems all over the world, including in the Minneapolis, San Francisco, Seattle, San Diego (in Subcommittee member Congressman Issa's district), Houston, and other systems. Smart cards are essentially RFID systems with advanced computing power, storage, and strong encryption accelerators, offering advanced services with enhanced security and privacy protection. In fact, smart cards are so powerful that the Department of Defense (DoD) and other government agencies are adopting the technology to secure access to their facilities and computer networks, even storing a picture and fingerprint of the cardholder on the card for enhanced security control. The DoD makes worst case scenario assumptions about the cards falling into the wrong hands and having large resources at their disposal to crack the card -- standards that advanced smart cards have met through the use of encryption, secure design, and other measures. " ...

RFID Architecture Standards Investment ...

INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS BILL ...

... "Architecture and standards- The Committee recommends $14,000,000, for architecture and standards work. The Committee understands that the Department has proposed a national standard under a mandate in the TEA21 legislation based on the use of an active radio frequency identification (RFID) technology for Commercial Vehicle Operations utilizing Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC). This is of concern because it minimizes, if not ignores, the significant presence of passive RFID technology equipment in transportation operations nationwide. As many states utilize an alternative passive system for transportation-related DSRC functions, particularly electronic toll collection, concerns have been shared with the Committee over not creating an architecture that precludes the application of passive RFID technologies in the search for a standard under the TEA21 mandate. The Committee directs the department to establish a program to test passive technology and incorporate the results into the department's development and implementation of a national architecture and standards regime. The Committee believes that the congressional mandate to establish a national standard was not meant to preclude different types of technology, but rather to create an architecture that would permit different technologies to mature and to create an architecture that permits regional, interregional, and national interoperability." ...

DOD RFID Compliance Kit Ready ...

DOD RFID Compliance Kit Ready: Alien Technology Announces RFID Ready Kit to Enable Compliance ...

Alien Tech has developed training, a software development kit SDK, and a guide to aid suppliers with their DOD RFID compliance efforts ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA  ... Alien Technology(R) today announced the Alien(R) RFID Ready Kit, a comprehensive package to assist suppliers in preparing to meet Department of ...

... Alien Technology(R) today announced the Alien(R) RFID Ready Kit, a comprehensive package to assist suppliers in preparing to meet Department of Defense (DOD) mandates for RFID. The package includes Alien EPC RFID Readers, Antennas, and Tags, as well as the training, services and information needed for successful planning and deployment of RFID with DOD. ...

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(R)), 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.

Homeland Security Drives RFID Technology for Border Management ...

Homeland Security Drives RFID Technology for Border Management: Homeland Security Announces Plans to Test Radio Frequency ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... announced today that US-VISIT is continuing to improve the border management system by planning tests of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology at ...

... Asa Hutchinson, Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security for the United States Department of Homeland Security, announced today that US-VISIT is continuing to improve the border management system by planning tests of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology at the U.S. land border. ...

The goals of US-VISIT are to enhance the security of our citizens and visitors; facilitate legitimate travel and trade; ensure the integrity of our immigration system; and protect the privacy of our visitors. US-VISIT is a continuum of security measures that begins overseas and continues through entry and exit. Experience has shown that the US-VISIT enrollment process is fast, easy to understand and simple for visitors.

Technology for Homeland Security Transportation Worker Identification Credential TWIC Prototype ...

Homeland Security Transportation Worker Identification Credential TWIC Prototype: SAFLINK Announces Subcontract for US Dept. of Homeland Security ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SAFLINK(R) Corporation (Nasdaq: SFLK), the leading provider of biometric and smart card security solutions, today announced its ...

... SAFLINK(R) Corporation (Nasdaq: SFLK), the leading provider of biometric and smart card security solutions, today announced its selection as a key technology provider to BearingPoint, Inc. for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) prototype phase contract awarded to BearingPoint on August 10th. This is the third phase in a massive initiative designed to improve security at seaports, airports, rail, pipeline, trucking, and mass transit facilities by creating a nationwide credential to prevent unauthorized persons from gaining access to secure areas. ...

SAFLINK Corporation offers biometric security and smart card solutions that protect intellectual property, secure information assets, and eliminate passwords. SAFLINK's software provides Identity Assurance Management(TM), allowing administrators to verify the identity of users and control their access to: computer networks; physical facilities; applications; manufacturing process control systems; and time and attendance systems. We also offer protection for popular applications such as e-mail, instant messaging, web transactions, and individual files.

Additional resources on the Homeland Security Transportation Worker Identification Credential TWIC prototype ...

Department of Homeland Security | Department of Homeland: Fact Sheet: Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Prototype. The Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA ...

Transportation Security Administration | TSA TWIC Program: consisted of a broad array of transportation workers. ... stakeholder working groups to identify and resolve ... Department of Homeland Security; National Institute of ...

BearingPoint Awarded $12 Million TWIC Prototype Contract: "The TWIC program is a win-win for transportation workers and for the security of our homeland," said Rear Adm. ...

TWIC Phase III Project Goes Live at Four Sites, BearingPoint: Homeland Security - Transportation Security Administration has launched its prototype Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program at four ...

RFID Deployment ...

RFID Deployment: RFID Interest High, Deployment Levels Increasing According to ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... into effect next month for suppliers to Wal-Mart and the US Department of Defense (DoD), interest in and progress toward deployment of RFID (Radio Frequency ...

... With mandates going into effect next month for suppliers to Wal-Mart and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), interest in and progress toward deployment of RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) is relatively high, according to a survey completed this month by Larstan Business Reports. About three-quarters of the 669 supply chain and information technology executives responding to the exclusive Larstan survey believe that having an effective advanced infrastructure in place to support RFID mandates, such as those from Wal-Mart and DoD, is "very important" or "important." ...

Additional RFID deployment resources ...

RFID Deployment: RFID Deployment Step 1: Analysis In what areas are you considering using RFID? For ... forecasting. RFID Deployment Step 2: Planning. ...

Full-Scale RFID Could Take a Decade: But full-fledged RFID deployment—across outbound shipments, inbound deliveries and manufacturing for a whole product lineup—could easily take not just one ...

Deploy RFID - the RFID Deployment Center - Home: The RFID Deployment Center is an infrastructure for designing, testing, validating, and deploying RFID supply chain systems, software, and individual ...

RFID deployment center aids fulfillment: Distribution Center Logistics, and grocery carrier Transport Industries have established a radio frequency identification (RFID) deployment center to help ...

GeometricSCM Chosen to Run Dallas RFID Deployment: GeometricSCM Chosen to Run Dallas RFID Deployment Center Solution Supports Third-party Logistics Warehousing SIS Technologies, DC ...

RFID SST Smart and Secure Tradelanes Initiative ...

From CONGRESSMAN BOB MENENDEZ, Chairman of the Democratic Caucus, 108TH CONGRESS ...

