What is RFID

RFID Supply Chain Visibility

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

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

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

DOD RFID Dept of Defense Implementation Enablers

ODIN Technologies shares some of the key ingredients (Accuracy and Implementation Speed) to enabling their successful implementation of RFID technology in the DOD supply chain. The Dept of Defense has strict read rate accuracy requirements that ODIN had to meet with limited technology capabilities at that time. In addition, ODIN perfected an implementation methodology for the DOD that improved the speed of delivery while sustaining performance quality. ...

... "DoD is modernizing its logistics system to better support the warfighter. Passive RFID is at the center of that transformation. It is a core element of the DoD's force transformation initiative designed to create a more agile military. However, if the tags and readers do not communicate reliably, the benefits will not materialize. After years of planning, the DLA needed a highly accurate RFID network established rapidly.

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Accuracy: DoD expected its RFID system to be an order of magnitude more sophisticated than what was currently being deployed. Boundaries relative to read-rates and performance were strict, unlike many retailers who have toyed with trial-and-error methods. Rather than just attempt to read a single pallet tag, the DoD demanded 20 Gen 1.0 and Gen 2.0 RFID tags be affixed to cases and read as they come through a dock door - 100% accurately. This required scientific precision when designing and configuring the RFID network. Each portal was tested 10 times for that performance criteria. The DoD has shown RFID will reduce costs, increase supply visibility and streamline its entire supply chain, from the factory-to-the-foxhole. However, it can only do this if the RFID system is accurate and reliable.

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Implementation Methods and Speed: Eighteen facilities spanning the continental U.S. (CONUS) were evaluated, solutions designed, installed and tested to 100% accuracy in under 130 days. " ...

Via ODIN Technologies: DOD Case Study (PDF) ...

RFID Baggage Management ...

Management of airline baggage using RFID technology is slow to achieve broad adoption. ...

... "The research company believes Asian and European airlines will be the first to start tracking bags, with their hard-up US counterparts hanging back from adopting RFID. " ...

Via Silicon.com: What happened to RFID's baggage-tracking boom? ...

RFID Readiness Conference: Explore Opportunities ...

Upcoming conference at University of Alabama will explore opportunities to leverage RFID technology. ...

... "To help explain what opportunities exist, the Northeast Alabama Regional Small Business Development Center is presenting, RFID: Are You Ready? The daylong conference is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 14, at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. " ...

Via Huntsville Times: Conference will introduce RFID to area businesses

IBM RFID Pharma: Drug License Plate ...

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

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

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

RFID Technology: Surgical Equipment ...

ClearCount Medical Solutions is working on RFID tagged medical equipment to enable detection and elimination of surgical mistakes, from surgical equipment that is left in the body of the patient during surgery, or what they call - a retained surgical item. ...

... "In the latest technique, 10-cm-wide medical sponges were tagged with coin-sized radiofrequency identification tags, of the type increasingly used in security and goods tracking. " ...

RFID Technology: Surgical Equipment: Via Nature.com: Radio tags can expose surgical mistakes ...

Interesting info on retained surgical equipment ...

Chapter 22. The Retained Surgical Sponge: "Retained materials may cause an acute foreign body reaction with local or systemic signs that prompt investigation and reoperation. Alternatively, a fibrinous response may be elicited, and the retained instrument or sponge may become apparent some time after the original surgical procedure either serendipitously, or via fistulization into local structures. "

RFID Definition ...

RFID definition from academia ...

... "Professor Fred Riggins with the Carlson School of Management explained what RFID is: RFID is a tracking and monitoring system that basically consists of three parts. There's the RFID tag that goes on the entity or items that you want to track. There's a reader made of antennae that reads the presence of the RFID tag. And then it's hooked up to a system - a computer system - that has back-end databases and things. " ...

RFID: Via U of M Tech Talk

China RFID Technology: Powers Global Supply Chain ...

RFID technology powers China's global supply chain per Edward Zeng. ...

... "What does RFID mean to China and why is it important for China to take a leading global position on RFID technologies? RFID is integral as the next generation technology in optimizing management and efficiencies in the global supply chain. " ...

China RFID Technology: Powers Global Supply Chain: Via ChinaTechNews: Mastering RFID In China: Edward Zeng, Founder of SparkiceLab ...

RFID Multiple Authentication Factor ...

Encentuate offers multiple methods of authentication through identity form factors such as RFID tags, smart cards, and USB tokens ...

... "Each organization is different, and each situation provides a unique access security challenge, said Peng T. Ong, founder and chairman of Encentuate. What sets Encentuate TCI apart from other solutions is our ability to seamlessly integrate with a number of authentication technologies, from RFID to USB tokens. As a result, we can eliminate an organization’s dependence on weak passwords and ensure secure access to computer systems using a variety of authentication factors. The authentication opportunities are practically limitless and we work with each organization to determine the solution, which is most effective for their requirements. Encentuate TCI’s ability to integrate with a variety of authentication factors provides enterprises a seamless path to strong digital identity without introducing additional complexity, cost or overwhelming deployments.

Encentuate TCI gives organizations a choice of authentication solutions, each of which greatly improves security. With a simple swipe of an RFID badge or a fingerprint scan organizations can strengthen access to computer systems while allowing the staff to quickly access the information they need to be productive on their jobs. " ...

RFID Multiple Authentication Factor: Via Encentuate: Encentuate TCI Delivers Multiple Authentication Factor Support: Company's technology integrates with a variety of multi-function authentication solutions, including RFID, biometrics and USB tokens ...

RFID Development Lab Kits ...

Learn how to track your beans ... BlueBean offers RFID development lab kits for smaller-scale implementations. David Sims provides update on BlueBeans ...

... "BlueBean, LLC, is now offering what the company describes as complete RFID development lab kits for anyone who needs a smaller-scale RFID portal product. " ...

RFID Development Lab Kits: Via TMCnet: BlueBean's DIY RFID: Don't Try This At Home, Kids

BlueBean RFID Company Description: "RFID compliance, in its most basic form, means meeting your client's specifications which allows them to identify and track your beans throughout their entire supply chain. They must be able to know at any given moment exactly where your beans are. "

BlueBean EasyInbound: "BlueBean EasyInBound RFID receiving line only allows one case in the RFID read zone to ensure read accuracy. Your solution is set up for off-site testing and sign off. It is shipped as an assembled kit for easy on-site installation. "

Roadmap to Compliance: "BlueBean follows a strict and proven methodology in creating a Roadmap to Compliance strategy for it clients. The Roadmap provides a compliance scorecard, budgetary costs, technology selection, timetable, software and hardware requirements, high level physical layout and short vs. long term strategies. "

Hospital RFID Asset Tracking ...

Infologix implements RFID asset tracking for hospitals ...

... "InfoLogix, a market leader in Healthcare Information Technology total solutions announces HealthTrax, their new solution for Real-Time Location Tracking and management of medical devices. HealthTrax was developed with InfoLogix partner AeroScout, the leader in the field of Wi-Fi based Active RFID solutions. The first demonstration of the integrated solution will be in San Diego at HIMSS 2006, the top Healthcare Informatics Conference for the year. Also at HIMSS, InfoLogix and AeroScout will discuss performance and ROI of HealthTrax for Asset Tracking and for Patient Location Tracking.

