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March 2006

Steve Halliday

From the editor's desk!

Welcome to the latest issue of the High Tech AIDCourier.

Wow, what a busy and interesting month! Since the last issue of the newsletter, I have been in Asia for standards meetings and am currently traveling to California to witness the EPCglobal™ Technology demonstrations. I also came down with the flu which put me in bed for 3 days with a high fever, so this month seems like one long rush.

While we were in Japan, the press took hold of the announcement from a Dutch University that RFID tags can be infected with a virus. Links to the announcement are in the RFID section below. It is a pity that none of the press thought to talk to anyone who understands RFID before publishing the articles but I guess that two buzzwords (RFID and virus) in one press release are too good to miss. By now I hope everyone knows that the information stored on a tag is just data, no different from a bar code or any other data stream. If your system can be fooled by data into executing a command, then you deserve to get a virus. System design is everything. Making sure we design out RFID systems with the same care we use in designing PC systems is imperative.

Don’t forget to send the newsletter to your friends and encourage them to sign up. Just forward this issue to a couple of your colleagues and suggest they sign up on the web site.

Providing this newsletter is just a part of what we have to offer here at High Tech Aid. When your problem needs have you overwhelmed, then you need to get help and that is why we are here. We specialize in education, but the spectrum of services is much greater than that. Call or email us for more information. Visit the web site www.hightechaid.com for more information on basic technology details as well as many other things.

E-mail me at news@hightechaid.com and tell us what you think. Don’t forget to send this issue to your friends so that they can sign up for their own issue of the free newsletter at www.hightechaid.com. If you have news to share or info you need, let me know at news@hightechaid.com.

Sponsor Editorial - Magellan

Magellan Technology participated in both Interphex in New York (http://www.interphex.com/app/homepage.cfm?moduleid=42&appname=100026&campaignid=
18562&iusercampaignid=22651757) and the EPCglobal™ technology demonstrations in California last week. Both events were a success and several questions regarding Magellan’s Intellectual property led Magellan’s Chairman and CEO, Tim Frost, to release a statement on the availability of their technology from both the ISO and EPCglobal™ point of view. The main bullet of this paper is:

Magellan confirms to all users of products based on the existing ISO standards containing Magellan patents (IP) and all users of any products based on proposed EPC standards that may contain Magellan patents (IP) that no royalties or license fees are payable by them on any readers, inlets and tags containing Magellan's patents (IP) or on Magellan designed operating software. Any fees or royalties, if charged, are payable only by the actual manufacturers of Magellan's products.

You can read the statement at: http://www.magtech.com.au/folder.2006-01-16.8737780017/folder.2006-01-16.8737780017/
patent-lic-declaration-28-march-2006.pdf

Technology News Briefs

RFID Standards

A busy month for standards with meetings of several of the SC31 work groups taking place in Asia. Meetings of WG5 (RTLS) and WG4/SG1 (RFID Data Structure) took place in Korea, followed by meetings of WG1 (Data carriers), WG3 (Conformance), WG3/SG1 (RFID Conformance), WG4 (RFID), WG4/SG3 (Air Interfaces), and WG4/SG5 (RFID Implementation Guidelines) in Kyoto, Japan.
A lot of work was accomplished with many document moving on to their next level in the balloting system of ISO.

ISO/IEC 24730-2 was sent to FDIS
ISO/IEC 18000-7 was sent to FCD
ISO/IEC 18046 was sent to FDIS
ISO/IEC 24729-1, was sent to CD
ISO/IEC 24729-2, was sent to CD
ISO/IEC 24729-3, was sent to CD
ISO/IEC 15961-2 was sent to FCD
ISO/IEC 15961-3 was sent to FCD

Full details of the above standards can be found at http://www.hightechaid.com/standards/
RFID_Standards_SC31.htm (CD, FCD, FDIS are terms referring to the various stages of ISO balloting. For details read http://www.hightechaid.com/standards/
how_does_iso_work.htm).

