Wednesday, February 14, 2007

DOD RFID Final Rule Adopted

DOD adopts final RFID rule and will require the use of Gen-2 RFID tags. ...

Department of Defense DOD issues final RFID rule

... "DoD has adopted as final, with changes, an interim rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to include additional commodities and locations that require package marking with passive radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. The rule requires contractors to affix passive RFID tags at the case and palletized unit load levels when shipping packaged petroleum, lubricants, oils, preservatives, chemicals, additives, construction and barrier materials, and medical materials to specified DoD locations.

RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (FEB 2007)

(a) Passive RFID tag means a tag that reflects energy from the reader / interrogator or that receives and temporarily stores a small amount of energy from the reader/interrogator signal in order to generate the tag response.
(1) Until February 28, 2007, the acceptable tags are --

(i) EPC Class 0 passive RFID tags that meet the EPCglobal Class 0 specification; and (ii) EPC Class 1 passive RFID tags that meet the EPCglobal Class 1 specification. This includes both the Generation 1 and Generation 2 Class 1 specifications.

(2) Beginning March 1, 2007, the only acceptable tags are EPC Class 1 passive RFID tags that meet the EPCglobal Class 1 Generation 2 specification. Class 0 and Class 1 Generation 1 tags will no longer be accepted after February 28, 2007. " ...


Via Federal Register: Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Radio Frequency Identification (DFARS Case 2006-D002)

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Sunday, November 19, 2006

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. ...

RPI pilots RFID readers deployed with solar power

... "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

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Monday, October 16, 2006

Construction RFID: Materials Tracking ...

BT Auto-ID uses RFID technology to increase the efficiency of the construction job site, through on-site material tracking and in-bound supply chain management. ...

BT implements RFID on the construction job-site ...

... "Using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), existing bar-code technology or a combination of both, BT Constructnet provides real-time information on the status and location of materials and assets as they flow through the supply chain and as they move around vast construction sites. This data can be accessed at all points in the supply chain and used to ensure delivery of the right materials, to the right place at the right time, cutting the amount of items lost in-transit or on-site and reducing payment disputes. The solution works by enabling manufacturers to identify each unique batch of materials, taking an RFID tag or bar-code reading before goods are dispatched. Items such as bags of cement or tools are scanned again as they are loaded onto the delivery vehicle, generating an automated confirmation of receipt for the driver. They are then read as they pass through each point of the supply chain until the point of delivery at the construction site. Once on the site, remote readers can pinpoint where specific items or materials are being stored. Data is accessed via the internet using BT Auto-ID's collaborative data exchange platform. " ...


Via BT Auto-ID Services: BT Constructnet lays firm foundation for construction site efficiency ...

FIATECH Project Deliverables: "Field Tests of RFID Technology for Construction Tool Management: The purpose of these tests was to investigate the technical feasibility of using RFID technology to automate tool management processes. RFID technology offers the possibility that tools and valuable supplies tagged with RFID devices could be issued and received from central storage and the issue/receipt documented without intervention or help from a tool storage attendant. "

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Monday, March 20, 2006

RFID Discover Wall: Product Information Pieces ...

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

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

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

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

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Friday, January 27, 2006

RFID Zapper ...

RFID zapper uses electromagnetic field to over-power and disable the RFID tag, rendering it useless. ...

... "RFID-Zapper, a hacked up disposable camera that delivers an EMP of sorts to unsuspecting RFID tags ... " ...

Via Engadget: Stick it to the man with your very own RFID-Zapper ...

Link: RFID-Zapper: "The RFID-Zapper is a gadget to deactivate (i.e. destroy) passive RFID-Tags permanently. The development-team presently consists of two people (MiniMe and Mahajivana), who had some help from a friend (thank's for that). Goals are a proof-of-concept and the construction of at least one functioning and appealing prototype, ... "

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Wednesday, September 28, 2005

RFID Chemical ChainofCustody: DowChemical ...

RFID Chemical ChainofCustody: DowChemical: Savi Technology: SAVI TECHNOLOGY’S CHEMICAL CHAIN OF CUSTODY SOLUTION SELECTED TO TRACK AND ACCOUNT FOR PRODUCT SHIPMENTS: Savi’s Enterprise-Wide Solution Platform designated as Most Effective Technology by Dow Chemical to Manage Mobile Assets Such as Totes, Cylinders, Trucks and Rail Cars ...

... "This contract with Savi followed an extensive selection process based on Six Sigma measurement standards. The Savi Chemical Chain of Custody Solution is now live at Dow AgroSciences, tracking selected products and containers from origin to customer and back. The Dow Chemical Company, which serves customers in 175 countries in a wide range of markets, chose the Savi Chemical Chain of Custody Solution to further enhance Dow's product stewardship. The solution also reduces risk associated with theft, diversion, product contamination and tampering, spilling and other dangers, in keeping with compliance of all government requirements. " ...