HealthTrax is a complete solution for tracking assets and people within hospitals, and includes both RFID asset tags and enterprise software that can be used with standard wireless networks. The HealthTrax RFID tag is 802.11 Wi-Fi-based and leverages the existing wireless infrastructure; hospitals will not need a separate or redundant wireless network for Asset Tracking. Once the tags are attached to desired items, hospital staff can quickly locate what they need and when they need it on an easy-to-use Web-based electronic floor plan. This tagged hospital equipment can also provide security benefits by triggering an alarm if hospital assets are taken from designated areas. " ...

Hospital RFID Asset Tracking: Via Infologix: InfoLogix Announces HealthTrax RFID Asset Tracking Software for Management of Hospital Mobile Assets in Real Time ...

RFID Wave: Make Business Sense ...

Upcoming RFID event ...

... "Making Business Sense of the RFID Wave: February 23, 2006: Making business sense of the RFID wave will give attendees the opportunity to meet key innovators and leaders of the RFID industry and through a panel discussion, attendees will gain first-hand insight into the technological progress around RFID, where the industry is leading to, what the forecasts are, how can companies make business sense or get ROI from RFID. Panelists will include:

Jamshed Dubash, Director of Technology, Proctor and Gamble (The Gillette Company)
Sanjay Sarma, Professor at MIT and Founder, OAT Systems
Mal Postings, Global Lead for RFID, CapGemini
Robert Steinberg, President, Productivity by RFID
Other speakers expected from Tyco, Think Magic

Time: 6 - 8:30 p.m. Location: Nutter McClennen & Fish LLP, World Trade Center West, 155 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA " ...

Via MIT Sloan Alumni: Making Business Sense of the RFID Wave ...

RFID Gen2 Tag Benchmark ...

ODIN Technologies and Unisys create Gen2 RFID tag benchmark. ...

... "ODIN technologies, the leader in the physics of RFID testing and deployment, released the RFID Gen 2 Tag Benchmark, sponsored by Unisys. The report presents analysis of eleven of the leading EPC (electronic product code) compliant Gen 2 RFID tags. The benchmark was developed to provide end users with objective insight into how well tags actually work in the field and what criteria should be evaluated when making tag selection, placement and orientation decisions. The Benchmark is the first scientific and objective comparison of how Gen 2 RFID tags work with various standard materials such as corrugate packaging, water and metal. ODIN technologies President and CEO Patrick J. Sweeney II commented, Gen 2 is the foundation for the rapid growth of RFID. ODIN technologies is proud to once again lead the way in RFID by producing the industry's first and most comprehensive, scientific analysis of Gen 2 RFID tags. The RFID Gen 2 Tag Benchmark can save end users time, money and hassle during this important technology transition. ODIN technologies RFID Benchmark Series is the most read and referenced source for independent evaluation of leading RFID tags and readers. ODIN leverages its scientific lab combined with the industry's most experienced RFID deployment team to test products from an end user's perspective. The RFID Gen 2 Tag Benchmark is designed to be an end user's trusted source for comparing the performance of leading RFID tags. " ...

RFID Gen2 Tag Benchmark: Via ODIN Technologies: ODIN Releases Industry's First RFID Gen 2 Tag Benchmark: Unisys sponsors the first objective, scientific analysis of Gen 2 RFID Tags ...

RFID Application Results: Positive on Elk Herd Tracking ...

Advanced ID Corporation reports on the results of its RFID applications study with the Colorado Department of
Agriculture with multiple herds and roughly 130 tags and readers in use. Chronic Wasting Disease – CWD is another reason for this pro-active identification effort. ...

... "Scott Leach Chronic Wasting Disease Field Investigator for Colorado Department of Agriculture has roughly 130 captive elk in a current study of the Advanced ID DataTag(tm) and Advanced ID RFID - UHF Reader.

Advanced ID Corp. President & CEO, Dan Finch attended a recent meeting at Top Rac Elk Ranch along with members of Advanced ID and members of Colorado Department of Agriculture. According to Dan Finch, We are very pleased to see our applications used to protect and enhance the value of the ranchers’ stock. This is a good example of what RFID can provide to industry and what our DataTag and the Advanced ID RFID – UHF Reader is all about. We believe our tags and readers will achieve better value for our rancher partners with superior readability and competitive or lower pricing. We currently have tags and readers on ranches in the United States, Canada, Argentina, Taiwan and Thailand mostly in limited release and in practical testing. We are launching the DataTag and the Advanced ID RFID – UHF Reader on a commercial level in the first and second quarter of 2006. " ...

RFID Application Results: Positive on Elk Herd Tracking: Via Advanced ID: RFID Provider, Advanced ID Corp. Advances Colorado Elk Program With Positive Results For Advanced ID DataTag And Advanced ID RFID – UHF Reader New Advanced ID Corp. ultra high frequency animal livestock identification system that provides superior reading distances and greater ease of use for ranchers being used in tracing multiple elk herds by Colorado Department of Agriculture.

CWD: Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) affecting elk and deer (cervids) in North America. This degenerative neurological illness has affected both farmed and wild cervids in the US, thus impacting the hunting and wildlife industries as well as domestic and international markets for farmed cervids and cervid products. APHIS' response to this disease includes support of surveillance in both farmed and wild populations and assistance to State agencies for quarantine of affected animals and premises, humane euthanasia, and testing affected and exposed animals. In addition APHIS provides indemnity to animal owners for the value of positive and exposed animals euthanized in disease control efforts. A Herd Certification Program (HCP) is being developed by APHIS in coordination with states, the farmed cervid industry, and the US Animal Health Association (USAHA) to support this effort. APHIS also has assisted, and continues to assist, states with CWD surveillance and management in wild cervid populations. Finally, APHIS is working with the US Department of Interior, Tribes, and States to implement an interagency, national plan to help manage CWD in captive and wild cervids.

Advanced ID Corporation (OTCBB: AIDO) is a complete solutions provider in the radio frequency identification (RFID) market. RFID provides a means for positive identification and trace-back of animals or objects that have been identified with a microchip or RFID tag. The company has realized growth of 62% in the first two quarters of 2005, primarily through the companion animal identification segment; Advanced ID Pet Microchip, the largest provider of companion animal identification in Canada. Since 1994, Advanced ID Corporation has offered a product line of over 100 items comprised of low frequency (LF) RFID microchips, identification scanners, and a proprietary pet recovery network database to the companion animal and biological sciences markets. Advanced ID Corporation supplies over 3,000 organizations such as animal shelters, veterinarians, breeders, government agencies, universities, zoos, research labs and fisheries with LF RFID devices for companion animals, equines, bovines, llamas, alpacas, ostriches, aquatic species, reptiles, migratory and endangered species. Advanced ID Corporation has implanted LF microchips in over 450,000 animals, currently tracks nearly one million animals in a proprietary pet recovery database, and reunites numerous lost pets with their families each month. Since 2001 Advanced ID Corporation has been developing and commercializing its UHF line of food-animal and wildlife identification products and systems. Advanced ID Corporation continues to be actively involved with government and industry livestock identification and trace-back projects and pilots in Australia, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Thailand, Taiwan and the United States.