... "In the wake of September 11th, the need for secured ports has become more evident. Our ports in New Jersey serve not only as a center for global trade, but as an economic engine for our region, providing over 229,000 jobs and $25 billion in commerce, said Menendez. This is why I am proud to join in today's announcement of the Smart and Secure Tradelanes initiative. It is a major step toward protecting our homeland from the threat of unsecured cargo entering our ports. SST is an initiative to improve container security, utilizing a collection of interoperable technologies, ranging from Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) electronic seals and readers, GPS tracking systems, sensor and biometric technologies and gamma-ray image scanners - all seamlessly linked to software through the Universal Data Appliance Protocol (UDAP). Initially funded and driven by the world's largest port operators, SST is closely coordinated with the U.S. Customs Container Security Initiative (CSI), Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), and the U.S. Department of Transportation's Transportation Security Agency's (TSA) maritime security initiatives, such as Operation Safe Commerce. " ...

Through a decade in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Bob Menendez, who represents New Jersey's 13th Congressional District along the Hudson River and overlooking the Statue of Liberty, has made a stellar and rapid rise to the highest levels of influence in the U.S. House, and the highest levels of prominence in American political life. Today, Bob Menendez is the Chairman of the Democratic Caucus, elected by his colleagues on November 14, 2002.

RFID in Transportation ...

From U. S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, TSA | Transportation Security Administration ...

... "Boise Air Terminal/Gowen Field Airport is testing a system that combines fingerprint biometric and RFID technology.
Miami International Airport is testing a new perimeter defense system that will incorporate fiber optic fence netting, passive infra-red zone control, and intelligent video analysis. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is testing a barrier free intrusion detection system using Intelligent Video Analysis and Microwave Zone Control. Newark International Airport is testing a system using fingerprint biometric technology. Savannah International Airport is focusing on utilizing Intelligent Video Surveillance technology. Southwest Florida International Airport is evaluating new RFID and wireless fingerprint biometric technology intended to enhance the level of security at a vehicle gate. T.F. Green State Airport is focusing on controlling access to a secure area via an iris biometric recognition system. In addition, the entrance is employing anti-piggy backing detection using RFID technology. Tampa International Airport project is testing the viability of portable proximity card readers and fingerprint recognition technology. " ...

RFID in Shipping and Transportation ...

From US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation, State of Maritime Security, The Testimony of Mr. Christopher Koch, President and CEO, World Shipping Council ...

... "Consideration of e-seals usually involves the application of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, and in fact many of the products and platforms being marketed as enhancing container security also rely on that technology. Recent announcements by the Department of Defense and major retailers concerning the usage of RFID tags on products have also spurred significant interest in the technology.
It is important to keep in mind, however, that no international standard exist today for the application of RFID-based e-seals or for active, read/write RFID tags. Nor has a clear and appropriate delineation been drawn between the possible usage of RFID technology to address container security requirements and the possible usage of that technology to address supply chain management objectives. " ...

RFID Technology: PROJECT PROFILE

From BISNIS ...

... "There is a new trend away from bar code reading to the RFID technologies in the U.S. As a result of reduced prices and increased convenience, this new technology is being used extensively in automated systems such as logistics (warehouse management, factory line management, barrel tracking, supermarket trolley tracking, and fuel management), transportation (container tracking, bus station management, and vehicle access), and security related areas (vehicle access control, personnel access control, personnel tracking, and anti-theft identification). It is estimated that consumer durables will be the target market, expected to account for about half of planned production, while automotive and logistics each would account for 15% of production, while the rest (20 %) would be accounted for by other end users. Annual sales are forecasted to be between $5-6 million in the first two years of operation, and reach $7-8 million in the third and fourth years of operation." ...

BISNIS is the U.S. government's primary resource center for U.S. companies exploring business opportunities in Russia and other Newly Independent States. BISNIS provides U.S. companies with the latest market reports and tips on developments, export and investment leads, and strategies for doing business in the NIS. Since opening in 1992, BISNIS has facilitated more than $3 billion worth of U.S. exports and overseas investments. BISNIS was established in 1992 under the Freedom Support Act and is a part of the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration, which promotes market access for U.S. companies worldwide. BISNIS, headquartered in Washington, D.C., is the U.S. Government's market information center for U.S. companies pursuing business development in the NIS - some of the world's promising developing market economies. A critical feature of BISNIS is its ability to bring buyers and sellers together to facilitate successful transactions, which has resulted in more than $3 billion worth of U.S. exports and overseas business activities since 1992.

RFID Software: Spectrum Signal Processing to Develop Software-Defined Active RFID ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to jointly develop a suite of multi-purpose software-defined radio frequency identification (RFID) interrogators. ...

... Spectrum Signal Processing (USA) Inc., a subsidiary of Spectrum Signal Processing Inc., today announced a contract with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to jointly develop a suite of multi-purpose software-defined radio frequency identification (RFID) interrogators. The interrogators, or readers, are being developed for multiple funded programs addressing military logistics, homeland security and commercial transportation applications. The readers are designed to track military assets in both hostile and non-hostile environments and to monitor the location and physical integrity of intermodal cargo containers. ...

Spectrum Signal Processing Inc. (TSX:SSY)(NASDAQ:SSPI) is a leading supplier of software-defined platforms for defense electronics applications. Spectrum's products and services are optimized for military communications, signals intelligence, surveillance, electronic warfare and satellite communications applications. Spectrum's integrated, application-ready products provide its customers with compelling time-to-market and performance advantages while mitigating program risk and cost parameters. Spectrum Signal Processing (USA) Inc., based in Columbia, Maryland, provides applications engineering services and modified commercial-off-the-shelf platforms to the US Government, its allies, and its prime contractors.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is a multi-program science and technology laboratory managed for the US Department of Energy by UT-Battelle LLC. Scientists and engineers at ORNL conduct basic and applied research and development to create scientific knowledge and technological solutions that strengthen the nation's leadership in key areas of science; increase the availability of clean, abundant energy; restore and protect the environment; and contribute to national security.

RFID Tag Technology: Alien Technology Announces Availability of 96-Bit, Field ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... 9, 2004--Alien Technology(R) Corporation, a leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) products, today announced the release of EPC Class 1 tags ...

... Alien Technology(R) Corporation, a leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) products, today announced the release of EPC Class 1 tags with 96-bits of user-programmable memory. The new tag family is based on Alien(R)'s third generation of UHF EPC Class 1 integrated circuits, code named "Lepton." The Lepton-based tags deliver up to 40% more read range than previous models, providing robust operating margin for challenging applications. Fully compliant with Wal*Mart and U.S. Department of Defense initiatives taking effect in January 2005, the new tags operate according to the EPC Class 1 standard, the only field-programmable tag standard recognized by EPCglobal. The new tags will be used by hundreds of suppliers from around the world to track cases and pallets in the retail and DoD supply chain. ...

