 | Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Issue 361 | | Will Smith, Editor |  |
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Editor's Note: Today's top story is a contributed article from Chantal Polsonetti, who argues that manufacturers should not necessarily emulate the RFID deployment practices of retailers but instead forge their own techniques. Chantal is a vice president at ARC Advisory Group, the Dedham, Massachusetts-based research firm covering manufacturing, the supply chain, and logistics.
MIT's Technology Review has an interview with Auto-ID Labs first research director Daniel Engels about RFID viruses, an issue which rose to the fore a couple months ago when researchers published a paper asserting the technology's vulnerability (see Study: RFID Vulnerable to Viruses and Worms and The Industry Reacts to RFID Virus Research). Engels acknowledges the potential for security vulnerability in RFID systems but makes the crucial point that RFID is inherently no more vulnerable than any other information system. Key quote: "As with all computing and information systems, security requires a multilayered approach when any automated identification system is used. ... It is incumbent upon the information system to authenticate the data and verify that the format and structure of the data are appropriate for the applications using it."
Lastly, note the new classified listing below for the 2006 RFID Marketing Strategies Report, the research report we released yesterday that includes key tactics and analysis for creating a strong brand and position in the RFID marketplace. It also includes numerous Top-10 rankings of the mindshare leaders in the industry (Alien, Texas Instruments, and IBM are the top three). A must-have for marketers and decision-makers at RFID vendor companies. |
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| Research & White Papers | - 2006 RFID Marketing Strategies Report from RFID Update (site)  | | | Webinars | | - "The Next Level of RFID Compliance" -- June 7, 11am EST (site) | | | RFID Readers | | 
Sponsored by AWID | |
| | - Ensyc Technologies: $395 UHF Desktop Reader (site) | | - AWID -- Gen 2 Certified (site) | | - MTI Wireless Edge: high-quality low-cost panel antennas (site) | | - RFID/Wi-Fi Handheld Interference Analysis (site) | | | | - CCL Label - Your Global Partner for Labeling & Packaging (site) | | - MPI Label Systems: A Full-Service RFID Provider (site) | | - RxTrackNSecure cGMP printed RFID Labels, 100% Readability (site) | | - Repacorp Smart Labels: 100% readability guaranteed! (site) | | - Lowry Smart Trac Labels: Depend on 100% Good Labels (site) | | - Monarch RFID Labels: Guaranteed With 100% Refund! (site) | | - Nashua Corporation: EPC RFID Label Transponders (site) | | | Training & Certification | | - Enroll in the two day Alien RFID Academy today! (site) | | | Employment | | - RFID Recruiters - 100% Focused on RFID Recruiting (site) | | | Products & Services | | - RFIDSupplyChain.com: Save on RFID Tags, RFID Readers & More (site) | | - SimplyRFID Pro-Tags: Instant DOD. (site) | | - SkandSoft SETU: Catch-22 Offers RFID & AIDC Solution (site) | | | Upcoming Events | | - RFID, June 7-8, Sao Paulo, Brazil (site) | | - RFID for Pharmaceuticals, August 1-2, Philadelphia (site) | | - RFID Global Partnering Symposium, 24-25 May, London (site) | |
RFID Practices of Manufacturers and Retailers Diverge
By Chantal Polsonetti, ARC Advisory Group
Manufacturers who have followed the progress of EPC RFID, due either to compliance requirements or pursuit of internal ROI, are likely familiar with the original vision of RFID as an "Internet of Things." Inherent in this vision is the need for ubiquitous, automated data acquisition via a largely fixed infrastructure and, in a supply chain context, transparent availability of clean data from all parties. All players acknowledge that the timeline for this vision is some time off. However, many of the elements of the original vision have already fallen short in the first round of implementation. This has left manufacturers to search for alternative physical layer solutions that meet their own requirements versus those of the retailers.
From Fixed to Flexible Reader Architecture
One of the most visible areas where manufacturers are ramping back from the original EPC RFID vision is in the area of fixed versus flexible reader architectures. Fixed architectures, particularly in the form of dock door portals that could seamlessly read tagged cases as they pass in and out of shipping and receiving doors, were a core element of the original vision. This scenario, more appropriate for retailers, has proven to be a bad fit for manufacturers faced with the prospect of outfitting a double-digit number of doors with expensive fixed reader portals, particularly given the slow pace of the rollouts and the limited subset of production involved. Manufacturers are instead finding that they "can't hardwire everything," whether a dock door portal or other fixed reader infrastructure, and are instead opting for more flexible architectures.
One of the more popular current flexible alternatives to the originally-envisioned fixed architecture is the forklift or clamptruck-mounted reader. As their name implies, these readers, now offered by several reader manufacturers, are mounted directly onto forklifts or clamptrucks. Forklift mount readers not only eliminate the need to hardwire everything, but they also enable the reader to be brought to the product rather than the costly vice versa. Some manufacturers are retrofitting their existing forklift operator terminals to include RFID readers, which can still offer automatic reads in this form factor, while innovative suppliers such as Intermec and partner Cascade are designing integrated forklifts. Wal-Mart itself is currently piloting a forklift reader option at select Sam's Clubs for use when transporting goods in the backroom or onto the sales floor.