RFID Privacy: Too Paranoid?

Debate rages on slashdot regarding privacy. ...

... "We can also average out a time where Joe starts his car every single day for as long as we'd like using his OnStar information [competitionchev.ab.ca], we can determine a definitive pattern of his daily life with ease. What about the chewing gum?, simple, RFID tags gave us that info. Now this may not be a big deal considering Joe Dogooder is an upstanding citizen so he would have nothing to hide. " ...

Via Slashdot | Such a Thing as too Paranoid About Privacy? ...

RFID Supply Chain Event Management ...

RFID technology has a role in the supply chain to provide real-time event information. ...

... "Supply-chain event-management systems have the ability to track critical events and send out alerts and messages to appropriate managers to take corrective actions if they do not unfold. RFID technology can improve the accuracy of inventory counts and provide real-time information on the status of orders and shipments in transit, and what is being purchased. " ...

RFID Supply Chain Event Management: Via Metal Producing & Processing: Supply Chain Disruptions ...

Library RFID: New Zealand Town Leads ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RFID Technology ISO9001:2000 Certification ...

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

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

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

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

RFID Real-Time Visibility Automotive Industry: TIBCO RFID Software

TIBCO, business integration and process management software company, provides TNT Logistics with complex event processing (CEP) and real-time visibility software for its RFID initiative. This will help prevent interruptions and manual interventions in the automotive supply chain. ...

RFID Real-Time Visibility Automotive Industry: TIBCO RFID Software: Via Tibco: TNT Logistics To Deliver Real-Time Visibility and Synchronized Assembly Processes to Automotive Manufacturers Using TIBCO's RFID Software ...

... "TIBCO's next-generation RFID software solution is able to identify and respond to correlated granular business events occurring at diverse layers within an organization and across the value chain. The solution has the capacity to handle literally millions of micro events and uses highly scalable business rules to suggest real-time corrections for supply chain optimization. This helps to provide end users with real-time insight and context around events and the resulting impact on businesses. " ...

TIBCO Software Inc. is a leading business integration and process management software company that enables real-time business. Real-Time Business is about 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.

RFID Physical Asset Tracking Sun Solution ...

Sun launches RFID technology support of physical asset tracking solutions. ...

RFID Physical Asset Tracking Sun Solution: Via Sun: Sun Launches RFID Industry Solution for Physical Asset Tracking ...

... "Sun Microsystems, Inc. (NASDAQ: SUNW), announced the availability of the Sun RFID Industry Solution for Physical Asset Tracking, a combination of products and services to help simplify and accelerate the process of designing and integrating an RFID solution for tracking physical assets. The Sun RFID asset tracking solution enables organizations to more effectively manage their physical assets, keep an effective inventory of exactly what assets they own and determine how those assets are used throughout their life cycles, from beginning to end. Asset tracking is increasingly becoming a more important issue as companies try to get a better handle on the status and location of their critical assets and inventories. Companies are looking to reduce operating costs by implementing improved asset tracking to decrease shrinkage, lower maintenance costs, and optimize asset utilization. The Sun solution leverages RFID technology to determine the real-time location of critical assets and issue an alert when an asset is not in its designated location. In addition, the solution allows managers to effectively analyze and plan asset utilization and deployment. " ...

RFID BioSensors Applications ...

Research center is investigating the convergence of RFID and sensors to enable increased food safety. Biosensors are defined as a type of biomolecular probe that measures the presence or concentration of biological molecules, biological structures, etc., by translating a biochemical interaction at the probe surface into a quantifiable physical signal such as light or electric pulse.

RFID BioSensors Applications: Via AUDFS: Radio Frequency Identification Sensors ...

... "Auburn University Detection and Food Safety (AUDFS) project to use RFID technology combined with sensors for detection of pathogens in food. AUDFS aims to integrate the breakthroughs in the detection of food borne illnesses with advances in wireless and biosensor technologies. " ...

References on RFID and Biosensors applications:

... "Via Wired: RFID Gussied Up With Biosensors: But many companies are now combining the tags with sensors that can detect the presence of biological and chemical agents, or signal that a perishable item has expired. " ...

... "Via Washington Technology: Growin’ on empty: RFID’s many uses outpace available funds: EDS is focusing on bundling together RFID and biosensor technologies for supply-chain management and homeland security purposes, Schick said. We’re looking at how to mesh the two technologies together, he said. " ...

... "RFID no use against CBRN terrorism and criminal contamination: Before anybody lets Biosensor RFID tags loose in the food supply chain, it should be established what is the acceptable level of false alert for such systems. If the system only falsly reported the presence of a pathogen once in a million times, then we would have a Bioterror alert every single day of the year, rendering the emergency services useless. " ...

RFID Bet Recognition ...

RFID Bet Recognition: Via Progressive Gaming International: Progressive Gaming International Expects to Unveil the Largest Offering of Innovative Gaming Products at G2E 2005; Featuring High Speed RFID Technology, Server Based Gaming and Sports Wagering Solutions ...

High speed RFID technology integrated to enable bet recognition ...

... "Intelligent Table System (ITS) -- Through Progressive Gaming's recent partnerships with IGT and ShuffleMaster, the most comprehensive automated table games management solution will be provided to the global market. The ITS solution integrates RFID bet recognition, card recognition, game reporting, player tracking, patron loyalty, and bonusing applications. The first collaborative effort of its kind in gaming, ITS does for table games what online slot systems have done for slot machines. " ...

Progressive Gaming International is a leading supplier of Integrated Casino Management Systems Software and Games for the gaming industry worldwide. The Company develops and distributes an expanding array of slot and table games, plus management and progressive jackpot software systems. The Company is unique in the industry in offering management, progressive systems and games as a modular yet integrated solution. There is a Progressive Gaming International product in virtually every casino in the world.

Gillette RFID Verification Tunnel

Gillette RFID Verification Tunnel: Via Tech News World: Gillette RFID Experiences ...

Ephraim Schwartz, InfoWorld, writes about Gillette's experiences using RFID ...

... "With RFID, the process takes 20 seconds per pallet because each pallet is spun through a verification tunnel that knows exactly what the customer ordered and whether the pallet contains the correct products. " ...

Tag: RFID

RFID Enabled Reading Experience

RFID Enabled Reading Experience: Via Quantum Research Group: Xerox PARC Listen Reader Project: Xerox PARC Brings Life to Reading with QProx™ Technology ...

... "The technology is designed to be unobtrusively embedded in the pages and binding of the book. RFID tags embedded in each page sense what page the book is open to; QProx capacitive field sensors measure human proximity to the pages. Proximity measurements control volume and other expressive parameters of the sounds associated with each page. In this instance, the page-ID data controls which set of sounds is presently being heard. " ...

