3M RFID Library Productivity

3M Library Systems introduces new features into its workstations that make them fast, reliable and easy-to-use RFID products in the library environment. ...

... "Like its 3M predecessor model, the 3M Model 946 - with its ergonomic design - performs checkout or return in one step, combining RFID item identification and Tattle-Tape Security Strip from 3M in the same operation. The system also can perform bar code-to-RFID conversions for new acquisitions and smaller scale collections. For visual and audio media, it enables staff to verify that the case and item within match, without opening the case, and can confirm the presence of a sensitized Tattle-Tape Security Strip by means of a verifier light. Also introduced today was the 3M Conversion Station Model 812, an improved self-contained portable system for rapidly scanning bar codes and converting the data for RFID. Compared to its predecessor model, it contains a larger touch-sensitive screen, an easier-to-load 3M RFID tag dispenser, and the capability of converting all 3M RFID tag formats. Similar to its predecessor, 3M Model 812's sophisticated laser scanner is effective for virtually any bar code location or orientation, and provides a visible scan line that helps the user place items correctly. Because it does not require connection to an automated circulation system, the workstation can be easily moved on its cart for use in the stacks. The station also can reprogram RFID tags as items change. " ...

Via 3M Library Systems: 3M Unveils Two Advanced RFID Workstations with Additional Enhancements for Productivity and Security ...

Libraries are increasingly using RFID technology to manage their processes. ...

3M: Wyoming's Largest Public Library Chooses 3M RFID for Expanded Facility:

... "With the 3M RFID system, everything in the library's collection is affixed with an RFID tag. The tag contains a tiny antenna and a memory chip that stores information about each item's identity and allows accurate identification and tracking. A cordless, handheld scanner reads the tags, enabling library staff to easily locate, inventory, check in and check out materials. Unlike barcode systems, RFID does not require line of sight between the tag and the scanner, resulting in easier, more efficient tracking. " ...

RFID Warehouse Forklift System

Intermec introduces forklift RFID system that integrates automated data collection to drive efficiency in warehouse business processes. ...

... "This ground-breaking RFID (radio frequency identification) forklift installation system allows forklift drivers to use RFID and other data collection technologies to gather complete real-time inventory data efficiently and safely without leaving their vehicle. Intermec partnered with Cascade Corporation, the world leader in the design and manufacture of lift truck attachments, to create an RFID-enabled forklift system that integrates durable, rugged inventory and data collection technology with existing forklift equipment. The system improves performance and safety while significantly reducing the cost of RFID forklift deployments in warehouse applications. The Intermec Adaptable Load Backrest and Antenna Cell system can be made to accommodate almost all forklifts on the market, providing customers a factory-certified product designed specifically for their lift trucks that meets OSHA and industry safety requirements. Flexible and configurable, the Adaptable Load Backrest switches easily from one application to another, allowing the driver to accomplish pallet-, case- and even shelf-level readings without the costly and intensive labor associated with retrofit systems. " ...

Via Intermec: Intermec and Cascade Introduce Mobile RFID Forklift Adaptable Load Backrest for Rugged, Industrial Warehouse Use

RFID Metal Packaging Works as Antenna

QinetiQ and Crown collaborate to develop adaptation of QinetiQ's Omni-ID Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for use on metal packaging. The improvements will enable RFID tags at the unit-level on metal items. Technology advancement is expected to integrate the metal substrate as part of the RFID tag's antenna. ...

... "This will enable brand owners to integrate ultra high frequency (UHF) RFID tags into metal packaging for a wide variety of applications at the single item level. Designed to mitigate issues such as signal reflection, detuning and grounding which reduce or negate RFID's effectiveness on metal packaging or with aqueous-based products, the unique technology leverages several of metal's inherent properties and shifts the format into an advantageous position.

QinetiQ's standalone Omni-ID tags and integrated Omni-ID packaging technology allows a UHF tag to be mounted directly onto the metal substrate. Measuring substantially less than 1mm in thickness, the unique Omni-ID structure collects and focuses RF energy and enables highly efficient coupling to the chip. Another advantage of the system is that RFID chips require only a short coupling antenna rather than the large dipole usually incorporated in UHF tags, significantly reducing manufacturing costs. Crown and QinetiQ are continuing development of the technology for metal packaging to further optimize design. In the near future, it is expected that the metal substrate itself will have an integral role in the way the technology functions. Using a beverage or food can as an example, the can itself would serve as the antenna, simplifying production of the RFID tag and further reducing costs. " ...

Via Qinetiq: Crown teams up with QinetiQ to resolve challenges of RFID on metal packaging ...

