Are There Any RFID Pressure Sensors?

Yes, there are. Many cars now come with sensors to measure air pressure in tires. These sensors are integrated with an RFID device that can communicate wirelessly (see Michelin Uses RFID to Track Tire Pressure and Tread for London Bus Company and Crane Aerospace and Electronics' RFID-Based Tire Pressure Sensor Simplifies Aircraft Maintenance). There are also active RFID pressure sensors for measuring air pressure within a closed area. RF Code, for example, offers the R160 Air Pressure Sensor, designed specifically for use in data centers. The sensor tags gather environmental data and transmit it via radio frequency communication to fixed and mobile readers every 10 seconds. - See more at: http://www.rfidjournal.com/blogs/experts/entry?10898#sthash.ODhpEKfH.dpuf

When Barcodes Become The Basis For Contemporary Art

Barcoding, Inc. Establishes RFID by Barcoding Practice

Barcoding, Inc. , an enterprise-wide mobility solutions VAR, announces the establishment of RFID by Barcoding, a new, dedicated practice for the design, development, implementation, and advancement of Radio Frequency Identification Technology (RFID). “Barcoding has long offered and supported RFID systems, but as we continue to grow and expand our team of experts, creating a separate practice for RFID was a logical step,” said Shane Snyder, Barcoding president. “While we will continue to provide the same leading data capture technologies and end-to-end systems integration, we now have a dedicated group of resources to help ensure that our clients receive all the benefits of their RFID investment.”

After Target breach, the fight's on for smart cards

The data breach at Target may speed up the adoption of more secure credit card technology in this country, something that has dragged on for years. Chip-based "smart cards," already used in Europe, are difficult to counterfeit because the account information is encrypted and stored in an embedded microchip. Most point-of-sale transactions with these smart cards cannot be authorized without a PIN code. That's why it's called "PIN and chip" technology. Matthew Shay, president and CEO of the National Retail Federation, has sent a letter to the congressional leaders, calling on the banking industry to switch from the easy-to-hack magnetic stripe to the more secure PIN and chip.

Thinfilm Buys Kovio, Goes Mobile With NFC Circuit Printing

Printed electronics provider Thinfilm revealed Jan. 22 that is has acquired Kovio's technology, intellectual property and manufacturing assets and has opened the Thinfilm NFC (for near-field communications) Innovation Center in Silicon Valley. Financial details of the transaction were not released. Oslo, Norway-based Thinfilm uses printing to manufacture simple integrated electronics at a fraction of the cost of conventional electronics, in highly scalable processes compatible with high-volume, low-cost markets. - See more at: http://www.eweek.com/innovation/thinfilm-buys-kovio-goes-mobile-with-nfc-circuit-printing.html/#sthash.8sqaPchX.dpuf

Alfa-Bank, Kyivstar, Gemalto pilot Ukraine NFC mobile payments

Alfa-Bank Ukraine and mobile operator Kyivstar are to pilot Ukraine's first mobile contactless payment service, with technology from Gemalto. When the service is launched, customers will be able to use their NFC-enabled phones at the country's 22,000 contactless payment terminals.
Alfa-Bank is part of the Alfa Group Consortium, one of Russia's largest privately owned financial-industrial conglomerates. Kyivstar, the Ukrainian business unit of Dutch mobile operator VimpelCom, has a customer base of more than 25 million subscribers.