PayPilot TMS RFID Contactless Payments ...

PayPilot TMS RFID Contactless Payments: Accelitec, Inc. is a breakthrough leader in comprehensive RFID-based payment technologies. PayPilot TMS (Transaction Management System) is a comprehensive contactless payment solution ...

... "Transaction Management Systems or TMS are rapidly emerging solutions for merchants. Based on RFID-enabled or Contactless payments, TMS essentially does for POS Systems what POS Systems did for the cash register. Both merchants and consumers increasingly demand more control over the transaction. Transaction Management Systems enhance your POS with functionalities to more efficiently track and secure transactions, manage costs, and focus on building loyal customers. " ...

PayPilot is a brand of Accelitec, Inc., a breakthrough leader in transaction management systems based on RFID technologies. We provide contactless payment solutions to merchants around the globe. Accelitec helps retailers navigate the complexities of starting and managing a contactless payment program, including hardware and software, payment types and transaction processing, and systems integration. Accelitec, Inc. was founded in 2001, and is headquartered in Bellingham, Washington with offices in Bellevue, Washington.

RFID Technology Perspectives ...

RFID Technology Perspectives: Via Opening Remarks by Phillip J. Bond Under Secretary of Commerce for Technology, RFID In 2005: Technology and Industry Perspectives Workshop, April 6, 2005, Speech, Department of Commerce (DOC), Speech

... "Introduction of RFID technology into the marketplace requires an explanation of the benefits of the technology and discussions about actual and perceived challenges.
It is our hope that in the process of today's program we will see some patterns emerge regarding what RFID is, what this technology can do, the benefits it promises to deliver straight on up from improving the supply chain process to increasing business process efficiencies. " ...

RFID Chips ...

RFID Chips: Agenda: What is RFID?

... "RFID tags are tiny electronic computer chips that can be placed, for example, on pallets of factory-sealed products to readily tell shippers the quantity, type, date manufactured and destination as they pass through warehouse doors that are equipped with an RFID reader (also called an antenna). The tags can be read from 25-30 feet away and at indirect angles, removing any need for a person with a hand-held scanner to read the product. " ...

RFID Informational Forum Panel

Berkeley Public Library

... "The Berkeley Public Library announces a New Date for the Community Informational Forum on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID): RFID: What's It All About? Berkeley Public Library is holding a Community Informational Forum on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) at the South Berkeley Senior Center, 2939 Ellis Street, Berkeley, on Monday, August 1, 2005, 6:30-9:00 pm. For accessibility questions and more information, call (510) 981-6121, TTY 510-548-1240. Come learn how RFID works, in general, and how it functions in a library setting. One group of expert panelists will address issues of RFID technology such as: What It Is, Uses & Experience; Software Technology; and Public Health and Ergonomic Issues. A second group of expert panelists will address RFID policy issues such as: Privacy; Security; Best Practices. There will be time set aside for questions and comments from the community. " ...

RFID Bioterrorism Trace-Back Capability ...

RFID Bioterrorism Trace-Back Capability: US FDA/CFSAN - Transcript of Public Meeting: What You Need to Know to Ensure Compliance With the New FDA Establishment and Maintenance of Records Final Rule That Implements Section 306 of the Bioterrorism Act - Questions and Answers, Chicago, Illi

... "What you were saying about you can't trace it all the way to the ultimate consumer, do you think the advent of the RFID tags could some day be beneficial in helping you all the way through the entire chain? DR. BERU: Yes. We have had presentations about RFID and we have been told by industry that right now it is very expensive to implement, but with time the cost may come down enough for everyone to use it. We are hoping, you know, five years, ten years from now such a system will be able to be developed to help trace-back." ...

The Facts on RFID: Benefits and Implications ...

The Facts on RFID: Benefits and Implications: Office of Congressman :: Joe Barton

... "It is our job to cut through the hype, get the facts about RFID, learn more about its applications, and examine the pubic policy issues generated by its use and widespread deployment. The benefits to our homeland security could prove the most beneficial aspect of the technology, Barton, chairman of the full Energy and Commerce Committee, continued. The capability to track imports and containers will enhance our ability to monitor what is coming across our borders and where it goes. Similar applications related to controlled substances and hazardous materials shipped to or within the states will provide an additional layer of security we would all welcome. Hearing witnesses included Linda Dillman, chief information officer for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., and Sandra Hughes, global privacy executive for The Proctor & Gamble Company, who each testified to the consumer applications of RFID. Testimony was additionally heard from one of the leading scientists in RFID technology, Dr. Sanjay Sarma, from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, as well as witnesses from the American Civil Liberties Union and the Electronic Privacy Information Center, who testified on the possible privacy implications of RFID technology. " ...

RFID Birth Certificate UID

RFID Birth Certificate UID: What is the difference between RFID and UII?

... "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 Technology Digital Paperclip: Seamless Mobility

RFID Technology Digital Paperclip: Seamless Mobility: Motorola Brings Seamless Mobility to Life at WIRED Magazine's Second Annual WIRED NextFest 2005: Three-day event showcases what’s now and what’s next from Motorola ...

... "Digital Paperclip: Everyone hates to lose keys, spending hours searching for something that practically vanished out of thin air. Look no more. Motorola has the answer. Using RFID technology, the Motorola Digital Paperclip reduces the chance of leaving something behind. " ...

Motorola is a Fortune 100 global communications leader that provides seamless mobility products and solutions across broadband, embedded systems and wireless networks. In your home, auto, workplace and all spaces in between, seamless mobility means you can reach the people, things and information you need on the go. Seamless mobility harnesses the power of technology convergence and enables smarter, faster, cost-effective and flexible communication. Motorola had sales of US $31.3 billion in 2004.

Valuable RFID Future: Consumer, Business, Government ...

Valuable RFID Future: Consumer, Business, Government: Ship2Save Attends Prestigious Policy Primer for the U.S. Government : Ship2Save - Cost Effective & Innovative RFID Business Solutions

... "Amninder Singh, Director of IT Development at Ship2Save adds: I think there is a clear and unanimous acceptance by the government that RFID is here to stay, and is here to help. Help the consumer, help the business owner, and help the government. So there is a lot more willingness on the part of these governmental institutions to walk hand-in-hand towards a common goal. The goal of a successful and safe future for RFID. That is what has happened here today, a gathering of RFID market leaders coming together to make RFID succeed. " ...

Ship2Save is one of the industry leaders in cost effective RFID Solutions and is a founding member of the Canadian Microsoft RFID Council, a member of the Microsoft Global RFID Council, and a member of Texas Instruments Tag-It Team. Ship2Save's unique product lines, flexible and proficient software, business development models, and distinctive deployment services, offer customers cost effective and high quality solutions for their logistic needs.

