QR code stamps let senders attach video content to physical mail

Croatia’s Hrvatska Pošta scheme has already leveraged QR codes on stamps to help the country’s postal service track the whereabouts of mail. Now the Australia Post is making the technology useful for consumers, enabling them to attach a recorded video message to the physical envelopes they send through the Video Stamp.

Motorola Sled Reader Adds Low-Cost RFID Functionality to Mobile Computers

A variety of companies, ranging from mines to bakeries, are currently trialing a new, low-cost Motorola Solutions EPC Gen 2 ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) RFID reader in the form of a sled that snaps onto a Motorola mobile computer with a built-in bar-code scanner. For Motorola Solutions, the RFD5500 sled reader—which fits onto the company's existing MC55, MC65 and MC67 family of handheld computers—represents the first new RFID-based product the firm has offered in many years. - See more at: http://www.rfidjournal.com/articles/view?11203#sthash.s57gyFfs.dpuf

5 Reasons QR Codes May Not Be As Dead As We Think

It’s always difficult to admit when you are wrong about something, especially when you have spent a lot of time publicly railing against it. In this case, while I’m not quite going so far as to admit that I’m wrong about the death of the QR code (I waxed poetically about this several months ago), I am willing to take another look at the technology. In fairness to my original assertion that QR codes were dead, I was clear to pin a majority of blame on marketers and their misuse of QR codes versus the technology itself. I also spelled out several reasons why QR codes hadn’t succeeded.

N.J. Trash Collector Uses RFID to Pay Customers Who Recycle

Sanico, a provider of recycling and garbage-collection services in northwestern New Jersey, has seen a rise in the recycling rates of its customers, thanks to the use of a radio frequency identification system that rewards participating residents by reducing their waste-removal bill. The company is employing an Aviant Systems solution consisting of passive ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) RFID tags affixed to recycling canisters, a reader on each of its recyclables collection trucks, and an onboard computer that interprets read data and then forwards that information to Aviant's server via a cellular connection. - See more at: http://www.rfidjournal.com/articles/view?11187#sthash.y3YejejZ.dpuf

Trumpf Adds RFID to Its Laser Cutting Machines

When manufacturing companies use laser machines to cut through pieces of sheet metal, the maintenance of such devices falls in the hands of the machine operators. Cutting through metal requires a very precise laser beam that passes through a lens to ensure it is directed properly. If the lens is dirty, worn or damaged, things can go wrong during the metal-cutting process. Trumpf, which has provided laser cutting machines for sheet metal since 1979, is incorporating RFID technology into its products to help end users track how long and how often a particular lens has been used, as well as when it was cleaned, in order to ensure that the lens receives the maintenance it requires and is not being utilized past its lifespan, which could result in bad cuts.

Zebra Launches Zatar 'Internet of Things' Service for RFID Readers, Networked Devices

Several companies are currently testing a new application from Zebra Technologies, known as Zatar. The new app, according to Zebra, enables the firms to manage printers, RFID readers, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and other networked electronic devices remotely. Although businesses can already purchase software to receive and display data from wireless devices—such as RFID readers or printers, forklifts or thermostats—such software can be costly and is typically installed at a single site rather than shared across multiple locations that may be in separate countries or on different continents.

Datalogic Boosts Efficiencies With 200 High Speed Barcode Readers

Datalogic, a global leader in Automatic Data Capture and Industrial Automation markets and producer of bar code readers, data collection mobile computers, sensors, vision systems and laser marking systems, is boosting efficiency and precision for a major sports and apparel manufacturer’s Chinese logistics center in Jiangsu Province, one of the largest logistics centers in Asia.
The company’s logistics center was established in 2011 and operates as a giant central processor. The sorting and management of all the goods depend on powerful digital information acquisition and handling capabilities, including a 9km conveyor belt, order picking machines, automated warehouse management systems etc. The logistics technology and equipment make the center one of the best in the world for allocative efficiency and throughput capability.

Production of 2D and 3D Barcode Printing and Reading using Lumenera’s High-performance Digital Cameras

Industry leaders are using Lumenera's high-performance industrial digital cameras in the manufacture and verification of complicated 2D and 3D barcode labels, which employ symbols instead of bars or parallel lines as in the case of conventional 1D barcodes. Barcode labels have found use in a myriad of industries, including pharmaceutical, healthcare, grocery, retail, automotive, and manufacturing. The technology is developing and extending for cell-phone users to see information such as coupons and ads instantly. To help these industries, Lumenera provides user-friendly USB 2.0 imaging solutions and a Software Development Kit (LuSDK), which is customizable for any specific application.

