RFID News

MasterCard starts piloting QkR mobile payment

2012-01-30T06:00:00.001+01:00

MasterCard isn’t standing by while rivals such as Visa and American Express move forward with their own wallet apps. The credit card company is rolling out the first trial of its QkR mobile application, a mobile payment app that allows people to interact and initiate payments via QR codes, NFC tags and other technologies. MasterCard is working with Australian cinema chain Hoyts and Commonwealth Bank on the first pilot of its QkR app (pronounced quicker). Visitors to high-end Hoyts movie theaters will now be greeted by QR codes and NFC tags on their seat armrest. Using the QkR app, available on both iPhone and Android, they can scan the QR code, manually enter in the code or tap their NFC-enabled phone on the NFC tag, which pulls up a menu of food items.

RFID and Kinect to bring your Holodeck fantasies

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000+01:00

All those long, long drives to Florida in the family station wagon seemed worth it at the time, but now that we've found out that those lucky South Koreans have another crazy theme-park, we might just change our minds. Located near Seoul, Live Park uses 3D video, holograms and augmented reality, interacting with RFID wrist bands and Kinect sensors to stitch together a continuous immersive story.

QR codes delivering malware

2012-01-27T06:00:00.001+01:00

AVG Technologies, a leading provider of internet and mobile security, presents the “AVG Community Powered Threat Report – Q4 2011,” providing insight, background and analysis on the trends and developments in the global online security threat landscape. Highlights in this quarter’s report are the risks of QR codes, stolen digital certificates bypassing security on mobile phones and the persistence of rootkits.
QR codes are becoming popular for mobile users to insert text and URLs into the mobile device without typing. Unfortunately they are also being discovered as an ideal way to distribute malware to unsuspecting victims. The user does not know what lurks behind the QR code until the malware is already installed and running. This report describes in detail the new technique already used by hackers and expected to gain momentum in 2012. Putting a malicious QR code sticker onto existing marketing material or replacing a website’s bona fide QR code with a malicious one could be enough to trick many unsuspecting people.

APUFE Installs First 18000-6C Solution for Tolling

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000+01:00

Sirit Inc. ("Sirit"), a leading provider of radio frequency identification ("RFID") technology, Axiompass, a leading integrator and supplier of tolling equipment and RFID systems, and Caminos y Puentes Federales de Ingresos y Servicios Conexos ("CAPUFE"), Mexico's Federal Tolling Authority, announced they have successfully installed the first toll-free system for residents in the country using Sirit RFID readers.
Sirit's IDentity 5100 ("ID5100") is the latest generation in multi-protocol readers that can read different radio frequency protocols and performs extremely well at high speeds. Among the protocols that the ID5100 can read is the ISO 18000-6C, which is being integrated into every vehicle in Mexico as part of the National Public Vehicle Registry ("REPUVE"). The ID5100 can also read the ISO 18000-6B and ISO-10374 protocols which are currently being used on all federal toll roads in Mexico which are operated by CAPUFE.
In September 2011, following a public bid process, the State Government and the Federal Ministry of Communications and Transportation announced that CAPUFE had awarded Axiompass the project to install exclusive lanes on three toll plazas. This will allow the residents of five municipalities in southern Sonora State to be exempted from toll payment in that region. Residents of these municipalities will use the REPUVE tag, which will automatically open the toll booth barriers when it is read by the RFID reader at speeds of about 30 km/h.
On the inauguration of the project with members of CAPUFE, Diosinio Perez Jacome Friscone, Minister of Communications and Transportation of the Federal Government, explained that this application serves residents of southern Sonora State. He noted that this type of technology applied to toll-free road usage is unique in the country. "This project responds to the Federal Government's commitment to modernize this highway, strengthening the road infrastructure of the country," he said.

bieMEDIA Predicts the End of the QR Code

2012-01-26T06:00:00.001+01:00

bieMEDIA, an online marketing and media solutions company, is predicting the end of the QR Code. The short-lived and soon-to-be-antiquated "Quick Response" codes will be replaced with mobile visual search, which provides consumers with faster, more convenient and compelling, interactive marketing experiences.
Cementing its commitment to this technology, bieMEDIA has made a significant investment in Edinburgh, Scotland-based Mobile Acuity, the leader in mobile visual search applications for retailers and interactive campaigns using Visual Interactivity for brands and agencies. This transaction, which makes bieMEDIA Mobile Acuity's largest shareholder, adds a host of new mobile visual search capabilities to bieMEDIA's suite of technical marketing solutions for video, web and mobile, and will provide even more touch points for consumers to be engaged with brands and products.
"QR Codes were introduced as a quick extension to modernize the bar code," says bieMEDIA CEO Jon Barocas. "The issue is that these 'squares' take up valuable real estate on a business' marketing collateral or even act as an eye sore to the storefront. With our investment in Mobile Acuity, we're able to get straight to the point - just point at the product, shoot a picture and you'll receive all the information you're looking for and even be able to buy the product on the spot. Coupled with bieMEDIA's extensive video experience, we're now able to offer a new, more interactive and engaging experience."

TAGSYS Ramps up Its Go-to-Market Strategy for the Americas

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000+01:00

TAGSYS, the leading provider of item-level RFID infrastructure, today announced that it is increasing its investment in the North and South American marketplaces, and has appointed a new executive team to ramp up its presence in the Americas.
"With TAGSYS total systems approach, enterprise customers in the Americas can transform the way information is processed across the supply chain and between business partners," said TAGSYS CEO Alain Fanet. "Our renewed focus and commitment in this region will enable TAGSYS to expand reach for our complete portfolio of RFID infrastructure systems, while allowing clients in the Americas to duplicate the successes we have achieved with brands in Europe."
TAGSYS makes RFID simple by providing rapid, easy to install RFID infrastructure solutions that provide a fast return on investment (ROI) and return on effort (ROE). Because the TAGSYS solution set is based on cloud computing technology, up-front investment is low; and since the solutions are plug-and-play, they require minimal effort on the part of internal IT staff to deploy, integrate and support.
To assist with this expansion, TAGSYS has appointed Monte R. Lucas as its Vice President of Sales for North and South America, which the company formally announced on January 18th. Supporting Lucas will be TAGSYS' new Sales Director Chad Ward and Customer Program Director Michael A. Daily.
"I am looking forward to working with the new TAGSYS sales team," Lucas added. "TAGSYS offers industry-leading RFID systems. With the RFID and business transformation experience of this new executive team, I believe that we will quickly see additional growth in the Americas."

TKM GmbH presents the RFID based Patch Cable Management System at the CeBIT 2012

2012-01-25T06:00:00.001+01:00

TKM GmbH will present the RFID based Patch Cable Management System (PMS- System) FUTURE-PATCH live in the Professional Data Center Hall 11 / Booth B12 at the CeBIT 2012. The rapidly increasing need for security in data centers requires a system that speeds up the investigation of causes for network and server failures and minimises the damage caused by downtime. FUTUREPATCH® offers exactly this solution:
The transponder which is integrated in the plug, is located contact free by the reader which is situated at the socket. The information is read and forwarded to the management software. The simple to use documentation software allows the administrator to monitor and document passive components / active ports in real time, and command patch connections. The realisation of the patch action is eased by means of LEDs at the ports.

Vancouver restaurants adopt QR codes

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000+01:00

Several Vancouver restaurants have added QR codes to their menus to promote transparent food practices — so that information such as where your food came from and how it was grown is just a scan away. The code takes you to Foodtree, a social media platform where information about businesses and food producers are profiled and regularly updated. Users can also share pictures and insights.

Introducing the Next Generation of QR Code Scanners

2012-01-24T06:00:00.001+01:00

QR Pay Ltd announced the anticipated release of its "QR Pal" App for the iPhone. The free App is designed to be the most advanced QR Code scanner available, enabling users to scan, store and share QR codes via social media. The App also includes a secure payment facility and "Safe Browsing" making it one of the first security focused QR Code Apps of its kind.
QR Pal first launched for Android devices in August 2011 and has since been used to scan over 28,000 QR Codes in 126 countries worldwide. Android users and industry experts, including the BBC, have embraced QR Pal's features, describing the App as "The New Generation of QR Scanners."
"There are plenty of QR Code scanners available on the market but we wanted to create more than just a scanner. With QR code usage really beginning to explode, we wanted to make QR Pal useful for the end user and more importantly give them the ability to share their scans via social media," said Chris Cooke, CTO at QR Pay Ltd.
The App has the ability to scan QR Codes and traditional Bar Codes with a range of settings enabling the user to scan, save, share, open link, edit and more. QR Pal has a detailed list of categories and if the auto save function is enabled, codes will automatically place in relevant folders.
Users are also able to instantly share scans via MMS, e-mail, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Simply authorise the App with your social media accounts to start sharing. QR Pal also includes a payment feature which enables users to make and receive payments via PayPal.

NFC shipments could top 100 million units

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000+01:00

Last year, a report from IMS Research suggested that shipments of NFC-enabled smartphones would top 80 million units in 2012, as the technology finally finds its footing. An unnamed source tells Digitimes that that figure could rise to over 100 million units if Apple includes NFC support on the iPhone 5.

Next-generation technology advancements nearly double reading speed RFID locking system

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001+01:00

VingCard Elsafe, the global leader in hospitality security and part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, announces newly implemented enhancements to the electronics and lock control units of its best-in-class RFID locking systems that are providing an even more satisfying guest experience, while building upon the company's strident security standards.
Recent advancements to VingCard's RFID locking technology-which include, among other improvements, a newly optimized internal antenna-have increased the reading speed of the systems by almost 50% over earlier versions. Similarly, the new platform enables RFID locks to read keycards from more than twice as far.
VingCard Elsafe introduced RFID locking technology in 2006, and has since installed more than half a million RFID locks at properties around the globe. In addition to RFID's many security and operational benefits, one of the key factors in VingCard Elsafe's decision to develop this technology was its ability to eliminate a concern with traditional magstripe keycards. Because magstripe cards are easily de-magnetized by being kept in close proximity to cell phones, guest keycards must often be re-encoded. RFID technology effectively eliminates that issue, and has proven to be a more secure and reliable platform overall.
Due to the company's strong commitment to R&D and implementation of this technology, all major international hotel chains are now adopting RFID for their guestroomlocking solutions, and this industry-wide adoption has made RFID the new locking technology standard worldwide.

Avery Dennison and Xtreme RFID collaborate on durable RFID tag

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000+01:00

Avery Dennison RFID, a business of Avery Dennison, and Xtreme RFID, a Cascade Engineering company, have collaborated to create the highly-durable, RFID-based Xtreme Metal Tag. To create the tag, Avery Dennison RFID’s AD-843 is encased in plastic via a custom injection molding process developed by Xtreme RFID. The finished Xtreme Metal Tag is 5.75L x 2.4W x 0.31H inches.
Mike Lewis, Xtreme RFID Business Unit Manager says, “The AD-843 was clearly the best choice for the Xtreme Metal Tag. It meets or exceeds each one of our requirements including a minimum 6-foot read range on metal substrates. Since metal can impede radio waves, we were additionally pleased with the AD-843 performance. And, the AD-843’s ample surface area and robust chip-to-antenna connection provide superior durability during our proprietary converting process.”

UK consumers lack awareness of NFC

2012-01-20T06:00:00.001+01:00

The latest research from YouGov's Mobile Wallet study reveals low awareness and usage rates for contactless card technology. Findings indicate that banks and retailers need to do more in order to increase usage of the technology. The study found that 12% of the British population believe they own a contactless card, yet according to the UK Cards Association, there were 19.6 million active cards in the UK in November. Just 8% of the British population

POAGS uses RFID to manage ore deliveries

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000+01:00

POAGS Australia largest bulk and general stevedoring firm has turned to radio frequency identification to manage hundreds of heavy vehicles daily at its remote Utah Point Bulk Facility at the Port Hedland port in Western Australia. Utah Point serves the booming mining industry in Western Australia Pilbara region, providing shipping services to small and expanding mining companies. The facility readies up to 24 metric tons for shipping per annum primarily comprising iron ore and manganese and manages approximately 370 heavy vehicles daily.

