RFID Gazette

China will soon establish an RFID standard

Sources from China's Ministry of Information Industry (MII) say that China will soon establish an RFID national standard. We have reported earlier about China's promising RFID market including the National Passport plan.

The impending standard is being delayed due to a persistent for one-upmanship between supporting organizations of the three major international RFID standards--ISO/IEC18000, EPCGlobal and UbiquitousID.

As a result, the authorities are not being able to make up their minds about one national standard for RFID. What will it be? We will keep you posted.

via RFidBlog

RFID HF vs. UHF: Who wins?

The results of the first-ever scientific HF vs. UHF RFID evaluation, 'Pharmaceutical Item Level RFID: Battle of the Frequencies', are out. A product of collaboration between Unisys and ODIN technologies, the aim of this 'shootout' was to find an ideal solution for the pharmaceutical industry's strict requirements for serialized item-level product tracking. The industry is under pressure from state and federal-level regulators to take more steps regarding the safety and authenticity of medicines

The researchers compared the core drivers of HF and UHF tag performance across a wide variety of metrics including Read Distance¸ Orientation Sensitivity, Material Dependence, Maximum Encode Speed, Tag Quality, In-motion item-level verification, Item-to-case aggregation, and Item level reads for pallet stacked cases.

Via MoreRFID

RFID to manage chemical inventory systems

CISProMobile, from ChemSW, helps labs utilise RFID technology to reduce the time and effort required to conduct inventory processes.

RFID results in simpler and faster acquisition of data from container IDs.  The RFID tags are read by ChemSW's CISProMobile, which is Bluetooth-enabled, all-in-one handheld. It consists of the antenna, the transceiver and the decoder. The CISProMobile can function like a normal barcode reader. It has a PDA-like screen that gives the handheld more flexibility than normal bar code solutions. You can go from a 16-character two-line display to full-fledged menus.

Via Laboratory talk

RFID successfully tested in the construction industry

British Telecom has successfully tested RFID tags in asset tracking, giving hope to the construction industry.

The trial, which was first of its kind in the construction business in the United Kingdom, took place at a major London construction site over a period of two months.  The idea of the trail was to see how to improve cost-efficiencies and look at the management of assets such as vehicles, tools and equipment on large construction sites. Tracking assets in large, flung-out places like construction sites are a big concern.

Asset-tracking specialist OxLoc supported BT's arm, BT Auto-ID Services on the project.

Via Public Technology

Zebra Technologies gifts RFID Lab to Indiana University

Zebra Technologies has funded the RFID Lab in the Kelley School, part of Indiana University. The Kelley School's RFID lab studies the important field of RFID implementation in supply-chain management. Zebra has given a RFID printer to the lab. This will allow the Kelley School's undergraduate and graduate students to model the complete life cycle of a tag.

RFID is an integral part of the whole 'Plant-warehouse-market' chain in many industries. Retailers and government organizations like the Army use RFID on a big scale. Earlier we reported about usage of RFID to monitor Luxury Wine in Japan. The transportation sector, including the roads themselves uses RFID extensively.

Via RFidBlog

Wi-Fi-based System-on-a-Chip RFID

G2 Microsystems has introduced a Wi-Fi based System-on-a-Chip RFID solution. This is an ultra low power, active radio frequency identification (RFID) System-on-a-Chip (SoC). It uses the widely used Wi-Fi network infrastructure.

G2 claims that its radical solution will reduce cost of ownership by at least a 75 percent. This will be a big incentive for companies to install asset-tracking systems. Industries that can benefit include the hospitals and container transportation. Wi-Fi based System-on-a-Chip RFID also has applications in the fast growing 'Mobile resource management' market.   'Mobile resource management' uses real-time location systems (RTLS) to track and monitor assets both inside and outside.

Via supplychainreview

Deister introduces new RFID key management system

Deister Electronic is perhaps the world's largest independent manufacturer of RFID solutions. The company has introduced a new RFID key management system. This new system is primarily targeted at storage, handling and logistic businesses.

The new system, called proxSafe, consists of a stylish aluminium key cabinet that houses the smart keytags.  These 'smart keytags' contain RFID chips just like those found in proximity access control cards. The keys are connected to the 'smart keytags' using a secure arrangement of a steel ring and a one-time seal.

The proxSafe system can also be useful to secure valuable items like mobile telephones, PDAs and digital cameras.

Via MHWMagazine

Manhattan Associates updates its Integrated Logistics Solutions

Supply chain solutions provider, Manhattan Associates, Inc., has recently updated its Integrated Logistics Solutions, based on Microsoft .NET technology.

The updated solution now contains other components of Manhattan Associates' supply chain solutions. This updates improves usability, scalability and flexibility for customers of the solutions. A variety of industries employ this solution in fine tuning their supply chains.

The updated version covers important business functions giving companies greatly increased inventory visibility. Newly added business functions include Labor Management, Slotting Optimization, Trading Partner Management, enhanced Warehouse Management, Transportation Execution, RFID and Performance Management capabilities.

Via RFidblog

South Korean RFID sellers smell global profits

The South Korean vendors were slow off the mark on RFID deployment but they have caught up fast. Many South Korean vendors see great opportunities in the global market, especially in the UHF segment.

The Koreans have invested heavily in R&D activities and have installed mass production capacities. Samsung Electronics and LS Industrial System are in the forefront of the RFID market in the country. These giants have the biggest manufacturing facilities.

The Koreans have reason to be optimistic. ABI Research says that from 2006, UHF and microwave will drive the RFID market.

Via MoreRFID

Use Directable antennas to boost UHF RFID performance

One main problem with UHF based RFID tags are that they are subject to multipath interference which is common with electromagnetic signals. As a result, RFID tags become unreadable even if they are within the range of the reader.

Now Omron has developed a new type of antenna technology that is able to control electronically the electromagnetic field that the reader emits.

Omron's technology reduces multipath interference by allowing a wave with directivity to propagate in any specific direction. Moreover, the reader can control the direction of the propagation. Now one can direct the wave's direction of propagation to avoid objects near the beam that may be the cause of signal reflections.

Via Electronicstalk

M&S is the largest RFID user in the UK

U.K. retailer, Marks & Spencer uses RFID tags on about two-thirds (roughly 61%) of plastic pallets used in its food business. That is one reason the retailer is considered as the largest RFID user in the UK. M&S uses more RFID tags than barcodes in its supply and distribution chain.

Marks & Spencer began using RFID in 2004. Its food business has six distribution centers that supply its food business. All 6 of them use RFID tags. Moreover, there are 115 suppliers. Many of these are exclusive suppliers who attach the tags at source. On average, more than 1.4 million tags are read at M&S food business distribution centers every week.

Via ComputerWeekly

The 10 myths of RFID: revisited

Here, we will take a look at Myth # 2 from '10 More Myths of RFID'. Myth 2 says that the return on investment (ROI) from RFID is all in the retailer's favor.

This myth is powered by the assumption that all the benefits of RFID will go to retailers and all costs will go to suppliers.