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(R)), Alien(R) manufactures EPC tags in very high-volumes and at low cost. The company also provides RFID readers for a variety of applications including supply chain management, logistics, and anti-counterfeiting, to improve inventory management and reduce operating costs. Alien is an active member of EPCglobal.

DOD RFID: US DoD's auto-ID security tests went well, says Axcess

From UsingRFID.com, UK ... The physical security RFID systems provider, Axcess International Inc., has announced that, in a test conducted at a US Department of Defense research facility ...
AXCESS Inc. (OTCBB:AXSI) provides RFID (radio frequency identification) systems for physical security and supply chain efficiencies. The battery-powered (active) tags locate, track, monitor, count and protect people, assets, inventory and vehicles. AXCESS' Active RFID solutions are supported by its integrated network-based, streaming digital video (or IPTV) technology. Both patented technologies enable applications including: automatic "hands-free" personnel access control, automatic vehicle access control, automatic electronic asset management, and network-based security surveillance. AXCESS is a partner of Amphion Capital Partners LLC. AXCESS Inc. provides a variety network-based security products for implementation in airports, transportation, telecommunications, oil and gas pipelines, water systems, nuclear power plants, and other critical national operations. Through the use of AXCESS' Prism Video™ and ActiveTag™ products, areas within a facility and on the perimeter can be secured and security information can be delivered immediately to mobile personnel.

RFID Sensors: Top Ports Choose VistaScape to Automate Wide Area Surveillance

From TMCnet  ... component of the platform, VistaScape is unique in that the platform incorporates other important sensor technologies such as radar, GPS, RFID, chemical and ...

VistaScape's Security Data Management System (SDMS) integrates the monitoring and management of disparate and distinct security hardware and software products into a single user interface and relational database. SDMS provides a wide area view of specified areas of interest. Based in Atlanta, Georgia - VistaScape Security Systems is changing the perspective and expectations of security solution users by replacing traditional human detection and error with consistent computer intelligence and analysis.

The ports and harbors of America are critical infrastructure nodes and commerce hubs. As such, they are likely targets for terrorism, theft, and other destructive criminal activities. To reduce overall threat exposure, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), requiring ports and harbors to comply with increased security regulations by July 1, 2004. VistaScape Security Systems, the leading provider of policy-based video surveillance solutions, experienced in port and harbor security deployments, understands your challenge of securing a large perimeter without physical barriers. VistaScape's software technology provides proactive, comprehensive video surveillance while reducing human error and oversight.

RFID Compliance Software: 3M Selects HighJump Compliance Advantage Software to Help Meet ...

From TMCnet ... Software's compliance advantage supply chain execution (SCE) solution to help meet customers' radio frequency identification (RFID) tagging requirements. ...

RFID Compliance: Compliance Advantage™ is the only pre-packaged, fully configurable RFID solution that offers the ability to comply with current mandates from retailers such as Wal-Mart and the Department of Defense—while easily adapting to future requirements. This solution can be implemented on either a stand-alone basis or in conjunction with existing fulfillment systems to tag items, cases and pallets, as well as generate accurate advance shipping notices (ASN) for your customers.

Every day, 3M people find new ways to make amazing things happen. Wherever they are, whatever they do, the company's customers know they can rely on 3M to help make their lives better. 3M's brands include icons such as Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete, Command and Dyneon. Serving customers in more than 200 countries around the world, the company's 67,000 people use their expertise, technologies and global strength to lead in major markets including consumer and office; display and graphics; electronics and telecommunications; safety, security and protection services; health care; industrial and transportation. For more information, including the latest product and technology news, visit www.3M.com.

RFID Computers: InfoLogix Announces Intelligent RFID Micro Super Rugged SR(R) ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... BENSALEM, Pa., June 3 /PRNewswire/ -- InfoLogix has announced one of the first available wireless, full-function, Ruggedized RFID computers. ...

InfoLogix provides end to end product and services solutions within enterprise mobility. Enterprise mobility is defined as the mobile computing and wireless communications systems, and critical I/O technologies, that support real-time, distributed transaction processing throughout the entire enterprise. That enterprise could be a hospital, retail store, manufacturing plant, distribution facility, sports arena, warehouse or public sector installation. InfoLogix is uniquely positioned to provide all the components necessary for a complete end-to-end enterprise mobility solution.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is a powerful Auto ID solution that can significantly increase efficiency and productivity. However, implementing an RFID solution requires a thorough understanding of the capabilities and limitations of this emerging technology. With so much on the line, trust the proven leader in Automatic Identification and Data Collection integration...InfoLogix, Inc. As industries demand increased efficiencies in logistics, distribution, asset management, and tracking, InfoLogix is your source with RFID Radio Frequency Identification solutions. With mandates from Wal-Mart and the Department of Defense (DoD) driving hundreds of product manufacturers toward the use of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags on their shipments, 2004 has been touted as the year of RFID. InfoLogix offers RFID consulting services to enterprises looking to specify RFID system components to satisfy their system performance requirements. Intermec Technologies Corp. just introduced the RFID-ready CV60, the first rugged vehicle mount computer to integrate RFID with both Bluetooth(TM) technology and a wireless base station. This communication integration allows easy upgrading to RFID, eliminates the need for an external base station to communicate with wireless scanners, simplifies installation, reduces lifetime cost of ownership and provides a safer and less cluttered workspace for vehicle operators. The CV60 is the second generation of RFID forklift readers from Intermec. The CV60 and its predecessor, the 5055 vehicle mount terminal, are designed for data collection applications in warehousing and distribution, manufacturing, transportation and customer service.

Momentum Builds with Manhattan Associates' Integrated Logistics ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... management, transportation management, distributed order management, reverse logistics and trading partner management along with RFID, performance management ...

Manhattan Associates' Integrated Logistics Solutions (ILS) goes beyond the base functionality delivered by traditional supply chain execution (SCE) software, supporting the full spectrum of execution processes and enabling a holistic approach to supply chain management.

Integrated Logistics Solutions views the supply chain as an individualized ecosystem-not a series of separate functions. It targets the business drivers specific to a particular organization and industry, enabling companies to alleviate industry-specific pain points and realize increased value.

Manhattan Associates' Integration Platform for RFID provides an extremely scalable and robust RFID integration platform for our RFID in a Box™ solution. Built on a foundation of integration with high-speed, high-volume systems—such as conveyors, advanced material handling systems and voice recognition technology—this platform can integrate RFID into any supply chain execution (SCE) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) application. By enabling the integration of RFID data into multiple applications, regardless of platform, data format or communications protocol, our platform provides a single toolset for RFID integration within the enterprise.