RFID TRACK AND TRACE Conference

2005 TRACK AND TRACE SUMMIT

... "RFID is one of the hottest technologies around. And while you've heard a lot of the noise surrounding RFID coming from vendors and consultants who tout RFID's benefits, what you've really been seeking are actual case studies from companies whose businesses are dependent upon the use of RFID, rather than the sale of the latest RFID technology or expertise. At the Track & Trace Summit, you'll hear real-world case studies from industry leaders. Neco Can, CIO of JCREW, will discuss the way he has employed strategic solutions to cost obstacles. " ...

Track and Trace Summit, October 17-19, 2005
The Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort & Club
19999 West Country Club Drive
Aventura, FL 33180-2401

Smart Labels RFID Conference ...

Smart Labels USA 2005 Conference ...

... "Smart Labels USA 2005 at a glance: THE WORLDS DEFINITIVE RFID SMART LABELS EVENT! From pallet to item level: How to manufacture, implement and benefit from RFID Smart Labels. Emerging technologies & systems - from tags to middleware, understand all the RFID building blocks and what is coming next - now with World first announcements! Speakers include Hitachi, Deloitte, Impinj, AWID, Samsys, PolyIC, MIT, Alien, TYCO ADT, ..." ...

June 27-30 2005
Baltimore, Maryland, USA
The conference will be held at the Wyndham Baltimore - Inner Harbor Hotel.

RFID Scans Artwork Tags ...

RFID Scans Artwork Tags: Sapago Art-FID lets artists speak directly to art collectors ...

... "Have you ever wondered what an artist was thinking when he created a piece? Now she can tell you. Sapago has released the next version of its Art-FID product which allows visitors to art galleries and museums to view videos of the artist describing artwork in his own words.
These self-guided systems act like virtual art consultants, providing information and content on demand, but in a low-pressure and engaging way. Visitors scan RFID tags adjacent to artwork that interests them and view content on handheld computers. " ...

Michael Zammuto is the founder and president of Sapago. He is a leader in retail industry software products. Michael is the former chief technology officer of Ecometry Corporation, an enterprise, retail, industry, software company. He founded Sapago Inc. in Delray Beach, Florida in 2004. Sapago is privately held and produces multimedia, wireless, Personal Shopping Systems based on RFID and barcode technologies targeting the retail industry.

RFID Technology Future Discussion

RFID TECHNOLOGY: WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR COMMERCE, SECURITY, AND THE CONSUMER ...

... "And if technical and cost feasibility issues can be addressed, RFID readers, for example, could have the ability to read instantaneously not only pallets but also each unique individual product they contain. This could be done without having to unload any product contents, with inventory being updated in real time. Forecasting would become obsolete, shelves would always be stocked with the most popular brands, and cost savings would be passed on to the consumer. Now this is just one possibility, future possibility." ...

RFID Feasibility Study: Intermodal

Tracking and positioning software : a market need, value, and cost analysis ...

... "Intermodal firms move thousands of chassis and containers around the country and around the world each day. This intermodal equipment goes from shipper to carrier to carrier to drayage to consignee, but too often none of these entities knows quite where it is. The key question this research tried to answer was: what is the value of knowing that equipment's location? It is useful to establish the value of systems and software for tracking and tracing equipment. The project also evaluated the feasibility of bar code, radio frequency identification, and global positioning systems as solutions to these problems. Two issues which affect the importance of tracking intermodal equipment are: (1) tracking and monitoring the load for customer service and claims; and (2) tracking equipment for operational and capital-use efficiency. " ...

RFID DOD Supply Chain ...

Army Logistician (RFID Vision in the DOD Supply Chain) ...

Alan F. Estevez writes ... The Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Supply Chain Integration believes that the real value of RFID lies not in what it can do today but in what it will do in the future. ...

... "Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an enabling technology that allows military logisticians to synthesize and integrate end-to-end information about assets. The Department of Defense (DOD) is a globally sophisticated user of active RFID, with more than a decade of experience in this technology and the most extensive RFID network in the world. Now, DOD is attempting to standardize the use of active RFID and is moving ahead with the application of passive RFID technologies. (Active RFID uses a battery within the tag to power the tag and its RF communications circuitry. Passive RFID relies on radio frequency energy transferred from the reader to the tag to power the tag.) " ...

Alan F. Estevez is the Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Supply Chain Integration within the Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Logistics and Materiel Readiness.

RFID National ID Bill ...

HR 418 A National ID Bill Masquerading as Immigration Reform

... "This legislation gives authority to the Secretary of Homeland Security to expand required information on driver's licenses, potentially including such biometric information as retina scans, finger prints, DNA information, and even Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) radio tracking technology. Including such technology as RFID would mean that the federal government, as well as the governments of Canada and Mexico, would know where Americans are at all time of the day and night. There are no limits on what happens to the database of sensitive information on Americans once it leaves the United States for Canada and Mexico - or perhaps other countries. Who is to stop a corrupt foreign government official from selling or giving this information to human traffickers or even terrorists? Will this uncertainty make us feel safer? What will all of this mean for us? When this new program is implemented, every time we are required to show our driver's license we will, in fact, be showing a national identification card. We will be handing over a card that includes our personal and likely biometric information, information which is connected to a national and international database. " ...

Proctor Gamble RFID Privacy Guidelines ...

Radio Frequency IDentification: Applications and Implications for Consumers ...

... "Workshop panelists also discussed the privacy guidelines adopted by Procter & Gamble (“P&G”), another company involved in RFID trials both in the U.S. and abroad. In addition to its global privacy policy, P&G has developed an RFID-specific position statement calling for clear and accurate notice to consumers about the use of RFID tags and consumer choice with respect to disabling or discarding EPC tags “without cost or penalty” as well as disclosure of whether any personally identifiable information about them is electronically linked to the EPC number on products they buy. Further, P&G stated at the Workshop that it will not participate in item-level tagging with any retailer or partner that would link personal information about consumers using RFID, other than what they do for bar codes today. ” ...

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 Health System Preparedness ...

Addressing Surge Capacity in a Mass Casualty Event: Surge Capacity and Health System Preparedness--Transcript of Web Conference

... "Forward movement and tracking of patients from the event location to the hospital to post-hospital locations is a critical issue, says Rick. To what extent is tracking technology such as bar coding and RFID (radio frequency ID) tags being incorporated into these protocols? Please give examples. Who would like to take this question that came by E-mail.

Dr. Michael Shannon: I could begin because it's something that we've been looking at quite a bit at Childrens' Hospital in Boston. The program that we've faced so far, and I suspect that it's going to be true for most hospitals, is that information services, the decisions to decide what applications to purchase and to utilize is usually a very large expensive campaign that takes many years of thought, and it's not as easy as you may think, to simply incorporate a new system such as a bar code and bar code reading program. So we have found that a real challenge. What we're hoping to do right now is to begin to find a way to use photographs rather than the bar code technology, to simply find a way to incorporate digital photograph into patient identifiers. And it just fortunately happens that the information systems that our hospital is using, and the vendor is going to be one that can utilize digital photographs. But it really is key." ...