Windows Store App for Creation of Barcode Labels

ConnectCode, a world leading provider of barcode software and fonts, today announced the release of a new version (v10.5) of ConnectCode Barcode Software and Fonts. This version introduces Barcode & Label, a Windows Store app, for label design and barcode printing on Windows tablet.
The Barcode & Label app is bundled with over 900 industry label stock templates, has over 150 clip arts, and supports the generation of standards-compliant barcodes using ConnectCode's Barcode Fonts technology. With an elegantly simple user interface, it enables users to produce Address Labels, Inventory Tags, Price Labels and Business Name Cards quickly and easily.
The app provides many advance features and capabilities found only in industrial strength label software such as WYSIWYG creation of vector objects, dynamic text/barcode fields, Grid Snapping, Zooming, Rulers, Label Stock Customization, Undo/Redo, Objects Alignment, Multi-Objects Selection. Both Inch and Centimeter units of measurement are supported. The app is designed to work on both tablet and desktop Windows 8 and supports users using either the touch or a mouse.
ConnectCode has developed and marketed barcode solutions using font technology (True Type, Open Type and Postscript) for many years. The solution is trusted and highly regarded by many fortune 500 companies around the world. As a font raster to the output device and not limited to DPI (Dots per Inch) of the computer screen, a barcode generated using fonts is of the highest quality and can meet the strictest requirements required by the auto-id industry.
Besides using the Barcode & Label app, ConnectCode Barcode Software and Fonts package also supports the creation of barcodes on a wide variety of platforms and tools such as Crystal Reports, Excel, Word, Access, Adobe Software, SQL Server Reporting Services, .Net/MFC, Javascript/jQuery, Oracle PL/SQL, Command Line, Windows Store App, and Barcode Image Generator.

Bank notes stamped with QR codes for breaking China's Internet firewall

Anti-censorship campaigners have found a novel way of scaling the Great Firewall of China, printing QR codes on bank notes which when scanned take people to a site where they can download software that bypasses the country's Internet access restrictions. According to the Epoch Times, a woman called Mrs Wu recently noticed something odd about the four one yuan notes in her change at a supermarket in Wuhan. The notes all had QR codes stamped in the top right hand corner, along with the words "Scan and download software to break the Internet firewall."

ELA Innovation's Readers and Active RFID Tags Monitor Goods, Tools in Transit

French RFID technology company ELA Innovation has released a compact RFID reader for its proprietary 433 MHz active RFID tags. The device, known as the Sciel Reader Lite, measures about 3.75 inches by 1.5 inches by 0.75 inch, is designed to fit under or on a truck's dashboard, and plugs into an automatic vehicle location (AVL) device (typically, a piece of equipment that combines GPS technology with a cellular communication unit). The reader would identify the tags attached to goods being transported by that truck, and the AVL would then transmit that information to the company managing the vehicle. - See more at: http://www.rfidjournal.com/articles/view?11349#sthash.hVqHTElB.dpuf

Smart cards harder to hack and harder to get in U.S.

On the heels of the Target mass personal data grab, Neiman-Marcus announced that they too had lost a million customer accounts. KTVU took a look into a widely used advanced anti-theft technology, still struggling to find its way into the America credit card industry. In Europe, credit cards have embedded microchips which are much harder to hack than magnetic stripes, predominant in the U.S now. Yet, only a few U.S. banks are beginning to issue such cards. International Traveler Bill Lawson puts it this way, "It's a great technology. I travel a lot, I go to Europe."

Code Unveils New Mobile Barcode Scanner

Code, an industry leader of advanced, image-based barcode readers, announces the availability of the Code Reader™ 3600 (CR3600). The mobile scanning device is the latest addition to the company’s fast-growing, sophisticated product line.
The CR3600 employs the latest imaging technology and includes the ability to write and customize JavaScript applications without the need to purchase an additional license. With capability of direct data input via a keypad and brightly colored screen the CR3600 is the ideal mobile barcode reading solution for deployment where integration versatility is required.
“The development of the CR3600 illustrates our commitment to exceed the expectations of our customers,” says George Powell, Code’s CEO and President. “Not only does the CR3600 point to the marked growth of our product line, but it illustrates our ability to stay ahead of the curve with next-generation devices.”
Designed specifically for mobile-related businesses, such as police departments, department of motor vehicles, retail companies and warehouse distributors, the CR3600 thoroughly handles all inventory management and data collection needs. It does so by enabling these organizations to effectively record work orders, track inventory, parse driver licenses and vehicle title and registrations, allowing for the immediate visibility of critical barcoded data.
Another asset of the CR3600 is that it has the ability to take on more than one workflow operation at a time. A variety of applications can be created and loaded onto the reader and can be accessed with a simple touch of a button. With a single scan of a barcode users can also direct the same data set to multiple applications. These features streamline workflow processes and ultimately lower costs by reducing the need to rely on numerous scanning devices.
For ease of customization and integration, a JavaScript license is included with each device, as well as multiple JavaScript applications pre-installed with source code available for download from the Code website enabling both existing and new resellers to quickly provide solutions to their customer base.