At heart of Chemical Custody Supply Chain Solution is the SmartChain Asset Management System (AMS), a full-featured web-based application with continuous on-line tracking, security monitoring and management of hazardous material containers and their contents from point of origin to destination. The solution leverages the Savi SmartChain® Enterprise Platform, which aggregates and consolidates data from different nodes and integrates with current enterprise and supply chain systems, and offers unique flexibility to support all types of AIDC technologies to track all types of containers. SmartChain also can match the physical location of a container and its hazardous contents with shipment documents, inventory records, expected routes and destinations, and other pertinent information. Using alerts, SmartChain detects when a product has not arrived at a specific location where it is expected, if it is in the wrong location or if it was handled by someone without the right authority.

Dow is a leader in science and technology, providing innovative chemical, plastic and agricultural products and services to many essential consumer markets. With annual sales of $40 billion, Dow serves customers in 175 countries and a wide range of markets that are vital to human progress: food, transportation, health and medicine, personal and home care, and building and construction, among others. Committed to the principles of sustainable development, Dow and its 43,000 employees seek to balance economic, environmental and social responsibilities.

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Tuesday, August 02, 2005

RFID Data Management Solution ...

RFID Data Management Solution: Business Objects Helps Graniterock Manage Mountains of RFID Data: Materials and Construction Company Uses Business Intelligence to Improve Operational Performance and Customer Satisfaction ...

Business Objects provides RFID data management solution for Graniterock to deal with skyrocketing information growth ...

... "Graniterock relies on Business Objects (Nasdaq: BOBJ; Euronext Paris ISIN code: FR0004026250 - BOB), the world's leading provider of business intelligence (BI) solutions to help manage the data pouring in from an RFID (radio frequency identification) tagging system. With Business Objects, Graniterock has been able to leverage its RFID information to improve operational performance and boost customer satisfaction. Graniterock, a long-time customer of Business Objects, found that its information management needs grew exponentially after implementing an RFID tagging system to track inventory and supply movement, such as the arrival and departure of trucks through its asphalt and quarry loading locations. The system collects information on the truck, project assignment, and weight for each load via RFID tag readers located at throughout plant locations. " ...


Graniterock was founded on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, 1900. The company has operations in Watsonville, Santa Cruz, Seaside, Salinas, Gilroy, Hollister, Aromas, Felton, Oakland, San Jose, Redwood City and South San Francisco. Graniterock Pavex Construction Division is a significant heavy engineering contractor building roadways, airport and private commercial and residential projects. Graniterock has also been the recipient of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and the Governor’s Golden State Quality Award.

Business Objects is the world’s leading business intelligence (BI) software company. With more than 30,000 customers worldwide, including over 80 percent of the Fortune 500, Business Objects helps organizations gain better insight into their business, improve decision making, and optimize enterprise performance. The company’s business intelligence platform, BusinessObjects™ XI, offers the BI industry’s most advanced and complete platform for reporting, query and analysis, performance management, and data integration. BusinessObjects XI includes Crystal Reports®, the industry standard for enterprise reporting. Business Objects has also built the industry’s strongest and most diverse partner community, and also offers consulting and education services to help customers effectively deploy their business intelligence projects. Business Objects has dual headquarters in San Jose, Calif., and Paris, France.

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Friday, June 24, 2005

RFID Autonomous Construction Systems

RFID Autonomous Construction Systems: BFRL: 2005 Project Information

... "Recent efforts in the IACJS road-mapping initiative have identified approximately twenty-five critical research areas as ranked by leading industry representatives from DOW, Black & Veatch, Fluor, Intel, GSA, CH2MHill, and others. Construction object recognition and tracking is a component of at least ten of these research areas. The combination of LADAR scanning technology, real-time object recognition, automatic identification (RFID), and tracking technologies (e.g. UWB, GPS) provide powerful potential mechanisms for assessing real-time status of construction site operations and lay ground work for autonomous construction systems. " ...

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Tuesday, June 21, 2005

RFID Tool Tracking

RFID Tool Tracking: SAFE & SOUND™ RFID Tool Tracking & Service: Bosch Pioneers RFID Tool Tracking with SAFE & SOUND Service Offering ...

... "Bosch Power Tools and Accessories and Bosch Digital Power Tools, divisions of the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, announced the launch of SAFE & SOUND, the first service to provide the construction industry with the cutting edge RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology necessary to gain the operational and cost savings that next generation tool management, tracking and anti-theft applications offer. Bosch recognizes that RFID tags are the next step in the evolution of tool tagging solutions and compatible with any tool management, tracking and anti-theft application. So, in partnering with the world's top companies ToolWatch, Intermec and the number one electronic article surveillance (EAS) supplier, Bosch formed SAFE & SOUND, the industry's only one-stop, full-service RFID tool tracking and theft deterrence resource. " ...


In December 2002, Bosch Power Tools and Accessories created the Digital Power Tools line to help field project managers be more efficient in their work, communicate more effectively with subcontractors and customers, and save time and money in the office, tool crib and on the jobsite. With the expansion of this line, Bosch once again shows its commitment to its customers.