The MoreRFID story gives the example of Wal-Mart which recently declared that that it had reduced out-of-stocks by 16 percent on products tracked with RFID tags. This obviously helps the retail giant but manufacturers who use RFID to tag their supplies benefit too. This is true because the tagged products they ship to Wal-Mart are in stock and available for sale more often than those of their competitors.  Moreover, suppliers using RFID can also utilize the information shared from the retailers like Wal-Mart to recognize previously unknown supply-chain bottlenecks and delay points.

Via MoreRFID

Highlights from a new study on Automotive RFID from ABI Research

Did you know that RFID was first used in the auto industry twenty years ago? It has made much progress from those days. RFID is now a common sight inside the vehicle itself as well as being present at different key points in the whole process from manufacturing to distribution.

According to a study done by ABI Research on the State of RFID in Automotive Industries, RFID is most used in vehicle entry and security systems. Fore example, RFID is in all those immobilizers that disable a vehicle unless its RFID reader detects the correct tag in the driver's ignition key. ABI Research says that around 40% of new cars produced in North America contain such immobilizers.

However, ABI Research also says that the greatest growth potential for automotive RFID lies in automating the manufacturing process – especially in streamlining assembly lines.

Via Wireless Insight Asia

E-Port Generation Six: the world's first cashless transaction solution for vending machines

To give card users multiple choices at Vending locations, USA Technologies has introduced the e-Port Generation Six. The company claims that it is the world's first cashless transaction solution for vending machines. E-port Generation Six integrates new radio frequency contactless card capability with the traditional swipe card process.

E-port Generation Six uses the e-Port series of products, which are successfully installed in thousands of locations across the US.

G6 accepts traditional magnetic stripe credit cards and credit cards as well as 'tap and go' technology, such as MasterCard's PayPass, American Express' ExpressPay, Visa's Contactless and Chase Bank's Blink technology. Moreover, G6 will sell for the same price as the e-Port G5.

Via MoreRFID

HIV Drug will carry RFID Tags

The pharmaceutical Industrial is actively using RFDI tags to track and prevent counterfeiting of tags. First, we heard about Viagra and RFID. Now, Trizivir, made by GlaxoSmithKline, will be tagged with RFID chips.  Incidentally, Trizivir is on by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy's list of the 32 drugs most susceptible to counterfeiting. Trizivir accounted for $302 million in sales in the U.S. last year.

RFID tagged Trizivir will be available in pharmacies in the United States from this April.

Via Unstrung

Dimatix Materials Printer (DMP) 2800 wins award

The Design News magazine has honored Dimatix Materials Printer (DMP) 2800 series with its Golden Mousetrap Award in the Hardware and Software, Rapid Prototyping Tools category. The winning products are showcased in the latest 2006 edition of Design News and can also be seen online on the Design News Web site at http://www.designnews.com.

Dimatix says that this award is yet another proof that design engineers want easy-to- use, cost-efficient new ways of creating prototypes and products.

The Dimatix Materials Printer (DMP) 2800 series has single-use cartridges that customers can fill with any type of fluids. This makes short, experimental production runs possible for a variety of applications.

Via MoreRFID

RFID bracelets for visitors at the Alton Towers

Visitors at the Alton Towers will be given RFID bracelets that will identify them to video cameras installed at key rides and attractions around the site.

This new system is part of the new 'YourDay in the Park' video-capture system. This is one more innovation done for customers who now can now easily record and view their visit later. The video clips is captured, catalogued and digitally stored in DVD format.

Then, these 30 minute DVDs containing stock and personalized footage are given to the customers to carry back home.

Via ItWeek

London will host RFID Smart Labels Europe 2006

The RFID Smart Labels Europe is Europe’s most established and important RFID show. Now in its seventh annual edition, it will be held in Guoman Tower Hotel in London from 19th to 21st September 2006. Moreover, this event will be held alongside the Active RFID Summit Europe.

This annual event will feature tours to local companies. There will be extensive analysis from users. Innovations and technology developments from around the world will be on display.

All the big names from the retailing and manufacturing industries among other sectors will be present during this event.

Via Electronicstlk

Only three of the 'Lucky 12' slots remain

Remember, some time back we reported about Denver-based RFID, LTD's "Lucky 12" campaign. As part of the campaign, RFID, LTD is offering its exclusive Black Box RFID mandate compliance service for only $25,000 to the first 12 suppliers who sign up. Keep in mind that, according to Forrester Research, the average cost for suppliers, can be more than $9 million to set up an RFID tracking system.

Already Nine Wal-Mart suppliers have taken their spots for this money-saving opportunity. Those Nine lucky ones were short listed out of 50 applicants most of whom were disqualified for a number of reasons. Only three spots remain to be taken now.

Via dBusinessNews

The new BlueBean RFID conveyor portal/tunnel solution

The BlueBean Simple Conveyor Portal is the latest RFID solution kit from Bluebean. The company says this new RFID solution has been specifically designed for existing conveyors.

This new RFID solution kit uses T-slot technology providing easy modifications and assembly. The company also claims that you need only one hand tool to assemble this solution. The RFID conveyor portal kit comes included with this tool.

Moreover, the BlueBean RFID Simple Conveyor Portal Solution kit has provisions for adjustable antenna mounts and four-side read capability. That means that there will be less errors thus resulting in greater productivity. The RFID solution comes with optional RFID reader, antennas, status lights, photo eyes, I/O controller and PLC. Take your pick.

Via PRWeb

The future of the RFID business

Beyond all the promise and hype, it ultimately comes down to pure common sense business. IDTechEx has recently researched in detail the so-far under-explored subject of RFID and profitability.

Finding #1: the RFID markets needs Mergers.

The major customers need a small number of suppliers with global experience and support, yet the number of suppliers is rocketing with almost none of them genuinely operating globally in RFID. We have found only one company with a sustained and profitable major acquisition program consolidating the RFID industry to the delight of its customers. It is Assa Abloy…

Finding # 2: Where are the profits?

… there are a larger number and percentage of profitable RFID companies at the end of the value chain, as in system supply, system integration and facilities management. These activities also see larger average order size.

Via MoreRFID

China will monitor Birds-flu using RFID tags

Canadian company Smart-tek Communications has developed an RFID tracking system that has been designed to slow the spread of avian flu. This new tracking system will be tested this month by China's bird-flu-stricken poultry industry.

Called RTAC-PM ('RFID Tracking Alert Containment and Poultry Monitoring), this tracking system uses the Internet to provide real-time information about events in the poultry supply-chain to a central monitoring station. The system also provides instant alert notification of events that could indicate anomalies that may be caused by the onset of bird-flu disease outbreak.

For the record, there are around 13 billion chickens in China.

Via AP Food Technology

Rfid implementation in Jails

Pardon for the politically incorrect terminology. AirGATE Technologies, Inc. has started preparing to deploy its RFID enabled inmate phone system. AirGATE demonstrated a working prototype during the recently held RFID World conference in Dallas, Texas. The company is going after the lucrative law enforcement industry and Homeland Security Marketplace.