Eliminating Printer/Encoders
Most manufacturers subject to tagging mandates are using RFID printer/encoders to print labels and, in some instances, high-speed label applicators with embedded printer/encoders to automate their tagging operation. A number of manufacturers we spoke with recently are now setting out to eliminate the need for these printer/encoders because of the production bottleneck they represent, the frequent need for updates, and the overall problem of printing and applying labels in a production environment. These frustrations have sparked renewed interest in the potential of embedding tags in the corrugate packaging and either encoding them on the line or using preprogrammed tags. To this end, Texas Instruments and Smurfit Stone recently demonstrated a prototype with Gen2 straps connected to conductive antennas printed on corrugate boxes. This has captured the attention of a number of manufacturers due to its potential to eliminate the need to print labels and place them on boxes.
As these examples indicate, manufacturers who are retail suppliers should discern between EPC RFID developments that relate to manufacturers versus retailers and focus on strategies that make sense for their manufacturing and distribution operations. Reducing the cost of both tagging and reading/verifying tags through scalable automated processes that integrate seamlessly with production operations should be the goal as tagging requirements escalate.
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| Research & White Papers | 2006 RFID Marketing Strategies Report from RFID Update
Thirty-nine pages of original research on RFID audience perceptions, including 30+ figures of tactics, content & messaging, and recommendations to guide marketing strategy. Also, Top-10 RFID company rankings based on 550+ survey respondents. View the executive summary free, with Top-3 sample rankings. Only $495 Individual License or $795 Corporate License. Available now | | | Webinars | "The Next Level of RFID Compliance" -- June 7, 11am EST
Join RFID Update with Domino Integrated Solutions, Enterprise Information Systems, and epcSolutions for the free webinar "The Next Level of RFID Compliance: RFID Data Synchronization." Learn methods to improve your supply chain, how data synchronization maximizes RFID compliance, and why it is critical to accuracy in your supply chain. Enroll now | | | RFID Readers | Ensyc Technologies: $395 UHF Desktop Reader
The RFID Block reader is powered by a simple USB connection, works with EPC Class1 Gen1 or Gen2 tags and makes it easy for your business to meet mandates or simply investigate the potential of RFID. Developers will also find the RFID Block a useful tool for application testing. Visit: www.ensyc.com | AWID -- Gen 2 Certified
AWID is a founding member of EPCglobal; a founding member of the RFID IP Patent Pool & participates in the Intermec RFID Rapid Start licensing program. AWID has been a trusted name in RFID technology since 1997. In 2004 and 2005, over 100,000 AWID readers were put into production systems. http://gen2.awid.com | MTI Wireless Edge: high-quality low-cost panel antennas
* Covering all applicable frequency bands for Passive and Active RFID * Various mechanical configurations for Indoor and Outdoor applications * Single or Dual Polarities * Linear or circular polarities * High robustness and endurance * Field proven in harsh environments * Enhancing system performance * Solutions tailored to customer needs: www.mtiwe.com | RFID/Wi-Fi Handheld Interference Analysis
Bumblebee is a calibrated spectrum analyzer measuring Wi-Fi & RFID frequencies 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz from one handheld unit. Features include 3 waveform traces, peak hold, peak search, spectrogram, histogram and packet/interference triggers. BumbleBee supports direction finding antennas for pinpointing interference sources, hackers and adjacent networks. www.bvsystems.com | | | Converting & Labels | CCL Label - Your Global Partner for Labeling & Packaging
CCL Label is North America's leading full-service provider of pharmaceutical and healthcare labeling and packaging solutions. CCL incorporates the latest RFID technologies into it's labels to provide our customers with labels that are smarter with broader applications. CCL Label puts the Power Behind Your Brand. 609.433.3700 ext.127 or visit www.ccllabel.com | MPI Label Systems: A Full-Service RFID Provider
Leader in providing RFID labels to CPG, DoD, and Pharmaceutical industries. Labels and tags are inspected prior to shipping to ensure 100% readability. We offer stock programs, various inlays, custom materials and adhesives. MPI also offers full line of RFID equipment (printers, readers, and automatic applicators). Call 1-800-837-2134 (RFID sales) www.mpilabels.com | RxTrackNSecure cGMP printed RFID Labels, 100% Readability
New Jersey Packaging offers a full range of pre-printed, die-cut pressure sensitive cGMP compliant labels incorporating RFID tags. Featuring 100% readability, the RFID tags are delivered ready to use for a wide range of individual item, case, and pallet applications. Complete implementation support available. E-mail RxTrackNSecure@newjerseypackaging.com, call (973) 808-8107, or visit: www.newjerseypackaging.com | Repacorp Smart Labels: 100% readability guaranteed!