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Sunday, May 22, 2005

Construction Metrology RFID Automation ...

BFRL: Construction Metrology and Automation Group

... "Construction Metrology and Automation group developed a prototype system of integrated hardware and software to measure the position and orientation of steel frame components and sub-assemblies at the job site and to allow for web-based interactive information entry and query while at a component's location. This prototype implementation is a web-based system for rapid tracking of construction components with compact, field-rugged sensors and computers, interoperability protocols for data transmission, and 3D site simulators that reflect the instant state of tracked components on the construction site. The approach involves the use of RFID and bar code identification systems, 3D long range coordinate measurement technologies, local data processing, wireless communications, high speed networking, temporal project databases, web-based data analysis, and 3D user interfaces to provide real-time access to part status updates at the jobsite. " ...

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Saturday, April 23, 2005

RFID in Construction Applications

Construction and Operations Applications For Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) ...

... "Construction and Operations Applications For Radio Frequency Identification (RFID): More intriguing and pertinent to highway construction is the use of RFID tags to monitor material properties. A materials engineer with Michigan DOT turned to the private sector for help developing concrete monitoring applications. A tag is embedded in concrete and monitors temperature, which data can be used to assess developing strength and curing rates for quality control. " ...

RFID sensors used in construction to monitor concrete cure rates ...

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Friday, April 15, 2005

Active RFID Location System ...

AEROSCOUT JAPAN SELECTED BY NEC SYSTEM INTEGRATION & CONSTRUCTION (NESIC) FOR WI-FI-BASED ACTIVE RFID LOCATION SOLUTION ...

... AeroScout, Inc., a pioneer in the field of Enterprise Visibility Solutions, toady announced that AeroScout Japan has been selected by NEC System Integration & Construction (NESIC), a subsidiary of NEC, to provide Wi-Fi-based Active RFID systems to the Japanese market. NESIC is targeting 5 billion yen ($46.6 million dollars) in sales of AeroScout products by 2008. This partnership continues AeroScout Japan’s tremendous growth and leadership in the Japanese market, also highlighted by recent collaboration with Oracle Japan and Cisco Systems. ...

Wifi Active RFID System ...

AeroScout provides award-winning enterprise visibility solutions that utilize Wi-Fi wireless networking standards to deliver accurate location-based solutions. The AeroScout system includes real-time location services (RTLS), long range active RFID, telemetry and choke-point visibility all in a single integrated cost-effective infrastructure. AeroScout’s standards-based applications locate valuable assets and people in indoor and outdoor environments, enabling customers in numerous industries to drive revenues and cut costs. AeroScout is a privately held company based in San Mateo, CA. AeroScout Japan, based in Tokyo, is AeroScout’s master distributor in Japan.

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Wednesday, March 09, 2005

Tropos Net Enables RFID Integration ...

Tropos Net RFID Integration: Tropos Networks Signs Sumitomo Densetsu as Distributor in Japan

Tropos Networks integrated its mesh networks to support RFID connectivity ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... As visitors with specially-equipped PDAs walk close to an RFID-embedded flower or tree, the PDA uses the Tropos MetroMesh network to retrieve information about ...

... Tropos Networks, the leading supplier of equipment used to build metro-scale Wi-Fi mesh networks, today announced that its family of MetroMesh routers and management software is now available in Japan through Sumitomo Densetsu. Tropos and Sumitomo Densetsu, working with VR Techno Center, scored their first successes in Shirakawa Village and Flower Festival Commemorative Park, both located in Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Sumitomo Densetsu's main business is construction and installing electrical systems, information networks, communications systems (mobile communications, radio train control, fiber optic cabling) and broadcasting systems (antennas, CATV) for enterprises, universities, carriers and municipalities. Based on their expertise in installing mobile communication infrastructure and relationships with municipalities, Sumitomo Densetsu will first target the municipal Wi-Fi market. ...


Tropos Networks is the proven leader in delivering truly ubiquitous, metro-scale, Wi-Fi mesh network systems. We deliver the fastest, lowest cost and simplest wireless broadband solutions, as demonstrated by the world's largest installed base of metro-scale Wi-Fi mesh networks. Our innovative and patented MetroMesh(TM) architecture allows public safety agencies, municipalities and service providers to quickly and easily deliver city-wide mobile broadband connectivity to users in any locale. With more than 10x better price/performance than alternative technologies, Tropos solutions provide standards-based access to any IP application, including voice, data and video. Tropos Networks is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California.

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Sunday, February 20, 2005

Construction Applications For RFID ...

Construction and Operations Applications For Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) ...

... "A young technology with considerable commercial buzz, RFID – radio frequency identification – allows rapid and accurate reading of tags which, unlike UPC bar codes, can be read from a distance, in harsh environments, and through many materials without a direct line of site required. In uses that employ the small and increasingly inexpensive RFID tags, the radio signal sent in search of tags provides energy sufficient for a response from the tags, thereby eliminating the need for an internal tag power source. More intriguing and pertinent to highway construction is the use of RFID tags to monitor material properties. A materials engineer with Michigan DOT turned to the private sector for help developing concrete monitoring applications. A tag is embedded in concrete and monitors temperature, which data can be used to assess developing strength and curing rates for quality control." ...