VeriTeQ Acquisition Corporation Acquires Implantable, FDA-Cleared VeriChip Technology

2012-01-19T06:00:00.001+01:00

VeriTeQ Acquisition Corporation ("VeriTeQ" or "Company"), a marketer of implantable, radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies for patient identification and sensor applications, announced it has acquired the VeriChip implantable microchip and related technologies, and Health Link personal health record from PositiveID Corporation. VeriTeQ is majority owned and led by Scott R. Silverman, former Chairman and CEO of PositiveID and VeriChip Corporation. PositiveID has retained an ownership interest in VeriTeQ.
VeriTeQ will focus on three main areas: patient identification and personal health record (PHR) access through the VeriChip implantable microchip and Health Link web-based PHR; implantable sensor applications; and identification of medical devices within the body. VeriTeQ will also focus on identification and sensor applications for animals.
VeriChip is the first and only FDA-cleared RFID implantable microchip for humans and patient identification. In addition to acquiring VeriChip, the Company has also licensed a patent for an "Embedded Bio-Sensor System" to be used in conjunction with an implantable microchip, which will enable it to develop sensor applications for use within the body.
VeriTeQ's acquisition also includes the rights to a Development and Supply Agreement with Medical Components, Inc. ("Medcomp"), a leading manufacturer of vascular access catheters. Under the terms of the agreement, Medcomp will embed the VeriChip microchip in its vascular ports to facilitate identification of the port in a patient and proper medication dispensing. The initial term of the agreement is five years, totaling more than $3.0 million over the life of the agreement, assuming Medcomp's receipt of FDA approval of the vascular port containing the microchip.
Silverman stated, "I have always been a believer in the broad range of potential applications stemming from implantable RFID technology. With the growth of mobile health platforms, implantable RFID microchips can provide an important link for patients, their medical records, vital signs and other important data."

Leo InnoTech and UPM RFID implement large-scale item-level RFID solution for apparel warehouse

2012-01-19T06:00:00.000+01:00

Leo InnoTech (LIT) and UPM RFID have carried out one of the largest item-level RFID implementations for a Chinese apparel company, with six million apparel items tagged annually. The solution focuses mainly on warehouse logistics optimization, benefiting the apparel company with significantly lower labor costs and fast delivery. Leo Paper Group (LPG), LIT’s parent company, supplies the printing and lamination of RFID hang tags with embedded UPM DogBone and UPM ShortDipole UHF inlays from UPM RFID.
Leo InnoTech (LIT) has set up a patented solution with gate-in and gate-out tunnels: apparel is passing through accurately and reliably at an average 350 items within 20 seconds. For hanging garments, LIT has setup a 70-meter long automatic conveyor system, where garments are classified and controlled to 28 gates using RFID technology at a speed of 60-90 hanging garments every minute.
Using RFID technology in warehouse management, the apparel manufacturer will achieve substantial savings in labor costs. Meanwhile, when apparel items are passing through outbound logistics accurately and without delay, retail customers receive fast and correct deliveries to ensure better customer service. When mis-shipments and rush deliveries can be avoided, transportation resources are used more effectively and with lower impact on the environment.

KDDI launches NFC in Japan

2012-01-18T06:00:00.001+01:00

Mobile network operator KDDI has announced it will become the first Japanese carrier to begin offering a commercial NFC service. The launch is due to take place before the end of January 2012. KDDI's NFC service will support mobile payments, including both credit cards and electronic cash, coupons, membership cards and tickets. NFC tag reading and peer-to-peer transactions will also be supported.

RFID Item Visibility Solutions for Retail Garment and Item Tracking

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000+01:00

NRF Big Show, New York. SML Group Ltd, a global brand identification solutions provider that supplies tags and labels to the retail apparel industry, announced the launch of its new RFID solutions, which will carry the brand name of ViziT. ViziT item visibility solutions provides for a full range of RFID/EAS enabled paper and woven labels, plus tickets and stickers that can be attached to apparel hanging and stacked items.
ViziT offers real time item visibility designed to aid a retail store as it strives to provide its customers with an improved product selection and in-store experience. Each label will carry its own unique GS1 EPC serial number, which may be attached to garments and items, which can then be tracked by means of the SML ViziT IT cloud based data management software. ViziT also provides for semi automated inventory control and offers improved Loss Prevention by triggering alarms and providing item identification at the store exit.
In addition to the core ViziT solutions SML is partnering with TAGSYS and Nedap Retail to offer a complete ‘one stop shop’ for all RFID hardware and systems solutions which are required to gather and manage the data throughout the retail store and logistics operations.

Wiegand-to-Ethernet Smart RFID Controller Can Connect to All Wiegand Reader Types

2012-01-17T06:00:00.001+01:00

GAO RFID has released a Wiegand-to-Ethernet RFID controller ideal for door access applications. This network access controller is able to connect to any kind of Wiegand reader such as magnetic stripe reader, RFId reader or fingerprint reader.
This Wiegand-to-Ethernet smart RFID controller, model 491018, features central control and communicates with a network server using RCP or UDP protocol for easy overview of access events. This programmable control unit provides a Wiegand port and a 10/100 Base Ethernet port for communication. It offers a master card for appending or deleting visitor’s access privileges directly from the external reader and can thus act independently without connection to a network or PC. Two input sensors detect unlocked door and exit button pressed. Two relay outputs for external alarm and electric lock are provided.
The controller has a door left open alarm function and is available with separate control unit and reader for higher security demands.
This Wiegand-to-Ethernet smart RFID controller belongs to GAO’s family of RFID Peripherals. The line includes a wide variety of RFID readers to meet customers’ different needs. Some similar products are offered for selection such as RFID Dock Door Portal which features fast and simple installation and convenient access to AC power, LAN and accessory connections through an easily removable plate on top of the body, RFID Enabled Parking Barrier Gate which offers cost effective control of vehicle access for 10 to 20 foot lanes and is extremely dependable and reliable while providing advanced safety feature for both vehicles and pedestrians, and RFID Reader Gateway which is able to collect, filter, and edit data from diverse kinds of readers and store tag data to a host system via Ethernet, USB, serial port, WLAN and GPRS/GSM.

New Research Reveals Benefits Of RFID For Apparel Suppliers

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000+01:00

New research from the University of Arkansas quantifies benefits that apparel suppliers can gain from the use of radio frequency identification (RFID), it was announced today by the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) and GS1 US, the study’s sponsors.
In a year-long project, researchers found the potential for suppliers to realize both top- and bottom-line improvements via increased inventory accuracy, cycle count reductions and minimized chargebacks. The results were presented during a workshop held by the VICS Item Level RFID Initiative at the National Retail Federation’s Big Show in New York. The research is available for download from the University of Arkansas Web site.
“The University of Arkansas report published today offers a greater understanding of the many uses of RFID technology for the apparel industry particularly in the area of inventory accuracy,” said AAFA Special Advisor Mary Howell. “By exploring these use cases, apparel and footwear brands can begin to see the full range of benefits RFID can provide when working to remain competitive in the global market by streamlining the supply chain and continuing to deliver quality, safe, and affordable clothes and shoes to American consumers.”

Douglas Coupland goes pop with QR Codes

2012-01-16T06:00:00.001+01:00

Artist Douglas Coupland has turned computerized Quick Response codes into pop art creations in a video that sends people directly to various local sites such as Grouse Mountain and VanDusen Botanical Garden. Called Vancouver Codes, the videos will be appearing Monday on screens at Canada Line stations as part of the year-long 10 Seconds project curated by Paul Wong. It’s also available now on The Vancouver Sun’s website.

Zebra Partnership Combines Capabilities

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000+01:00

Zebra Technologies Corporation and Checkpoint Systems entered into a cooperative relationship and licensing agreement. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. This relationship brings together Zebra's active location solutions with the passive radio-frequency identification (RFID), auto-identification (auto-ID) and sensor capabilities of Checkpoint division OATSystems to give customers in key industries--including retail, industrial manufacturing, automotive, aerospace and process--increased visibility of their assets across the enterprise.
The agreement, which is a non-exclusive contract, provides Zebra with an OEM software license for OATxpress(TM), which is part of the most widely deployed RFID middleware platform, OAT Foundation Suite(TM). This industry-leading software platform is designed specifically for capturing, filtering and managing high volumes of auto-ID and sensor data from a single facility--such as a manufacturing plant, distribution center or retail store--to an enterprise deployment across hundreds of locations.
In the coming months, Zebra will announce details around its first product with the capability to implement applications that combine both active and passive RFID. The OAT Foundation Suite will provide support for a broad range of auto-ID technologies in a scalable framework, making it easy to add more device types and technologies to the platform in future phases.

Scanbuy Study Reveals 2D Barcode Adoption and Awareness Rates Strong Among U.S. Marketers

2012-01-13T06:00:00.001+01:00

Scanbuy, Inc., the developer of the ScanLife mobile barcode platform, released results from a quantitative study that illustrates high awareness and adoption of 2D barcodes among U.S. marketers across a wide range of industries. Representing more than 100 marketers from both large and small businesses in industries such as healthcare, retail and entertainment, the study showed that 50% of key decision makers are already using 2D barcodes as a part of their overall marketing strategy and 86% plan to use the technology in the future.
Conducted through uSamp's SurveyBuilder platform that includes an audience of over five million panelists from around the world, the study reveals new data from the marketer's perspective that can be used to gain a better understanding of current adoption rates, and how campaigns are being implemented and assessed. Additional results included the following:

•Difference in awareness of 2D barcodes between large and small businesses is relatively minimal with 95% and 89% respectively
•61% report using open source code formats with QR Codes leading by a large margin at (45%), Datamatrix (16%), Microsoft Tag (14%), EZcode (12%) and Snap Tag (11%).
•Top three content choices that the codes link to include: product details, promotions and coupon offers
•Top three media placement choices included magazines and newspapers, direct mail and product packaging
•Of the 50% of respondents currently implementing 2D barcodes, the most important factors for a successful campaign include:
◦Access to analytics from the scans including basic usage and also demographics of users
◦Ability to edit the code or access it at anytime from a web-based platform
•69% of respondents reported using a paid 2D barcode service, while 39% reported using a free service
•When asked if they were happy with their experience, those that used a paid service were 50% more satisfied than those using a freeware generator.

Motorola Registration Sponsor of RFID Journal LIVE! 2012

2012-01-13T06:00:00.000+01:00

Motorola Solutions has signed on to be the cornerstone and registration sponsor of RFID Journal LIVE! 2012, the media company's largest annual event. LIVE! 2012—RFID Journal's 10th annual conference and exhibition—is an event focused on RFID and its many business applications. It will be held on Apr. 3-5, 2012, at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resort, located in Orlando, Fla.
Paul Steinberg, Motorola Solutions' chief technology officer, will deliver a keynote address at the conference. Mr. Steinberg will discuss global market trends and their impact on the RFID solution set, as well as the major business applications for which RFID is being used, the benefits companies are realizing and the expected evolution of technologies vital to meeting the needs of the global enterprise.
At LIVE! 2012, RFID Journal will celebrate the 10th year of the industry's flagship convention. The event will feature four industry-specific and four how-to conference tracks, as well as nine in-depth preconference seminars and workshops, fast-track training, the RFID Journal Awards, and two co-located events—IEEE RFID 2012 and The AIDC 100: RFID and Bar-Code Co-existence. In addition, the conference will offer exhibits and demonstrations conducted by the industry's leading technology firms.

New DENSO AT20B Barcode Scanner

2012-01-12T06:00:00.001+01:00

DENSO ADC, the Americas sales arm of DENSO Wave Incorporated, inventor of the QR Code, announced a new, AT20B handheld barcode scanner that offers high-speed scanning, user-friendly operation and high durability, yet an affordable price.
DENSO's Advanced Scan Plus technology gives the AT20B twice the scanning speed of previous models, increasing operator efficiency. A super-deep scanning field allows smooth close-up and distant operation, regardless of the scanner's position.Using the latest DENSO algorithms, the AT20B can scan poorly printed or otherwise difficult-to-read barcodes. The device also allows trouble-free scanning of wide barcodes, such as the ITF-14 and GS1-128 (EAN-128) codes used for utility and medical bills, and Code 39 on EIAJ labels.
The AT20B's compact, lightweight and ergonomically shaped design makes it easy to hold and aim, reducing operator fatigue. An LED guide-light improves the ease of targeting, even when scanning multilevel or very small barcodes.
The AT20B is durable, with a shock-absorbing construction that allows it to withstand being dropped onto a concrete floor 6 times from a height of 1.8 meters or 60 times from 1.5 meters. The device also features IP42 dust- and water-resistant protection, as well as a connector-cable locking mechanism that prevents damage to the connector or cable.
Other features of the AT20B include easy-to-use configuration software and an auto-sense scanning mode. A data-verification function allows verification to be done with a single scanner, while data-editing functions allow simple programming (ADF scripting) for data truncating, sorting and converting. A command-control function enables the scanner to be controlled by a PC for fully automated operation.