OTI RFID Supports Discover Network Contactless Payment

OTI receives certification for its RFID reader in support of the contactless payment solution for the Discover Network. ...

... "Discover Network, a business unit of Discover Financial Services and Morgan Stanley, announced that it has certified the Saturn 5000 contactless reader developed by On Track Innovations (OTI) (NASDAQ: OTIV), a global leader in contactless microprocessor-based smart card solutions, for use with Discover Network's contactless payment application. The certification process ensures that the Saturn 5000's reader technology is able to support Discover Network's proprietary contactless payment solution. Additional OTI readers are in the certification process.

Compatible with major POS terminal providers and acquirers, Saturn 5000's enhanced features allow the reader to support multiple application programs and read a variety of payments sources, including credit cards and key fobs and cell phones. The console's plug-and-play design and small footprint facilitates quick upgrades of existing POS terminals to accept contactless payments. And because the reader faces the customer, the Saturn 5000 enables easier and faster payment transactions. Additionally, OTI's patented matched antenna technology provides more effective power consumption, reliable and stable communications, and additional levels of security and encryption throughout the communication link. " ...

Via Discover Network: Discover Network Certifies Oti Card Reader For Contactless Payment System, OTI's Saturn 5000 to Support Discover Network's Fast, Secure, and Simple Contactless Payment System Worldwide

RFID Smart Shelf Dispenser ..

TagSys develops new item-level RFID reader-based devices that target improvement of inventory management for the pharmaceutical, retail, library and industry laundry sectors through an RFID-enabled Smart Shelf and Smart Dispenser products. ...

... "The Smart Shelf simulates the 3D tunnel reader approach on a static standard shelf. The Shelf is designed to read any tag that is placed on the surface of the shelf. Previous designs of RFID shelves have required tags to be perpendicular to the antenna. The new Smart Shelf is designed to provide accurate readings regardless of the orientation of the tag. The Smart Shelf is highly sought after by libraries to help manage high volumes of books and other media, the pharmaceutical industry, where RFID tagged bottles can be tracked and monitored, high-end jewelry stores, and retail, where inventory of items like DVDs and CDs can be monitored to ensure availability during peak seasons of demand. The Smart Dispenser provides a volume based approach to reading the items in the dispenser. A typical dispenser could be a drawer or cabinet used to dispense items to authorized individuals. The items can be placed in any order or orientation in the dispenser. The new design reads the items in the dispenser when the drawer is opened and again when it is closed. The items that are removed are identified through the difference between reads. One user example of the Smart Dispenser is the management of hospital garments (scrubs) used by medical staff. To help hospitals manage hygiene and sterilization requirements, the Smart Dispenser can dispense the appropriate attire to the staff, (e.g. size, number of previous washes, etc.), and also monitor inventory and how that inventory is being managed. " ...

RFID Smart Shelf Dispenser: Via TAGSys: TAGSYS Develops Item-Level RFID Smart Shelf And Smart Dispenser For Pharma, Libraries And Retail ...

RFID Gen2 China Project ...

UPM Rafsec’s RFID Class 1 Generation 2 technology has a single, globally applicable antenna design and provides higher read ranges and faster response times than RFID tags of previous generations and will implement Novetex’s complete RFID identification and tracking solution by early 2006. ...

... "UPM Rafsec, a leading RFID tag and inlay manufacturer, announces that it has entered into an agreement with Supply Chain and Logistics Technology Holdings Limited (SCL), a joint-venture of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), to deliver UPM Rafsec Gen 2 RFID tags. UPM Rafsec together with SCL will supply tags to Novetex Spinners Limited (Novetex), the world’s largest single site woollen spinner, for the project that will mark the first Gen 2 RFID initiative in Hong Kong and the South China region. The new RFID system being deployed for Novetex by SCL, consultant as well as hardware & solution provider for the project will touch three different processes in Novetex’s Zhuhai warehouse - the receiving process, cycle counting and the delivery process.

UPM Rafsec’s Gen 2 RFID tags will be instrumental in achieving real-time visibility of raw materials and product inventory, leading to fewer production delays and faster response times to customer requests. Novetex expects substantial enhancements in operating efficiency at its warehouse when the project is fully deployed. " ...

RFID Gen2 China Project: UPM RAFSEC PROVIDING RFID TAGS FOR THE FIRST GEN2 PROJECT IN HONG KONG AND THE SOUTH CHINA REGION ...

Tags: Radio Frequency Identification, RFID, RFID Tag

RFID Lab Provides Hands-On Classroom Experience ...