AirGATE Technologies, Inc. has formed an alliance with Security firm SECURUS. SECURUS gives it services to over 3,100 correctional facilities, managing over 120,000 phones. Inmates in correctional institutions across the United States make over 1,000,000 phone calls per day. AirGATE will provide radio frequency identification (RFID) enabled wristbands. It will integrate its RFID scanner within the SECURUS telephone systems. The AirGATE scanner reads the inmate identification from the inmate wristband during a phone call.

Via Chron.com

Rfid implementation at a resort

Come April, Great Wolf Resorts Inc., situated in Ontario (Canada) will open a resort in Niagara Falls equipped with radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. The resort will operate on cashless point of sale (POS) platforms and hotel keyless entry systems. That means guests at the resort will access rooms and pay for service during their stay using RFID wristbands that the hotel will provide to them.

This will be the second Great Wolf Resorts property that opened in 2006 with an RFID infrastructure in place.

Via InformationWeek

P&G highlights the retail industry's first end-to-end product visibility supply-chain solution

Using Vue Technology's TrueVUE RFID Networking Platform, consumer goods giant Proctor & Gamble highlights the retail industry's first end-to-end product visibility supply-chain solution. Using Vue's enterprise solution, P&G will show how inventory cases are tracked throughout the supply chain directly to the store shelf. The retail giant wants to demonstrate to internal stakeholders and external customers as well how improved visibility of inventory reduces out-of-stocks, shrinkage, and supply chain costs while helping execute promotions and new product introductions.

Via MoreRFID

Europlex Cinemas use contactless Movie Cards

Europlex Cinemas uses contactless movie cards that contain RFID transponders.

The contactless movie card can be used purchase tickets for any Europlex cinema at the cash desks and interactive kiosks in movie theatres, as well as online through the Europlex web site.

To obtain a card, users have to open an account with Europlex. The movie card grants users access to an account to which all their purchases are debited.

Moreover, several card owners can share the same account, which is very useful for families. Users can also purchase tickets online.

Via MoreRFID

SMARTCODE Corp. extends its presence in the important Asia Pacific Market

SMARTCODE Corp. has established 16 New Partnerships to expand Its Asia Pacific Presence.

Driven by strong government and business demand, analysts expect Asia Pacific to become one of the main markets for RFID. In 2010, IDTechEx market research predicts that 39% of RFID tags will be sold in Asia Pacific, followed by 36% to North America. Not surprisingly, China is one of the main attractions. The country will use more than 5 billion tags annually. That huge demand is fuelled by booming exports of supplies to Wal-Mart and other US and European retailers. Then you have the China National ID project and the Beijing 2008 Olympics as well.

Via MoreRFID

Print your own RFID

You will soon see Printed electronics in a variety of gadgets and tools. Moreover, for obvious reasons, RFID tags will be printed too. All this will be discussed in the conference on Printed Electronics in Churchill College Cambridge, April 20-21.

Siince no single printed display technology will fit all applications, or even most of them, expect to see a variety of printed electronics technology in the market soon.

Analysts estimate that hundreds of billions of printed Radio Frequency Identification RFID labels will be made by 2016. They say that some of this RFID will be printed directly on to products and packaging. You don't need labels.

Via PCB007

UBC professor is taking RFID to the people

Nancy Nisbet teaches art history at the University of British Columbia. She is also a Performance artist to boot. She is about to embark on a six-month road trip during which she aims to teach North Americans about radio frequency identification.

Nisbet's plan is simple: she has tagged all her belongings she is taking with her on the tour. She planned the tour for three years. A grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada funds Professor Nisbet's mission. She also got technical help from a Vancouver-based RFID consulting firm NJE Consulting Inc.

Traveling through Canada, the United States and Mexico, Nisbet will trade away her tagged items to people she meets on the journey.

Via IT Business CA

Why Europe will adopt RFID slowly

While in the United States RFID industry grows unabated, free from government intervention, it is a different story in Europe. The European Commission and governments throughout the continent are concerned about the Security and Privacy issues related with RFID. They have launched multiple events to research and discuss all the issues related to RFID implementation.

Moreover, there are already many laws governing technology implementation. All this may seem daunting for the RFID industry but they may be a good thing for citizens throughout Europe. In addition, can the U.S. learn something from Europe regarding this matter or vice versa?

Via IndustryWeek

Report says Automotive RFID Market will grow by 20%

According a report released by Venture Development Corp., the global RFID market in the automotive sector reached $312 million in 2005 and this market will experience an annual growth rate of 20% through 2010. Revenue shipments will exceed $765 million within five years.

Meanwhile, hardware accounted for nearly 56% of the Automobile RFID market (not including the transponder revenues for automobile immobilization and keyless entry).

The report also lays out the ways in which automotive companies will benefit from applying RFID to their support supply chains, shop floors and asset management systems.

Via IndustryWeek

NATO will use Syscan's New RFID Technology

NATO, short for North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, is facing the same problem other military organizations across the world face – namely, tracking all the supply items. Now it has chosen Syscan International Inc. to for its patent applied iCE (Intelligent Communication Enabled) network technology, as well as to procure application support services, to the 's (NATO) Item Unique Identification (IUID) and Asset Visibility Technology and Conformance Test.

As the number of NATO's member nations grows, the logistical challenges continue to mount to alarming levels. To facilitate item trackability within the supply chain, NATO is in the process of creating a new standard agreement (STANAG 2290) for the implementation of Unique Identification (UID) criteria.

Via MoreRFID

WaveMark gets $4.5M in funding

Wavemark develops databases that can collect product information at the manufacturing plant – important data such as model numbers and expiration dates. The databases can then also track items using radio frequency identification (RFID) systems. It comes with a software which provides updates every 12 minutes using a Web browser.

According to reports, Wavemark plans to raise around $8 million. Presently, it has succeeded in raising $4.5 million in initial financing. This funding will help the company develop a wireless inventory control system for hospitals and their suppliers.  Wavemark has a couple of New York based backers and it has yet to disclose its customers.

Via Boston Business Journal

Avery Dennison's new Wireless Compact Flash Card

Avery Dennison has introduced the AP. 5.4 Wireless card that is used with the AP 5.4 printer. The new Wireless Compact Flash Card enables wireless communication in RFID or standard mode.

Using the firmware interface provided with the printer, the printer can receive and echo commands back to the host. Users also have access to Web-enabled HTTP remote control and Monitoring and FTP Files Transfer. You can totally control and monitor the printer using a browser such as the Internet Explorer.  Users can change all settings, the display monitored for errors and status information, and the Display buttons operated from a PC over a network.

The FTP File Transfer capability allows print formats, firmware, print setups which now can be transferred to –or from the PC to the printer.

Via RFID Solutions Online

JDSU chooses Nosco, Inc. as a SecureShift Authorized Partner

JDSU, which provides brand authentication and anti-counterfeiting solutions, has chosen Nosco, Inc. as its authorized SecureShift(R) partner to manufacture pharmaceutical labels in North America.  Nosco, Inc. will now use JDSU's SecureShift Authorized Partner Program and supply SecureShift Technology for pharmaceutical brand protection applications. It will use JDSU's patented SecureShift inks.