Automatic barcode reading with SAP connection

Seamless logistics processes VITRONIC and SMILOG offer a complete system for barcode reading and data integration in SAP applications. VICAMsnap! camera systems from VITRONIC are used for automatic data capture, for example, in material flow management and warehousing, in goods receipt processes, by post and parcel services and in the retail trade. Together with logistics expert SMILOG, VITRONIC now offers a complete solution for automatic barcode reading with a seamless connection to SAP ERP systems.
VICAMsnap! is a camera-based identification system that is specially designed to capture objects in manual processes. Items such as packages and boxes are manually passed through the reading field of a matrix camera at a manual workstation. The data (barcodes, 2D codes) is captured automatically without manual trig-gering and with the highest degree of reliability – even if the codes are colored, damaged or poorly printed on a colored background.

QR Codes Are Alive and Well and Living in China

QR codes have been called many names. Ugly. Has-been. A failure. Marketing expert Scott Stratten even has a book out called "QR Codes Kill Kittens." But not so fast: In China, those checkerboard-like codes are enjoying a renaissance. That's thanks to WeChat, Tencent's hot mobile app, which has 272 million monthly active users and features a QR code scanner. WeChat blends elements of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, and it's branching into e-commerce.

Global RFID Adoption Accelerating in Apparel Retail

The acceleration of global RFID adoption by retailers was the focus of a Big Ideas panel session hosted by Avery Dennison Retail Branding and Information Solutions (RBIS) this week at Retail’s “Big Show,” the National Retail Federation’s 103nd Annual Convention & EXPO. The panel, moderated by Mark Roberti, editor of RFID Journal Magazine, featured industry experts Francisco Melo, Avery Dennison RBIS’ VP of global RFID, Dr. Bill Hardgrave, dean of the Harbert College of Business at Auburn University and the founder of the RFID Research Center, and Pam Sweeney, Macy’s SVP of logistics, systems and technology.

Checkpoint Systems and RGIS Partner to Speed Retailers’ RFID Implementations

Checkpoint Systems, Inc and RGIS, LLC announced here at the NRF 103rd Annual Convention & Expo that they have entered into a global partnership to bring the full RFID-based inventory management solution to retailers. The end-to-end solution incorporates the best-of-breed Merchandise Visibility Solution from Checkpoint, together with RGIS’s global team of inventory specialists.
Checkpoint’s Merchandise Visibility Solution includes: RGIS’s team provides tag-up for pilots and roll-outs, as well as cycle counting and audits for retailers that opt for third-party support for these activities. Industry studies have consistently shown that frequent inventories are key to the successful use of RFID by retailers to maintain inventory accuracy and reduce out-of-stock items.
“The benefits of RFID for inventory management are well-documented, with accuracy increasing from around 65% to 98% or even higher," commented Dr. Bill Hardgrave, Dean and Wells Fargo Professor, Auburn University Harbert College of Business, and founder of the University of Arkansas RFID Research Center. "But as with many innovations, as they become more routine, compliance to the standard operating procedure can wane, so it becomes important for retailers implementing RFID to take steps to ensure continued compliance to provide consistently high accuracy and payback from the investment.”
“As retailers rapidly scale-up their RFID implementations, they are looking for opportunities to shorten the time-to-value and reduce the risks inherent in an enterprise solution rollout,” said Per Levin, President and Chief Sales Officer Shrink Management and Merchandise Visibility Solutions. “The combined world-class capabilities of RGIS and Checkpoint will help our customers ensure successful RFID deployment.”
“Inventory and data collection are critical to retailers’ effective operations,” noted Bill Carpou, RGIS’s Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “Checkpoint and RGIS deliver the full end-to-end solution that retailers are increasingly looking for to best serve their customers and deliver a positive in store experience while enhancing profitability."
Checkpoint and RGIS have also designed several packages to help facilitate financial flexibility for retailers implementing RFID from pilot through full deployment.