IC-TAG Solutions Earns RFID Technology Certification

2012-01-12T06:00:00.000+01:00

IC-TAG Solutions, Inc., announced its certification from Alien Technology to use its EPC Gen 2 RFID inlays. Security enhanced products also produced by IC-TAG include wristbands, sensor tags, watermarks, preprinted logos, UV/invisible printing and glow in the dark printing. IC-TAG RFID labels and tags aid customers in safely identifying, tracking and managing vital resources and transactions accurately and more efficiently. Additionally, IC-TAG offers thermal transfer printers to print compliance labeling, baggage tagging, retail labeling and asset tracking.
IC-TAG Solutions, Inc. partnership with Alien Technology aided them in testing RFID labels and tags to ensure high-quality products for customers including the US Department of Defense (DoD), General Services Administration (GSA), retail and pharmaceutical companies. Alien Technology’s recent accreditation by EPC Global Inc. Test Center Program (v.2.0) for complying with EPC Global Inc. performance test center specifications for certified services and core technical capabilities illustrates its commitment to provide high-quality products for its partners including IC-TAG™. Their partnership with IC-TAG Solutions also furthers Alien Technology’s dedication to the growing specialty technology markets by strengthening and enlarging the RFID channel to territories in United States, Canada and Latin America, Asia, Europe and Australia. Together IC-TAG Solutions and Alien Technology will continue to keep the price of RFID and other security enhanced products competitive and dependable.

Polycom Releases Voice-over-Wi-Fi Phone With Barcode Scanners

2012-01-11T06:00:00.001+01:00

Unified communications provider Polycom Inc. on Monday unveiled its first Voice-over-Wi-Fi handset with 2D barcode scanners for enterprises. The SpectraLink 8452 combines a mobile phone, pager, push-to-talk functionality, barcode scanner and Web access so workers can stay in touch from anywhere within the enterprise Wi-Fi network. The scanner can read 1D and 2D barcode images from up to 34 inches away.
Polycom, which sells through channel partners, also said the SpectraLink 8452 is in the qualification process to work with Microsoft Lync. If all goes as planned, the phone will be able to display and share call and directory information through Lync, and accommodate features including presence and instant messaging. The SpectraLink 8452 targets settings such as hospitals, retail stores, factories and hotels.

KMA Global Solutions Delivers RFID Encapsulated Baggage Tags

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000+01:00

KMA Global Solutions International, Inc. has delivered its first shipment of RFID encapsulated Baggage tags to its client. The tags have been tested for durability under the worst handling conditions and have been tested for the ability to be read in the different configurations that will be present in the handling system. Once the system and tags have successfully completed the Beta phase we expect to receive annual revenue in year one to be in excess of $5 million dollars.
KMA Global Solutions International, Inc. is a leading worldwide manufacturer and supplier of Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) labels for the multimedia, retail apparel, health/beauty aids, soft goods, and over-the-counter pharmaceutical industries. KMA provides low cost solutions for retail protection against inventory theft, offering customized labels that use a variety of patented formats to meet unique packaging needs. KMA's patented DUAL Tag(TM) is the only product available that combines the two leading EAS technologies in a single, high speed application to eliminate the need for multiple inventories and its patented NEXTag(TM) is the solution of choice for soft goods as a small, flexible non-woven label conveniently sewn into a garment at its manufacturing source.
At KMA, our Business Mission is to constantly reinforce our industry leadership as a preferred competitive supplier in the timely delivery of superior, cost effective, source tagging products - all the time, every time.

Simple QR code technique could help marketers

2012-01-10T06:00:00.001+01:00

QR codes may be becoming more popular amongst consumers, but the businesses using them may not be doing so effectively. Most codes are linked to discounts and other deals that can be found online. The codes have proven themselves to be a powerful consumer engagement tool, but businesses have grown accustomed to allowing the codes to perform a sole function. As marketers become more comfortable with the codes, they are beginning to see beyond the boundaries they once believed kept the barcodes confined.

Combined smart card and memory storage capabilities

2012-01-10T06:00:00.000+01:00

Advanced Card Systems Ltd. (ACS, wholly owned subsidiary of Advanced Card Systems Holdings Ltd., SEHK: 8210), introduces its ACR100I SIMFlash II. Combining smart card reader, memory storage and contactless card capabilities in a single device, ACR100 SIMFlash II supports a wide array of applications, from e-Government, e-Banking and e-Payment, to GSM Management, VoIP, Loyalty Programs and Network Security.
The card allows users to store up to 8GB volume of data via its NAND Flash memory, which can be partitioned into three sections depending on the user's needs. Furthermore, it has an embedded Mifare chip that allows it to act as a contactless card for use in various contactless operations, such as physical access control. With its PC/SC and CCID compliance, it is easy to integrate the ACR100I SIMFlash II into various smart card systems, particularly those running in PC environments.
Although the ACR100I SIMFlash II and ACR100F SIMFlash have almost the same set of functionalities, what set them apart are ACR100I's embedded Mifare chip and new casing. Below is a short comparison of the two:

QR Codes Gaining Ground With Consumers And Brands

2012-01-09T06:00:00.001+01:00

QR (Quick Response) codes aren't new – they've been around for about two decades. But lacking both technology and awareness, consumers haven't known what to do with the quirky square barcodes pasted on product packaging and store shelves. However, a recent Consumer Pulse study by Chadwick Martin Bailey shows that may be changing. Despite the fact that most consumers (79%) aren't familiar with the term "QR Code", the vast majority of shoppers (81%) have seen them and approximately one in five consumers know how to utilize them during the buying experience.

RFID for Football Helmets

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000+01:00

Treehouse Labs, headquartered in Austin, Texas is taking part in a pilot project creating helmets with RFID tags placed inside the helmets to detect the impact on the helmet when worn by football players to alert coaches and medical staff of potential concussions the player may experience. The RFID tags are embedded on the inside of the testing helmets and the data is transferred onto a server, which can be accessed through Smart Phones.

New Bluetooth smart card reader released

2012-01-06T06:00:00.001+01:00

Biometric Associates has released its baiMobile 3000MP Bluetooth Smart Card Reader, which is designed specifically for mobile platforms. It supports iOS 4.x for iPhone and iPad and Android OS 2.2 and higher, and it operates with Bluetooth version 2.1 and higher. Designed to be compatible with government needs, the reader supports ISO 7816 smart cards such as PIV and the U.S. Department of Defense’s Common Access Card. It enables network or client applications residing on mobile devices to access the smart card credentials to enable digital signatures, e-mail decryption and authentication to secure web sites and network servers. Additionally, the reader can be used as a wearable badge holder for visual identification.

Much More Than Just Cold Chain

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000+01:00

When most people think of RFID-enabled sensors, they tend to think of temperature-logging applications within the cold chain to gauge the true expiration date for pharmaceuticals, fruits and vegetables, and other perishable goods. While that is an important application, it's far from the only application within the supply chain. And supply chain applications aren't the only ones we should be considering.
Sensors can help differentiate between isolated occurrences of damage from ongoing ones -- and help identify the cause. While it may be easy to determine that a computer monitor was broken by the delivery man throwing it over a fence to "expedite" delivery, damage to sensitive materials due to rough handling or excessive vibration during transport is more difficult to identify. While it may be easy to determine that a computer monitor was broken by the delivery man throwing it over a fence to "expedite" delivery, damage to sensitive materials due to rough handling or excessive vibration during transport is more difficult to identify.

Coast Mountain Bus Company integrated TagMaster RFID system with Coencorp’s FuelZone Transit

2012-01-05T06:00:00.001+01:00

TagMaster RFID products are now used in conjunction with Coencorp’s automated fuel management system, FuelZone Transit, at all six of the Coast Mountain Bus Company’s service locations. Coast Mountain Bus Company (CMBC), based in Burnaby, British Columbia, connects the region by providing a customer centric transportation network that values safety and excellence and strives to be a leader in environmental performance. CMBC installed Coencorp’s FuelZone Transit system in 2007 and replaced a previous RFID system with the TagMaster solution in 2011.
RFID tags are mounted on the roof of each bus and readers are installed on the ceiling to check the bus in at each fuel lane. Once a bus is identified, the fuel management system unlocks the appropriate pumps while a Coencorp wireless Vehicle Data Unit (VDU) transmits information such as mileage and idle time to the system controller.
The Heavy Duty TagMaster tags have fully predictable life spans, independent of the number of times read, allowing CMBC to plan replacements and avoid monitoring the remaining life of the tag. Heavy Duty tags are able to withstand vigorous carwash jets and brushes every day and stay securely mounted to the roof of each bus. TagMaster’s LR-6 readers installed on the ceiling use an adjustable read lobe to only read the tag on the bus parked beneath the reader. A defined read lobe allows multiple readers to be located close together without reading across lanes.

Singapore Civil Defence Force Orders Passive RFID Equipment Tracking Solution

2012-01-05T06:00:00.000+01:00

Hitachi recently announced the order of a Passive Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Equipment Tracking Solution from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). This is the first RFID technology order made by the SCDF to use to support its current defence technologies. The RFID solution will be used to track equipment such as fire extinguishers and portable pumps. SCDF has three main operational appliances that will be using the RFID tags. The appliances are its Pump Ladder (PL), Light Fire Attack Vehicle (LFAV) and the Ambulance. The solution will be enacted for all 16 fire stations across the island.
Hitachi Asia Ltd. has been in close discussion with the Singapore government but this is the first contract that it has signed with a government agency of Singapore. It is considered a big leap towards success for Hitachi. This contract was signed after Hitachi established a partnership with the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) through a Memorandum of Intent signed in January of 2010. It has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Economic Development Board (EDB) in May 2010 to work together for any urban related projects in Singapore.

Smart Card Market to Gain Heights With Public Sector Applications

2012-01-04T06:00:00.000+01:00

The deployment of smart cards in public sector applications, including government ID and healthcare has gained momentum across the globe. The governments are putting in place the legal framework to leverage strong identity credentials for e-Government, e-Health and e-Commerce. Smart technology-based healthcare ID cards are also being issued in many countries. According to new research report “Smart Card Market Forecast to 2014” by RNCOS, the unit shipment of smart cards for the government/healthcare segment is estimated to have registered around 18% y-o-y growth in 2011, and expected to increase further.
The global smart card industry has been facing dynamic changes for the past few years. New areas of growth have been supporting the widespread use of smart cards across the globe. Backed by positive factors, the unit shipment of microprocessor smart card is expected to have reached around 6.1 Billion in 2011. With the successful beginning of the micro-payment segment in various regions, including Asia, North America, and Europe, the future landscape for the smart card market looks promising.
The report studies the global smart card market in a comprehensive manner and provides an in-depth analysis of the market size and current developments in key countries of the world. Categorized on the basis of applications in sectors like telecom, transport, public and financial services, the study gives an insight into the current and future market trends, major industry drivers, and key challenges which clearly depict a comprehensible picture of the market structure. The research also includes an analysis of the regulatory environment associated with the smart card deployment and briefly summarizes key activities. Overall it aims at providing clients with an optimum knowledge and statistics on the global smart card market

New RFID Workforce Management System Launched for Construction Sites

2012-01-03T06:15:00.000+01:00

ADR recently introduced a new RFID system to manage and report workforce hours and activities on construction sites. Using RFID tags, the management system will allow for the monitoring of workforce activity at large construction sites. The RFID system monitor uses proprietary technology architecture to support real time monitoring of workforce activity and movement around the construction site. The RFID tags are embedded on construction worker hard hats as well as on their ID badges. The system will manage the traffic of construction workers on site and better safety management as well while knowing where all workers are at any given time.