Stratum Global will provide the RFID technology foundation for the hands-on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) lab in Illinois at Oakton Community College, serving fourteen northern Chicago suburbs.

... "The Community College RFID lab will be located at Oakton’s new Art, Science, and Technology Pavilion in Skokie. Stratum Global, William Frick, Intel and Intermec Technologies Corp. are providing Oakton with the tools required to develop an RFID lab and curriculum that will give students the opportunity to study the dynamics of how RFID infrastructure, readers, tags, and software logic solve business problems.

Stratum Global’s TagNet RFID solution suite will serve as the software application foundation for understanding the integration components and the dynamics between the infrastructure, tags and readers. Students will use the software to manage and configure readers, conduct remote diagnostics, commission and interrogate tags, verify tag reads against existing enterprise data and create rules to establish application level events. William Frick, based in Libertyville, IL, specializes in tag and labeling solution offerings. Frick will assist in developing the tag curriculum as it relates to tag materials, tags for high impact or rugged environments, application of active or passive tags, high visibility tags as well as tagging location. Frick will provide the lab with a variety of tag types for the students to work with on different materials, in multiple scenarios. Students will have a firm understanding of the differences between tags types, where those types are applicable and how to effectively construct a tagging methodology. Enterprise data will reside on an Intel based P4 and Xeon Server infrastructure. Data will be used to commission tags, construct work rules and manage events. Stratum Global’s TagNet® will ensure a seamless flow of data within the RFID environment, between the Intermec Readers, antennas, tags and the Intel platform.

RFID hardware will be provided by Intermec and will include Intermec’s IF5 fixed readers, IP3® portable readers, and a combination of Intermec Intellitag antennas. Students will use the hardware to understand how physical readers, handhelds and antennas are used to develop portals, and how portal development impacts read rates and the dynamics of hardware configuration. The hardware and curriculum will prepare students for careers in RFID, with a firm understanding of the technology required for a successful implementation and how that implementation can bring continuous process improvement to the business. " ...

Via Stratum Global: Hands-On RFID Lab at Oakton Community College: Industry leaders collaborate to develop lab and curriculum ...

Additional resources on university RFID labs:

Via Cal Poly: RFID HIGHLIGHTS: "Fred Abler, Tali Freed visited Sun Microsystems in Menlo Park, CA for a day of meetings to present the Cal Poly RFID Research and Testing Lab to a team of SUN executives. The meeting was arranged by Sema Alptekin, a Cal Poly IME professor currently on sabbatical at UC Berkeley. During the day-long series of meetings, the directors presented their vision for RFID Research at CAL POLY, resulting in the RFID Research and Testing Lab being nominated to become the SUN Center of Excellence for RFID."

Via University of Wisconsin: Headlines for March 21, 2005: "The RFID laboratory on the UW-Madison campus enables RFID workgroup members to conduct structured experiments ranging from tag placement to antenna design. "

Via University of Arkansas - Daily Headlines: "The University of Arkansas RFID Research Center laboratory has passed accreditation criteria established by EPCglobal Inc., a global not-for-profit standards organization commercializing the Electronic Product CodeT (EPC) and RFID worldwide. The UA lab is one of the first EPC/RFID research laboratories worldwide to receive the EPCglobal Performance Test Center accreditation. The RFID Research Center, a subunit of the Information Technology Research Institute, housed in the university's Sam M. Walton College of Business."

RFID Forms Design Software ...

RFID Forms Design Software: Via Quadrant Software: New Formtastic 5.3.1: Formtastic Brings RFID and Advanced Query Functions to iSeries Forms Design ...

Quadrant's forms software is now updated to enable RFID label management ...

... "RFID Support: Formtastic can now print Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) labels containing an antenna capable of sending/receiving information. This new feature makes it easier to streamline and improve supply chain processes. " ...

Quadrant Software, an IBM Business Partner, provides a suite of Electronic Document Distribution (EDD) solutions for the iSeries enterprise. Through EDD, companies electronically create and manage mission critical documents that are then delivered via print, fax or the email to reduce expenses, increase productivity and improve communication. Quadrant Software’s award winning solutions are installed around the globe at some of the world’s largest companies in a variety of vertical markets.

UHF RFID Industrial Environments

UHF RFID Industrial Environments: Escort Memory Systems Moves UHF RFID into the World of Industrial Control: EMS introduces the first UHF systems exclusively for the industrial environment ...

EMS introduces UHF RFID technology that will weather the storm in industrial environments ...