Finnish Dairy Company Tracks Products Via Carts With RFID-tagged Wheel

Valio, a Finnish company that manufactures dairy consumer products, as well as powdered milk and other ingredients for the food industry, is piloting an automated solution for monitoring products as they move through packing and shipping processes, via RFID-enabled wheels on carts, also known as trolleys, that transport the goods. Aksulit supplied the RFID solution, which features Tagwheel—a plastic wheel with a passive ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) tag built into it. The wheel, developed for this deployment by RFID tag and services provider Wisteq, fits onto a trolley on which goods are transported. The solution also includes software developed by Aksulit, as well as readers provided by Impinj, according to Asko Puoliväli, Aksulit's CEO. - See more at: http://www.rfidjournal.com/articles/view?11179#sthash.rFoV1mG4.dpuf

Australia Post introduces QR code 'video stamps'

Australia Post has introduced a video stamp which when used with a mobile application lets senders record a 15-second video for a recipient. The postal service has printed more than 3 million of the stamps for the holiday season, which can be affixed to domestic Express Post or Express Courier International packages. The QR code stamps cost no more than regular ones but could eventually turn into a revenue source.

Rabobank preps commercial Dutch NFC m-payments service

Rabobank is preparing a full Netherlands-wide commercial launch of an NFC mobile payments service next year. The bank's customers with NFC-enabled handsets will be able to apply for 'mobile payment cards' online which will let them make low-value payments through their phones at stores with contactless POS terminals.

These Human RFID Tags Can Connect with Your Phone

For those would-be cyborgs and biohackers who aren’t quite up to the challenge of stitching a rather large box under their skin, biohacking company Dangerous Things may have the solution. The company, which boasts a range of “custom gadgetry for the discerning hacker,” started an Indiegogo campaign on October 28 to raise money for their latest product, the xNT NFC implant, and have already surpassed its $8000 funding goal. In the project description, they describe the xNT as “the world's first NFC compliant RFID implant,” and say they’ve already successfully beta-tested four prototypes.

Visualead ushers in a new generation of QR codes

QR codes are beginning to evolve to meet the needs of consumers and businesses that have a strong interest in dynamic digital content. The codes have become a staple in the marketing field, but are often criticized as being too ugly or boring. This critique is not falling on deaf ears, however, as Visualead, a pioneer in the interactive technology field, works to bring new life to QR codes and change how they are perceived. Visualead gained renown through the creation of so called Visual QR codes. These codes forgo the traditional black and white blocky patterns of conventional QR codes in favor of a more aesthetically pleasing design.

PayPal Using QR Codes To Play Nice With Big Retailers

Forget using a debit card that next time you’re at one of the Big Box stores of the world. PayPal has a new trick up its sleeve. Traditionally used as an alternative way to make and receive payments online, PayPal now offers consumers with a way to use its service in stores. That’s right: Soon you will be able to use your PayPal account to pay for things offline.

SMARTRAC reaches comprehensive solution for pending RFID patent dispute

SMARTRAC announced that it has entered into an agreement with Round Rock Research LLC to resolve a RFID patent dispute.The RFID license agreement with Round Rock provides a solution for end users including retailers, brand owners, customers and RFID supply chain partners, for undeterred RFID deployments. The agreement is further designed to facilitate dismissal of pending litigation between Round Rock and retailers and brand owners based on follow-on individual agreements. The licensing agreement is non-exclusive.
End users, such as retailers and brand owners that implement RFID solutions using SMARTRAC licensed RFID tags, which may be processed, supplied, or distributed through SMARTRAC's customers and supply chain network, and used in combination with Motorola Solutions' fixed and handheld readers, are free from Round Rock RFID patent claims.

QR Code Startups Continue To Be Hot

By now, everyone has seen a QR code, those little square dots arranged in a seemingly haphazard pattern against a square white background–as they seem to be cropping up in some of the strangest places. Whether they’re on a real estate ad, a coffee cup, or splattered across the front of a t-shirt, the QR Code is gaining ground the globe over. And it is not surprising that start-up companies continue to form with the hopes of cashing in on this two-dimensional barcode’s versatility and popularity. While some detractors say that QR Codes have reached their plateau, there is compelling evidence to the contrary.

Keltron may take up RFID-enabled project

The Kerala State Electronics Development Corporation (Keltron) has come forward to assist the Road Safety Authority for implementing the Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID)-enabled punching stations in selected locations in the city. In the first phase, the existing punching station at Elathur will be made ready for the trial run. On completion of the experimental phase, it will be extended to seven other locations. Regional Transport Officer Rajiv Puthalath, who is also a member of the Road Safety Authority, said, “Keltron is now ready with a proposal of Rs.13 lakh to complete the first phase installation, which will include exclusive servers and other computer facilities.”