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Tuesday, November 30, 2004

RFID Mobile Tracking in Construction ...

From BFRL: Program - Advanced Fire Service Technology ...

... "Report detailing the design and implementation of a customized interactive web interface operating on a wireless, wearable field computer that can track components, machinery, and other mobile assets on an active construction site in real-time by seamlessly integrating a laser-based real-time spatial positioning system, a bar code and RFID scanning system, and a wireless data link. " ...

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RFID in Construction for Component and Sub-Assembly Tracking ...

From BFRL: Construction Metrology and Automation Group ...

... "the Construction Metrology and Automation group developed a prototype system of integrated hardware and software to measure the position and orientation of steel frame components and sub-assemblies at the job site and to allow for web-based interactive information entry and query while at a component's location. This prototype implementation is a web-based system for rapid tracking of construction components with compact, field-rugged sensors and computers, interoperability protocols for data transmission, and 3D site simulators that reflect the instant state of tracked components on the construction site. The approach involves the use of RFID and bar code identification systems, 3D long range coordinate measurement technologies, local data processing, wireless communications, high speed networking, temporal project databases, web-based data analysis, and 3D user interfaces to provide real-time access to part status updates at the jobsite. In FY99, we demonstrated 3D spatial tracking of discrete components in real-time to viewers at a remote location over a km away under highly controlled conditions. " ...

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RFID at the Job Site ...

From BFRL: Construction Metrology and Automation Group ...

... "Many construction firms now use barcodes to track the arrival of materials at a job site. Some are now investigating the use of RFID tags for work package manifesting and for tracking of trade labor that enters and leaves a site. " ...

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Monday, November 29, 2004

RFID Technology for Tracking Fabricated Pipe Phase II

From FIATECH ...

FIATECH has published "Field Trials of RFID Technology for Tracking Fabricated Pipe - Phase 11," the fourth report published by the FIATECH Smart Chips project this year. The field trials described in this report tested the reliability of RFID technology in an application that would automate the critical task of documenting the delivery and receipt of uniquely tagged construction materials and equipment. The trials tested the ability of RFID systems to identify accurately unique spools of fabricated pipe passing through a portal gate. This portal application was deemed to be one of the most technically challenging uses of RFID in a realistic construction environment because of the dense metal environment, the large number of items to be read quickly and the need for long reading distances.

The results of the trials indicate that current active RFID technology can work reliably in such an application. In addition, the researchers interviewed industry practitioners and technologists in order to identify and describe some potential benefits of automating the tracking of unique materials at various points in the construction supply chain. The report describes typical generic steps in a construction supply chain, including fabrication, interim handling (e.g. third party painting of fabricated pipe), construction site receiving, issue to crafts, and installation progress. At each of these steps, we have identified some perceived inefficiencies and problems that might be addressed by RFID technology. The researchers concluded that RFID technology has the potential to both improve the efficiency and the accuracy of current manual tracking processes, and eventually could enable a more complete automation of these processes.

"I think the most interesting part of this report is the proposed use case scenarios for RFID technology tracking tagged items in the construction process, all the way from fabrication through installation and progress/QA monitoring," explains Charles Wood, FIATECH Project Manager. "These scenarios give us a much more complete assessment of the potential value of RFID technology than has ever been considered before."

The FIATECH Smart Chips project offers its sponsor companies the opportunity to conduct low-cost or no-cost pilot trials of cutting edge technologies, as well as monthly informational workshops to stay informed about technology developments affecting the construction and operation of plant sites. For more information about this field trial or the FIATECH Smart Chips Project, contact Charles Wood at (713) 523-5380 or cwood@fiatech.org. Or, visit the Web site at http://www.fiatech.org/projects/ijs/schips.htm.

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Sunday, November 28, 2004

RFID Sensors in Building and Construction: Architecture for Discrete Construction Component Tracking ...

From BFRL Publications Online ...

... "Accurate and timely identification and tracking of construction components are critical to operating a well-managed and cost efficient construction project. Establishing standards to support identification and tracking technologies has the potential to enable the construction industry to seamlessly integrate work processes at the job-site. This paper discusses on-going research at NIST in the application of field sensors, portable computers, real-time high-precision global positioning, wireless communications, and construction project databases, to develop means for real-time component identification and tracking. " ...

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Research on RFID in Construction ...

From BFRL: Construction Metrology and Automation Group ...