RFID-Ready Business Processes

One Network Delivers Multi-Echelon Replenishment for Retail, High Tech and Service Supply Networks | One Network Enterprises

... "One Network eliminates supply chain latency with many-to-many network connectivity, visibility and real-time decision support. Processes for orders, inventory and transportation management are integrated as flexible, networked services shared by all partners on One Network including manufacturers, retailers, and transportation providers. This enables RFID-ready business processes and next-generation vendor managed inventory (VMI) programs." ...

One Network created and hosts internet-based supply networks with many-to-many connectivity, built on next-generation technology delivered in a flexible on-demand model. Rather than simply accelerating point-to-point data exchange along a traditional linear supply chain, the One Network is a highly distributed supply network where any participant can see and react to what is happening at any point in the network. Beyond visibility, the solution integrates transaction management with execution and real-time planning. Network participants create and share multi-company business processes, and can quickly adapt them in response to changing conditions. Incremental decision support allows partners to resolve issues as they arise in real-time, and automatically guides operations towards business objectives.

RFID Chain Dependency Security Implications ...

RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION AND PRIVACY ...

... "However, one of the most important issue to be solved is what could be called chain dependency that is, the manufacturer may include a RFID tag in a product for his/her own supply chain reasons, the supply chain and security reasons of the retailer or to enable the customer benefits. This means that the right type of RFID chip must be used to satisfy everybody’s needs in the chain. ...

RFID EPC Drug Imports

Comments for the Task Force on Drug Importation: Secure Symbology, Inc. is offering comments to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Task Force on Drug Importation as charged by HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson to study what it would take in terms of oversight and resources to safely import drugs ...

... "We recognize that the ultimate goal of RFID, through its data carrier, the Electronic Product Code (EPC™), is to serialize every manufactured product down to the item level. But because of the huge infrastructure costs, high tag costs, questions concerning ISO standards, hacking and privacy concerns, implementation to the items level is, by most standards, 5 – 10 years away. The ability to track, trace and provide an electronic database and an electronic pedigree cannot wait 5-10 years for item level serialization while U.S. states, counties and it’s citizens bring pharmaceutical products in from Canada and other foreign countries. DOD and Wal-Mart driven mandates may elicit some success in the next few years at the container and/or pallet level, but even at this level, data synchronization still is a major issue." ...

EPC Network RFID Tags ...

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology: What the Future Holds for Commerce, Security, and the Consumer: VeriSign is the leading provider of critical infrastructure services for the Internet and telecommunications networks ...

... "An Electronic Product Code (EPC) embedded on an RFID tag provides a unique number that can be assigned to individual items in cases and pallets within the supply chain for identification and tracking. With the EPC network, computers that use RFID technology to identify objects can acquire associated information about that object, enabling manufacturers to track items and materials throughout the supply chain. This technology will revolutionize the way products are manufactured, sold and bought. VeriSign was selected to operate this network by EPCglobal, a non-profit joint venture of the Uniform Code Council (which manages the allocation of bar codes) and the EAN International (which provides similar services internationally) responsible for driving the global adoption and implementation of the EPCglobal Network across industry sectors. " ...

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. " ...

Cargo Deployed With RFID

USARPAC News - 599th DDST begins split operations in Thailand

... "RFID tags are used for 100 percent of deploying cargo. The information contained within the tags provides commanders with information on what the equipment is and where it is going. This helps to develop a common operating picture on demand, which in turn provides leaders visibility of their capability flowing to the devastated areas of Thailand." ...

America’s Army in the Pacific... a Tailorable, Highly Deployable Multi-Component Contributor to Joint and Multinational Teams... Capable of Quick Crisis Response and Decisive Victory... Ready, Responsive, and Engaged... Values-Based... Supporting and Caring for Our Soldiers, Civilians, and Families... Supporting PACOM’s Strategy of Promoting Peace, Democracy, Security, and Peaceful Development in the Asia-Pacific Region.

RFID Animal Tracking Q+A ...

APHIS | News

... "Q. What Forms of Identification Will be Used? A. USDA understands that there is no onesizefitsall identification technology. Many methods are currently on the market: radio frequency identification devices, retinal scans, DNA, etc. It is likely that some technologies will work better for some species than for others. Rather than focus on a specific technology, USDA will focus on the design of the identification data system what information should be collected and when it should be collected and reported. Once the identification system is designed, the market will determine which technologies will be the most appropriate to meet the needs of the system. " ...

Systematic Approach to RFID ...

Panel 5--Anti-Counterfeit Drug Initiative--October 2003 Meeting

... "What do we need to be able to deliver on the potential of the EPC network? We need a systematic approach to Radio Frequency Identification--or RFID for short--that is based on standards. This is a view of the EPC network components. Starting with Electronic Product Code or EPC, the EPC uniquely identifies the item. The tag is a small RFID chip with an antenna. In the EPC network, these tags can be as small as a dime and can be made to fit within the lid of a vial. Tags are excited by and broadcast their EPC information back to the reader. Savant is a set of functionality that serves as the real-time event manager or traffic cop in a reader network. Savant can be implemented in software or as a combination of software and firmware in the reader itself. ONS, the Object Name Service, provides a simple directory that can tell Savant where in the network information related to a particular EPC number can be found. ONS is very much like DNS, the Domain Name Service, that's part of the Internet. ONS and DNS share many of the same characteristics. " ...

Radio Frequency Identification Technology ...

DHS | Department of Homeland Security

... "What is Radio Frequency Identification Technology? Radio frequency (RFID) identification technology refers to wireless systems that allow a device to read information contained in a wireless device or tag from a distance without making any physical contact or requiring a line of sight between the two. It provides a method to transmit and receive data from one point to another. RFID technology has been commercially available in one form or another since the 1970s. It is now part of our daily lives and can be found in car keys, highway toll tags and security access cards, as well as in environments where bar code labeling, which requires physical contact or a line of sight, is impractical or less effective. RFID has established itself in a wide range of markets including automated vehicle identification systems because of its ability to track moving objects." ...

Mobile RFID Data Capture ...

Mobile RFID Data Capture: AirClic(TM) Launches AirClic MP(TM) for Automating Mobile ...

AirClic has launched mobile platform that will support real-time RFID-enabled business processes ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... virtually any standard bar code. AirClic also supports other types of data capture, including RFID. -- AirClic MP Reporter - At ...

... AirClic(TM), a leading provider of mobile business-process automation solutions, today launched AirClic MP(TM), the market's first comprehensive, on-demand platform for accelerating and streamlining remote and mobile processes. AirClic MP combines sophisticated application design tools; simple and inexpensive data-capture technology; and powerful back-end software for data aggregation, migration, reporting, and analysis. Using AirClic MP, companies can immediately enable mobile and remote workers to accurately capture and transmit events and transactions in real time; streamline operations to achieve a higher level of accountability and customer service; accelerate the flow of information, people, and materials; and optimize their mobile processes. ...