SecureShift is a secure solution for labeling and packaging. It uses color- shifting pigments to provide a proven deterrent to counterfeiting, and easy positive visual authentication. The SecureShift color, when used in an application like a label, changes from one color to another.

Via PharmaLIVE

RNCOS releases new research report on RFID

In its latest research report, "RFID Analysis 2006", RNCOS offers in-depth information on drivers, restraints, and challenges in the manufacturing industry.

The research report also provides demand and revenue forecasts that allow managers to plan effective long-term strategies. The research report gives comprehensive market analysis highlighting growth opportunities that managers can capitalize on.

Highlights from the report:

…revenues of the RFID market is estimated to reach $ 4 billion by 2008. Segment wise break-up of revenues reveal that in the coming five years manufacturers will invest $ 2 billion on RFID tags and about $2 billion more on infrastructure development.

Via PR Minds

Tagalert helps you keep track of personal stuff

Remote Play, Inc. has introduced the TagAlert wireless portable asset security product line. TagAlert helps the consumer to keep track of one's personal items.

Using active RF wireless technology, TagAlert can track your personal stuff such as items like cell phones, laptops, luggage, portable game players and MP3 players. TagAlert is best effective with distances less than 75 feet. Like other Remote Play products, TagAlert is small and lightweight. It allows the tiny tags to function for up to six months and the monitors can run for two years without changing batteries.

Via MoreRFID

On Tracking All Animals in the U.S.

The National Animal Identification System (NAIS) wants to create a national system that the federal government will use to trace, within 48 hours, the origin of any animal in the food chain that has been infected, either by disease or by terrorists. As usual, this starts with the creation of that dreaded ‘database’.

Not surprisingly, this has raised the hackles of concerned citizens who may not be wrong in thinking that citizens are next target for such database. Imagine that hellish scenario of tagging everyone. Now, who would want that?

Let’s go back to NAIS’ plans. This is a partnership between the National Institute for Animal Agriculture (representing the biggest meat producers in the U.S.) and and the National Pork Producers Council, and the makers of high-tech animal-ID equipment, such as Micro Beef Technologies and Digital Angel.

In development since 2002, NAIS is being introduced in phase. Eventually, RFID tags will be tracked in real-time by a Global Positioning System.

Via [WorldNetDaily]

Blue Agave and Verisign get together for RFID Innovations

Blue Agave, a Supply chain software firm and VeriSign jointly want to bring about big improvements in logistical planning techniques in the consumer goods market.

This can only be achieved by integrating RFID product tracking and point of sale data. Verisign will contribute by using proven retail data management software platform.  Its software is widely used by POS (Point of Sale) terminals in stores everywhere.

Hopefully, the companies will succeed in providing useful real-time data to decision makers.

Read More

RFID – enabled Carpets

Now, some fresh RFID innovation news straight from Germany. A company has introduced a carpet laced with integrated RFID grid.

The RFID-enabled carpet has been designed for Robots. It will guide robots in buildings. Uses these new age carpets are to guide Cleaning Robots (the tags will them what to clean next), or Factory Robots (telling robots the right way across buildings)

Makers of the Vorwerk RFID smart floor claim that this carpet can be installed under almost any floor material.  The carpet has been priced at around 15-25 Euros (~$18-30) per square meter.

One may also look at this story from another angle: Robots + RFID = People-less work?

Via I4U

RFID used at National Center for Employment of the Disabled

The National Center for Employment of the Disabled employs around 4,000 disabled and disadvantaged workers who build defense apparel-related products like chemical protection suits and battledress uniforms. They also make corrugated products for sale to commercial and industrial clients besides the federal agencies.

So now, to meet the new compliance requirements for RFID imposed by the federal government the Science Applications International Corporation has installed a passive radio frequency identification system at the center situated in Texas.

SAIC's installation involved designing, installing and implementing an RFID system for inventory tracking, accountability and Department of Defense compliance.

Read More

The new i-HUB Combines Active & Passive RFID

Identec Solutions's  i-HUB, supports active and passive UHF interrogators. The i-HUB can be easily connected with upto eight RFID interrogators. The  i-HUB can simultaneously control Identec's active interrogators. It can also control passive UHF interrogators based on the Electronic Product Code (EPC) air-interface protocols.

Identec Solutions says that the i-Hub is fully modular RFID data collection and central processing unit. Users can plug in different interrogator modules depending on their application needs.

The i-Hub runs on Linux operating system and uses Identec software to collect all RFID data and send it to back-end systems through an Ethernet, Wi-Fi or USB interface. Identec has also developed generic application program interfaces (APIs) in C++ or .Net, making it easy for programmers to integrate data from the i-HUB with back-end systems.

Moreover, Identec also supplies an API for Oracle Edge Server and is working on another for IBM WebSphere. It is also working on an interface which will enable the i-HUB to send data to a back-end host in XML format.

Via RFID Journal

Experts say RFID viruses are no big deal

The news from the Netherlands where scientists successfully infected RFID tags with a virus thus affecting the all-important databases was an alarming development.

But now experts say that the security impact of RFID virus is minimal.  Why? One, RFID implementation is still in infancy. Second, this type of Virus infestation gives us an opportunity to prepare in advance. Third, it gives regulators everywhere to look more closely into security and privacy issues concerning RFID.

Finally, the researchers who did the Virus experiment say that the Virus can be easily detected by the System Administrator. But still, better safe than sorry.

Read More

InkSure Technologies will introduce Chipless RFID Concept

InkSure Technologies Inc., which makes encoded-ink authentication solutions, has been chosen to present its proof-of-concept about developing a new "chipless" label technology for low-cost RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) applications at the RFID Smart Labels USA 2006 Conference in Boston.
InkSure Technologies says that the company was working for some time on "chipless" RFID tags that permit "non-line-of-sight" collection of product information. This is very useful in applications such as authentication, supply chain management, proof of ownership and life cycle information.

Via MoreRFID

More contactless cards soon in the South American RFID market

The business of contactless cards in the transit business especially is booming. In the latest news, Novacard will use Innovision Research and Technology's award winning Jewel chip in its contactless cards.

The demand for large-scale contactless ticketing applications is growing at a healthy pace. In Brazil itself, a number of transport tenders are on the anvil. Innovision Research and Technology hopes to benefit from this new deal as Novacard's South American arm is one of the top suppliers of contactless tickets and cards to the Brazilian transport industry. This deal paves the way for expansion in other markets.

Read More

What Americans think about electronic surveillance

The bottomline is that they are perhaps more liberal about electronic surveillance than the Europeans. The European Commission has even initiated a comprehensive study on securoity aspects of RFID.

A new study by Ponemon Institute LLC throws up interesting stats.