... "The proposed work would involve investigation of 1) the ability of using a LADAR to acquire information (such as color, type of material, distinct patterns, fiducial point identifiers, etc,) about an object in addition to range data, and 2) the fusion of LADAR and other sensors. These other sensors could be a) RFID tags that contain encrypted data about the scanned object, i.e, beam, column, part number, etc., b) micro-reflective sensors arranged in a standardized pattern or at pre-determined fiducial locations on an object to allow for identification, and/or c) a camera to provide a concurrent image of a scanned scene. The additional information from the hybrid LADAR does not identify objects per se, but is used to aid in object identification. Additional intelligence will have to supplied/added to a) pick out and extract the data (points) from a point cloud for further processing, and b) correctly identify the object. In the first instance, user intervention is the most likely source of this intelligence. In the latter instance, the intelligence could be in the form of user intervention, image processing algorithms (if a camera is used), and/or a database containing objects that would most likely be found in a particular scene. " ...

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Friday, November 12, 2004

Zebra RFID: Zebra Technologies Responds to Rumor

From Yahoo News (press release) ... The company has sold more than three million printers, including RFID printer/encoders and wireless mobile solutions, and also offers software, connectivity ...

... Zebra Technologies Corporation (Nasdaq: ZBRA) today announced that there has been no change in the status of business with any significant customer. This announcement was made in response to a rumor circulating among investors that the company recently lost a contract with an important customer. ...


Zebra Technologies delivers innovative and reliable specialty printing solutions to businesses and governments the world over. Zebra is a leading global provider of on-demand thermal bar code label and receipt printers, plastic card printers, RFID smart label printer/encoders, and digital photo printers. The company also offers related supplies, label design/integration software, and the widest range of thermal printer connectivity and networking solutions. Companies use Zebra products to improve their business processes, deliver better customer service, improve productivity, and strengthen security. Zebra's customers include more than 90 percent of the Fortune 500 and Global 2000. Zebra products are used in a wide range of industries, including consumer goods, manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, electronics, transportation, telecommunications, chemical, textiles, shipping, warehousing and distribution, military and government, food packaging and distribution, aerospace, education, security, construction, entertainment, hospitality, and retail. With international headquarters in Vernon Hills, Ill., Zebra has sold nearly four million printers worldwide. To underscore its commitment to quality and reliability, all of Zebra’s design and manufacturing sites are certified to the ISO 9000 international standard for quality management.

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Wednesday, October 06, 2004

RFID Privacy: ACLU Urges Virginia Legislators Not To Put Radio Computer Chip in ...

From ACLU (press release), United States ... The American Civil Liberties Union today urged Virginia not to become the first state in the nation to place radio frequency identification (RFID) chips in its ...

The ACLU is addressing RFID privacy and security weaknesses in its advice to the state of Virginia ...

... NEW YORK-The American Civil Liberties Union today urged Virginia not to become the first state in the nation to place radio frequency identification (RFID) chips in its driver’s licenses. Calabrese told the legislators that even aside from privacy issues, adoption of RFID chips would bring a number of unresolved security problems, require construction of a costly infrastructure for reading the chips, and would not likely be effective in improving the security of driver’s licenses. ...



The ACLU is our nation’s guardian of liberty. ACLU works daily in courts, legislatures and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed to every person in this country by the Constitution and laws of the United States. The job of the ACLU is to conserve America’s original civic values - the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

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Monday, August 23, 2004

RFID Inmate Tracking: Alanco Unveils Next-Generation TSI PRISM Technology; Re-engineered ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... Alanco Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: ALAN), developer of the TSI PRISM RFID inmate tracking system for the ...

... Alanco Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: ALAN), developer of the TSI PRISM RFID inmate tracking system for the corrections industry, today announced introduction of its next-generation TSI PRISM(TM) technology which will enable the company to reduce installed system prices across the board by 25-35%. The new generation TSI PRISM technology, the result of a two-year total system re-engineering effort, will be deployed in all future installations. The key breakthrough was development of ultra-efficient, more powerful RFID transmitters requiring fewer antennas to provide RFID tracking coverage, resulting in significantly lower infrastructure and installation costs. ...


Alanco Technologies Inc., headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., is the developer of the TSI PRISM RFID continuous tracking system for the corrections industry, which tracks the location and movement of inmates and officers, resulting in significant prison operating cost reductions and enhanced officer safety and facility security. Utilizing RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tracking technology with proprietary software and patented hardware components, TSI PRISM provides real-time inmate and officer identification, location and tracking capabilities both indoors and out. TSI PRISM is currently utilized in prisons in Michigan, California and Illinois, with a new Ohio installation under construction.


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Thursday, June 24, 2004

Microsoft RFID: Microsoft switches on to RFID

From CNET News.com ... Javed Sikander, Microsoft RFID program manager, said on Thursday that the company plans to add support for the wireless technology to its core software and ...

This international Forum covers a wide range of topics associated with the rapidly emerging technology of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). The Forum is relevant to any organisation engaged in the production, movement or sale of physical goods. This would include distributors, logistics providers, manufacturers and their packaging suppliers. Many of the core issues and benefits are common across a number of sectors such as retail, food, CPG, pharmaceuticals, building & construction, healthcare and automotive. This technology is also sometimes referred to as smart-labels, smart-tags or e-tags.