Ascendent ID Introduces Newest CompacTag for Automatic Vehicle Identification

2012-01-03T06:00:00.000+01:00

Ascendent ID, the leader in expanded functionality long range RFID for Automatic Vehicle Identification (AVI) introduces its longest-life CompacTag for vehicle access control at parking facilities, college campuses, and gated communities.
Utilizing the same small footprint of two inches long by just over an inch wide, Ascendent ID's newest CompacTag raises the bar for value and performance in a small package with a 6 year expected tag life.
"Our customers have emphasized the need for longer-life tags in a small footprint and we have listened and delivered. Our newest CompacTag has an expected life of over 6 years, which will translate into an even lower cost of ownership over the useful life of the AVI system," says company President, Doug Crane. "We were able to significantly increase tag life without increasing our trademark small footprint."
The new CompacTag is compatible with all of Ascendent ID's readers; which have an adjustable read-range to enable the CompacTag to be read from just a few feet up to 30. As with all of Ascendent ID's tags, customers can specify the facility code and tag identification numbers at the time of order to simplify tag management.
Ascendent ID's tags for Automatic Vehicle Identification are mounted on the inside of the windshield using double-sided tape or hook-and-loop fasteners for applications which require a transferrable or removable mount.
Ascendent ID's long-range AVI systems are compatible with virtually every manufacturer of vehicle access control systems and can be used as a long-range drop-in upgrade for proximity readers and tags. Every Ascendent ID reader ships with both RS232 and Wiegand interfaces standard.
All readers and tags support Ascendent ID's advanced reader-to-tag protocol for precise control of gate triggering, elimination of false reads, and support of systems incorporating anti-passback. Tags with the optional security feature prevent unauthorized use in the event that the tag is stolen from the vehicle's windshield.

Smart Card Market to Gain Heights with Public Sector Applications

2012-01-01T06:00:00.000+01:00

North Wales tourism sites to have own special barcode

2011-12-30T07:08:00.001+01:00

Top tourism sites could soon have their own special barcode. The hi-tech QR or quick response codes can be scanned with a mobile phone to swiftly direct a visitor to a website. The technology is being adopted by Tourism Partnership North Wales, who are responsible for the strategic development of the region's visitor economy. They have included a QR code on a quarter of a million Great Days Out leaflets to be distributed across North Wales, the North West and the Midlands. The code can be scanned with a smartphone and direct the user to a website with up to date information about the attractions.

SF deploys NFC to parking meters

2011-12-29T06:00:00.001+01:00

Parking technology company PayByPhone announced the deployment of its NFC-enabled payment system by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA). According to the company, SFMTA is adding NFC stickers to the city's 30,800 parking spaces so that drivers with NFC-enabled mobile devices can simply swipe their devices to feed the meter. The NFC stickers are in addition to mobile apps and a mobile website that allow smartphone users without NFC to use mobile devices to pay for parking.

Swedish Fisheries Board Expected to Issue Fish-Traceability Framework

2011-12-29T06:00:00.000+01:00

The Swedish Board of Fisheries is designing the policy framework, due out in mid 2012, for an RFID system to trace fish from the time they are caught until it reaches the consumer. Once the framework is in place, the board will begin selecting technology partners for the system. In 2010, the board tested elements of such a system. The test was part of the eTrace project, funded by the European Union's SafeFoodEra food-safety research program.

DoCoMo, KDDI and SoftBank Establish Consortium to Promote NFC

2011-12-28T06:00:00.000+01:00

NTT DoCoMo Inc., KDDI Corp. and SoftBank Mobile Corp. have established the Japan Mobile NFC Consortium to coordinate the adoption of multiple international standards for near field communication (NFC) technologies incorporated in their mobile devices and services.
Japan's three mobile operators already offer Osaifu- Keitai (wallet phone) mobile services based on the contactless-IC smartcard called FeliCa. Overseas, however, mobile operators and service providers are increasingly adopting Type A and Type B standards to develop growing markets for NFC services. In view of this trend, the consortium intends to work with mobile industry groups in Japan, including service suppliers and handset manufacturers, to incorporate compatibility with the Type A and B standards in the Japanese mobile ecosystem.
By ensuring compatibility with multiple NFC standards, the consortium aims to: Free mobile users in Japan, both residents and international travelers, from having to concern themselves about different NFC service standards. And create an environment in Japan where service providers can offer efficient, low-cost NFC services based on common standards and rules adopted by the three mobile operators.

Dublin transit system gets new smart card scheme

2011-12-27T06:00:00.001+01:00

Passengers using Dublin's public transport system are to benefit from a new system that uses contactless smart cards instead of paper tickets. The National Transport Authority and minister for public and commuter transport Alan Kelly unveiled the Leap initiative earlier this week, which will apply to buses, trains and the DART network. Rather than paying with change, travellers can top up their cards at designated points or online, then swipe them when they board a bus or train to pay their fare.

UPM Sells Its RFID Business to Smartrac

2011-12-26T06:00:00.000+01:00

UPM has reached an agreement with Smartrac N.V. whereby UPM sells its RFID business to Smartrac. UPM will become an indirect shareholder of Smartrac, with a 10.6 percent economic interest through the company OEP Technologie B.V. The closing of the deal is expected to take place during the first quarter of 2012. The transaction is still subject to regulatory approvals. Smartrac is registered in the Netherlands, and is one of the global market leaders in high-quality RFID inlays for electronic passports and contactless credit cards as well as for RFID transponders for public transport applications.

Business App for Android to Track and Validate Both Barcode Data and NFC Tags

2011-12-23T06:00:00.001+01:00

Skycore LLC, a leading mobile solutions provider, today announced launching a beta program for customizing its codeREADr barcode scanning app for businesses to deploy for reading and writing data embedded in NFC tags.
When installed on NFC-enabled Android smartphones, the customized codeREADr app can read, record, track and validate data embedded in NFC tags. This functionality mirrors the app's current use for reading data embedded in 1D/2D barcodes.
However, a significant benefit for deploying NFC tags is the ability for the app to act as initiator of both read and write commands. Skycore's beta program will build custom initiator features for clients to enable unique auto-ID, data capture and fulfillment functionality.
"We see writing to NFC tags at the point of service as an important technology differentiator," said Rich Eicher, founder and CEO of Skycore. "It enables custom functionality and can even simplify administration of certain ticket validation, access control, loyalty reward and stored value programs," he added.
Reading NFC tags with Android smartphones -- as opposed to traditional NFC readers -- allows data to be read, written and processed on the device itself or to be transmitted to the cloud, all without the need to connect to desktops or laptops.
"As NFC-enabled phones become readily available over the next few years, our business customers will enjoy a wide selection of devices for installing codeREADr and consumers will be able to present either their NFC phone or an NFC tag at the point of service. That's the future," said Eicher.

Chrome extension reads QR codes

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000+01:00

As the use of QR codes rise in various forms of marketing, it can be frustrating to see a QR code on a website that you wish to scan, but pulling your smartphone out, scanning the code and then transferring the URL to your computer either manually or through an app. The Google Chrome extension QReader can read a QR code right from your browser without having to pull out your phone which is good news for marketers who are using QR codes on print and digital marketing destinations.

First Wireless Industrial ID Barcode Reader With Ethernet, RS-232 And USB

2011-12-22T06:00:00.001+01:00

Cognex Corporation recently announced a new wireless version for its next-generation DataMan handheld industrial ID scanner, the DataMan 8000 series. The new wireless communication module and base station with Cognex Connect™ capabilities is now available for users with extended range cord free code reading applications. Cognex Connect provides the most flexibility for communicating via Industrial Protocols such as EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, MC Protocol and others in addition to traditional support for USB and RS-232. The DataMan 8000 series is the only industrial handheld ID reader to support industrial protocols for both corded and cordless models, allowing for easy integration, reduced installation costs and remote access to diagnostics.
The new wireless reader provides a long working range-up to 100m-with a large memory capacity for reading codes when offline or out of range. The base station comes standard with a spare battery charger built in and is compatible with industry standard Ethernet, USB and RS-232 cables.
models is the system's unique modular design allowing any reader to change between corded RS-232/USB communication to Industrial Ethernet or to wireless with field exchangeable interface modules. The communication modules offer security for customer investment as well as flexibility enabling users to modify their deployment and communication methods to meet future requirements. The base station for the wireless model is equipped with separate communication ports for USB, RS-232 and Ethernet options making it the most versatile choice in the series.
The rugged DataMan 8000 series is designed for the factory floor and offers the industry's most advanced code reading technology using two powerful algorithms,. These patented technologies provide the most advanced decoding available for reading virtually every type of code, every time, with unsurpassed read rates, regardless of size, quality, printing method or surface. The DataMan 8000 series also offers which allows a user to read small 2-D direct part marks (DPM) as well as long linear 1-D barcodes with a single reader.

QR Codes on Permanent Labels From NFi Brand

2011-12-22T06:00:00.000+01:00

Nameplates For Industry, Inc. (NFi) has introduced product identification labels that can be fully integrated with QR (quick response) codes and the full-color printing of custom graphics on a variety of substrates. These multipurpose QR code labels can be designed and produced for a wide range indoor and outdoor applications.
NFi QR Code Labels feature printed QR codes fully integrated with product identification labels in virtually any color, size, shape, and substrate-adhesive combination; supplied individually or in sets. These permanent, long-lasting labels can reinforce a brand, while allowing a smart phone to download information from a website instantly for numerous applications.
Suitable for accessing websites, instruction manuals, videos, service histories, inventory records, technical data, and more, NFi QR Code Labels are custom engineered and printed on the appropriate substrate material such as Mylar(R), Lexan(R), and PVC. They can incorporate aggressive adhesives for bonding to powder coated surfaces and UL constructions for weather-ability.
NFi QR Code Labels are priced according to material, size, and quantity. Representative free samples and price quotations are available upon request. The firm offers an innovative Prototype Program to facilitate rapid prototype and product development.

Smart Card Alliance Wraps Up 2011 With Yearbook

2011-12-21T06:00:00.001+01:00

From the acceleration of EMV and mobile payments to the advancement of open transit payments and cyber security initiatives like the National Strategy for Trusted Identities in Cyberspace (NSTIC), 2011 has been a landmark year for the North American smart card industry. To commemorate the year, the Smart Card Alliance has issued today its first-ever "E-Yearbook."
The E-Yearbook, available to members and non-members on the Smart Card Alliance website, captures the essence of a year's worth of smart card industry leadership and advancement. It includes nearly 70 colorfully designed pages containing thoughts, perspectives, insights and company profiles from smart card industry leaders across a broad spectrum of markets and technologies -- including Smart Card Alliance board chairs, industry council chairs, and Executive Director Randy Vanderhoof.

Some of the meaningful 2011 achievements highlighted through the E-Yearbook include:

How the North American financial industry is accelerating of EMV payments based on contact and contactless technology, and how this move can enable the market to leapfrog other global markets' advancement of NFC mobile payments

How six major U.S. transit centers are implementing or planning to implement open bank card fare payment, repositioning transit operators as merchants and extending acceptance of bank cards for fare payment for tens of millions of daily transit riders

How two major competing mobile payments schemes, Google Wallet and Isis, are helping define the next generation of consumer payments using mobile devices

How the government is driving advances in finding secure solutions for trusted eCommerce over the Internet under NSTIC and how new government mandates are driving usage of the government identity management and access security industries' PIV (Personal Identity Verification) and PIV-I (Personal Identity Verification - Interoperable) identity credentials

How smart card use in healthcare is being driven by promising developments in the usage of smart cards for secure electronic health record storage and access and by proposed legislation to advance trials for smart Medicare and Medicaid cards to eliminate fraud

New mobile technology aims to increase shoppers’ power

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000+01:00

In its continuous effort to improve life for consumers, the Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) is partnering with mobeam inc. to bring the first-ever fully mobile couponing system to market. The innovation, created by mobeam of California, makes electronic coupons presented on a phone or other mobile device scanable, so shoppers need only their phones/handhelds, not a stack of coupons, at check out.
Today, couponing represents a growing $3.7 billion segment of the consumer packaged goods (CPG) market in North America, with more than 300 billion coupons distributed every year and redemption on the increase as consumers strive for greater value and savings. And while smartphones are supporting users and simplifying life in a host of new ways, until now, phone couponing has not been an option because barcodes displayed on mobile phone screens are invisible to commonly used in-store laser scanners.
Smartphones support users and simplify life in a host of new ways, but phone couponing has not been an option until now because barcodes displayed on mobile phone screens are invisible to commonly used in-store laser scanners.
Mobeam technology converts – or mobeams – the barcode data into a beam of light that can be read by barcode scanners already found at store checkout counters. No additional point of sale (POS) equipment is needed.
“As impossible as it seems, even to technologists in the mobile industry, a vividly displayed barcode cannot be read by the typical barcode scanner,” said Nick Holland, senior analyst with Yankee Group. “The inability for a red laser scanner to read information displayed on a smartphone is not a small problem. This limiting factor is stalling important innovation as the retail industry is stuck waiting for next generation mobile technology to go mainstream. The mobeam beaming solution eloquently fixes this problem, enabling current generation mobile devices to interface with legacy red laser barcode scanners.”
P&G, one of the world’s leading coupon distributors, developed a partnership with mobeam through P&G’s open innovation Connect+Develop program, designed to bring leading innovation into P&G and share P&G innovation with others.
The P&G and mobeam partnership is aimed at exploring and testing a new, highly efficient method for consumers to redeem – and retailers to accept – coupons at the point of sale.
“Our vision with P&G is for the mobeam technology to be used and leveraged broadly by many leading CPG companies, with P&G and other key consumer goods partners as first adopters,” said mobeam CEO Christopher Sellers.
The next step in the partnership is to work with the mobile communications industry to add the mobeam application into handheld phones and then to test the application and process with shoppers and selected retailers.
“We are excited about the potential for this new technology and our partnership with mobeam to make shopping simpler and faster for consumers. Couponing is a great way for shoppers to try new products or save on the trusted brands their families have come to love. If that can be easier, faster and less costly for shoppers and retailers, we want to help bring it to life,” said Jeff Weedman, vice president of P&G Global Business Development.
Mobeam is working with handset manufacturers to engineer its light-based communications technology into new lines of handsets. P&G, mobeam and other partners expect to test the technology in market in 2012.