1. About 57 percent of the 889 respondents said they don't object to employers monitoring their e-mail and Internet activities in the workplace, while only 45 percent said it's OK for the government to do the same thing.
2. More than 72 percent of respondents either said "No" or "Unsure" to the use of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags embedded in products that could be used to track identity from short distances.
3. 90 percent (disliked) the idea of the government implanting chips in people for identity verification purposes.

It is not surprising that 'Big Brother' Governments are no favorites of anyone, anywhere. Soon the American government will have to study RFID and Security/Privacy issues in detail.

Via Infoworld

Viruses in RFID barcodes

Are we going to see virus-infested tags? Researchers at Amsterdam's Free University successfully infected a radio frequency identity (RFID) chip with a virus. They wanted to show that just because RFID tags have low memories, its doesn't mean that they are safe.
An infected RFID tag can upset the database that processes the information on the chip.
This discovery gives some more ammunition for hackers. It also gives serious weight to privacy and security issues. Who knows what may happen if a database gets infected from a tag?

Via RFidBlog

RFID in Web video terminals

Boundless Technologies has integrated SkyeTek's M1 reader into the Boundless ADDS 5700 Dual Video Web Terminal.
RFID in Web Video terminals creates the possibility of interesting kiosk applications – take for example, point-of-sale credit card transactions (retail), user identification and authentication (financial services), and inventory tracking and management (pharmaceuticals).

Read More

Introducing RFID-blocking wallets

DIFRWear.com has introduced RFID-blocking wallets and passport cases which are said to be able to able to block unauthorized scans. Useful to store RFID cards and passports, these leather cases have "a layer of RF shielding", which prevents readers from "accessing any passive tags stored within".

Via TGDaily

RFID Education gains momentum

RFID International and Australasian Production and Inventory Society Ltd (APICS) will conduct 3.5 hour Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) short courses in 2006 in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. This follows after their earlier courses in 2005 received an extremely positive response.
The short-term courses will provide an introduction to RFID technology and what's more, the courses are held in a vendor neutral environment thus ensuring impartiality.

Read More

Contactless Credit Cards Using RFID

The magnetic stripe on the back of your credit card is endangered and may become extinct in the next decade. The new kid on the block is the contactless credit card, which stores its data on an RFID chip embedded in the plastic of the card rather than on a magnetic stripe. The contactless cards are faster and more convenient than magnetic cards and are already available for use at certain retailers who have the special RFID readers installed at their POS. MasterCard has already begun to roll out its PayPass system in certain states, with Chase, MBNA, Citibank, HSBC, Citizen's Bank, and Key Bank issuing the special contactless credit or debit cards. Meanwhile, American Express has their own ExpressPay system in place on their new Blue and Clear cards.

For more information on the pros and cons of RFID credit cards, read Credit Card Blog's story: Contactless Credit Cards: The Facts

RFID for Fresh Sake

To keep lovers of Premium Sake in cheerful spirits, a NTT-led consortium is working on a pilot program to tag sake bottles with RFID tags with built-in temperature sensors. Thus the guys at the base station can monitor which bottles are at risk. They can also know about tampering and break-in cases.  When the bottles arrive at the stores, the RFID reader lets customers check the bottle's temp history, making sure the bottle has been kept fresh from factory to shop.
If this pilot program works successfully, other Spirit-makers may also begin using RFID to ensure quality produce.

Via Engadget

Market for RFID-enabled Secure Services will Boom

A report from RNCOS says that RFID will be increasingly used for security-related applications. Examples of such security applications include RFID number plates (help in Traffic Monitoring), RFID patient wristbands, authentication of products, documents and asset management, validation and verification of vehicles and people and attendance check. Another good example of RFID and security application is keeping an eye on public and cargo vehicles by government authorities.

Read More

Can SMS challenge RFID?

bCODE —  a mobile ticketing solutions provider, thinks so. It is using SMS over RFID for its new ticketing technology to be showcased at the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games. It is to be noted that Organizers of the Fotball World Cup in Germany are using RFID.
The SMS-based bCODE solution does away with any special RFID reader and related technology.

To enter an event, the bCODE Mobile Ticket, which is a series of characters that looks like "=MXPLS=MP97C=" is electronically read from the screen of the mobile device and checked for authenticity, providing complete security.

Other applications for bCODE' technology include airlines (issuing tickets and secure check-in),  retail (loyalty cards and delivery and redemption of vouchers), hospitality (room bookings, secure room key access, and delivery and redemption of targeted offers).

Via supplychainreview

Hardy RFID Container Tag from Savi

Savi Technology has launched a special version of RFID Tag meant for harsh supply chain operating environments like Miltary and commercial container shipments. These data-rich tags are called the Savi Tag ST-656, and are in U-shaped form which makes for clamping tightly onto the left door of the container, thus keeping the RFID electronics safe on the inside of the container while a low-profile plate outside contains the antennae which communicates with fixed or mobile reader networks. The flat external plate also contains a beeper for audio alerts of the tag's location and status.

Read More

CompTIA will train RFID talent in India

On March 28, the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) will launch the world's first RFID certification . CompTIA will also offer this certification among 11 other certification programs it will offer in India where it is launching in a big way.

Thomson Prometric will deliver CompTIA certification exams in India.

Read More

The RFID story so far: in numbers

IDtechEx says that the global RFID market containing system and services will shoot up from $2.7 billion in 2006 to $12.3 billion through 2010. And, by 2016, this market will amount to $26.2 billion. IDtechEx estimates that investments will shoot uop to $1.3 billion by 2008, a big leap from  $91.5 million in 2003. As the prices of tags and reader go down, RFID sales will shot up more.

Areas where RFID technology has already been heavily adopted include security/access control, animal identification, automobile immobilization, and toll collection. Expect to see more areas discovering the benefits of RFID in near future.

Read More

RFID for a Safe World Cup

The organizers of Football World Cup 2006 to be held in Germany are using technology to the maximum making sure that safety comes first
The gates of Stadiums support RFID (radio frequency identification).  They can read tickets with smart tags. Organizers say that almost all big German stadiums are moving to RFID-based ticketing systems.

Read More

DOD will waste $100 million by not reusing $100 cargo tracking tags

That's the conclusion of the latest report from the Government Accountability Office. The Defense Department has spent more than $110 million on radio-frequency identification tags since 1997.  One tag costs $100 and it is made to be reused.
The situation has worsened since the start of Iraq War. Before the war, 10 percent of active tags were being returned for reuse but now only 3 percent have been returned.

Via UPI

Where Europe Differs from U.S. on RFID

Europe is more serious on Security and Privacy issues than the United States. Europe already has laws dictating what information can or cannot be collected about citizens. As we have already reported before, the European Commission has announced to do a comprehensive study on the use of RFID,

Read More

Shortage of RFID Talent in Canada

The Computing Technology Industry Association in Canada has released a study which says that 75 per cent of Canadian companies are seeing a shortage of talent to implement and service RFID.
No doubt, it is serious issue. The industry needs people who can bring various components to work together (integration).
It needs quick action as demand for the RFID technology will peak over the next few years.