Headquartered in Newtown, Pa., AirClic is a leading provider of mobile process automation solutions that enable companies to quickly, easily, reliably, and cost-effectively deploy mobile applications based on their existing business processes and adapt as their preferences and processes evolve. With AirClic, organizations have fast, inexpensive visibility to see the "who, what, where, when, and why" of their field operations and drive new levels of accountability and customer.

RFID TECHNOLOGY: WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS ...

... "As we will learn, Radio Frequency Identification, or RFID, as it is commonly known, is frankly a World War II-era technology that has begun to find new commercial and government application in just the last few years. In basic terms, the most common commercial application of RFID used radio waves to transmit data from a transmitting device called a tag to a scanning device called a reader which can be networked with a computer data base. These RFID tags can be attached to products and packaging individually. Readers are able to activate tags via radio signals and receive tag data without line-of-sight scanning, which is a limitation for the common barcode." ...

China RFID Event ...

China RFID Event: BearingPoint, Texas Instruments, OATSystems, webMethods and Zebra ...

Leaders in the RFID solutions space are hosting stakeholders from China to support learning and awareness of RFID technology, since China is responsible for such a significant amount of global trade and logistics in the retail supply chain ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... Government and Industry Leaders Forging Relationships With US for RFID Adoption WHAT: Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, driven by global ...

... Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, driven by global retailer mandates, such as those from Wal-mart, Tesco, Albertson's and the U.S. Department of Defense, will eventually make its way into the warehouses and distribution centers of China. Well over 70 percent of the more than $200 billion worth of goods imported into the U.S. from the Pacific Rim each year comes from China. And this figure is growing. BearingPoint, Inc., Texas Instruments (NYSE: TXN), OATSystems, Inc., Zebra Technologies Corporation and webMethods will host a delegation of leading government and business leaders, including the Chinese Government's Ministry of Information and Industry, EPCglobal China and AIM China, interested in learning more about RFID technology, standards and supply chain applications. ...

Members of the delegation are also available on March 2-3, 2005 at The China Pavilion at RFID World, Gaylord Texas Resort in Grapevine, Texas.

RFID Technology Future

The Committee on Energy and Commerce, Mr. William Galione, Vice President and General Manager Marketing and Sales Americas, Philips Semiconductors, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology: What the Future Holds for Commerce, Security, and the Consumer, Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection ...

... "Adoption of RFID technologies is spearheading revolutionary gains in supply chain management, allowing businesses to improve supply chain logistics and customer service. Major retailers -- including co-panelist Wal-Mart and other organizations such as the Department of Defense -- that manage huge inventories are leading the supply chain transition to RFID technology. The Wireless Data Research Group predicts that the RFID market for hardware, software, and services is expected to increase by a 23 percent compound annual growth rate worldwide from more than $1 billion in 2003 to about $3 billion in 2007. According to analyst firm IDC, RFID spending for the U.S. retail supply chain will grow from $91.5 million in 2003 to nearly $1.3 billion in 2008. This increase is due in large part to the mandates by leading retailers and the U.S. government to incorporate the technology, and also to increasing RFID adoption in many other application areas. A recent report by AMR Research on the supply chain results achieved by early adopters of RFID technology in the retail and consumer packaged goods arena showed cost savings of 5 percent of sales. This included savings of 1 percent of sales due to reductions in product loss. The retailers also reduced their expenses by 65 percent in the receipt of goods arena and 25 percent in stocking. RFID tracking of pallets and shipping cases -- from the manufacturer, to the warehouse, to the distribution center, to the final destination -- is expected to deliver increased efficiency, more timely and accurate management of inventory, greater responsiveness to product recalls, and reductions in theft and counterfeit goods entering the retail arena. Pharmaceutical companies are also planning to use RFID systems to ensure the quality of their goods. " ...

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 Process Transformation Initiative Yields Benefits ...

RFID Process Transformation Initiative: Xtreme Retail23 Illustrates the Significant Impact of RFID ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Radio-frequency Identification technology, or RFID, leveraged as part of a broad process transformation initiative, can yield significant benefits ...

... Radio-frequency Identification technology, or RFID, leveraged as part of a broad process transformation initiative, can yield significant benefits for businesses in today's global economy. The latest edition of Xtreme Retail23, a groundbreaking monthly e-newsletter that examines the convergence of retail, technology and consumer issues, with emphasis on how retailers use technology to better serve their customers, examines RFID technology and how retailers are using the technology to enhance the shopping experience for consumers. ...

Additional resources on RFID-enabled process transformations ...

Exploring the Impact of RFID on Supply Chain Dynamics: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat However, dynamic effects of RFID on supply chain performance and benefits brought by process transformations enabled by RFID may not be captured by a ...

Forrester Research - FirstLook Archive: But it was the IT-enabled business process transformations that were most fascinating. The Defense Logistics Agency used RFID to revolutionize Army logistics ...

The next big thing for government: because it is what drives and fuels the process transformations of the ... convergence of disparate technologies, such as radio frequency identification, or RFID. ...

Food Safety RFID ...

Food Safety RFID: Syscan, Navigant Consulting Bring Safety Initiatives to US Market

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Mr. Axel Striefler, President of Syscan said, "We are pleased that our RFID based food safety applications have been validated by ...

... Syscan International (TSX VENTURE:SYA) today announced that it will team with Navigant Consulting (NYSE:NCI) to bring a complete range of food safety related services and solutions to the meat industry in North America. Navigant Consulting brings expertise to the food industry in regulatory matters governed by HACCP, and the Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002 (the Act). Under HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) guidelines, processors implement safety related controls throughout production. The implementation of these controls allows operators to react swiftly to prevent any potential food safety hazards before they occur. There are over 6,000 HACCP governed plants in the U.S. Navigant Consulting provides HACCP reviews and the independent verification of product and product traceability required under the Act prior to its entry into the U.S. ...

Syscan specializes in delivering RFID based business efficiency solutions to a wide variety of industries that characteristically function in harsh and difficult operating environments. Its standardized solutions include asset tracking and quality control methodologies for meat processing, transportation, automobile production and industrial gases. The company also produces and distributes its proprietary rugged in-vehicle and portable printers to corporations and law enforcement agencies throughout the world.

Navigant Consulting, Inc. (NYSE:NCI) is a specialized independent consulting firm providing litigation, financial, healthcare, energy and operational consulting services to government agencies, legal counsel and large companies facing the challenges of uncertainty, risk, distress and significant change. The Company focuses on industries undergoing substantial regulatory or structural change and on the issues driving these transformations. "Navigant" is a service mark of Navigant International, Inc. Navigant Consulting, Inc. (NCI) is not affiliated, associated, or in any way connected with Navigant International, Inc. and NCI's use of "Navigant" is made under license from Navigant International, Inc.

Additional information on RFID Services and Solutions applied to Food Safety ...

RFID | Food Safety, Food Supply Chain: According to the Top of Mind surveys in 2002 and 2003 from CIES - The Food Business Forum, global retailers and manufacturers currently rank food safety as one ...

RFID and Food Safety: RFID and Food Safety. The road to regulatory ... What are the long-term benefits of RFID in food safety applications? On one hand, retailers ...

