SmartCode releases item-level RFID tags

SmartCode has announced its short-range UHF electronic product code (EPC) Gen 2 tags provide a standard-based EPC solution for pallet, case and item level in the same product architecture.

The company says the near field tags are specially designed for low cost item-level tagging of goods such as pharmaceuticals, consumer packaged goods, media, and high cost items.

According to SmartCode, by using UHF near field electromagnetic field, reading distance is reduced to about one metre and sensitivity in liquids and metals is greatly improved. Also, by using the UHF frequency for both long range and short range, EPC can be used as a single standard throughout the supply chain, resulting in reduced cost.

SAP has developed applications that can be run on mobile phones to help ensure container security across the petroleum, pharmaceutical and consumer products industries, among others.

Using applications on mobile phones enables pharmacists to compare the EPC data encoded in a product`s RFID tag to the manufacturer`s records.

Express Computer says in this way SAP is using RFID technology and RFID-enabled mobile smart phones to ensure that only authentic products move through the supply chain and on to consumers.

BT Auto-ID Services says companies are still hesitant to undertake the lengthy installation of RFID systems for tracking movable assets, but the next generation of RFID technology may already be on the horizon.

Computer Business Review says although the BT RFID unit believes RFID will become as ubiquitous as bar codes, the laborious implementation of RFID solutions have resulted in some companies stopping short of adopting the technology.

Based on the belief that most companies do not want to get their IT department involved or have to wait a long time for the clearance to install the necessary maze of wires and lines, BT is working in a prototype of a wireless RFID reader. Developers say the new generation RFID reader takes 15 minutes to install.

Secure ID News reports MIT and HID Global have developed a new RFID and privacy Web site aimed at educating visitors about RFID technology, its current uses, its potential uses, and where potential privacy concerns emerge.

The Web site is part of a broader ongoing partnership between HID and MIT to develop new technology, create new scholarship and host a wider global discussion on the role of RFID technology in society.

MIT says it recognises the need to examine the intersection of RFID technology and public policy and to open a dialogue with interested stakeholders.

IT trade body CompTIA has begun offering a new qualification for IT professionals working with RFID tags and networks.

ITWeek says the move comes as a new survey from the organisation suggests that a shortage of staff with the necessary mix of wireless, IT and business-process skills is hampering adoption of RFID technology.

A survey of US and UK companies found that over half had either already implemented RFID technology or planned to do so in the next year, but three quarters of technology firms surveyed claimed there were not enough skilled staff to support industry-wide deployments.