Via IT Business

HealthCARE ID Solutions from SATO

SATO's Solutions meet the needs of Healthcare Industry in the context of Patient ID and Safety, Package Tracking, Property Tracking.
HealthCARE ID Solutions from SATO are claimed to be cost effective. They are meant to improve the quality of identification, and enable enhanced data collection capabilities.

Via RFID Solutions Online

V720 Gate Antenna from Omron

Gate Antennas are used with a variety of gate applications, such as the logistics and rental item management systems.
Using OMRON V720S-D13P40 ID Tags, the communications distance between the gates can be up to 1 m.
One interesting feature of  the V720 Gate Antenna is that  it also supports the EAS (electronic article surveillance) function, and simultaneously reads multiple tags.

Via RFID Solutions Online

EU gets serious about RFID and Security

The EU has launched public consultation on concerns over radio frequency ID tags. It is concerned that RFID tags not only report their location, identity and history but doing all that pose a risk to personal privacy and security. There are technical interoperability and international compatibility as well.

The Commission's public debate on RFID will involve a series of workshops to build consensus on key issues associated with the use of RFID. Topics for these workshops include RFID applications, end-user issues, interoperability and standards, and frequency spectrum requirements. These workshops will be held in Brussels from March till June 2006. The commission will then draft a working document on RFID which will be published in September.

Read More

The 'RFID in Hospital' Market will boom to $8.8billion by 2010

That's the conclusion of  the latest guide from Research and Markets.

Titled "RFID & Emerging Technologies Guide to Healthcare", the report says that RFID and its related technologies in the hospital marketplace will reach $8.8 billion by 2010; and that it will be segmented into three general categories:

FID Driven Revenue: Hardware and software integration $1.3 billion.

-- Infrastructure Support for RFID Enablement: Wireless networks--$1.3 billion, Enterprise-related software -- $1.4 billion.

-- Hospital Connectivity: $4.8 billion.

via [RFidBlog]

BT RIGHTReader: the First Bluetooth-Enabled Wireless RFID Scanner

RightTag, Inc. has launched the industry's first 13.56 MHz wireless radio-frequency identification scanner with Bluetooth. BT RIGHTReader eliminates the need for wires and transmits data to devices up to ten meters (~10 yards) away. The BT RIGHTReader offers a flexible and durable wireless RFID solution to companies.
The scanner is battery operated, and is fully functional in temperatures varying from -20? Celsius (-4? Fahrenheit) to 55? Celsius (131? Fahrenheit). The 1MHz bandwidth antenna can read tags as far as 16 centimeters (~6 inches) away and transmits to a Bluetooth receiver up to ten meters' distance.

Via MoreRFID

Can RFID tags solve the Lost Luggage problem?

Did you know that U.S. airlines lose, misdirect, or misplace 10,000 bags each day on an average day? It amounts to over 3.5 million problem bags I a year. Worldwide, Lost luggage costs Airlines $1 billion annually.
Now RFID tags have come to the rescue. Airliens are going to replac ethe current bar-code based luggage tracking and sortation systems with RFID technology. Pilot tests, conducted at some major airports, show that RFID can successfully sort and route checked baggage with a 99+% accuracy rate.

Read More

SYBASE releases RFID Enterprise 2.0

RFID Enterprise 2.0 is a a comprehensive RFID data management and integration solution. RFID Enterprise 2.0 not only has device and network management capabilities, it also provides a full-featured integrated development environment (IDE) to support business process orchestration, rules and transformation, business activity monitoring and mobilisation features such as alerts and notifications.

Read More

Ross Systems introduces RFID-to-Go system

RFID-to-Go extends the benefits of the Ross ERP and SCM offerings. Moreover, Ross has allied with GlobeRanger to sell the software around the world. Ross Systems uses GlobeRanger's iMotion Edgeware platform to deliver its RFID-to-Go solution to process manufacturers.

Read More

Metro will use Voice-Operated RFID Devices in its Warehouses

European retail giant Metro AG demonstrated a new voice-operated, smart-tag system at the Cebit trade show. This system will help warehouse personnel to fill merchandise orders accurately and quickly.
The voice-operated, smart-tag system contains a high-tech glove equipped with an RFID reader and short-range Bluetooth. It also has a headset with integrated microphone equipped with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies. All this is coupled to a voice-operated computer system application situated in the back office.

Read More

3 Billion RFID Tags in China by 2009

In-Stat says more than 2.9 billion tags will be shipped to China by 2009. China has embarked upon its second-generation Resident ID Card program. The country has a population of over 1.3 billion and thus this project of RFID-tag-inlaid Resident ID cards issued by the Ministry of Public Security is one of the biggest RFID projects in the world.
Think: More than one billion ID Cards will be given out by 2008.
Highlights from the Report:

•    Beginning in 2008, RFID tags used for items will exceed those used for resident ID cards, making the retail industry the biggest consumer of tags.
•    Incompatible RFID standards remain obstacles for an open supply chain that crosses industries and territories.
•    Tag prices are still relatively expensive, ranging from a low of around US$0.15 to a high of over US$200.

Via CRM Today

Study gives top rating to Zebra

A new study by New York-based ABI Research states that Zebra Technologies, which provides on-demand printing solutions, got the top rating among RFID companies handling smart label printing/encoding.
Zebra came in the top 10 percent among 150 RFID companies.

Via TradeArabia

DHL ropes in IBM, Intel, Royal Philips, SAP for its RFID Project

DHL"s RFID project will integrate RFID technology into DHL's supply chain thus improving repairs and returns. The leading logistics company wants to track valuable items which are being sent to repair shops by customers. 
If the RFID projects works well, DHL will utilize RFID to finetune its other business processes.
DHL has chosen IBM's Sensor and Actuators business unit along with Intel, Philips, and SAP to implement the project.

Read More

Data warehouse technology from Teradata helps Metro

The METRO Group, Europe's third largest retailing company, is one of the leading users of RFID. Metor uses data warehouse technology from Teradata for Synchronized processing and evaluation of routine.

Did you know that the METRO Group data warehouse has 139 terabytes of data and is the most comprehensive in the European retail industry?
Moreover, the METRO Group runs its own training center and test lab, called the RFID Innovation Center, in Neuss, Germany, to support RFID integration by suppliers.

Read More

RFID must address Security issues

Attendees dicussed RFID security in detail in the recently held RFID World show in Grapevine, Texas.The benefits of RFID are well known – the tags are faster and more efficient than bar codes, but critics of the technology say that the wireless data transmissions may cause theft of consumers's personal data.

Many companies plan to introduce RFID cards and phones for 'contactless' payment services. These services must utilize data encryption and other security measures to deal with users' security fears.

Prevention is the best medicine. We must find a workable balance between privacy protection and the appropriate use of data.

Read More

 

IST funding new ways of using RFid

Information Society Technologies group (IST) is funding a new way of using RFid which could improve safety in food, healthcare, petrochemical and healthcare industries. The Collaborative Business Items project shifts a major part of business processes from resource intensive back end systems to systems embedded in the products themselves. By attaching computing components, sensors and wireless communication, the equipments become smart.