Beat box creates music using RFID tags

2011-12-20T06:00:00.001+01:00

RFID Beat Box from Danne Woo on Vimeo.

The NYU students created an instrument that uses RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology to make music, and the result is pretty entrancing if you ask us. The RFID Beat Box works by reading the various RFID tags, which are cleverly designed to look like tiny vinyl records. Each tag/disc is programmed with a different sound that's triggered when placed in one of four wooden bowls, which are outfitted with RFID readers

RFID Hardware from Cadi Scientific to Integrate with Intelligent InSites’ Enterprise RTLS Healthcare Software

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000+01:00

Intelligent InSites, a provider of enterprise real-time location systems (RTLS) software helping hospitals improve patient satisfaction and operational performance while supporting multiple RFID and RTLS technologies, has announced a partnership with Cadi Scientific (Cadi) – a Singapore-based RTLS hardware and software provider – to integrate Cadi’s radio frequency identification technology with the Intelligent InSites solution.
According to Dr Lim, with the RFID technology from Cadi, hospitals are able to wirelessly monitor patients' temperature, automate vital signs data entry, track and manage patients and assets in real-time, and optimize patient flow and bed capacity.
The InSites RTLS software solution is built to collect real-time location and condition sensing data from any type of RTLS technology, including active RFID, infrared/RF, passive RFID, ultrasound, Wi-Fi, and ZigBee. By leveraging this real-time data and InSites’ applications, such as asset management, patient flow, or temperature monitoring applications, hospitals are able to achieve meaningful and measurable hard-dollar cost savings while improving patient satisfaction and patient care.

Weight Watchers Unveils New Barcode Scanner App

2011-12-19T06:00:00.001+01:00

Weight Watchers announced the availability of the Weight Watchers Barcode Scanner, a new mobile app that scans barcodes and provides accurate PointsPlus values for thousands of products which can be tracked directly from a scan—no additional data entry to a Weight Watchers tracker is needed. With the help of the new app, users will be able to make informed decisions through a branded foods database, taking the guess work out of making the right choices while food shopping. Available in the United States for iOS and Android platforms, the app will be available through iTunes and Android Market and requires a subscription to Weight Watchers Online or Weight Watchers eTools to use. The app is also accessible on the iPod Touch with the minimum camera capability requirement for the barcode scanning functionality.
While separate from the Weight Watchers mobile tracking app, scanned foods available on the barcode scanner app can be added to a user's favorites' or to their daily tracker. Additionally, the new barcode scanner app can compare multiple scanned products—a feature that can be useful when it comes to planning meals and shopping lists.
The new Weight Watchers Barcode Scanner app does require a supported smartphone with an internet connection. However, even offline, the app will still allow users to compare previously scanned items, access their personal shopping history and utilize the PointsPlus calculator. With the launch of the Weight Watchers Barcode Scanner app, subscribers have even more access to the tools they need to stay on plan.

Kohl’s Offers Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

2011-12-19T06:00:00.000+01:00

Kohl’s Department Stores will install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at 33 US stores nationwide. Participating stores will offer one to four parking spots reserved for EV drivers to charge their vehicle at no cost while they shop. Customers activate the stations by radio frequency identification (RFID) cards available at the Kohl’s customer service desk or via phone numbers provided on the charging stations. Kohl’s is partnering with ECOtality Inc. and Coulomb Technologies for this pilot program, which will be funded partially through the U.S. Department of Energy.

Smart Card Market Forecast to 2014

2011-12-16T06:00:00.001+01:00

The global smart card industry has been witnessing dynamic changes for the past few years, and these, in turn, have created significant opportunities for the market participants. New and attractive growth prospects are being witnessed due to EMV (Euro pay, MasterCard, & VISA) migration, Long Term Evolution (LTE) deployment across the globe, and government support. Moreover, the entry of innovative smart card devices in the market will further strengthen the overall industry in the long run.
According to our research report "Smart Card Market Forecast to 2014", the global shipments of smart cards are estimated to reach around 6.1 Billion units in 2011, growing at the rate of around 11% over previous year. A major chunk of this market is captured by four companies, namely Gemalto, Giesecke & Devrient, Oberthur, and Morpho. Though telecom sector is still the major user of smart cards, other sectors, such as financial services and healthcare are also expected to augment the rate of usage.
Furthermore, the huge demand for smart cards will be seen in emerging markets as some of the key manufacturers in these regions are expanding their market reach. Increasing penetration of 3G, and renowned focus on payment transaction will give a further boost to the momentum. In addition, the liability associated with EMV standard is also driving many banks to issue smart cards. Backed by such positive factors, the global smart card shipments are expected to post a double digit growth (CAGR of around 12%) during 2011-2014.
Contactless technology is the buzzword in the global smart card industry. Increasing demand for contactless smart cards is mainly being fuelled by Near Field Communication (NFC), mass transit projects and e-passports. The volume of secure microprocessor contactless smart card shipment is likely to grow at a CAGR of around 22% during 2011-2014. At the applications front, financial services sector is the key user of contactless smart cards, and e-passports and other identification (ID) applications hold the prominent position in the government sector.

Hitachi Receives Order for Passive RFID Equipment Tracking Solution

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000+01:00

Hitachi Asia Ltd. today announced that it has received an order to supply the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) with a Passive Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Equipment Tracking Solution. This is the first time SCDF will be utilizing a RFID solution which will enable the tracking of equipment such as fire extinguishers, portable pumps, etc. onboard SCDF's three main operational appliances, namely Pump Ladder (PL), Light Fire Attack Vehicle (LFAV) and Ambulance at all 16 fire stations island wide.
This order signifies a key milestone for Hitachi Asia Ltd. as it is Hitachi Asia's first IT project with a Singapore Government agency. It comes after Hitachi established a partnership with the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) through a Memorandum of Intent which was signed in January 2010. To expand its business locally and globally, Hitachi has been fostering close relationship with the Singapore Government - it also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Economic Development Board (EDB) in May 2010 to collaborate on urban related projects in Singapore and the Asian Belt Zone.
RFID is a technology that uses radio waves to transfer data from an electronic tag, called RFID tag, attached to an object, to a reader for the purpose of identifying and tracking the object. There are several methods of identification but the most common is to store a serial number on a microchip that is attached to an antenna. The antenna enables the chip to transmit the identification information to a reader. RFID tags can be read when they are within the range of an RFID reader.
Hitachi's Passive RFID solution will replace SCDF's existing practice of conducting manual checks during shift duty changes and recovery of equipment at incident sites, which is not only time-consuming but prone to human errors. The RFID reader has a reading range of 1 meter and the equipment onboard SCDF's appliances can be scanned by a swiping movement of the RFID reader even when the tag is not facing the reader or visible. The automated process will improve the accuracy and speed of equipment checking stored onboard approximately 170 of SCDF's main operational appliances. For example, with Hitachi's RFID solution, the task of checking the availability of approximately 200 equipment onboard SCDF's Pump Ladder can be completed by one crew member and in less than ten minutes. Manual checking of the same task would require the involvement of a few crew members and can take up to thirty minutes.
"Hitachi values this RFID project with SCDF, to further enhance its operational excellence. With Hitachi's increasing focus on Social Innovation Business, which includes a diverse range of IT solutions, we are keen to deepen our partnership with the Singapore Government and are confident that this project is the start of a journey to more future local and regional collaborations," expressed Mr Lee Kian Seng, Vice President & General Manager of Information and Communications Technology Solutions Business Group, Hitachi Asia Ltd.
Hitachi's solution to SCDF includes providing about 13,000 Passive RFID tags and 55 RFID handheld readers with a customised client-server application for managing tagged equipment records, synchronising data between the handheld RFID readers & PCs/server and managing user access control. Currently under development, the RFID solution is expected to be fully operational at SCDF's 16 fire stations island-wide from April 2012.

Enterprise Mobilization launches QSR mobile ordering app

2011-12-15T06:00:00.001+01:00

Canadian-based Enterprise Mobilization, a 10-year-old mobile application provider for QSR operators, has just released its patented mobile ordering solution for iOS, Blackberry, Windows and Android mobile devices. The "My Favorite Order" app allows customers to create and save their order on their phone in the form of a QR code. When they show their phone to a barcode scanner in the POS system, it automatically uploads their entire order, including preferences, modifiers and toppings. Customers can then pay electronically or with cash. The feature also is PCI compliant. Enterprise Mobilization can enter a restaurant menu on phones within three weeks and update the menu remotely. Hardware includes plugging scanners into existing USB or serial ports. The app is distributed by QR codes on packaging

RFID tags speed component leak testing

2011-12-15T06:00:00.000+01:00

Manufacturers of leak proof components can use RFID tags for part identification and information tracking. The electronic label system with standard and custom components os tailored to application requirements. Custom elements of Uson RFID tags streamline parts processing and help manage test data while cutting overall production cost. “The potential of Uson’s custom RFID tags technology to help manufacturers get better performance from their leak detection equipment is enormous,” says Joe Pustka, a manager of Uson’s technical support team that helped pioneer the custom RFID tags.

Regional Timetable for Installing Blue Marble Rooftop QR Codes

2011-12-14T06:00:00.001+01:00

Phillips & Company, a global public relations and business development consulting firm and the provider of Blue Marble QR Code services, announced its recommended installation timetable for businesses and building owners in specific regions of the United States to order and install Blue Marblerooftop QR Codes. Blue Marble is a marketing service offered by Phillips & Company that enables any business to transform its rooftop into a space-accessible billboard by integrating a dynamic QR (Quick Response) Code into the physical site, taking an aerial or satellite image from space and making it accessible in leading navigation applications like Google Earth and Google Maps.
Satellite images are typically updated on Google Maps and Google Earth by Metropolitan Service Areas (MSAs) on a rolling basis based on scheduled satellite and aerial updates. Phillips & Company has developed its own proprietary schedule based on projected updates to satellite imagery.
The company has released its timetable for the first half of 2012. Interested marketers can reserve an installation time slot by selecting Get Started on the Blue Marble website and filling out the Reservation and Installation Request form, which will also calculate pricing for a range of QR Code size options and mobile marketing campaigns.