As the first supply chain execution provider to join the Auto-ID Center (now EPCglobal), Manhattan Associates has pioneered efforts in helping to drive standards industry-wide. We understand RFID technology and how it works, and we've formed partnerships with the top RFID hardware vendors, so our clients can equip themselves with everything they need from one place—tags, readers and all. We've also added RFID to our industry-first Retail Compliance Guarantee, meaning we can ensure compliance for your business with the requirements of Wal-Mart, the Department of Defense and other enterprises as they continue to announce their RFID initiatives to their suppliers.

TransCore Launches AutoExpreso Electronic Toll Collection System ...

From Business Wire (press release) ... $30 million for the installation, operation and maintenance of the system and will use TransCore's eGo(TM) radio frequency identification (RFID) technology for ...

TransCore’s Amtech technology was founded by five scientists from the renowned Los Alamos National Laboratory where they developed RFID technology for two divisions of the federal government: the Department of Energy application to track vehicles and nuclear materials and the Department of Agriculture application to track cattle and monitor their health. Today, TransCore’s Chief Scientist Dr. Jerry Landt, who holds more than 13 of the key RFID patents and was a member of the original scientific team, leads research and development efforts at TransCore’s Amtech Technology Center in Albuquerque, N.M.

TransCore unveils its innovative eGo™ product family. Through a series of groundbreaking design innovations, this wireless radio frequency identification (RFID) technology overcomes adoption and cost barriers for large-scale opportunities, opens new markets for ITS applications, and promotes broader acceptance of ITS systems.

The eGo wireless communications tag is a paper-thin, sticker-like tag with technology that allows user-defined information to be read from or communicated to the tag. It requires no battery and sets a new price/performance level for RFID tags. This new technology is in stark contrast to the larger, read-only or battery-required read/write, higher-priced tags predominantly used today in electronic toll collection, access control or parking applications.


About eGo Products: The windshield sticker tag operates in the 915 MHz radio frequency band, and is an RF-programmable device that does not require a battery or connection to the vehicle's electrical system. It is in the form of a flexible, tamper-resistant sticker (45 x 85 x 1 mm) much like a vehicle registration sticker. The tag has a read range of 5 meters or 16.4 feet and reads at highway speeds of up to 100 mph or 160 km/h. The windshield sticker tag has a 1024 bit memory capable of reading, writing and rewriting information, or permanently locking individual bytes. The tag is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, sunlight, humidity and vibration.

The 2110 reader is a fully integrated, self-contained 915 MHz wireless identification reader. The 39.4 x 39.4 cm reader includes an RF module, digital signal processor (DSP), power supply, antenna, I/O ports, and serial communications interface. The reader can be configured to read tags with 64-bit tag ID or 1024 bits of tag memory, and can also read ATA (American Trucking Associations)-compliant and ISO (International Standards Organization)-compliant tags. The reader is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, humidity and vibration.

About TransCore: TransCore is a privately held transportation services company with 1,800 employees and more than 80 locations globally. With installations in 39 countries, 80-plus patents and a world-class manufacturing facility, TransCore's expertise in providing system-based applications that improve transportation efficiency is unparalleled. For more information, visit www.transcore.com.

Transcore's Amtech product line is comprised of dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) systems based on radio frequency (RF) technology. This ground-breaking wireless data technology, one of the many firsts you’ll find at TransCore, allows communications between readers and electronic tag devices attached to vehicles, equipment and containers.

Companies around the world utilize Transcore technology to identify, track and monitor almost anything that moves. From electronic toll and traffic management to commercial and private fleets, parking and access control applications to rail and intermodal yards.

The wireless systems are rugged and reliable, built to withstand heavy industrial, marine, rail and traffic environments. The systems can operate at international-standard 915 MHz and 2450 MHz bands and 5.8 GHz capability will soon be available. They are in operation around the world in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, North America and South America. Each Amtech system is manufactured at TransCore’s ISO 9001 quality-certified Amtech Technology Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico which houses research and development, engineering and manufacturing departments.

AIAG RFID Standard: RFID Tire Traceability

In a demonstration of industry responsiveness and cooperation, the Automotive Industry Action Group's (AIAG) Automatic Identification Data Collection Work Group has released its revised Tire and Wheel Label and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) standard. Developed by the group in just under a year, the standard will provide benefits such as helping error-proof the tire assembly process and automating the collection of tire information and traceability.

Based on the AIAG B-4 Parts Identification and Tracking standard, the revision provides suppliers with guidelines for printing and placement of two-dimensional (2D) bar code labels and passive read/write RFID tags on tires and wheels for product identification.

"The 2D bar codes and RFID tags will help support the assembly process and provide item-level traceability throughout the vehicle's lifecycle," said William J. Hoffman, chairman of AIAG's RFID Tire and Wheel Identification Work Group and manager of Auto Supply Chain for Intermec Technologies Corp. "With a 2D label or RFID tag, a portable database can reside on tires, increasing accurate data capture and reducing the dependency of looking up tire information on a computer."

Placed on the inside of vehicle tires, the RFID tags would identify tires that are associated with a specific vehicle. Data - including a 12-character coding structure or Department of Transportation (DOT) number - could be written to each tag. The DOT number designates where the tire was manufactured, its size, unique components of the tire and the week and year it was manufactured.

The RFID tag provides an electronic means of automatically transferring data from the tire to a database, so that full DOT information is available. The AIAG standard - which focuses on tires and uses specific language concerning tires - could actually be applied to any individual vehicle component for tracking purposes.

The 2D label - also developed by the AIAG's RFID Tire and Wheel Identification Work Group - functions similar to the RFID tag, however, the RFID tag can hold more information.

To obtain a copy of the Tire and Wheel Label and Radio Frequency Identification standard document (B-11), contact AIAG's Customer Service Department at (248) 358-3003. The cost of the document is $10 for members and $50 for non-members. AIAG members can download an electronic copy of this document at no charge from the members-only portion of the organization's web site at mows.aiag.org.

Founded in 1982, the AIAG is a not-for-profit trade association of approximately 1,500 automotive and truck manufacturers and their suppliers. AIAG’s purpose is to provide an open forum where members cooperate in developing and promoting solutions that enhance the prosperity of the automotive industry. Its focus is to continuously improve business processes and practices involving trading partners throughout the supply chain.

Walmart RFID Compliance: Provia's WMS Chosen to Power Sun's RFID Test Center

Texas-Based RFID Test Center to Help Suppliers Meet RFID Compliance Requirements from Wal-Mart

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., April 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Provia Software, a leading provider of supply chain execution software solutions, announced today that the company's ViaWare warehouse management system (WMS) is the supply chain execution system being currently utilized at Sun Microsystems' new, state-of-the-art RFID Test Center in Dallas, Texas. Sun's facility brings together a complete end-to-end RFID solution designed to help quell the fears of companies looking to initiate an RFID compliance program and quickly help them achieve compliance status.