The chemical drums would warn operators when the storage limit in a warehouse is reached or a leak occurs or if it is placed in the wrong direction. It is expected that the petrochemical industry would emerge as an early adopter of the technology. The system would be tested at a BP plant in England later this year.

via  [EngineerOnline]

TAPPI Boot Camp and RFid Symposium to discuss latest developments in the paper industry

The TAPPI Boot Camp and RFid Symposium to be held from June 6 to 8 would be exploring the latest development in RFid for paper, pulp, packaging and converting industry. The boot camp which is to be conducted on a single day is meant for beginners to RFid and it would be focusing on the fundamentals of the RFid ecosystem.

The two day symposium would comprise of two tracks: one for converting industry personnel and the other for paper industry personnel. Both the events would be conducted at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Georgia.

via [Yahoo]

Savi Technology releases low profile version of its flagship active RFid tag

Savi Technology has released a new low profile version of its flagship active, data rich RFid tag for military and commercial container shipments in harsh supply operating environments. It is called the Savi Tag ST-656. It is an ISO container door tag which comes in a new U shaped form factor that clamps tightly onto the left door of the container and enables the RFid electronics to be protected on the inside of the container whereas a low profile plate on the outside contains an antennae that communicates with fixed or mobile reader networks.

It was developed in close collaboration with a number of customers of Savi Technology.

via  [SYS]

Solihull and Birmingham expand RFid tag trials

Birmingham Heart of England and Solihull NHS Trust are expanding its trial of tagging patients about to undergo surgery with RFid wristbands. Patients are given RFid tags which are linked to an electronic patient record. Surgeons have to scan the tags and verify identity using a digital photograph of the patient stored on their electronic patient record. The tag can also be used for recording pre-operative checking and making sure that risk assessment has been doe before the patient enters theatre.

According to Rosie Winterton, health minister

This electronic tagging may be used in the future as both a preventative measure and to monitor the whereabouts of key pieces of medical equipment.

via [E-Health Insider]

New components added by Siemens to SIMANTIC RF600

SIMATIC RF600 RFid line which is a coordinated system of matched hardware and software components using UHF technology has received an addition of three new components.

The new components which includes SIMATIC RF610 mobile UHF reader, SIMATIC IT Production Modeler and SIMATIC RF620L Smart labels has now been made available in states as part of the RF600 line which has been designed to reduce storage costs and enhance supply chain repeatability from a single platform.

According to Chantal Polsonetti, ARC Advisory Group:

Siemens continues to add to its EPC/ISO RFID repertoire. This announcement complements their existing fixed reader option by adding mobile reader capabilities, high-end smartlabels, and an interface to their SIMATIC IT infrastructure.

via  [ARC]

RFid lobbyist ask support from national governments

Informationsforum RFid , UK RFid Centre and Dutch RFid Platform have issued a joint declaration asking national governments to support the introduction of RFid as an innovative technology with great potential for companies and consumers. The declaration titled ‘Towards a Successful Dialogue on RFid’ can be downloaded from the website of the Informationsforum RFid.

According to Andrea Huber, MD, Informationsforum RFID:

RFID technology has the potential to boost the competitiveness of European industry. However, issues relating to its technical and regulatory framework, as well as questions pertaining to RFID research and development could not be addressed on a national level alone, For the development of the technology in Europe to make progress a "dialogue across national borders was indispensable.

via  [Heise]

RFid Journal adds channel education seminar to RFid Journal LIVE! 2006

RFid Journal has added a channel education seminar to its pre conference programs at RFid Journal LIVE! 2006 to be held from May 1 to 3 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The seminar is meant for systems integrators, distributors and value added resellers who would want to understand how to sell RFid products and services to end users.

The seminar would be providing members of the sales community with vendor neutral content, industry updates, networking opportunities and business tools that would help grow their business. The conference would be featuring more than forty leading early adopters.

via [RFidjournal]

NCR turns to consultancy to boost RFid based infrastructure sale in Australia

NCR is turning towards consultancy in order to boost the sale of RFid based infrastructure in Australia. The company is flowing in Human Factors Engineering division manager Michael Inderrienden from states in order to spread the word to retailers and help roll out the new pitch. The new approach seeks to find a champion of RFid in a potential client and work with them in order to develop a six step approach to correctly roll out RFid in the organization.

The process would involve the creation of a global RFid policy, establishing an ROI model, workshops to understand business goals, deployment across an organization, implementing a pilot and dealing with change management.

Via [CRN]

Ross System releases RFid-to-Go solution

Ross Systems has released RFid-to-Go. RFid-to-Go provides companies the ability to meet RFid compliance requirements with their major retailer partners and address critical business objectives like real time inventory visibility and improved product traceability. It is a solution which has been designed for process manufacturers in food, consumer product industries and pharmaceutical.

It helps companies meet retailer, FDA and Department of Defense compliance mandates which is a key influencing factor for process manufacturers deploying RFid technology while improving tracing and tracking capabilities. In order to deliver this solution worldwide, the company has formed a strategic alliance with GlobeRanger.

Via [ARC]

MoreRFid launches Digital RFid Magazine for free

MoreRFid has introduced a free digital magazine called Digital RFid Magazine which is a next generation digital magazine using latest rich media technology. The subscription to this magazine is free and it is published bi-monthly.

According to David Zhou, co-founder of MoreRFID:

Digital RFID magazine is designed completely based on the concept on how we can explore the potential of rich media technology to effectively deliver RFID information and knowledge rather than the concept of replica of a print edition.

Readers would be able to view the magazine online or download and view offline.

Via [MoreRFid]

RFid technology to reduce rush hour congestion in Stockholm

An IBM traffic system which was tested in Stockholm, Sweden reduced rush hour congestion by 25 % during the first month of its operation. Big Blue plans to bring this technology to U.S.

According to Peggy Kennelly, vice president of IBM On Demand Innovation Services:

We are already seeing such good results that I think this will convince other cities to take a look at this.

Under the system, Stockholm charges drivers to be on the road and payment is made through RFid tags. Under this program cars are to be glued with RFid transponder onto the inside of the windshield and whenever the driver enters or leaves the city, electronic register stations along the road pick up radio signals  from the transponder and a central computer system debits the car owner’s bank account.

via [CNet]

WhereNet to expand its presence in European market

WhereNet Corp is expanding its European market presence in 2006 as major automakers, transportation and logistics providers and  retailers have installed the standards based WhereNet active RFid, RLTS  technology in order to reduce operational costs and inventory while increasing throughput and productivity.

The company has nearly 30 installations in more than ten European countries. The company is also planning to expand its offices and add more executives in Europe.