AdvanIDe Names Mark Goh as Director of Sales

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000+01:00

AdvanIDe, a leading distributor of silicon for RFID transponders, chip cards and RFID readers and terminals, today announced Mr. Mark Goh has been appointed as the Director of Sales and Strategic Business of Southeast Asia. In his new role, Mr. Goh is responsible for driving the company's business objectives and financial performance as well as the successful promotion of the AdvanIDe brand in the region. This involves profitably growing revenue and market share across the company's semiconductor business and managing the strategic business of semiconductor components sourcing for EMS projects with contract manufacturers of ASSA ABLOY worldwide.
In addition to increasing AdvanIDe's revenue streams in emerging markets, Mr. Goh will oversee the company's regional strategic business activities that reinforce AdvanIDe's position as a trusted source for its customers. With expertise across a wide range of markets throughout Southeast Asia, Mr. Goh's industry experience will significantly contribute to AdvanIDe's growing business.
"Mark's collaborative efforts in contributing to our strategic business projects and aligning them with our sales goals will continue to solidify our position in the industry as one of the leading silicon distributors," said Mr. Holger Roessner, Managing Director at AdvanIDe. "The combination of Mark's sales and business strategy experience will be invaluable in driving our ongoing efforts to supply our silicon partners with a world class platform."
Based in Singapore, Mr. Goh joined AdvanIDe after four years in a smart card integrated circuits (ICs) sales management role in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region. This position follows a long career in sales and marketing with a focus on maximizing growth in the smart card related industry. Mr. Goh received his Bachelor's degree in Electronics and Electrical Engineering from Nanyang Technology University in Singapore and holds a Graduate Degree in Marketing Management.

QR Codes help time-starved commuters shop for groceries

2011-12-13T06:00:00.001+01:00

Travelers at Bugis and Boon Lay stations on Singapore's mass rapid transport (SMRT) system can now use their smartphones to cram in some Christmas food shopping. Wall space at the two stations has been given over to a virtual store by Cold Storage, a popular fresh food retail chain in Singapore. The large poster displays will remain in place from December 7 - 20. Images of products, along with prices, are displayed on the posters. Alongside each image is a QR Code. Time and food-starved commuters scan the codes into any smartphone, choose the required quantity and enter their details on the Cold Storage website. The items are subsequently delivered.

Colorful RFID UHF Wristband with Broad Range of Applications

2011-12-13T06:00:00.000+01:00

DAILY RFID, a leading Chinese company of RFID tags and RFID readers, has recently released its colorful RFID UHF wristband-22 for broad range of access control applications. Based on the UHF 915MHz operating frequency, this RFID wristband tag supports ISO18000-6C Gen2 protocol.
Recreational area, amusement park, swimming pool, hospitals and more can use this UHF wristband to provide automated real-time tracking, so as to improve efficiency and accuracy while reducing costly and manual errors. This UHF RFID wristband can not only be an important means of admissions counterfeiting prevention at the entrance, but also can be used for cashless payment in ticket management applications.
And the read distance of this RFID UHF wristband varies basing on body type, ranging from a maximum of 3 meters to a minimum of 1 meter. Composed of silicone housing material, this ultra high frequency wristband is soft to skin and comfortable to wear. Moreover, it can be customized with various dimensions and printing in the band to fit your actual needs.
These waterproof and heat-resistant UHF wristbands are ideal for a wide range of applications, such as recreational area, amusement park, swimming pool and hospital. Besides, with its standard colors of red, yellow, green and blue, other colors are available on request.

Why QR codes aren't catching on

2011-12-12T06:00:00.001+01:00

Quick response (QR) codes -- those two-dimensional barcodes that resemble a checkerboard on LSD -- are appearing more frequently on billboards, magazine ads, business cards, stickers, T-shirts and anything that is used to promote stuff. But evidence suggests many people don't understand what QR codes are or what to do with them. Archrival, a research group that focuses on youth marketing, surveyed 500 students at 24 colleges and universities across the United States. They found that although about 80% of students owned a smartphone and had previously seen a QR code, only about 20% were able to successfully scan the example QR code they were shown.

New Gastonia recycle carts will have RFID chips removed

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000+01:00

A last-ditch effort by the newly elected Gastonia City Council will prevent monitoring devices from being included on the new recycle carts residents receive this month. About 27,000 new 96-gallon recycle carts are slated to be delivered to local residents. Council members on Tuesday voted 4-3 to immediately stop the delivery of any new recycle carts equipped with radio frequency identification, or RFID, chips. Having the devices on each cart would allow the city to monitor when a recycle cart was emptied by a truck at the curb. City officials planned to use that information, in part, to guide future education efforts in communities that weren’t recycling.

More QR Codes In Store

2011-12-09T06:00:00.001+01:00

According to a new survey of more than 500 marketers commissioned by AT&T, 88% plan to increase their mobile marketing programs over the next year, with mobile apps (those appearing on smartphones) and mobile barcodes topping the list of strategies they’re interested in deploying. (Only a little more than half are currently using them as part of their mobile strategy.)

Intelligent InSites Integrates Pentaho to Help Hospitals Improve Efficiencies With RFID

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000+01:00

Pentaho Corporation, the business analytics company providing power for technologists and rapid insight for users, today announced that it has partnered with Intelligent InSites, a leading provider of enterprise real-time location systems (RTLS) software helping hospitals improve patient satisfaction and operational performance. Intelligent InSites has incorporated Pentaho Business Analytics into their platform in order to automate RTLS data analysis and provide enhanced business intelligence tools for healthcare providers.
The Intelligent InSites platform offers an enterprise asset management solution, enabling hospitals to analyze data from RTLS and radio-frequency identity (RFID) tags on medical equipment. By tracking where equipment, such as wheelchairs or IV infusion pumps, is located at all times, hospitals can make better use of the assets they already have, eliminate unnecessary purchases and ensure equipment is available when needed. With the addition of Pentaho, hospitals using Intelligent InSites can perform extensive analysis on their RTLS and RFID data, uncover trends and gain actionable intelligence. For example, beyond locating wheelchairs in real time, healthcare organizations can discern if inventory is adequate and stored in convenient locations. In fact, hospitals using Intelligent InSites find that they have more equipment than they actually need; by making simple changes in response to the data analysis, these hospitals are making better use of their equipment and improving both overall patient care and their cost management.
Intelligent InSites also helps hospitals to manage their patient flow by tracking patients' progress from admission to discharge. Powered by Pentaho Business Analytics, Intelligent InSites enables hospitals to analyze processes, identify operational bottlenecks, shorten patients' length of stay, and improve patient safety and patient satisfaction. For example, when a patient is moved to an examination room, the system automatically alerts the nurse to take the patient's vital signs. As soon as the nurse finishes and leaves, the system notifies the doctor that the patient is ready to be seen. At the conclusion of the medical examination, the cleaning staff is notified to prepare the room for the next patient. Thanks to Intelligent InSites and Pentaho's real-time data analytics and visualization, hospitals work faster and more efficiently.
Quotes and Multimedia "Intelligent InSites is dedicated to helping hospitals analyze their data in order to find ways to improve patient care. With the addition of Pentaho's real-time analytics and business intelligence capabilities, we can offer hospitals a powerful platform to automatically capture data and identify trends like never before," said Carol Tweten, Director of Product Management at Intelligent InSites. "Our partnership with Pentaho is helping us supercharge hospitals' real-time location systems and RFID solutions, thereby improving overall healthcare, one optimized process at a time."
"Providing better healthcare at a lower cost is one of the most important challenges facing business sectors today," said Tom Leonard, Executive Vice President of Worldwide Business Development at Pentaho. "By adding Pentaho real-time analytics and business intelligence to its platform, Intelligent InSites is bringing an entirely new dimension to its ability to help hospitals improve operational efficiencies. Together, we provide hospitals with best-in-class tools to quickly analyze data and improve processes, ultimately providing better care for patients."

Goodyear releases its first RFID tyres

2011-12-08T06:00:00.001+01:00

Reduced downtime, improved tyre management and greater security are three of the advantages Goodyear claims the introduction of microchips into its truck tyre range will bring. The tyre maker has released its first product to utilise the technology, the Goodyear Regional RHT II RFID (Radio Frequency Identity) 435/50R19.5 trailer tyre; the microchip built into the tyre helps deliver fleet operators the above benefits through interfacing with FleetOnlineSolutions, Goodyear Dunlop’s internet-based tyre management programme.

World's First Standards-based Secure RFID Solution

2011-12-08T06:00:00.000+01:00

Privately funded Revere Security, the world's leading Edge Security provider, has announced that it entered into a partnership with Evigia, the RFID industry-leading provider of wireless and sensing solutions for government and commercial applications. "This is an important milestone in our strategy to focus the important active RFID market," said Rick Stephenson, President and CEO of Revere Security, "Evigia has shown a tremendous ability to deliver value to its clients across industries ranging from defense to cold chain. They operate right at the center of many of our key markets for secure RFID applications." Through this partnership Revere Security and Evigia will work together on joint product development, joint go-to-market approach for secure RFID solutions and a strategic roadmap to drive security technology innovation deeper into the wireless and sensor space. Evigia is the industry-leading provider of ISO 18000-7 integrated Active RFID sensors, transponders, tags and readers. The Evigia products and solutions enhance performance, improve energy efficiency and lower the cost of asset-management throughout supply chains and sensing networks. "Revere Security offers a set of security capabilities that is unique in the world today," commented Navid Yazdi, CEO of Evigia. He continued: "The Hummingbird HB-2 cryptographic suite protects the identity of and data on our transponders, tags and readers. We are very excited to be the first to market with these very important solution capabilities." Under the agreement, Evigia licenses Revere Security's Suite of cryptographic solutions including the Hummingbird HB-2 cipher and a highly optimized version of the AES-128 cipher as well as Revere Security's appliance for the secure and efficient distribution of symmetric keys in Edge Security applications. "These unique capabilities enable Evigia to not only encrypt data on tags and transponders, but equally important, to authenticate readers and tags in active RFID systems," said Erik Wood, VP of RFID at Revere Security. He continued "A third important capability of the Hummingbird HB-2 cryptographic suite is cloaking -- the ability of RFID tags to remain silent when they are interrogated by unknown readers." Revere Security's Hummingbird HB-2 cipher is the most power-efficient Edge Security solution available on the market today.

Codee Software Launches Business Edition QR Code

2011-12-07T06:00:00.001+01:00

Codee Software Inc. launched its first business product the Codee Business Edition, a full life cycle management product for QR codes for small and medium sized businesses. The service includes QR code generation, scan analytics, and mobile content management of 10 unique QR codes and includes an unlimited number of scans of the QR codes per month. Codee Business Edition is oriented toward businesses who want to market to the rapidly growing mobile consumer market.
Customers can configure marketing or other content specific to their business using the applications easy to use web interface. Once the content is configured, the QR codes can be printed on high quality vinyl stickers that the company offers at its online store. Alternatively the system can generate QR codes in high resolution print ready PDF files which can be used on advertising and marketing material, business cards, window decals, and other conventional print media.
Consumers scanning the QR codes see the business's advertising and marketing or promotional material. Using the web based management tools, businesses can change their QR code based message as often as they want without regenerating or redistributing the QR codes.
In addition to featues that support conventional marketing using QR codes, Codee also provides application features which let businesses use QR codes for customer service. These include configuring QR codes to dial the business when scanned, or QR codes that generate an SMS text to the business.
As regards the content management features, CTO John Motyl said "We designed the system so that a business can create a very nice looking mobile web page in a minimal amount of time. We have worked very hard on building out the geo-location and tracking components so that our customers can not only get their marketing message out but also find out when and where people are scanning the business's QR codes. We want to help the business understand how to effectively use marketing dollars by giving them the hard data on when and where their customers are viewing their marketing material."
One nice feature of the Codee system is the ability to configure a QR code as a 'quick dialer'. When configured this way a QR code when scanned, causes the consumers phone to call a number at the business. Using this feature, service and repair businesses can put a QR code on a sticker which they then attach to their work product so that when a customer wants to quickly contact service personnel they can scan the QR code which then causes the customers phone to dial the business directly. Businesses that sell consumables can also benefit by putting the QR codes on products that when scanned call the order desk.