... "Escort Memory Systems announces the UHF-UN1 integrated RFID controller/antenna and UHF525HT high temperature passive tag solution for long-range, industrial applications. Escort Memory Systems leads the pack in RFID solutions for industrial control. With over 20 years of innovation in design and over fifty thousand installations worldwide, Escort Memory Systems is the company that understands RFID from the inside out. " ...

Escort Memory Systems, part of Datalogic Group, delivers rugged, industrial RFID solutions to leading companies worldwide. Recognized for high performance, highly connected and rugged RFID hardware that sets the standard for industrial RFID within the automotive, pharmaceutical, electronic and other demanding industrial settings

Tag: RFID

Low Cost RFID Tag Technology: Identifi Technologies

Low Cost RFID Tag Technology: Identifi Technologies: The Technology Collaborative : Identifi Technologies : Pittsburgh Digital Greenhouse

Identifi Technologies is a incubating business focused on developing tachnology to produce low-cost RFID tags ...

... "Identifi Technologies is a Fabless Semiconductor company headquartered in West Middlesex, PA utilizing breakthrough technology to become a market leader in the production of low cost RFID tags. Identifi Technologies devices enable the company to be a leader in the emerging and rapidly growing auto-identification market. Using technology combining a unique non-volatile memory solution, proprietary logic design and an antenna on a single chip, Identifi makes it possible to produce and to sell RFID tags at less than 5 cents. " ...

RFID Cost Reduction Project ...

RFID Cost Reduction Project: Navy FY04.2 SBIR Solicitation Topics: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology Cost Reduction ...

... "This system contains an extensive reader infrastructure that operates with a proprietary communications protocol. Naval Forces implementing RFID technology must purchase RFID tags compatible with that infrastructure protocol. This protocol limitation along with other industry-wide factors such as antenna design, battery design, infrastructure (tags, readers, software and communication links) design, international frequency approval, manufacturing processes and lack of or inadequate business case analyses have contribute to a prohibitive cost in purchasing and maintaining RFID technology for fleet forces. The objective of this SBIR is to perform innovate research in one or more of these areas for an overall reduction in the life cycle cost of using RFID technology. " ...

RFID EAS RF Readers

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

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

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

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

RFID DMEA Investments: Rugged Antenna

RFID DMEA Investments: Rugged Antenna: Paratek Awarded $1.987 Million DMEA Contract for RFID ...

... "Paratek Microwave, Inc., a privately held company at the forefront of the next generation wireless devices, announced a $1.987 million contract award from the Defense MicroElectronics Activity (DMEA). This research and development award is to advance the state-of-the-art concepts for ruggedized military radio frequency identification (RFID) antennas. " ...

Paratek is uniquely able to address the solutions needed for the next generation wireless devices by combining its patented tunable RF and microwave dielectric materials technology with its highly integrated 3-D miniaturization circuit and module design. Resulting products are multi-band, multi-function radio frequency components and front ends with ultra wideband frequency agility for software defined radios, circuit agility for longer battery life, and real-time adaptive impedance matching for improved performance. Other products include electronically tunable RF filters, pre-selectors and phase shifters. Paratek has also developed a line of smart scanning and phased array antennas, which provide enhanced wireless network performance, flexibility, scalability, and are particularly well suited for RFID and communications on the move applications. Paratek is headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, with offices in Nashua, New Hampshire.

RFID Equipment and Services ...

RFID Equipment and Services: Packaging Equipment ...

Kolinahr offers portal, pallet labelling solution that offers integrated RFID technology in the packaging equipment ...

... "Designed for easy installation and flexibility, the Kolinahr RFID Portal is ideal for meeting Wal-Mart’s requirements for EPC-compliance in 2005. The singe- or dual-post, four-antenna system is designed to allow for adjustable antenna movement and orientation to achieve the best possible read rates of numerous RFID tags on a unit load. ... The SA2200-RF Dual Panel RFID Pallet Labeler is Kolinahr’s existing SA2200 Dual Panel Pallet Labeler fitted with an RFID-enabled printer. The SA2200-RF labeler can read, write, and print and apply an RFID tag-embedded barcode label onto one or adjacent sides of a pallet load. " ...

... Packaging systems will integrated RFID will make compliance initiatives, such as Walmart and DOD RFID compliance, more efficient.

Kolinahr Systems, a privately owned, Cincinnati, OH-based company, is a manufacturer of print and apply labelers and specialty pallet handling equipment. Kolinahr's engineers have a vast background in finished goods material handling. This experience provides the knowledge base to design and integrate equipment specifically for the manufacturing warehouse environment.

RFID Antenna Company Relocates Operations ...