Sun's RFID Test Center, a 17,000-square-foot warehouse facility, is slated to open May 5, 2004 with a large open house celebration. The center is fully equipped to meet the EPC standards and RFID compliance requirements for tagging and testing of products at the pallet and case level.

"The idea of RFID implementation can seem insurmountable. Provia and Sun are here to demonstrate the actual tangible process to companies, and help them build a map to RFID compliance," said Paul Crist, vice president of sales and marketing for Provia. "This is truly the first RFID test center of its kind -- a working warehouse where companies can test how the entire system works before they invest in RFID technology. Companies can use the test center to evaluate how they can incorporate RFID into their manufacturing, warehouse and distribution environments, develop production of a full scale product tagging plan and come away with an end-to-end architecture for the implementation at their site."

Corporations and government agencies around the world recognize RFID's potential to cut supply chain costs, increase operational efficiencies, speed delivery time, and minimize theft and waste.

"We are excited to have Provia as an integrated partner into our Test Center offering. Together we will provide suppliers to Wal-Mart and others with a facility and the technical expertise to get their RFID implementations achieved correctly the first time," said Julie Sarbacker, director of the Auto-ID Business Unit at Sun Microsystems. "Suppliers should contact us today to get started."

In addition to showcasing a state-of-the-art warehouse environment equipped with RFID readers installed at dock doors and warehouse forklift portals, the test center contains material handling pallet conveyers and high speed conveyor station products for advanced tagging and testing of RFID tagged products. Integration with Provia's warehouse management system (WMS)
will allow for automated processing of Advance Ship Notifications (ASNs). The initial use for the test center will be for pallet acceptance into the center via dock doors, but will quickly be expanded to the tracking of products to various test stations such as pallet conveyors, high speed tracks and pallet racks.

Executives from Sun, Provia and other companies will participate in the event. The grand opening of the Test Center would be of interest to consumer product companies, manufacturers and suppliers, who are required to comply with RFID mandates from Wal-Mart, Target, Albertsons, HDMA or the US Department of Defense. To register to attend, please visit http://www.avim.com/sun/index.html . Inquiries about the Grand Opening should be sent to
rfid-testcenter@sun.com . About Provia Software - Provia Software, a viastore Company, delivers The Power of Delivery(TM) for customers like Gillette, Menlo Worldwide, Graybar Electric, US Freightways, Spencer Gifts, Lanier Worldwide, and Owens Corning and third-party logistics (3PL) customers like, Menlo Worldwide, Total Logistic Control and Conestoga Cold Storage. Provia's Supply Chain Execution solutions include RFID-enabled warehousing, transportation, order and yard management products seamlessly integrated together with web-based visibility tools to create a real-time, end-to-end supply chain execution solution. Sun, Sun Microsystems, the Sun logo and The Network Is The Computer are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc., in the US and other countries.

RFID Integration: Tibco RFID strategy

From ADT Magazine The killer apps for radio frequency identification (RFID) will be written by coders who know their business, according to Dushyant Pandya, director of ...

High-profile mandates from Wal-Mart, the Department of Defense, and the Healthcare Distribution Management Association have many companies scrambling to incorporate RFID into their operations, and looking for answers to some important questions: What does compliance entail? Where does it make sense to deploy RFID first? How can mandate-driven RFID initiatives deliver additional business value across your organization?

For almost 20 years, TIBCO has delivered cutting-edge integration and messaging software that helps over 2,000 leading enterprises including Seagate, Limited Brands, Merial, Pirelli, Delta Air Lines, FedEx and NASDAQ do just that. Today TIBCO is partnering with Alien Technology, the leading provider of RFID hardware, to enable RFID implementations and compliance by leveraging existing assets.

TIBCO’s Real-Time RFID-based Command And Control solution enables manufacturers to manage a network of trading partners in based on real-time information supplied by RFID tracking and management. The solution offers an interface that enables managers to control all elements of production and delivery for a distributed supply chain network, including in-house and third party manufacturing, critical part suppliers, warehouse contractors and transportation providers. The solution enables manufacturers to align their supply chain network in a way that maximizes their ability to make the right product at the right time. TIBCO has helped manufacturers reduce production inventory levels by 20 to 30% and reduce operational overhead by 25 to 40%.

TIBCO created a software "adapter" that converts the data into the formats needed for applications from SAP and other enterprise resource planning vendors. The two companies demonstrated the RFID solution at a gathering of Wal-Mart's top 100 suppliers in November 2003 and will release it in the first half of 2004.

TIBCO Software Inc. (NASDAQ: TIBX), a leading enabler of real-time business and the world’s largest independent business integration software company, as demonstrated by market share and analyst reports, and Alien Technology, the leading provider of reliable, high-volume, low-cost Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) products, today announced a technology partnership to provide business context to RFID information.

Raw RFID data, abstracted to the appropriate level and linked to business processes by TIBCO® business integration and business optimization software, will help companies track and trace inventory and shorten order fulfillment processes across systems and organizations. Correlating business processes with RFID generated events can improve inventory and asset visibility and improve the speed and agility with which organizations can identify and react to problems or opportunities.

“As customers are installing RFID products in their operations, they are achieving business benefits with all members of their supply chain,” said Keith Scott, senior vice president of sales and marketing, Alien Technology. “TIBCO integration and event management software will help companies realize the business value and potential of RFID throughout their supply chain. Alien Technology is pleased to partner with TIBCO on this endeavor.”

TIBCO and Alien Technology are working together to develop RFID solutions that integrate real-time events generated by Alien’s hardware with the entire enterprise via TIBCO business integration software. TIBCO business integration and business optimization products will provide visibility and analysis of RFID events, enabling organizations to react more quickly to changing business conditions. As part of the agreement, Alien Technology has joined TIBCO’s Alliance Program (TAP).

TIBCO has been a technology board member of EPCglobal, the international standards body for RFID technology, since April 2003 and is helping to drive these important standards. Tom Laffey, vice president at TIBCO Software, is a technology board member and chair for the Software Action Group of EPCglobal’s EPC Information Service.

“Many of TIBCO’s world class customers are adopting Alien’s high-performance, low-cost tags and readers,” said Tom Laffey. “TIBCO’s robust infrastructure will enable our customers to take advantage of the large volume of data provided by Alien’s RFID technology and integrate it seamlessly with the rest of their enterprise applications.”

TIBCO Software Inc. (NASDAQ:TIBX) is the leading independent business integration software company in the world, demonstrated by market share and analyst reports. In addition, TIBCO is a leading enabler of Real-Time Business, helping companies become more cost-effective, more agile and more efficient. TIBCO has delivered the value of Real-Time Business, what TIBCO calls The Power of Now®, to over 2,000 customers around the world and in a wide variety of industries. For more information on TIBCO's proven business integration, business optimization, and enterprise backbone solutions, TIBCO can be reached at +1 650-846-1000 or on the Web at www.tibco.com. TIBCO is headquartered in Palo Alto, CA.