Teijin Fibers to Launch RFID Smart Shelf-management System

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000+01:00

Teijin Fibers Ltd will start full-scale sales of a digital smart shelf-management system incorporating CELL FORM, its two-dimensional data-communication sheet, UHF radio frequency identification (RFID) reader and compatible tags, on December 19. CELL FORM enables a secure connection to read the RFID identification tag via electromagnetic waves on an ultra-thin, flat smart sheet that is placed on top of shelves. The system uses the UHF band because of its superior characteristics for long-range signal detection between the sheet and the RFID tags. This ensures stable communication over both short and long read ranges. CELL FORM employs an entirely new technology that confines electromagnetic waves to a cell within and around the smart sheet. The communication technology, called @CELL, was developed by Cellcross Co. Ltd, a spin-off venture company of the University of Tokyo. Teijin Fibers, an equity partner in the company, contributes specialized materials and manufacturing know-how for product development initiatives.
Teijin's shelf-management system comprises up to eight antenna-equipped CELL FORM smart sheets, a read/write module supplied by Convergence Systems Limited (CSL), software, and 400 RFID IC tags. The system is already used in a university library and an educational resource information center in Japan.
Teijin Fibers is now developing a global market for the system together with CSL.

mFoundry Secures $18 Million in Growth Capital

2011-12-06T06:00:00.001+01:00

mFoundry, a fast-growing provider of mobile banking and payments services, announced a new infusion of $18 Million in growth capital led by MasterCard Incorporated. Also participating in the round were industry leaders Intel Capital, FIS, and Motorola Mobility. MasterCard Incorporated and Intel Capital are new investors in mFoundry.
The capital will be used to fund the development of new payments-related mobile products and services targeted at financial institutions and mobile network operators. mFoundry will also use the proceeds to support the expansion of their existing and profitable mobile banking business.
With nearly 600 mobile banking and payments customers, mFoundry is benefiting from the fast-paced growth surrounding mobile financial services. A recent analysis from the Federal Reserve showed how long it has taken for various channels to hit 50% customer penetration. While ATM’s took over 15 years and online banking over 20 years, current forecasts are showing mobile banking hitting 50% adoption in a little over 6 years, making it the fastest growing banking channel ever.
mFoundry will continue to work closely on mobile banking opportunities with key strategic partner FIS, but will also expand the company’s focus to include additional payments opportunities with MasterCard, Motorola Mobility, FIS, and Intel.

NSIDE Secure and CorFire team to accelerate the rollout of NFC applications

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000+01:00

CorFire announced an agreement that promises to accelerate the rollout of NFC applications by ensuring that INSIDE Secure’s portfolio of MicroRead) and SecuRead NFC solutions, as well as its Open NFC protocol stack, are interoperable with CorTSM, CorFire’s trusted service manager (TSM) solution.
A third-generation product that sets a new standard for ease of integration, INSIDE Secure’s award-winning MicroRead NFC controller offers the broadest range of NFC options and provides the capacity to implement any secure element, including SIM or SD card, to support any business model. The INSIDE Secure SecuRead solution integrates the MicroRead NFC controller with a high-performance secure element and a GlobalPlatform-compliant Java Card(TM) operating system. The Open NFC protocol stack provides a complete open-source NFC middleware solution for mobile phones, embedded products and other devices.
CorTSM is CorFire’s standards compliant, enterprise-grade, service platform that delivers credentials securely to the mobile device. CorTSM plays a critical role in the mobile commerce value chain. For example, CorTSM enables financial institutions to issue credit cards and debit cards securely to mobile devices. Other service providers will use CorTSM to issue or deliver open/closed loop gift cards, private label cards and value-based rewards. The CorTSM solution benefits from CorFire’s expertise in Near Field Communication (NFC), mobile Over the Air (OTA) and smart card security and management, as well as a host of other must-have capabilities to ensure mobile data security.

MasterCard, mFoundry let banks create their own NFC mobile wallet

2011-12-05T06:00:00.001+01:00

MasterCard and mFoundry, a mobile banking specialist, are poised to help banks launch potentially hundreds of NFC-based mobile wallets with a new partnership. The collaboration will allow banks that use mFoundry for their mobile banking apps to add support for contactless NFC MasterCard PayPass payments, turning those mobile banking apps into digital wallet payment tools.

Global Chipless RFID Market worth $3,925 Million by 2016

2011-12-05T06:00:00.000+01:00

The global chipless RFID market is expected to reach $1,087.00 million by the end 2011. This market is expected to reach $3,925 million by 2016 at an estimated CAGR of 29.3%, according to the report "Chipless RFID Market (2011 - 2016) - Global Forecasts by Applications (Retail, Supply Chain, Aviation, Healthcare, Smart Card, Public Transit & Others)"
The largest share is held by the readers market and is expected to reach $417.00 million by the end of 2011. This market is expected to reach $1,205 million by 2016, at an estimated CAGR of 23.6%. Chipless tag market is expected to reach $375.00 million with the highest CAGR of 83.5%.
In terms of geographies, North America contributes the maximum market share; i.e. 44% in the overall Global chipless RFID market [ http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/chipless-rfid-market-501.html ] in 2010. APAC and Europe hold almost same market share. However, APAC is expected to grow with the highest CAGR of 37% from 2011 to 2016.

100,000 XIRING Smartcard Readers Ordered by Moneo Payment Solutions

2011-12-02T06:00:00.001+01:00

XIRING, a security solutions provider for electronic transactions, won the call for tenders issued by Moneo Payment Solutions. Known for its e-purse, Moneo Payment Solutions also offers many other applications that make it the leader in multiservice cards (Student, Company and City cards). It is in this context that Moneo Payment Solutions entered into an exclusive contract with XIRING for the supply of 100,000 Liteo smartcard readers over a term of one year. This order confirms the longstanding partnership between Moneo Payment Solutions and XIRING.
These 100,000 readers will allow Moneo Payment Solutions' clients and partners to carry out online recharging and purchases transactions with their Moneo card. "We would like to offer our clients the possibility of recharging their Moneo card from anywhere they have Internet access. We also intend to facilitate making anonymous payments over the Internet" specifies Serge Ragozin, CEO of Moneo Payment Solutions.

FileTrail ensures viability of transplant organs at Cheif Medical Examiner of Maryland

2011-12-02T06:00:00.000+01:00

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Maryland has implemented an RFID tracking solution from FileTrail, an automated system which will be used to track cadavers and office case files. The 7-story building will be equipped with RFID sensors place above the drop-ceiling at designated locations throughout. This will automate case file tracking, allowing users to the view the current location as they are moved among clerks’ cubicles, elevator lobbies and key transitions areas.

TAGSYS Joins VICS Item-Level RFID Initiative

2011-12-01T06:00:00.001+01:00

TAGSYS, a provider of item-level RFID infrastructure, today announced it has joined the VICS Item Level RFID Initiative (VILRI), which advocates for the use of EPC-enabled RFID in the retail supply chain. TAGSYS joins leading technology vendors, brand owners, manufacturers, and industry trade associations in supporting the initiative.
VILRI, which is administered by the Voluntary Interindustry Commerce Solutions (VICS) Association, is dedicated to quantifying the benefits of item-level RFID and exploring how the technology can improve business processes in the retail value chain.
Because TAGSYS provides a complete, end-to-end, scalable RFID solution for retailers, the company will contribute both technical and business process knowledge to the VLRI subcommittees in which it will participate. By supporting the VILRI, TAGSYS will also have opportunities to educate potential customers on the value of emerging RFID applications in the retail sector and have access to a new level of visibility into trends in other retail segments.
"TAGSYS is focused on providing complete RFID-based solutions to the apparel and footwear supply chain, and we recognize the importance and value of the VICS Item Level RFID Initiative in educating the market and driving the adoption of this technology in that sector," said Douglas Karp, TAGSYS VP of North American Operations. "By participating in the VILRI, we further enhance our efforts in promoting item-level RFID adoption in the retail sector, while simultaneously gaining new market insight that will help us develop solutions to better meet the needs of our customers."
TAGSYS has participated in a number of large-scale, item-level RFID deployments around the globe, including an installation for French sportswear retailer Serge Blanco that tracks garments throughout the supply chain to the point of sale.
"We are pleased that TAGSYS has chosen to participate in VILRI, and look forward to incorporating the experience and knowledge they have gained in the apparel and retail markets into our own efforts to promote item-level RFID use," said Joseph Andraski, VICS President & CEO.

NFC and the merchants of menace

2011-12-01T06:00:00.000+01:00

Announcements from vendors gambling millions of dollars on mobile payments are commonplace. Just this week saw announcements of liquid handsets, tipping points and more joint ventures. The hype cycle is in full swing. However, NFC, or near field communications, and other mobile payment technologies, have their doubters, and those doubters have their reasons. Breakthroughs in payments technology seem to happen regularly – and disappear just as quickly. A decade ago Visa was at the forefront of contact smart cards. Loyalty programs and vouchers were set to take the marketing and payments worlds by storm. Retail giant Target bought in big,

Why NAB's NFC isn't out yet

2011-11-30T06:00:00.001+01:00

In 2007, the National Australia Bank (NAB) teamed up with Telstra and Visa to offer 250 users the chance to test out one of the first near-field communication (NFC) payment trials in Australia. At the time, the bank said it could be ready for mass market deployment within a few years. Four years later and the bank seems no closer to commercialising the product. What happened? Speaking at the Informa Digital Money summit today in Sydney, key executives from NAB and Telstra spoke on the product's development process, saying that it was a hard slog even getting it off the ground.

New Credit/Debit Card Sleeves from ICFE Use New Anti-RFID Technology

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000+01:00

The widespread and often illegal use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has made carrying a driver's license, military/government ID, many passports, and credit/debit cards very risky because of the easy ability of electronic eavesdroppers to read magnetic strips and computer chips which are embedded in the cards.
Protecting personal information on credit/debit cards is a top priority for everyone. Now it can be done inexpensively with the ICFE's new anti-RFID Credit/Debit Card Sleeves. Practically anywhere someone goes with ID and/or credit/debit cards on their person they are very vulnerable to thieves - electronic pickpockets - unless they have these new sleeves with the anti-RFID technology to protect their cards.
Here is what to protect: Driver's licenses, passport cards, military and government IDs, credit cards, debt cards, bank cards, and medical and other insurance cards.
Cards that are carried in pockets, or kept in a wallet, pocketbook or briefcase are especially vulnerable. The result is stolen credit and identity and the victims didn't feel a thing. The hand held RFID scanners look like a small laptop notebook. All the user needs to do is stand near an entrance to a bank or store and scan the unprotected cards of unsuspecting consumers.
The nonprofit Institute of Consumer Financial Education, based in San Diego, CA, (icfe.info) is introducing new, specially laminated credit/debit card sleeves designed to keep personal information safe from prying electronic eavesdroppers. Electronic pick pockets will be out in force during the Christmas shopping season, especially at the malls.
The secret is the certified lamination consisting of a poly film and RFID shielding substrate. The new technology prevents the magnetic stripe, found on almost all passport, ID cards and credit/debit cards, and even those with a chip embedded therein, from being read by RFID scanners, no matter how close the scanner is held to the card/chip as long as the card/chip is kept inside the ICFE sleeves.
The ICFE first made the credit/debit card sleeves, a/k/a the credit card condom, available in 1993. Since then, hundreds of thousands are in circulation world-wide.

New lane coming to speed up US border crossing

2011-11-29T06:00:00.001+01:00

The Ready Lane is set to open at the San Ysidro Port of Entry by the end of the year, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The agency is pushing border crossers who are eligible to obtain specific travel documents embedded with a certain technology so they can use the speedy lane. A Ready Lane is designated for those whose travel documents are equipped with radio frequency identification technology (RFID) such as a U.S. Passport Card, a new Border Crossing Card or other documents.

Charlie Walton, inventor of RFID, passes away

2011-11-29T06:00:00.000+01:00

Charlie Walton, the inventor of an ubiquitous wireless technology known as RFID, has passed away at 89. Walton, who lived in Los Gatos, died on Nov. 6, according to his wife Ann Walton. I once wrote an article about Walton while at the San Jose Mercury News and his efforts to proselytize RFID, known in long form as radio frequency identification.

CoreRFID Launch RFID Research Innovation Award

2011-11-28T06:00:00.001+01:00

ONE of the UK’s leading companies in the highly specialised field of radio frequency ID tagging (RFID) is launching a unique research grant specifically aimed at the student and academic community. The new grant, entitled the CoreRFID Research Innovation Award, aims to act as a launch pad for students interested in the commercially burgeoning field of radio frequency ID technologies and to bring the commercial skills of CoreRFID and academia together.
CoreRFID Ltd, based in Warrington, has established a prominent reputation in the global RFID industry for delivering innovative products and services that help its clients track inventory, assets, livestock and many other items in the public and the private private sector. With customers in the UK, Europe, USA and Australia, the company is now working on some of the most advanced RFID projects in the world.

Atmel introduces single chip RFID reader

2011-11-28T06:00:00.000+01:00

Atmel has introduced a microcontroller with an RFID reader block for LF Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK) RFID readers and programmers for access control, industrial automation and animal identification applications. This is claimed to be the first MCU with full LF RFID reader functionality within a single package. Traditonally, the MCU and RFID reader are located in two different packages.