Are we just playing tag? The real facts about RFID. Research from Microsoft and Benchmark Speakers: Javed Sikander, RFID Program Manager, EMEA Microsoft Ltd and Guy Washer, MD, Benchmark Research Ltd. This presentation focuses on research carried out by benchmark and Microsoft on RFID across the retail and manufacturing research. "Most companies understand something about RFID, but there is confusion about what the technology really means and how it will deliver true value. We will look at what RFID can do for the business and outline what is really happening in the market at the moment and how this can benefit businesses today."

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Friday, June 18, 2004

Teacube RFID: Teacube PC promotes open embedded standard

From InfoWorld, CA ... For example, a small T-Engine based terminal can read RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags on goods such as groceries and medicines so that an ...

Personal Media Corporation has released and put on sale "Teacube", a palm-sized ultra tiny embedded application product based on T-Engine. Personal Media Corporation is selling embedded appliance "Teacube". It is shipped from the end of March, in standard price 198,000 yen (excluding tax). This PMC's product "Teacube/VR5701 Evaluation Kit" is powered by CPU "VR5701" of NEC Electronics, and it has 100Base-TX LAN, external CRT output in SXGA (1280 x 1024 dots), USB and RS-232C(serial) connectors as default. It also contains standard software such as "PMC T-Kernel", a standard real-time OS extended to support MMU (virtual memory), T-Monitor (BIOS), T-Kernel Extension, and PMC T-Shell, a GUI middleware. It is highly suitable for a kernel machine to construct systems with WWW browser. PMC promotes Teacube to corporation users, mainly system construction vendors for various embedded fields, such as KIOSK terminal in museums, stations and stores, OPAC terminal to search books in libraries, and watch-line terminal in factories.

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Thursday, June 10, 2004

Sato RFID Technology: NEW IDENTITY FOR SATO IN SINGAPORE TO REFLECT NEW STRATEGY

From Plastics In Packaging, UK ... The company offers RFID technology within its portfolio of human readable codes, barcodes and 2D codes. RFID is fast becoming the ...

SATO Corporation, Japan, was established in 1940 to manufacture and sell packaging machinery. In 1962, SATO invented the world's first hand-held labeler and operations as an international supplier of labeling machinery were begun. The US subsidiary was established in 1977 and eventually became SATO America, Inc. in 1987. During that period, SATO developed the world's first thermal transfer barcode printers and became the leader in applying the technology to the market.

The industrial CLe high-speed RFID printers are well suited for a range of applications, such as compliance labeling, warehouse management and logistics, access control, asset tracking, airline baggage tagging and tracking, retail labeling, and product authentication. The Sato RFID Printer supports 13.56 Mhz (Tag-it™, I-Code, ISO15693), UHF (EPC, ISO, EM Marin) RFID formats and supports worldwide frequencies. It has capability to be upgraded to support new standards and protocols as they emerge. Sato Smart Printers: In a one-step, process the CLe RFID printers can read, write and print smart labels and tags with embedded RFID transponders. Transponders include integrated circuitry with an antenna and are designed to be programmed and re-programmed using radio waves. RFID - Radio Frequency Identification: RFID tags are read, written and verified inside the printer prior to printing. In the case of a tag failure, the CLe RFID printers will mark the tag and advance to the next one, assuring top reliability in mission critical applications. Sato Printer Rugged Design: The CLe’s heavy-duty metal construction, proven reliability, and excellent media handling deliver optimum performance in the most demanding environments.

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Saturday, May 29, 2004

RFID Solutions: TAGSYS and NEC team to deploy RFID solutions

From Frontline Today, ... TAGSYS a provider of RFID tags and readers operating at 13.56MHz will collaborate with NEC on the deployment of RFID systems for large-scale projects with an initial focus on Singapore and the rest of Southeast Asia. The alliance between NEC Solutions Asia Pacific NECSAP and TAGSYS allows the two companies to leverage each other's strengths in providing their customers with a comprehensive set of RFID solutions consultancy services and customer service support ...

TAGSYS has been designing and manufacturing innovative, high-performance and cost-effective RFID systems (chips, tags, antennas and reading stations) for over fifteen years. TAGSYS has today the longest experience in implementing field-proven passive RFID systems operating at 13.56 MHz and UHF frequencies.
With over 40 million RFID tags, ten thousand RFID reader systems and 500 installations worldwide, TAGSYS has emerged as the world’s leading dedicated RFID supplier. TAGSYS draws its strength from a long history of technological innovations and advancements

TAGSYS produces two types of “universal” reader platforms that the company modifies to develop application specific readers. "Universal" means that they can read most RFID chips in the market operating at 13.56MHz. Both platforms include state of the art DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology. Both platforms also allow for rapid development of new algorithms to read 13.56 MHz chips from other manufacturers which alleviate customers' concerns regarding obsolescence. Reader types include: OEM readers -- easy to package in any low read range RFID reader or station. TAGSYS OEM readers are currently integrated in more than 15 handheld terminals and printers. Long range readers -- capable of delivering up to 7 watts output power on 4 channels. They allow the development of complex stations with several antennas and 3D algorithms for reading and writing tags in multiple orientations.