RFID > PLM Software Has A Role In Food Safety: PLM Software Has A Role In Food Safety Jan. 12, 2004, ... Matched with RFID technologies, PLM software helps companies track and trace raw food materials through ...

Freight Transportation Vulnerability, Security, and Productivity through RFID Cargo Seals ...

RFID Cargo Seals Role in Freight Transportation Vulnerability, Security, and Productivity

From Electronic Cargo Seals: Context, Technologies, And Marketplace ...

... "RFID Seals: RFID technologies are most common among electronic seals. Fundamentally, they marry RFID transponders or their components with manual seal components. There are two main types of RFID tags and seals, passive and active. Passive seals do not initiate transmissions--they respond when activated by the energy in the signal from a reader. Interrogated by a reader, a passive seal can identify itself by reporting its 'license plate' number, analogous to a standard bar code. The tag can also perform processes, such as testing the integrity of a seal. The beauty of a battery-free passive seal is that it can be a simple, inexpensive, and disposable device. Although not a formal term, it is useful to think of such devices as 'pure passive'--a term that describes what most practitioners have in mind when they discuss passive RFID electronic seals. Passive RFID seals can carry batteries for either or both of two purposes. The first is to aid communication by boosting the strength of the reflective signal back to the reader. This capability need not add much cost. The second purpose is to provide power so functions can be performed out of the range of readers. One example of the latter is to power a clock, continuously test the integrity of the seal, and record the time of tampering. Adding substantial capability could raise the cost of a passive seal sufficiently that it would be practical only as a reusable product. Practitioners use three different terms to describe passive tags with batteries. They are semi-active, semi-passive, and battery-assisted passive. Since the terms seem to be interchangeable, this is a source of confusion in RFID tag discussions. Alien Technologies began using the term semi-passive and is now transitioning to the term battery" ...

RFID RTLS in Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Applications at DOD ...

RFID RTLS in Maintenance Repair and Overhaul: WhereNet First-Of-Its-Kind Wireless Tracking System Cuts Costs and ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... to develop and use automatic identification technology (AIT), Tobyhanna is evaluating the WhereNet active radio frequency identification (RFID) system to ...

... WhereNet Corp., the leader in wireless solutions for tracking and managing enterprise assets, announced today that the Tobyhanna Army Depot has deployed the standards-based WhereNet(R) real-time locating system (RTLS) technology to streamline the full-service repair and overhaul of surveillance radar systems at the Pennsylvania facility -- marking the first time that a U.S. Army facility has tested RTLS technology. Tobyhanna Army Depot plays a critical role in repairing and overhauling command, control, computer, communications, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems for the Armed Forces. In accordance with the Department of Defense mandate to develop and use automatic identification technology (AIT), Tobyhanna is evaluating the WhereNet active radio frequency identification (RFID) system to improve efficiencies, cut costs, and increase quality at the depot. ...

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

Additional resources on RFID RTLS in maintenance repair and overhaul applications ...

What You Need To Know About RFID: Up to this point, conventional RFID tags serve no useful application after the manufacturing line ... The RTLS tag can act as a portable maintenance database on ...

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology and its: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat ... RFID can increase the service and performance of ... applications in materials management, tracking of tools and ... control, jobsite security, maintenance and service ...

RTLS: An Eye on the Future: Like an RFID tag, the RTLS tag is affixed ... but also offers an open RTLS software platform ... applications such as equipment monitoring, maintenance monitoring, and ...

Wi-Fi Tag Teams with RFID: such as serial number, part number, maintenance performed and ... Handheld RFID readers can be used to query a ... option is real-time location systems (RTLS) based on ...

RFID Business Process Automation Beats Slap and Ship Compliance ...

RFID Automation Beats Slap and Ship: ARC Study Shows Slap and Ship for RFID is Less Common than ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... 2005--The ARC Advisory Group conducted a Best Practices study in which ARC talked to 24 companies that were actively investing in EPC RFID (Electronic Product ...

... The ARC Advisory Group conducted a Best Practices study in which ARC talked to 24 companies that were actively investing in EPC RFID (Electronic Product Code Radio Frequency Identification). RFID tags can be applied at the packaging line or the DC. According to Steve Banker, Service Director for Supply Chain Management at ARC Advisory Group, "in our sample, 85 percent of the facilities where tags were applied were DCs. However, even when tags are applied at the DC, the term slap and ship does not fairly reflect what is going on at many DCs. There is both more automation, and more process variation, than has been generally recognized." ...

Founded in 1986, ARC Advisory Group has grown to become the Thought Leader in Supply Chain solutions. No matter how complex your business issues, our analysts have the expert industry knowledge and first-hand experience to help you find the best answer. We focus on simple yet critical goals: improving your return on assets, operational performance, total cost of ownership, project time-to-benefit, and shareholder value. Further information can be obtained from ARC, Three Allied Drive, Dedham, MA 02026, 781-471-1000, Fax 781-471-1100.

Additional resources on RFID automation ...

Wireless RFID Computer: This intelligent device enables RFID automation throughout the supply chain, including optimization of RFID read/write applications on forklifts, dock doors ...

Radio Frequency Solutions Software, Hardware, Services: Research) After installing the new RFID automation system, Paramount's receiving department got so efficient at equipment logistics that ...

RFID with Tagsys: Together with TAGSYS, we can deliver complete and timely RFID automation projects and help customers reduce handling costs and time, enabling them to focus on ...

RFID World Conference Coming in March 2005, Register Soon ...

RFID World Conference Coming in March: RFID World 2005 Show Heralds RFID Shift From Trials to Deployments ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Industry pundits predict that 2005 will be the year for radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to move beyond pilots to broad-scale ...

... Industry pundits predict that 2005 will be the year for radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to move beyond pilots to broad-scale deployment in retail supply chain, pharmaceutical/healthcare, contactless payment, government ID as well as other markets. Thousands of attendees are expected to gather at RFID World 2005, March 2-3, 2005, at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Dallas, Texas to hear insights on this trend from the industry's leading experts. The RFID World 2005 (www.rfid-world.com/rfid05) conference program covers the broadest range of RFID technologies and markets, and is designed to provide companies with practical, in-depth strategies for deploying RFID and EPC solutions. Attendees will also be able to visit with more than 100 exhibitors, while learning more about the technology and lessons learned through case studies in eight breakout tracks and more than 30 educational sessions. ...

Select resources on moving beyond RFID pilots ...

MARKEM Corporation: CoLOS RFID Software: For smart and fast pilots, industry leaders are using ... RFID SmartStart software even comes with a set of ... return on your investment when you move beyond a pilot ...

The Path Forward: I predicted that we would move beyond talk of theoretical ... to try to figure out what exactly RFID was and ... they are further along in their pilots or deployments ...

RFID: File Format: Microsoft Powerpoint 97 ... Practice: utilized existing OSD RFID 0-6 IPT; briefed RFID Policy/pilots status. Tasked by 3-Stars (DTTF) to Expand IPT Scope. Move beyond RFID to all AITs and ...