Repacorp offers RFID enabled pressure sensitive labels and tags. Our RFID labels are available in a wide range of sizes and 100% tested prior to shipment. Best of all, our inlay insertion process is flexible, frequency-neutral, and is compatible with most EPC/ISO compliant transponders. Certified Alien Converter. 1-800-323-4415 or visit www.repacorp.com | Lowry Smart Trac Labels: Depend on 100% Good Labels
Lowry provides a comprehensive range of UHF and HF labels. With innovation and investment in the RFID marketplace, Lowry offers more than label conversion. Lowry's RFID Lab assists with inlay selection and label materials to deliver optimum performance. Rely on Lowry's experience and quality commitment. 1.800.733.0210 x 312 or visit www.lowrycomputer.com | Monarch RFID Labels: Guaranteed With 100% Refund!
Monarch RFID supplies from Paxar are factory tested twice and guaranteed! You receive a 100% refund for any returned, failed Monarch label (110% if used in a Monarch printer/encoder). Paxar has supplies for all printers, using all major inlays, including Gen 2, and comprehensive lab support. Call 1-800-543-6650, #2717 or visit www.paxar.com | Nashua Corporation: EPC RFID Label Transponders
Nashua SmartLabels brand of converted RFID label and tags combine a variety of printable facesheets and specialty adhesive with EPC Class 1, UHF Gen 2 and Class 0+ inlays from leading inlay manufacturers. Nashua SmartLabels are offered in standard and custom label form factors. All Nashua SmartLabels ship "100% tested-good." www.nashuasmartlabels.com | | | Training & Certification | Enroll in the two day Alien RFID Academy today!
Need to absorb RFID systems fast? Enroll in the Alien RFID Academy. In a two day seminar we'll share our practical expertise in RFID Tags, Antennas, Readers, Frequencies, Systems, and Protocols. The Alien RFID Academy is a hands-on immersion into the workings, uses, and challenges of RFID technology. Click here to register for dates in May and June. | | | Employment | RFID Recruiters - 100% Focused on RFID Recruiting
Whether your company is looking for the best RFID talent or you have the best RFID talent and are looking for the best RFID employer, RFID Recruiters offers the most focused approach to your objective. To learn how the RFID industry and the RFID job market are evolving, visit www.rfidrecruiters.com | | | Products & Services | RFIDSupplyChain.com: Save on RFID Tags, RFID Readers & More
Looking to comply with RFID mandates or implement RFID in your business processes? RFIDSupplyChain.com -- a leader in RFID hardware, software, services and solutions -- provides the latest RFID tags, readers, antennas, smart labels, printers and portals from Alien, Symbol, Intermec, Omron, Printronix, Zebra and BlueBean. Purchase RFID Technology Solutions | SimplyRFID Pro-Tags: Instant DOD.
Peel - Stick - Ship. Pro-Tags provide instant DOD RFID compliance for as little as $.81 cents per custom tag. SimplyRFID also offers high-performance Zebra RFID solutions capable of over 2,000 RFID tags per hour from $4,199. Order now - ship tomorrow. | SkandSoft SETU: Catch-22 Offers RFID & AIDC Solution
SkandSoft Technologies is offering one complete solution with a Fixed Cost ($22K)/ Fixed Time (22 Days) offer to explore the promise of RFID. Offer designed to help customers to cap time and money and lower adoption barriers for RFID solutions using SETU middleware and solution development platform. www.skandsoft.com | | | Upcoming Events | RFID, June 7-8, Sao Paulo, Brazil
An event focusing on the Brazilian market! Learn about challenges, benefits, and implementing RFID. Speakers from: All Logística, Souza Cruz, Acura Technologies, HP, Siemens, IBM, Unisys, Deloitte, Seal, GSI, BEA Systems, NEC, CHEP, Symbol, ABML - Associacao Brasileira de Movimentacao e Logística, AIM Brasil. RFID Update subscribers 10% discount, code: RA77 www.iqpc.com.br/rfid2006 | RFID for Pharmaceuticals, August 1-2, Philadelphia
RFID for Pharmaceuticals will feature keynotes from Pfizer and Purdue Pharma and case studies from companies that have reaped benefits from RFID. For more information go to www.aliconferences.com or call 888-362-7400. Register before June 30 and save $400. | RFID Global Partnering Symposium, 24-25 May, London
Over 6 years, 1,500 participants have benefited from the RFID Networking Forum. The programme includes an RFID Centre workshop; analyst briefings from IDC, Gartner, VDC, AMR and IDTechEx; RFID vendor demonstrations; and 400+ end-users networking in roundtable discussion groups. Exclusive to RFID Update readers, two-day event for the price of one: www.rfidmeeting.com |
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RFID Update is the RFID industry daily. Launched in early 2004 to provide timely analysis of RFID industry news, RFID Update publishes editorial briefings every weekday for the growing ranks of top level executives involved in the deployment of RFID. Each issue delivers the breaking news and analysis most pertinent to successful RFID implementations, allowing readers to understand global RFID developments as they happen.
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