If you need more specific information on any of this work, let me know.

If you want more information on ISO standardization or on any issue of RFID standardization, then email steve@hightechaid.com

Radio Frequency Identification

Dutch University says RFID tags can carry virus

RFID tags that are replacing the ubiquitous barcode are a threat to privacy and susceptible to computer viruses. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11837702/
from/RSS/
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/4810576.stm
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/15/technology/
15tag.html?8br
http://cwflyris.computerworld.com/t/357432/406208/
11970/0/

Or can they?

The RFID experts quickly step up to refute the white paper.
http://www.aimglobal.org/members/news/templates/
aiminsights.asp?articleid=959&zoneid=43
http://www.eetimes.com/showArticle.jhtml;jsessionid=
ALZI4VNNDM3U0QSNDBNCKH0CJUMEKJVN?articleID=183700485
http://autoid.mit.edu/CS/blogs/large_scale_simulatiion/
archive/2006/03/17/146.aspx

NATO to use new RFID technology

NATO,(North Atlantic Treaty Organisation), has chosen Syscan International Inc. for its patent applied iCE (Intelligent Communication Enabled) network technology, to track its assets. http://www.morerfid.com/details.php?subdetail=Report&action=details&report_id=1455&
display=RFID

European laws hinder RFID adoption

European Commission officials said they plan to undertake a comprehensive study on the use of RFID. http://www.industryweek.com/ReadArticle.aspx?ArticleID=11658&SectionID=3

RFID pays for itself, says Wal-Mart

Retailer Wal-Mart continues to build momentum around its RFID tag initiatives, adding new uses for the supply chain. http://www.techworld.com/applications/features/
index.cfm?FeatureID=2327

It may soon rain RFID tags in Japan

The Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) is developing a system that allows for detailed information-gathering about a disaster area by sprinkling RFID sensor tags from the sky. http://ubiks.net/local/blog/jmt/archives3/005167.html

Airlines lost 30 million bags in 2005

To help the airline industry cope with more passengers and more bags, SITA is promoting use of an RFID tag on luggage tags.
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AIRLINES_
MISSING_BAGGAGE?SITE=7219&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=
DEFAULT&CTIME=2006-03-20-19-26-01
http://www.morerfid.com/details.php?subdetail=
Report&action=details&report_id=1421&display=RFID

EU-funded sensor network goes a step beyond RFID

An EU-funded project is developing a sensor network that will allow items to communicate more information about their surroundings. http://www.foodqualitynews.com/news/
ng.asp?n=66386-smart-rfid-automation

China develops new RFID standard to own IP

China is pushing for its own RFID standard. http://techplanetasia.com/security/index.php/article/489

China to buy three billion RFID tags

By 2009 nearly three billion RFID tags will have been shipped into China, a country of about 1.4 billion people, according to market forecast company, In-Stat. http://www.eet.com/news/latest/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=181502673

Manufacturing Driving RFID In China

China's RFID market maintained a growth of 8.62% in the fourth quarter of 2005, according to a study by Beijing-based Analysys International. http://www.industryweek.com/ReadArticle.aspx?ArticleID=11489&SectionID=2

IBM backs Symbol scanners for RFID wireless tags

Symbol Technologies announced plans to embed IBM middleware into some of its RFID scanners to reduce network traffic and automate more of the management of data from RFID wireless tags. http://www.itweek.co.uk/itweek/news/2151872/ibm-backs-symbol-scanners-rfid

DOD will waste $100 million by not reusing $100 cargo tracking tags

The Defense Department has spent more than $110 million on RFID tags since 1997. http://www.upi.com/SecurityTerrorism/view.php?
StoryID=20060310-124706-4176r

DHL goes RFID

After nine years of testing, shipping giant DHL is rolling out its first series of pilot RFID projects to improve efficiency and tracking along all points of its pickup and delivery chain. http://www.unstrung.com/document.asp?doc_id=90759&WT.svl=news2_2