Colorado Liquor Retailer Gets Quick Payback From Low-Cost RFID Solution

Banana Belt Liquors keeps its prices low by buying liquor in bulk and storing it within a warehouse prior to selling the product at its adjacent retail store in Woodland Park, Colo., located approximately 18 miles north of Pikes Peak. Tracking the cases of product in the warehouse, however, is a major task that can lead to confusion regarding what is or is not in stock, since it is not feasible to conduct complete inventory counts on a frequent basis. Therefore, Banana Belt's owner, Carla Clausen, has installed an RFID system that has eliminated the problem. Thanks to a solution supplied by Truecount, which the beverage company installed itself, Clausen says she now knows product is in the warehouse, and can conduct quick inventory checks to determine if that has changed at any given time. - See more at: http://www.rfidjournal.com/articles/view?11330#sthash.00CYhRSJ.dpuf

Finally, an Alternative to the Much-Hated QR Code

When Barcodes Become The Basis For Contemporary Art

Microscan Launches 3 All-In-One Barcode Verification Solution Kits

Microscan, a global technology leader in barcode, machine vision, and lighting solutions announces three new barcode verification solution kits for inline or offline applications. These dynamic and compact kits include Microscan’s Vision HAWK smart cameras, NERLITE Smart Series industrial lighting, and AutoVISION machine vision software. They are designed with the ideal lens and lighting configurations to meet the most common barcode verification needs.
Several industry standards, such as the GS1 General Specification and the Produce Traceability Initiative, specify minimum code quality. In addition, many large retailers require their suppliers to adhere to strict traceability specifications. 1D and 2D barcode verification can be used to ensure that auto ID equipment such as barcode scanners and imagers will be able to read barcodes quickly and efficiently throughout the life cycle of a product or its packaging. Ideally this is achieved by monitoring the quality of the barcode close to the point of printing or marking in order to detect problems as soon as possible. Real-time assessment of barcode quality provides immediate feedback for process control.
Microscan’s verification kits are ideal for inline and offline verification to quality standards such as ISO 15416, ISO 15415 and AIM DPM. The 1D/2D Label Verification Kit is designed to verify 1D barcodes or 2D Data Matrix codes on flat labels; the Large Linear Verification kit is intended for 1D barcodes greater than 2 inches (5cm) length on flat labels; and the Dot Peen Verification Kit can be used for dot peen direct part mark 2D Data Matrix codes on flat surfaces. The kits can easily be ordered with a single part number, and they contain the camera, lighting, and mounting components required for barcode verification to a variety of quality standards.

Hospitals wringing big savings out of RFID, sensors

Sensor technology, long heralded as the next big thing in high tech, is gaining purchase among mobile healthcare solutions. RFID (radio frequency identification) tags are being retrofitted into older facilities and designed into the construction of new facilities around the country. Administrators are finding that these inexpensive and unobtrusive tags are saving thousands of dollars while increasing quality of care and patient satisfaction.