NEC's membership in EPCglobal will enable the company to participate in the process of standard creation, to join in RFID-related trials, which the organization executes, and to share advanced technologies. NEC, together with NEC Electronics Corporation and NEC Solutions (America) will initially participate in activities of creating global standards for EPC and gather necessary information and develop RFID-based solution businesses targeting the retail market in Japan and the U.S. Then, NEC and its affiliated companies plan to expand their businesses to other markets in other areas.

NEC established the RFID Business Promotion Center in January of this year with 300 employees, developing a comprehensive RFID solution business that includes from chip supply to system integration. NEC has engaged in the construction of asset management systems and logistical management systems such as logistics system of Japan Freight Railway Company.

NEC is one of the world's leading providers of Internet, broadband network and enterprise business solutions dedicated to meeting the specialized needs of its diverse and global base of customers. Ranked as one of the world's top patent-producing companies, NEC delivers tailored solutions in the key fields of computer, networking and electron devices, by integrating its technical strengths in IT and Networks, and by providing advanced semiconductor solutions through NEC Electronics Corporation. The NEC Group employs more than 140,000 people worldwide and had net sales of approximately $40 billion in the fiscal year ended March 2004.

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Friday, May 28, 2004

RFID Animal Tracking Technology and the USDA

Current methods of livestock identification include but are not limited to ear tags, back tags, neck chains, tail tags, freeze brands, tattoos, paint marks, and leg bands. Electronic identification methods including bar codes and/or radio frequency identification (RFID) transponders are becoming increasingly useful tools in herd management programs. As these new technologies develop and become compatible with one another, they may prove to be cost-effective tools to increase the efficiency of production. Similarly, regulatory agencies may benefit from these systems through increased accuracy and efficiency of tracing the movement of livestock.

The current primary driving forces behind the development of livestock identification systems are based on recognized industry needs. They include disease control and eradication, disease surveillance and monitoring, emergency response to foreign animal diseases, regionalization, global trade, livestock production efficiency, consumer concerns over food safety, and emergency management programs.

Animal tracking and Identification Equipment: Anilog2050 Electronic ISO Tag Reader: The Anilog 2050 is a hand held data logger which allows the power of the office PC to be taken into the stockyard. Its ideal use is as a daily diary of events. The Anilog 2050 is compatible with companion software, Anidata, which holds the details of a herd or herds of animals.

Anilog Portal RFID Antenna: The Oxley Anilog Portal Antenna attaches to the SENTRY series of RFID Tag Readers for applications where electronic tag reader systems are permanently installed and integrated into control and monitoring systems. The Anilog Portal Antenna has been designed specifically for walk-through use with cattle and the Allflex range of Electronic Ear Tags. The portal construction houses a wire loop antenna which emits an RF field to detect any TIRIS tag within typically 1m range.

AniData SIS Experts: The Anidata SIS Experts integrate Anidata 3.5 with the British Cattle Movement Service’s Cattle Tracing System and allow you to easily and speedily convey cattle movement infor-mation to BCMS. The system makes it possible to eliminate the laborious handwritten forms and processes you have been used to - ensuring efficient and accurate recording of cattle movements using electronic tags and hand-held tag readers which can upload the stored information into your computer.

Texas Instruments RFID tags are being used to identify millions of livestock animals around the world. These systems track meat and dairy animals, valuable breeding stock and laboratory animals involved in lengthy and expensive research projects. With the chips in an electronic ear tag or inserted into the rectum of ruminant animals, farm management and data collection can be fully automated for such processes as feeding, weighing, disease control, subsidies, and breeding practices as well as quality and tracebility assurance.

Radio Frequency ID of Animals, Code Structure (ISO Standard 11784)—Specifies the RFID code for use with animals. Contains the structure of the radio-frequency identification code for animals. Does not specify the characteristics of the transmission protocols between transponder and transceiver. Replaces the first edition.

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Sunday, May 09, 2004

RFID Application: Tharo Offers RFID Label Applicators

From RFID Journal ... By Mark Roberti. May 10, 2004—Most companies involved in RFID supply chain pilots are applying RFID labels to cases of product by hand. ...

Tharo Systems, Inc. has been a world leader in the Automatic Identification industry since 1982. Tharo is the author of EASYLABEL® software, the best selling, most powerful label design software on the planet. There are over 68,000 copies running in almost every country in the world. Tharo has extended its expertise into the development of the Heavy Duty H-Series and Value Priced V-Series printers.