DHL taps several vendors for RFID project

The initial project will integrate RFID technology into the supply chain to improve repairs and returns. http://www.rfidsolutionsonline.com/content/news/
article.asp?docid=a2994125-af67-476d-8fdd-7ce19991
098a&atc~c=771+s=773+r=001+l=a&VNETCOOKIE=NO

RFID from Paxar proves fully functional for Metro Group

An evaluation by the METRO Group retail corporation reveals that Paxar has achieved a read rate of 100% for pallet labeling. http://www.itrportal.com/absolutenm/templates/article-datacapture.aspx?articleid=2674&zoneid=6

Hand Held Products carries out RFID survey

A new survey conducted by Hand Held Products has shown the vital need for investment in RFID. http://www.itrportal.com/absolutenm/templates/article-
mobile.aspx?articleid=1485&zoneid=38

Arnlea Systems celebrate delivery of 200th RFID project

Arnlea Systems announced delivery of their 200th RFID-enabled project to Nautronix plc,. http://www.itrportal.com/absolutenm/templates/article-channelnews.aspx?articleid=1629&zoneid=5

Israeli army deploys RFID technology

The Israeli military will be the second military force outside the U.S. to adopt RFID technology to manage its supplies. http://www.eetimes.com/news/semi/rss/
showArticle.jhtml?articleID=181502690

Impact of RFID tagging is slow but sure

RFID has evolved relatively slowly, but it is anticipated that it will have an enormous impact in a variety of different areas http://www.electronicsweekly.com/Articles/2006/03/10/
37875/ImpactofRFIDtaggingisslowbutsure.htm

Chinese secret police contractor to provide U.S. passports

The same company that works for the Chinese secret police will have a role in providing all U.S. citizens with their future passports. http://www.canadafreepress.com/2006/cover030806.htm

RFID in Rochester

Some of Rochester's early adopters show how they are looking at track-and-trace technology. http://www.sallybacchetta.com/articles_7.htm

Companies announce RFID drug-tracking project

Unisys Corp. and SupplyScape Corp. have begun a test project to track pharmaceuticals through the supply chain using RFID. http://www.thestandard.com/internetnews/003076.php

RFID on all goods 15 years off, says retail giant

The day when RFID replaces bar codes is at least 15 years away, according to Metro AG. http://www.infoworld.com/article/06/03/08/76222_HN
rfidadoption_1.html

The Global RFID Market increases to $12.3 Billion

Research and Markets has announced the addition of RFID Industry Analysis 2006 to their offering. http://home.businesswire.com/portal/site/home/
index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&ndmConfigId=
1000001&newsId=20060308005362&newsLang=en

Impinj and RF IDentics announce RFID supply agreement

Impinj, Inc., announced an agreement under which RF IDentics will purchase 25 Million of Impinj's Monza(TM) UHF Gen 2 chips for inclusion in its RFID inlay and label products.
http://newsblaze.com/story/20060306040011
00008.mwir/newsblaze/RFIDRFID/RFID.html

An RFID solution to rush hour headaches?

IBM says system of windshield transponders has helped Stockholm, Sweden, reduce traffic congestion by 25 percent. http://news.zdnet.com/2100-1035_22-6046130.html?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=zdnet

Target’s test pilot project implements RFID

Merrick Engineering, among the first suppliers to meet RFID tagging compliance on schedule, is now shipping to test Target distribution center. http://www.prweb.com/releases/2006/3/prweb353881.htm

M&S continues with its RFID trial

Marks and Spencer has extended the trial of item-level passive RFID tags. http://www.cieonline.co.uk/cie2/articlen.asp?pid=&id=5901

RFID enabled tooth

In Belgium, scientists have developed a RFID tooth which can help with identity management. http://www.contractoruk.com/news/002543.html
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/03/20/rfid_in_tooth/