According to Egon Guilliams, WhereNet:

As evidenced by our strong growth in 2005, Europe continues to be a very strong market for WhereNet. Through productivity enhancements and inventory reductions, our technology consistently delivers a complete return on investment in 6-12 months while simultaneously offering our customers increased revenue opportunities.

via  [Yahoo]

IDVelocity and PortNexus strike an alliance to provide mobile RFid solutions

IDVelocity and PortNexus have struck an alliance to provide mobile RFid and barcode solutions utilizing HP’s iPac 6500.The solution utilizes IDVelocity’s ADC RFid/Auto-ID infrastructure and business creation platform along with PortNexus’ cellular packaging and fulfillment software. The companies would be showcasing the ability to rapidly enable HP iPac 6500s to become an RFid, barcode and magnetic strip reader at the RFid World Conference.

According to Terry Massey, COO, IDVelocity:

Our partnership with Port Nexus enables us to reach an entirely new marketplace with our technology .Their ability to provide mobile provisioning solutions through their fulfillment center by unique user profile allows us to extend our RFID/Auto-ID infrastructure to the farthest points of the enterprise, enabling the mobile workforce to operate at levels of efficiency and effectiveness never before possible.

via [DBusinessnews]

RightTag launches industry’s first 13.56 MHz wireless RFid scanner with Bluetooth

RightTag has announced the availability of industry’s first 13.56 MHz wireless RFid scanner with Bluetooth. The scanner is called BT RIGHT reader. It provides the user with greater flexibility by eliminating the need for long wires and transmitting data to devices up to 10 meters away. The company has also announced the RIGHT scanner which is a compact and inexpensive RFid scanner which has been designed for companies looking to increase security and control and monitor access or track product inventory.

BT RIGHT reader and RIGHT scanner are priced at $599 and $425 respectively and both are available.

via [MoreRFid]

Wal-Mart persists with its RFid tag initiatives

Wal-Mart is continuing with its RFid tag initiatives by adding new uses for the supply chain technology and is getting more partners and suppliers to comply with its RFid mandates. The company started implementing RFid since January 2005 after conducting pilot tests at its distribution centers in Dallas.

Wal-Mart has had a return on investment without any extensive process changes. The benefits that Wal-Mart has got are that out of stock items are being replenished three times faster than before and the amount of out of stock items that have to be manually filled has been cut by 10%.

via [ComputerWorld]

InfoLogix releases new solution for Real Time Location Tracking and medical devices management

InfoLogix has announced HealthTrax which is their new solution for Real-Time Location Tracking and management of medical devices.  It was developed along with AeroScout. The demonstration of the integrated solution would be done at HIMSS 2006 in San Diego. At the conference, both the companies would be discussing performance and ROI of HealthTrax for Asset Tracking and Patient Location Tracking.

It is a complete solution for tracking solution assets and people within hospitals and includes both RFid asset tags and enterprise software which can be used with standard wireless networks. It is 802.11 Wi-Fi based and it leverages the existing wireless infrastructure.

via  [MoreRFid]

Paxar Corporation to showcase its turnkey RFid solution at RFid World Conference

Paxar Corporation would be showcasing its latest turnkey RFid solution at the RFid World Conference in Dallas, Texas. Called the Monarch RFid shipping and labeling solution, it includes everything a company needs to implement an RFid shipping and pallet label program. The system consists of Monarch 9855 RFMP printer/encoder, conveyor system, Monarch smart RFid labels and specially designed middleware to capture and manipulate the data.

According to Rick Bauer, Paxar's Director, RFid Global Development:

This turnkey system offers our customers an easy and cost effective way to add RFID shipping and pallet labeling into their infrastructure.

via [MoreRFid]

Ekahua and Symbol Technologies announce a solution for efficiently tracking inventory

Ekahua and Symbol Technologies have come up with a solution to help organizations track efficiently the location of inventory and assets with RFid. The first implementation of this new application would be using Symbol’s MC9000 mobile computing RFid reader which incorporates Ekahau location enabling software designed to locate where RFid tags are being read.

The RFid location enabled Symbol mobile computers are targeted at the retail and supply chain markets and can be extended to healthcare, pharma, government and other industries where there is a strong adoption for EPC RFid.

via [NEAsia]

RFID-Embedded Police Badges soon

Cops in the United States will soon sport badges with RFID chips along with their usual stash of handcuffs, guns, and night sticks.

The SmartShield package will contain Blackinton metal badges equipped with RFID chips, and Enforcement Identification (Eid) software that tracks information on each badge in a department's inventory. This system validates badges and verifies the wearer.

The SmartShield System is being tested by South Carolina Highway Patrol, Brookline Massachusetts Police Department, and Louisiana State Capitol Police.

Developed by V.H. Blackinton & Co. Inc., the embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chip will be launched in August.

Via [RFID Blog]

Cattle news: RFID tags will replace branding

EM Microelectronic's EM4569 RFID is undergoing field trials in North America. The RFID tag has been found to be a safe and efficient alternative to other forms of branding or marking cattle.


The EM4569 is affordable and yet it has great detection range. Field trilas show that the EM4569 embedded in an ear-tag format, could be read at a distance of up to one metre, easily outperforming other conventional RFID tags

The EM4569, a passive RFID circuit with long reading range, also sports bumped enlarged pads for direct antenna connection to save space and mounting costs. It is ideally suited for long range cattle.

Read More

M&S continues with its RFID trial

Marks and Spencer has extended the trial of item-level passive RFID tags, also called the Intelligent Label Project.

M&S conducted an item level RFID trial on men's suits in nine stores in 2004. From Spring 2006, the number of stores participating in the trial will extend from nine to 53.

The Intelligent Label Project involves a number of companies. It utilizes expertise from Paxar and Dewhirst. BT will provide managed IT development services and it is also assisting the implementation of RFID in M&S's food supply chain, working with Intellident Ltd, which is providing the scanner technology. EM Microelectronic, Switzerland, supplies the microchips.

Read More

Highlights from RNCOS's new report 'RFID: Outlook China'

The market research firm RNCOS has come out with a new report titled "RFID: Outlook China". Some highlights:

-          The RFID market in China has sustained its modest growth ratio of 8.55% in Q4 of 2005. The size of the RFID market in China grew from RMB 568 million in the third quarter to RMB 617 million in the fourth quarter in 2005

-          The manufacturing segment should be prospective entry field for the RFID industry.

-          In the Q4, the RFID market was busy with the launch of 2G ID cards, and implementations in fields where it is already applied on a large scale, such as public transportation, campus management, property/residential area management, etc.

-          China has a great future in the manufacturing sector. There is a large application of logistics and availability of a substantial working capital in manufacturing procedures.

Though the exhibited rate of growth is moderate, the market still holds the potential.

Via [PR Minds]

Non-metallic Roller Conveyor System for RFID Apps

Globe Composite Solutions Ltd. announced at the RFID World Conference and Exposition,  that it has developed the conveyer industry’s first 100% non-metallic roller and conveyor side frame system which greatly improves the performance of RFID-enabled material handling applications.

The NMR-6689TM is a patent-pending conveyor system. It eliminates potential interference from metallic components, thus increasing read-rate accuracy. It allows clients to use multiple RFID systems within close proximity without misreads or double counts.

Read More