DOD RFID Program : DoD Discusses New Supply Tracking System With Vendors

By Sgt. 1st Class Doug Sample, USA; American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2004 -- Defense Department officials met this week with hundreds of vendors to discuss plans for implementing technology common among today's retailers to revolutionize the supply chain to the battlefield.

The three-day summit at the Washington Hilton began April 6.

Military logisticians hope to take the "factory to the foxhole" by using radio- frequency identification, or RFID, tags to improve supply chains while reducing cost. The RFID technology has become part of a new DoD initiative making it mandatory for all items in the department's inventory to be distinguishable from one another.

Acting Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Michael Wynne said RFID technology is a way for DoD to ensure military forces get everything they need, from "food and water to supply parts."

Many retail stores today, most notably the Wal-Mart chain, use RFID tags to track products and control inventory costs. State transportation departments use the technology to monitor tollbooth traffic, and farmers use it to keep track of cattle.

Wynne said he intends to have RFID tags "capture information about all critical assets as they move throughout DoD's supply chain" to decrease supply-chain costs and improve efficiency. Military logisticians will know exactly what is on a shipment pallet or container without having to unwrap it, he said...

Manhattan Associates to Speak at DoD RFID Summit for Industry

EVP Strategy and Business Development, Eric Peters, to Speak on Lessons Learned in Radio Frequency Identification Implementations

ATLANTA - April 7, 2004 - Manhattan Associates®, Inc. (NASDAQ: MANH), the global leader in providing supply chain execution (SCE) solutions, announced that Eric Peters, executive vice president, strategy and business development, will speak at the 2004 Department of Defense (DoD) RFID Summit for Industry, April 6 - 8, 2004, in Washington, D.C. The summit is being hosted by the Office of the Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Supply Chain Integration) and the DoD Logistics AIT Office. The DoD RFID Summit for Industry brings together leaders in the field of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to discuss RFID technology and strategies for taking advantage of the asset management efficiencies that can be realized through the integration of RFID throughout the DoD and commercial partners. This is the second year the summit has been held and Manhattan Associates has participated in both.

Mr. Peters will participate in the "Lessons Learned on Implementation" panel on Thursday, April 8, from 8:45 a.m.- 10:45 a.m. EDT. This panel, moderated by Alan Estevez, assistant deputy under secretary of defense, supply chain integration, will explore the expectations, limitations and lessons to be learned from real-world RFID implementations. In his role at Manhattan Associates, Mr. Peters has gained intimate knowledge of the steps companies are taking to meet RFID mandates, including those issued by the DoD as well as several major retailers. Other participants in the panel include: Simon Langford, RFID strategy, Wal-Mart; Tom Torre, associate director, B2B supply chain innovation, Proctor & Gamble; Stav Prodromou, CEO, Alien; Larry Blue, vice president of engineering development, Matrics; and David Cass, transportation systems analyst, Fleet & Industrial Supply Center, Norfolk Ocean Terminal Division.

"Organizations are thirsting for guidance on RFID. We've been at the forefront of the RFID movement and as a result understand the challenges associated with implementing RFID into logistics operations," said Mr. Peters. " We have invested a great deal of time and effort in delivering world-class RFID-enabled solutions, working closely with our customers to address their RFID needs and partnering with other leading RFID technology vendors. I look forward to sharing what we've learned at this important summit."

In October 2003, the Department of Defense announced that it is requiring its suppliers to be RFID-compliant by January 2005. This edict solidified the DoD's place as an early adopter and true pioneer in supply chain and logistics operations. The DoD RFID Summit for Industry will bring together suppliers, supply chain personnel, DoD personnel, Acquisition & Logistics Program Managers from the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Marines and representatives from USTRANSCOM, the Defense Logistics Agency and other industry associations to educate and discuss the DoD's RFID policies, requirements, business processes and pilot programs that are already underway.

For more information on the DoD RFID Summit for Industry, visit www.dodait.com.

About Eric Peters
Eric Peters is Manhattan Associates' executive vice president, strategy and business development. He is responsible for the global professional services, training and customer service organizations, as well as research and development for Manhattan Associates' Trading Partner Management (TPM) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS) application suites. Additionally, he leads Manhattan Associates' Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Distributed Order Management (DOM) initiatives. Mr. Peters joined Manhattan Associates in April 2002 as senior vice president, products and strategy. With nearly 20 years of marketing and strategy experience in the supply chain execution industry, Mr. Peters is instrumental in helping Manhattan Associates continue to extend its global leadership position in the supply chain execution (SCE) marketplace.

About Manhattan Associates
Manhattan Associates, Inc., is the global leader in providing supply chain execution solutions. We enable operational excellence through our warehousing and distribution, transportation and trading partner management applications. These integrated solutions leverage state-of-the-art technologies, innovative practices and our domain expertise to enhance performance, profitability and competitive advantage. Manhattan Associates has licensed more than 900 customers representing more than 1,600 facilities worldwide, which include some of the world's leading manufacturers, distributors and retailers. For more information about Manhattan Associates, visit www.manh.com.

Zebra Technologies' RFID Smart Label Printers Approved by Manhattan Associates For Supply Chain Execution Solutions

VERNON HILLS, Ill., March 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Zebra Technologies (Nasdaq: ZBRA), a global leader in delivering on-demand printing solutions for business improvement and a pioneer in the targeted adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) for global business, today announces that Manhattan Associates, Inc., the global leader in providing supply chain execution (SCE) solutions, has approved Zebra's Electronic Product Code (EPC) compatible UHF Class 1 R4Mplus smart label printer/encoder for its SCE solutions.

"Many of Manhattan Associates clients already depend on Zebra printers for their warehouse and logistics environments," said Stuart Itkin, vice president of marketing for Zebra. "Having Manhattan Associates approve Zebra's R4Mplus Class 1 printer/encoder for use with its supply chain execution solutions enables Manhattan Associates' customers to immediately add emerging identification capabilities to their supply chain systems, while maintaining mission critical performance from their printer/encoders."

A member of EPCglobal, Zebra is playing a leading role in the development of RFID "smart label" technology, standards and applications for supply chain and business improvement programs designed to help suppliers to the U.S. Department of Defense, Wal-Mart and other retailers meet the RFID EPC compliance identification requirements set to take effect in January 2005.

"As a fellow member of EPCglobal, the ability to offer Zebra EPC-compliant products along with our RFID in a Box and SCE solutions allows us to provide our client base with premier hardware for the printing and application of RFID tags and labels," said Greg Gilbert, product management, RFID, Manhattan Associates. "Our approval of Zebra's R4Mplus printer for use with our solutions helps strengthen the partnership we enjoy with Zebra and will help to deliver RFID capabilities to Manhattan Associates' clients around the globe."