New from the creators of EASYLABEL®, comes the Tharo PA1000tZ Printer/Applicator... a powerful accessory for the Zebra® Z4M™ thermal/thermal transfer bar code label printer. Easy to Use - The Tharo PA1000tZ Printer / Applicator is easy to use, with minimal adjustments necessary, quick setup and changeover for applying labels to either the top or side of a product. Cost-effective - With minimal training, quick integration and increased personal productivity, the PA1000tZ Printer / Applicator provides a rapid return on investment. Meet demanding applications with maximum up time and economical, worry-free operation! Rugged - The PA1000tZ Printer / Applicator features all metal construction and is made to last with time-tested components. Heavy-duty guide rods were engineered to compensate for high stress in side labeling with minimal deflection. With rugged dependability, the PA1000tZ provides accurate, true on-demand operation, with low maintenance and precise positioning.

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Monday, April 26, 2004

Healthcare RFID: Agility Delivers the Healthcare Industry’s Largest RFID-Enabled Mobile Asset Management Program That Reduces Total Cost of Equipment Ownership

RICHMOND, Va. – Agility Healthcare Solutions is delivering the largest radio frequency identification-enabled (RFID-enabled) mobile asset management program in the U.S. healthcare industry, and the first designed to significantly reduce the total cost of equipment ownership, to Bon Secours Richmond Health System in Richmond, Virginia.

Agility is providing tracking and management services for critical mobile medical equipment for three Bon Secours Richmond hospitals under a five-year service fee arrangement. AgileTrac, Agility’s comprehensive mobile medical equipment management program, will be fully operational this spring, said Fran Dirksmeier, Agility chief executive officer. Bon Secours Richmond, which has a fourth hospital under construction that will feature AgileTrac, provides a variety of healthcare services and is one of Richmond 's largest employers.

“We’re working closely with Bon Secours to evaluate all business processes and operating costs associated with their significant investment in mobile equipment. We fully anticipate that our AgileTrac program will provide them with an attractive return on investment within the first full year of operations,” said Dirksmeier. “But that’s just a start. We can track and manage other resources so that clients like Bon Secours can take full advantage of the robust RFID platform we’ve put into place. ”

Jerrold Maki, Bon Secours Richmond’s chief administrative officer, said, “Agility has been able to quantify our total mobile equipment costs and streamline our equipment management processes. Not only are we expecting the Agility solution to reduce costs and improve staff productivity, but also to improve patient care and assist with our compassionate quality healthcare mission.”

Agility is a subsidiary of mobile asset management company TrenStar Inc. that serves clients including Scottish Courage Breweries, Carlsberg UK, Kraft, Goodyear, Burberry and Prada Stores. Agility provides the first mobile asset management solution designed specifically for the healthcare industry featuring dedicated operational support services to optimize business processes, monitor and measure cost reductions, and identify equipment utilization improvement opportunities, said Dirksmeier. Mobile assets in the healthcare industry include medical and transport equipment and surgical instruments.

About Agility
Agility offers healthcare providers the first RFID-enabled resource and workflow management solutions designed to optimize asset utilization, reduce operating costs and improve care quality. Agility tracks, measures and improves utilization of a client’s resources including mobile medical equipment, surgical instruments, supplies and pharmaceuticals, while improving patient flow, staff workflow and facility productivity.

Agility is a TrenStar Inc. subsidiary headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. On the Net: www.agilityhealthcare.com

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Saturday, March 27, 2004

BYRON DORGAN: ALIEN TECHNOLOGY ANNOUNCEMENT SHOWS COMPANY’S COMMITMENT TO NORTH DAKOTA, “IMMENSE POTENTIAL” FOR ITS RFID PRODUCTS

Company is poised to be the leader in RFID tag manufacture

(FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA) --- U.S. Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) said that the announcement by Alien Technology - that it will hire local workers and begin operations at a leased facility in Fargo six months earlier than planned – shows that “the immense potential in the manufacture of Alien’s high-technology products right here in North Dakota is very real.” He also said that the company’s decision to delay the construction of a flagship plant at the NDSU Technology Park by six to twelve months seems to be a reasonable business decision that will allow it to better match its production capacity with market demand for “smart tags,” or tiny RFID (radio frequency identification) transmitters.

The company plans to hire up to 30 employees in late spring or early summer and start assembling and testing RFID tags.

Dorgan, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, was instrumental in bringing the California-based company to North Dakota, creating a research partnership with it and North Dakota State University (NDSU), getting federal contracts for the firm, and encouraging it to build a manufacturing facility in Fargo.

“Alien Technology has shown it is willing to invest in North Dakota’s future, and the early start to its operations is a great sign of how much potential exists for the high-tech products they manufacture. For North Dakota, this means the economic growth and additional new jobs we’ve been expecting will arrive even sooner than predicted,” Dorgan said. “At the same time, the delay in the construction of Alien’s permanent facility seems a reasonable move, which does nothing to dim this company’s bright future in North Dakota. It will allow the company to grow at the right pace to meet the demand for its products, and that makes sense.”

The tags have vast potential applications in the areas of inventory control, agricultural management, security and more. In recent months, Wal-Mart, Target, European retail giant Tesco, and the Department of Defense have announced plans to require their suppliers to adopt RFID technology. The technology will eventually replace the bar codes now ubiquitous on consumer products.


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