It is available in a 5mm x 7mm QFN package and operating in the low-frequency (LF) range at 100-150kHz.

Omni Dallas Hotel installs InvoTech’s GIMS uniform tracking system

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000+01:00

The Omni Dallas Hotel has selected InvoTech Systems Inc. for its ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID uniform system inventory software. The 1,001 room luxury hotel will be provided with InvoTech’s GIMS garment tracking software and all related equipment including approximately 6,000 UHF RFID laundry tags, valued at $150,000.

Crocus and Morpho Sign Agreement to Develop Smart Cards

2011-11-24T06:00:00.000+01:00

Crocus Technology, a leading developer of magnetically enhanced semiconductors, and Morpho (Safran group), a leading supplier of identification, detection and e-document solutions, today announced an agreement to develop and commercialize the world's first smart card based on Crocus' Magnetic-Logic-Unit (MLU) technology. The agreement enables the companies to collaborate on a new breed of smart cards, which integrate Crocus' disruptive MLU technology with Morpho's industry leading smart card architecture.
Under the terms of the agreement, Crocus will develop an MLU-based secure microcontroller which Morpho will integrate into its smart card products. The secure microcontroller product will be compliant with the latest quality and security standards.
Crocus' MLU, based on a revolutionary magnetics architecture, is a scalable evolution of its Thermally Assisted Switching™ (TAS) technology. MLU enables practical implementation of advanced logic and memory capabilities, a first for the industry. It is anticipated that the increased security, speed, reliability and cost efficiency offered by Crocus' MLU technology will provide significant advantages for Morpho's smart cards. Previous generations of smart card designs have been based on Flash memory technology, and this application of MLU is a first in the $20+ billion smart card and microcontroller semiconductor market segments.

Biometrics, smart cards for physical access at LA-area airports

2011-11-23T06:00:00.000+01:00

The Los Angeles World Airports, which oversees airport operations for the city of Los Angeles, has awarded a contract modification to Unisys to upgrade its access control and alarm monitoring system that is used to identify the 45,000 airport employees, contractors, police and others who work at the organization’s three airports. Under the modification, potentially worth an estimated $10.3 million over one year, Unisys will provide services such as site assessments, engineering, installation and training on the system’s new features. Unisys will also upgrade the airport authority’s network infrastructure.

KMA Develops Baggage Tag ‎

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000+01:00

KMA Global Solutions International, Inc. has developed a new Baggage Tag to be permanently affixed to both new and used luggage. This tag will be tested along with their tracking system to be able to follow the bag throughout the baggage handling system. The tag is designed from a durable material capable of withstanding up to 200 lbs of pressure before failure.
KMA is working with a global leader in material development that will allow for extreme durability and the ability to read the RFID tag at controlled distances.
PI Innovations Baggage tracking system is designed to handle over 2 Billion bags annually for the airline Industry. This creates large savings for the Airlines having their own internal system versus a third party user fee system. KMA has signed a MOU with PI Innovation to develop and create the RFID solutions for their new process.
KMA's DUAL Tag provides theft protection through its innovative combination of two leading Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) technologies in a single, high-speed application. Packaging companies that have adopted DUAL Tag consider it to be of great benefit to their operation. When compared to applying the two EAS technologies separately, production efficiencies increase substantially and overall costs are significantly reduced. DUAL Tag eliminates inventory costs associated with duplicate inventories that differ only by EAS technology and allows products to be sold through any retail channel.
About KMA Global Solutions International, Inc.

Terso Solutions Launches New RFID-Enabled Ultra Low Temperature (ULT) Freezer

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000+01:00

Terso Solutions, Inc has expanded its line of RFID-enabled enclosures with the addition of an RFID-enabled Ultra Low Temperature (ULT) freezer that is well-suited for research labs, healthcare providers, manufacturers and distributors, and forensic facilities. The new freezer makes better use of freezer space, reduces manual processes, lowers maintenance costs, and protects high value products such as tissue, biosamples, genetic material, and reagents.
"The success of our -20 degrees C RFID-enabled freezer led our customers to request a solution for managing their biosample and tissue inventory, which needs to be stored between -50 degrees C and -86 degrees C," said Joe Pleshek, chief executive officer at Terso Solutions. "Our integrated RFID solution can reduce the time spent opening doors to search for product, and eliminate manual inventory cycle counts. The new ULT freezer not only eliminates manual processes, but ensures that all items stored inside are fresh and free of degradation due to age, temperature, or improper storage."
The new freezer has 14.9 cubic feet of storage space and can store products down to -86 degrees C. RFID technology enables the freezer to capture inventory transactions at the item level by user, leading to greater accountability. In addition, the new freezer monitors temperature and expiration dates, and can also trigger alarms when freezer doors are left open.
Using secure access, each inventory transaction is automatically captured and processed — in real-time. And best of all, the data can be analyzed to track product usage, improve workflows, and make better business decisions.
Terso has deployed close to 1000 RFID-enabled cabinets, freezers and refrigerators around the world. All of Terso's products are certified by the Federal Communications Commission for EMC emissions and have received CE, C-Tick and UL certifications.

Intel and MasterCard join Mobile Payment race

2011-11-18T06:00:00.004+01:00

Intel and MasterCard are collaborating on a solution for secure online shopping, another entry in the increasingly crowded mobile payment field. The chip maker and credit card company are expected to launch a multi-year, strategic collaboration combining Intel's Identity Protection Technology, which builds security authentication into its chips, Ultrabook laptops and other devices, with MasterCard's wireless payment service, called PayPass. The deal may signify the two companies' wish to compete in the growing mobile payment market, as more people shop online from mobile devices and want their shopping experiences made easier and more secure.

Boeing Looking At RFID On Production Aircraft

2011-11-18T06:00:00.000+01:00

Boeing, now formally offering radio-frequency identification (RFID) to keep parts records on aircraft already in service, is looking at introducing the technology as factory standard on commercial and military aircraft. The company expects the FAA to certify the system by the end of the year, says Program Manager Phil Coop. The system made it to the market only a year after Boeing and electronics and software supplier Fujitsu launched the program in October 2010 primarily because its development began six years ago with the aim of fitting it as standard equipment on the Boeing 787.

Oberthur Technologies Offers an Ultra-Secure Smart Card Driving Licence

2011-11-17T06:00:00.001+01:00

Oberthur Technologies, a global leader in the delivery of high security solutions announces the launch of its new range of ultra-secure driving licences at the Cartes 2011 exhibition.
Oberthur Technologies' driving licence offer relies on three key technologies - structure, security components and chip -- making this solution one of the most secure on the market.
The card structure is made of Oberthur Technologies' Cardamant(TM) range in polycarbonate or composite material particularly suited to long service life in the field. Oberthur Technologies' driving licence cards incorporate all the physical security components specified by ISO-18013 standard, notably very high security fiduciary printing.
The driving licence operating system chip supplied by Oberthur Technologies meets the ISO specifications defined by the international community. Its high level of security is certified Common Criteria-- the international certification standard for logical security -- at EAL5+ level, which places it amongst the most secure chips in the world.

M2M Protects Cargo Shipments

2011-11-17T06:00:00.000+01:00

Each day millions of containers travel across the globe carrying precious cargo. Sadly, however, many of these containers never quite make it to their final destination. M2M (machine-to-machine)-based solutions seem like an ideal fit for solving the cargo-tracking challenge. However, Dominique Bonte, the telematics and navigation group director at ABI Research says while RFID-based point solutions at port yards are becoming more established in places like North America and Western Europe, he has been disappointed in the uptake of more advanced GPS-based solutions for this task. This despite the fact many new regulations and legislative efforts have been put into place post 9/11 to help add an extra layer of security.

Washington Capitals Use Smartphones, Mobile QR Codes to Increase Fan Engagement

2011-11-16T06:00:00.001+01:00

Monumental Sports & Entertainment, owner of three professional sports franchises in Washington, D.C., and the Verizon Center, the premier sports and entertainment venue in Washington, D.C., began engaging professional hockey fans using QR codes and smartphones during the 2011-12 season.
When asked what led to the decision to add QR codes to their series of marketing tools, Mike Chan, Director of Strategic Marketing for the Washington Capitals, said, "We decided some time ago that QR codes had a place in our overall marketing strategy. Conceptually, the ability to link print to digital is very appealing. The turning point for us came after a compelling demonstration of the unique toolset offered by linkblots™. The ability to easily manage a QR code campaign with minimal additional work got our attention. What convinced us that the codes can be an integral part of our marketing campaigns, however, was our very first direct mail campaign incorporating linkblots™ QR codes, in which the QR codes far exceeded our expectations when compared to traditional methods of collecting user response metrics."
The direct mail campaign was sent to a large number of households and contained a linkblots™ QR code, a call-in number and a web URL. The QR code alone generated a response rate close to a typical house list direct mail campaign when taking smartphone penetration numbers into account.

New cost blow over myki smartcard

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000+01:00

The cost of the troubled (Australian) myki smartcard to the taxpayer could dramatically escalate, racking up a bill worth as much as $290 million. Fare revenue for Metro and Yarra Trams during 2010-11 fell $76 million short of expectations, which has been topped up by the taxpayer. The latest impost, on top of the $1.35 billion project cost, is the result of a deal with the transport operators to top up fare money. A decision by the previous government in 2008, followed by the Baillieu Government's delaying of the full introduction of myki, means Metro and Yarra Trams get guaranteed extra income until 2013.

Scandit Barcode Scanner now available worldwide

2011-11-15T06:00:00.001+01:00

The Scandit Barcode Scanner and Comparison Shopper app is now globally available as a free download for Apple, Android and Nokia smartphones on the iTunes Application store, the Android Market and the Nokia App store. One year after its successful US market launch, the Scandit Barcode Scanner and Comparison Shopper app now enables smart shoppers around the world to scan barcodes and QR codes, find the best prices or read reviews for millions of consumer products.
Scandit has also released a stand-alone QR Code Scanner app as a simple and powerful alternative to scan QR codes and access associated information. The app allows users to keep track of previously scanned QR codes and share them via Facebook, Twitter, e-mail or SMS. The Scandit QR Code Scanner app is available globally as a free download for iOS on the iTunes App Store.

Orange delivers RFID solution to Columbia health centers

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000+01:00

Centros Especializados de San Vicente Fundacion, Columbia has chosen Orange Business Services to integrate and deliver RFID-based technology and communications services at its new branch launched in October. The new branch comprises 12 specialized health centers, integrated by Orange Business Services with a real-time hospital asset and resource tracking system, based on RFID technology.

Trimble Expands Enterprise RFID Capabilities with ThingMagic Mercury6 Reader Upgrade

2011-11-14T06:00:00.001+01:00

Trimble announced a firmware upgrade to its ThingMagic Mercury6 (M6) RFID reader for the integration of high-performance RFID into enterprise, commercial and industrial environments. The upgrade features support for the EPCglobal Low-Level Reader Protocol (LLRP) v 1.0.1, custom LLRP extensions and reader-hosted applications, providing partners and users with application programming flexibility and "plug-and-play" access to the rich capabilities and performance of the ThingMagic M6 reader.
LLRP provides a flexible and extensible industry-standard interface for operating network-connected RFID readers. With support for LLRP v 1.0.1, the ThingMagic M6 can interface with a wide range of popular enterprise infrastructures and business systems, offer increased scalability, and lower the cost and technical barriers associated with RFID adoption.
"A growing number of organizations are deploying RFID technology and integrating the data with existing enterprise systems for critical aspects of their business," said Tom Grant, general manager of Trimble's ThingMagic Division. "The features added in this upgrade allow our customers to recognize the business benefits of RFID faster, and make it easier for our channel partners to sell and support ThingMagic products."
The upgrade also offers custom extensions to the standard implementation of LLRP. These include support for Gen2 Tag extension commands from several leading RFID chip and tag vendors, and "policy-centric" read plans that allow users to define how to interact with tags and then apply the same policy to any antenna deployed with the reader, rather than forcing users to follow the LLRP "antenna-centric" model.
Offering additional flexibility to its developer and user communities, ThingMagic customers now have the option of operating M6 readers with the ThingMagic MercuryAPI or LLRP depending on their project requirements. Existing M6 customers can take advantage of LLRP by upgrading to the new interface without changing how their current host programs interact with the API - making the transition seamless and transparent.