QR Codes Are Now A Fashion Statement

Consider, if you will, the long, tumultuous history of the necktie. In the 70′s, the Disco Era, you had ties so wide they could double as lobster bibs. In the much cooler 80′s, they went skinny, which in itself was a revival of 50′s fashion. Then of course, there always the threat of competition with bowties, which occasionally enjoy a resurgence of popularity in certain circles, especially when a Time Lord wears one. So, what does the 21st century have in store for the next stage in necktie evolution? How about combining the necktie with two hot concepts, namely QR Codes and Kickstarter? Yes, we’re talking about fashionable neckties with QR Codes printed on them.

ACS Awarded NFC Forum Certification for ACR1252U

Advanced Card Systems Ltd. (ACS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Advanced Card Systems Holdings Ltd., SEHK: 8210), has received the NFC Forum Certification for its ACR1252U. The ACR1252U is a next-generation USB NFC reader and one of the first NFC Forum-certified readers in the industry. This contactless reader builds on 13.56 MHz and ISO14443 contactless technologies, which are among the most widely adhered to standards in the industry.
Being authorized to use the NFC Forum Certification Mark proves that the ACR1252U can truly perform the three NFC modes: card emulation, reader and peer-to-peer (P2P). The ACR1252U performs these by mimicking an NFC card/tag, reading an NFC card/tag and interacting with other NFC mobile phones/devices, respectively.
Together, these technical features mean that the ACR1252U is good not only for traditional network security and loyalty applications, but also for some interesting and creative NFC applications, such as smart posters, mobile payments, and file exchange with other NFC devices.
The NFC Forum Certification is also an industry gold standard of compliance that guarantees a level of interoperability with other NFC devices. Given the foreseen upsurge of NFC devices and applications, this interoperability makes devices more versatile and widens options for users.

RF Technologies Releases Enhancements to Help Alert Wireless Panic Button Solution

RF Technologies, a provider of RFID and RTLS safety and security solutions, has released version 2.1 of its Help Alert Wireless Staff Duress Solution, which provides priority-based alerts, universal device access through HTML5, and a simple desktop application.
Help Alert uses discreet mobile panic buttons, or pendants, as a proactive, cost-effective solution to protect staff, patients, teachers, students and guests. When pressed, pendants broadcast a silent alarm that can be configured to alert security teams, first responders, or local police through a computer or mobile device.
"The increased need for safety in places like schools, hospitals and hotels means facilities are looking for a simple, yet multi-functional duress solution. Help Alert is as easy to use as it always has been, now with more features that help get a fast response when it's needed most," said Bill Bulzoni, vice president of business development, PinPoint.
Instead of having a system that only summons onsite support or calls the police, both types of duress calls can be made from one button on the Help Alert pendant with the multi-mode feature. Pressing the button once will generate a normal alarm. If the button is pressed and held, or pressed multiple times within a short period, a priority alarm is generated.

Super-precise motion tracking system uses projected barcode light patterns

Motion-tracking systems like Wii and Kinect have certainly changed the way we play video games – among other things – but some people still complain that there's too much of a lag between real-world player movements and the corresponding in-game movements of the characters. The creators of the experimental Lumitrack system, however, claim that it has much less lag time than existing systems ... plus it's highly accurate and should be cheap to commercialize.

Internet of things: stop debating terminology, start talking money

The term the Internet of Things was conceived when the Massachusetts Institute of Technology set up the Auto ID Center in 1998. It focussed on applying an electronic tag (RFID) to all items, effectively connecting them to a wider network - the internet. Automated monitoring en-masse throughout the value chain could make logistics faster and more cost effective, reduce theft and counterfeiting and provide other benefits such as no stock-outs in shops. However, this ambitious project took time to take off - developing the technology, standards and then finding the first financially successfully applications. The UHF RFID industry moved through the hype cycle of visionary dreaming; huge investment; disappointment in early sales, performance and user pull, to a pragmatic and now increasingly profitable approach today.

How Can I Track the Mileage of a Chassis Via RFID?

Unfortunately, there is no such off-the-shelf system currently available. I believe it could be done, but it would involve some customization. I think the way to do it would be to track the mileage of the cab to which a particular chassis was hitched. In 2011, we wrote about an RFID system deployed by Avis Car Rental. A device called a Motor Vehicle Asset Communicator (MVAC) is installed in a car, powered by the vehicle's battery. The MVAC receives and transmits RFID data, and also controls the car door's locking mechanism, tracking the vehicle's mileage and fuel consumption (see Avis Uses RFID for Remote Location Rentals). - See more at: http://www.rfidjournal.com/blogs/experts/entry?10789#sthash.1f0OOJ4m.dpuf