As a pioneer and leader in RFID printing/encoding technologies, Zebra has been researching and developing RFID technologies for more than eight years and was the first company to produce an integrated, on-demand RFID printer/encoder -- the R-140 -- nearly four years ago. Zebra's popular R402 desktop model followed in 2002. Zebra also was the first company to introduce an EPC compatible printer/encoder when it demonstrated its R4Mplus models in September 2003 at the EPC Symposium in Chicago.

About Manhattan Associates: Manhattan Associates, Inc., is the global leader in providing supply chain execution solutions. We enable operational excellence through our warehousing and distribution, transportation and trading partner management applications. These integrated solutions leverage state-of-the-art technologies, innovative practices and our domain expertise to enhance performance, profitability and competitive advantage. Manhattan Associates has licensed more than 900 customers representing more than 1,600 facilities worldwide, which include some of the world's leading manufacturers, distributors and retailers. For more information about Manhattan Associates, visit www.manh.com .

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

RFID in the DOD Strategic Supply Process

... Despite turbulent world and economic conditions, some companies continue to thrive in the global marketplace while others struggle to avoid or emerge from bankruptcy. We believe their secret to success is the successful application and integration of Supply Chain Management (SCM) principles throughout the entire enterprise. Industry leaders effortlessly balanced the iron triangle of SCM – the people, processes, and technology that are key to fueling a high velocity supply chain. The Department of Defense (DoD) lags behind industry in application of SCM principles. We recommend the DoD redefine its SCM enterprise at the DoD level and provide recommendations to guide the department as it transitions from a state of awareness about SCM to building an adaptive supply network in the future ...

... In today’s global economy, in-transit visibility is vital. Just-in-time manufacturing and assembly operations require firms to know – sometimes to the minute – when a key part or component will arrive from a supplier. Technology such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and automated identification technology (AIT) can provide this information to all firms in the supply chain. Customers increasingly demand the capability to use the Internet to track their package from the time it is shipped to the time it arrives at their home or office. FedEx provides world-class tracking capabilities for items shipped through its network of airborne and ground-based transportation channels. Wal-Mart’s move to implement passive RFID tags may accelerate the spread of this technology throughout the retail sector given the huge volume of goods moved through Wal-Mart distribution channels. The payback from implementing such programs can be substantial. For example, Savi Technology’s implementation of DoD’s Ammunition AIT project produced a 98% cost avoidance in the inventory/reconciliation of category I ammunition. Scanning labels and reconciling inventories used to take 40 man-hours per building. It now takes 30 minutes per building, yielding a cost avoidance of over $860,000 ...

From RFID to Smart Dust: The Expanding Market for Wireless Sensor Technologies

Wireless sensor technologies will be explored at a U.S. Department of Commerce Forum on April 1, 2004 that addresses the current and potential uses of sensor technologies by both industry and government as well as the public policy implications of widespread deployment. The forum is open to the public on a first come basis. Registration is onsite, no pre-registration required. A link to the forum webcast will be posted here on the day of the event.
DATE & TIME: The Wireless Sensor Technology Forum will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2004. Registration and demos open at 8:00 a.m.

LOCATION: The forum on wireless sensor technologies will be held at the U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Auditorium, Washington, D.C. (Enter through the Department of Commerce Main Lobby on 14th Street between Constitution and Pennsylvania avenues. Photo identification required.)

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wendy Lader, Office of Policy Analysis and Development, NTIA, at (202) 482-1880, or electronic mail: wlader@ntia.doc.gov. Please direct media inquiries to the Office of Public Affairs, NTIA, at (202) 482-7002.

Commerce To Host Wireless Sensor Technologies Forum April 1st, Panel Discussions Will Examine Marketplace Expansion “From RFID to Smart Dust”

Wireless sensor technologies, the next highly anticipated billion-dollar market for the information technology sector, will be explored at a U.S. Department of Commerce Forum on April 1, 2004 that addresses the current and potential uses of sensor technologies by both industry and government as well as the public policy implications of widespread deployment.

Panel discussions will be moderated by Federal Communications Commissioner Kevin J. Martin and senior Commerce Department officials including Jon W. Dudas, Acting Under Secretary for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office; Michael D. Gallagher, Acting Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information; Elizabeth Prostic, Chief Privacy Officer; and Benjamin H. Wu, Deputy Under Secretary for Technology.

"Designing an appropriate regulatory framework for wireless sensor technologies requires an understanding of different policy objectives. We look forward to a lively discussion," said Acting Under Secretary Dudas.

“Widespread use of wireless sensor technologies is moving from factory floors to store shelves to family living rooms,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Gallagher. “We want to make sure government is a smart consumer. We also need to explore the implications for spectrum management and privacy, and we must adopt policies that maintain our economic competitive advantage,” Gallagher said.

The Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and Technology Administration will host the half-day forum. The first panel will address the present and future market for sensor technologies. Panelists will include developers, manufacturers, market analysts, and industry and government users. The second panel will address public policy issues facing sensor technologies such as spectrum use, privacy and security, and intellectual property. Panelists will include representatives from industry and government, as well as public policy analysts.

The Wireless Sensor Technologies Forum will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Auditorium, Washington, D.C. More information is available on the NTIA Web site at www.ntia.doc.gov .

Program:

8:00 AM Registration and Demo Area Opens

9:00-9:15 Opening Remarks by Mario W. Cardullo, Counselor for Technology and Entrepreneurism,

Office of the Under Secretary, International Trade Administration



9:15-11:00 Panel 1: The Market and Uses for Sensor Technologies



Moderators:

Michael D. Gallagher, Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and

Information

Kevin J. Martin, Commissioner, Federal Communications Commission

Benjamin H. Wu, Deputy Under Secretary for Technology



Panelists:

Jon Brendsel, Director of Technology, VeriSign

Lyle Ginsburg, Managing Partner, Products Operating Group, Accenture

Ralph M. Kling, Principal Researcher, Intel

Ron Moser, Strategic Applications Analyst for RFID, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Thomas M. McAuliffe, Vice President, Strategy & Business Development,

Secure Asset Solutions, Motorola

Robert Poor, Chief Technology Officer, Ember

Piyush Sodha, President & CEO, Matrics, Inc.