PCTEL Antenna Products Group, Formerly MAXRAD, Relocates to Bloomingdale, Illinois; Antenna Manufacturer Now Headquartered in a New 75,000 Square-Foot Facility ...

... "PCTEL, Inc. (NASDAQ:PCTI), a global leader in simplifying mobility, announced today that it has relocated its Antenna Products Group operations to a new facility in Bloomingdale, Illinois. The new facility will handle production for most of its major product lines, including those recently acquired. The company continues to have manufacturing capability in Tianjin, China. " ...

PCTEL Antenna Products Group (APG) provides antenna solutions for multiple wireless applications including land mobile radio, broadband wireless access, RFID, in-building wireless, aerial navigation, GPS, and satellite communications. We produce the well-established MAXRAD(R), Antenna Specialists(R), and MicroPulse(TM) antenna brands, which together represent over 90 years of antenna design and development expertise. Located in Bloomingdale, Illinois, and with international facilities in Tianjin, China, PCTEL Antenna Products Group delivers over 8000 antenna parts and accessories to customers worldwide. The world's leading manufacturers and distributors of radio frequency communication products rely on PCTEL Antenna Products Group for their antenna needs. PCTEL Antenna Products Group, Inc. formerly MAXRAD, Inc., was acquired by PCTEL, Inc. (NASDAQ:PCTI) in January of 2004.

RFID Readers Forklift Applications ...

RFID Readers for Forklift Applications: LXE, Intel and Sirit to Collaborate on Forklift-Mounted RFID Data ...

LXE is collaborating with partners on RFID applications for forklifts ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... Development effort to include antennae and RFID readers for forklift applications ATLANTA, March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- LXE is pleased to announce it is working ...

... LXE is pleased to announce it is working with Intel and Sirit to produce the first robust, forklift-mounted RFID data collection solutions for use in warehousing and distribution. This effort will produce solutions that will enable customers to garner the benefits of RFID throughout their warehouse, beyond simple compliance. As the lead in this development, LXE will bring 35+ years of experience in developing wireless products and solutions, extensive antenna engineering talent through its sister divisions in EMS Technologies, and a customer base including most the top companies implementing RFID in their Supply Chain operations today. ...

LXE Inc. improves supply chain performance by applying over 35 years' experience developing wireless products and solutions. From rugged mobile computers, advanced auto-ID technologies, and secure wireless network infrastructure, to our award-winning customer support - LXE's easy-to-use products are as reliable as the people who install and support them. Based in Norcross, Georgia, LXE also offers a full range of turnkey services, including radio integration, project and installation management, network design, technical support, and repair services. LXE is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EMS Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: ELMG), and has offices worldwide.

Founded in 1993, Sirit Inc. (TSX: SI) is a leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification ("RFID") solutions to customers worldwide. The company designs, manufactures, integrates and sells RFID solutions with an emphasis in several vertical markets including Supply Chain Management, Product Authentication, Asset Tracking, Security and Access Control and Automatic Vehicle Identification. Building upon years of success deploying traditional RFID products, Sirit continues to capitalize on the growing demand for next generation RFID solutions.

RFID Symposium: INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON ADVANCED RADIO TECHNOLOGIES

... "7thANNUAL INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON ADVANCED RADIO TECHNOLOGIES, ISART Forecasting the Future of Radio, 1 - 3 March 2005

The ISART technical program committee is soliciting papers for the 7th annual International Symposium on Advanced Radio Technologies (ISART) to be held in Boulder, Colorado March 1-3, 2005. These papers will discuss new technologies, research and development, innovative ideas, enabling technologies, standards, protocols, business practices and policies, and government regulation for the purpose of forecasting the future development and application of radio frequency technologies into the next decade.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
Future of 802.16
Wireless/Hybrid LANs
New Wireless Convergence and Protocols
Software Defined/Cognitive Radios
Digital Video Broadcasting: Handhelds (DVB-H)
New Wireless Protocols
Voice over IP (VoIP)
IPv6
Global Mobile Communication Systems (2/2.5/3/4G)
Mobile VSATs
Broadband over Power Lines
GPS, Galileo, Glonass Interoperability and standards
2004 Olympics Communications Lessons Learned
Effective Spectrum Management
First Responder Communications
Human Computer Interface
Propagation Modeling in Urban Environment
VPN/Wireless Security
Mesh Networking
High Speed Digital Packet Access
Battery/Power Sources
Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM)
Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO)
UWB Communications
Signal Compression
Conformal Antenna Design
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
Automatic Voice Recognition
Automatic Language Translation
Automatic Direction Finding Network
Network Services (Artificial Intelligence)
Quantum Computing" ...