CipherLab 1504SE 2D Imager Scanner

CipherLab, a leading innovator in Automated Identification and Data Capture (AIDC), announces today the launch of the new 1500SE 2D imager barcode scanners. Based on the original snappy performance and ergonomic design of the existing 1504 2D scanner, the new cost effective 1504SE (MSRP $350.00) aims to meet the growing needs of 2D barcode applications in pharmaceutical, hospital and retail settings. Like all the scanners in the 1500 series, this new 2D handheld scanner come in corded only and offer powerful reliability with efficiency for a wide range of applications.
"When CipherLab initially released the 1504 2D scanner, it quickly received positive reviews from retail professionals. Following the wide success of the original 1504 2D scanner, the new 1504SE now features a new cost effective 2D imager option,” said Luis Wu, General Manager of CipherLab USA. “This cost down benefits the increasing demand of 2D barcode applications. It also enhances the productivity and provides the reliability your business depends on.”
The new 1500SE 2D imager barcode scanner combine versatility with efficiency and are able to read high-density 1D barcodes and also 2D barcodes. It also has the option of autosense scanning, which adds extra convenience and comfort for workers handling intensive scanning tasks.

GM's RFID Engine Bolts Prevent Assembly Line Screw-Ups

Threaded fasteners haven't changed drastically since they were invented ages ago. But now, General Motors has put RFID tags in the bolts used on engine assembly lines, turning simple hardware into tracking devices that make sure everything gets assembled properly. That bolt's got a (2kb) brain! Inside the head of GM's "data bolt" is an RFID memory tag and a coiled antenna. The brainy bolts are installed on each engine block and cylinder head at the beginning of the machining process.

Augmented reality contact lenses worn by people this week

With a true science fiction feel to the technology, human ready augmented reality contact lenses will be worn at CES, which is running from Tuesday through Friday, this week, and will represent an important leap forward for the tech. These augmented reality contact lenses are the latest in this development that would give a sci-fi-like experience to the wearer who would be able to see information projected onto the eye so that it can seen as an overlay on top of what is actually being seen. There has been a considerable amount of anticipation associated with this sector of the wearable technology marketplace. Though previous types of contacts have been created, they were nowhere near this latest development, as others were not ready to be worn by humans and were capable of only a single pixel.

Siemens: Long Range RFID Reader

The SIMATIC RF290R reliably captures multiple transponder tags in production control and internal logistics applications requiring high operating ranges. The compact 13.56 MHz reader complies with the ISO 15693 air interface protocol and easily integrates into the automation or IT levels, including connections to Profinet, Profibus, Ethernet or directly with the RS-232 interface. Trigger and indication signals are enabled with onboard digital I/O. Status is indicated by four LEDs on the reader housing: operation, data transmission, transponder available and error signal.

Mobile Printing via NFC: A Novelty With Little Real Value

About a month ago, Samsung reached out to see if I was interested in checking out its latest personal color printer, which happens to be NFC-enabled. I was. The company says the printer it sent, the Xpress C460FW, is the "world's first laser printer with NFC technology." I'm not so sure that's true, because a quick Google search turned up a number of other NFC-enabled printers from Brother and HP. Either way, it's the first NFC printer I've used. The idea sounds cool, but in practice, it's just not that valuable.

HKT partners with HSBC to further develop NFC mobile payment services

HKT announces its partnership with HSBC to further develop Near Field Communications (NFC)-based credit card mobile payment services. The partnership between HKT and HSBC will adopt the proven security of Single Wire Protocol (SWP)-SIM cards, which serve as the secure element for storing payment applications running on a mobile phone. PCCW-HKT's SWP-SIM can carry different credit cards issued by partnered banks.

RFID wristbands get popular for easy access management

Along with the rapid progress of RFID technology, RFID wristband has gradually become the cornerstone of efficient and secure access control and payment for miscellaneous applications, including events, festivals, amusement parks, hotels as well as bars and clubs. Recently, Daily RFID has released a wide range of RFID wristbands based on a standard RFID technology that can be RFID-enabled to work with any RFID system at various festivals and events around the world. What's more, in virtue of the high quality and outstanding performance, the smart RFID wristband series from Daily RFID has had a great vogue among lots of organizations that require better access management.