C. Stewart Verdery, Jr., Assistant Secretary for Homeland Security for Border

and Transportation Security Policy and Planning



11:00 - 11:30 Break



11:30 –1:15 Panel 2: Policy Issues Related to Sensor Technologies



Moderators:

Jon W. Dudas, Acting Under Secretary for Intellectual Property and Director of the

U.S. Patent & Trademark Office

Michael D. Gallagher, Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and

Information

Elizabeth Prostic, Chief Privacy Officer, U.S. Department of Commerce



Panelists:

Paula Bruening, Staff Counsel, Center for Democracy and Technology

Sandra R. Hughes, Chief Privacy Officer, Procter & Gamble

Ari Juels, Principal Research Scientist, RSA Laboratories

Elliot Maxwell, Fellow, Center for the Study of American Government, Johns Hopkins University

Paul Moskowitz, Research Staff Member, IBM Watson Research Center

Ravi Rajapakse, Chief Technology Officer, Savi Technologies

Steven J. Winter, Senior Vice President, Global Service and Intellectual Property,

Intermec Technologies Corporation

Badri A. Younes, Director, Spectrum Management, U.S. Department of Defense

1:15 Close

RFID at Lawrence Livermore Laboratory - Industrial Partnerships

We have demonstrated the feasibility of radio-frequency identification technology for a wide range of applications in both transportation and industry. Radio-frequency identification can remotely identify vehicles, inventory, or personnel within its range without the need for individual scans—saving time and money as well as providing greater flexibility over current bar-code inventory-control systems...

Automatic Vehicle Identification: In partnership with the California Department of Transportation, we developed a prototype vehicle identification system for automating toll collections. An electronic tag on the car identifies the vehicle. As it passes roadside equipment, a 915-MHz signal is reflected back to the reader, modulated with information from the tag. Because the system automatically debits an account to collect the toll, the vehicle can proceed without stopping. The system will be capable of assuming broader roles in the future, such as vehicle-to-roadway communication or using vehicles as traffic probes. In the latter case, the system can read the velocity of particular cars and provide information on traffic conditions.

We are also assisting the Federal Highway Administration in developing a national vehicle-to-roadway standard for commercial vehicles. Primary application is for automatic clearance of trucks at highway speeds upstream from a weigh station. Electronic credentials, safety sensors status, and other information would be transmitted from the on-vehicle tag. In-transit data and driver messages would be transmitted from the infrastructure...

Companies interested in commercializing this technology should provide a written statement of interest that must include a description of corporate capability and experience relevant to this technology.

RFID in Transportation: The Department of Transportation's Intelligent Transportation System Projects

The Department of Transportation has been working on three Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) intermodal freight projects in coordination with the Secretary’s Office of Intermodalism. The three projects are Air Cargo Electronic Supply Chain Manifest, Electronic Seal System for Container Movement, and Asset Cargo Tracking. All three projects were originally designed to improve various aspects of freight mobility and efficiency. However, all three have as part of their design the ability to pinpoint location of freight assets and cargo based upon the latest reporting point. This can be either with fixedpoint, land-based readers, global positioning satellite readers, cellular network readers, or a combination of the three. If we are lacking knowledge related to the contents of a container or a trailer at anytime or
anywhere in the US, each of these projects has features that will help us to advance to meeting that objective.

The Air Cargo project is designed to handle chain of custody of cargo from its origination at a manufacturer/shipper to its end destination at the receiving air cargo facility or at the end destination customer. In route the originator, carrier and receiver of the goods uses a smart card to hand-off the freight between custodians. The smart card contains the biometric identifier of a thumb-print, the electronic manifest and an image of the driver’s commercial
driver license. All data is stored in a central server and is accessible through the internet. The Electronic Seal project is designed to track containers in-bond from the point of inspection to the destination of the container, through seaports and across land border crossings. The e-seal is a radio frequency device that emits a signal as it passes reader devices, and will display information as to whether or not tampering has occurred with the container.
The Asset Cargo Tracking project is designed primarily to track the chassis, that containers ride on, anywhere in the US. It also is designed for the chassis to know when a container is on it, and when it is tethered to a truck tractor. The information on location of chassis can be sent to a central data processing point by way of radio frequency identification (transponder),
cellular signal or global positioning system signal (satellite). If the container is equipped with a radio frequency device (transponder), the chassis tracking device will read the tag and can convey cargo information to a central data processing point. This project is expanding to include testing of e-seals.

All three of these projects hold promise toward helping the US meet a security objective of establishing an information system that will help those with a need-to-know what is on a container or trailer at any time, anywhere. For more information on these projects contact Mike Onder, DOT Office of Freight
Management and Operations...

A Powerful Combination: RFID Products and Satellite Technology for Transportation

...TransCore, the largest global manufacturer of transportation-based RFID products deployed in applications such as electronic toll collection and SMART border crossings, announces the purchase of satellite tracking, monitoring and global positioning system (GPS) technology assets from Ottawa-based Vistar Telecommunications, a wholly owned subsidiary of NSI Global Inc. (TSE: NGL). The multimillion-dollar deal makes TransCore the only manufacturer to offer both major wireless monitoring technologies in a comprehensive suite of homeland security, fleet management and supply chain products. Vistar’s technical team will remain based in Ottawa and form the core of TransCore’s Satcomm Technology Center.

Since its inception in 1994 as a dedicated business unit within Bell Canada, the Vistar organization pioneered the development of wide-area wireless data products and services. The company launched the satellite-based GlobalWave® system that allows users to monitor, manage, track and communicate with remote and mobile assets from a Web site interface. With six ground control stations providing service to five continents, the GlobalWave network supports more than 20,000 users worldwide, such as the U.S. Department of Defense and Volvo Penta of the Americas.

"The addition of satellite communication technology is a vital element of our strategic vision to provide end-to-end visibility for commercial and government applications,” said John Worthington, TransCore's president and chief executive officer. “By integrating RFID and satellite technology we create a powerful market differentiator."

Combining RFID and GPS systems will allow TransCore to offer fleet, rail/intermodal and shipper customers a complete supply chain visibility capability, as well as bring an all-encompassing secure chain-of-custody solution to the homeland security market...

About Vistar Telecommunications: Based in Ottawa, Vistar Telecommunications is a global provider of satellite-based wireless systems and equipment that permit customers to remotely monitor and manage mobile assets, such as trucks, trailers, boats, intermodal containers, and fixed stationary assets such as oil and gas well head and pipeline facilities, chemical storage tanks and containers. For more information, visit www.vistar.ca.

About TransCore: TransCore is a privately held transportation services company with 1,800 employees and more than 80 locations globally. With installations in 39 countries, 80-plus patents and a world-class manufacturing facility, TransCore's expertise is unparalleled. TransCore’s 60-year heritage spans the development of radio frequency identification (RFID) at Los Alamos national labs to the United States first toll road and most recently the landmark TagTeller kiosk, an ATM-like machine for account management and dispensing RFID tags.

In 2003, Engineering News-Record (ENR) ranked TransCore No. 48 out of the Top 500 Design Firms and No. 10 for firms that specialize in transportation. TransCore was honored with the coveted 2003 Best of ITS award while four of its showcase projects were honored with Best in ITS nominations and three took the final honor. For more information about TransCore’s worldwide operations, visit www.transcore.com.