Daisy Brand eyes efficiencies with RFID

Sour cream company deploys GlobeRanger's platform for developing RFID solution in the warehouse http://www.sdcexec.com/article_arch.asp?article_id=8338

Bill pushes RFID mandates to curb drug counterfeiting

Two federal lawmakers introduced a bill that seeks to prevent the distribution of counterfeit and fraudulent prescription drugs by mandating the use of RFID or similar supply chain tools. http://www.techweb.com/wire/ebiz/181500369

UPM Raflatac announces new RFID tags and inlays

UPM Raflatac, announced the launch of four new passive Rafsec UHF RFID inlays and two new Rafsec HF RFID offerings. http://www.morerfid.com/details.php?subdetail=Report&action=details&report_id=1387&
display=RFID

NCR announces reseller agreement for SAMSys RFID readers

NCR Corporation announced a reseller agreement allowing SAMSys' readers and associated products to be deployed as integrated components of the NCR TransitionWorks RFID solutions portfolio. http://www.rfidsolutionsonline.com/content/news/
article.asp?docid=cd78fe0a-7f92-4bb3-b413-01b5674bddb2&atc~c=771+s=773+r=001+l=a

Paxar showcases new turnkey RFID solution

Paxar Corporation announced that it showcased its latest turnkey RFID solution at the RFID World Conference. http://www.rfidsolutionsonline.com/content/
news/article.asp?docid=c1d0156d-2cb4-419a-be39-d5848eb036c4&atc~c=771+s=773+r=001+l=a

RFID technology to help secure ports from terror attacks

A consortium of big companies is testing a system which would allow continual checks on the contents and itinerary of a container and establish whether it has been opened illicitly. http://dnaindia.com/report.asp?NewsID=1015858

Impressions of RFID World 2006

Healthy attendance, more mature lineup of solutions for RFID.
http://www.sdcexec.com/article.asp?article_id=
8345&syn=rss
http://www.informationweek.com/blog/main/archives/
2006/03/rfid_the_newest.html
http://news.thomasnet.com/IMT/archives/2006/03/
rfid_texas_styl.html
http://www.scdigest.com/assets/NewsViews/
06-03-02-1.cfm

RFID, LTD RFID tracking service for $25,000

RFID, LTD of Denver is offering its exclusive black box compliance service for only $25,000 to the first 12 suppliers who sign up. http://denver.dbusinessnews.com/shownews.php?type_news=latest&newsid=64480

FDA speech at RFID World Conference

The co-chair of FDA's recently reconvened Counterfeit Drug Task Force, Randall Lutter, PhD. speakers at RFID world. http://c.moreover.com/click/here.pl?r477460495

Microsoft reveals details of its RFID infrastructure

Microsoft's RFID infrastructure, an expansion of its middleware strategy, is in beta. http://www.eweek.com/article2/0,1759,1932438,00.asp?kc=EWRSS03129TX1K0000609

Kimberly-Clark Corporation selects Avery Dennison

Kimberly-Clark Corporation has chosen the Avery Dennison AD-220 RFID Gen 2 inlay for their RFID program. http://ca.prweb.com/releases/2006/3/prweb352947.htm

Company uses RFID tags to track tools

Companies in the U.S. lose an estimated U.S.$1 billion in form of stolen tools annually. http://cio-asia.com/ShowPage.aspx?pagetype=2&articleid=3499&pubid=5&issueid=83

RF Code Adds 433 MHz tags and readers

RF Code, Inc., announced it is extending its Mantis II product line with the addition of its 433 MHz Mantis Asset Tag and 433 MHz Mantis Reader. http://www.sys-con.com/read/188690.htm

Long-range RFID tag seen at any orientation

Long-range RFID tag not only has a read/write capability of 8KB, but it has 360 deg visibility of wireless LED. http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/ide/ide102.html

RFID Tag integrates with packaging

Tagsys, has introduced a new UHF RFID tag and adaptive antenna that can be customized and incorporated into the package of an item. Tagsys also introduced its “The Package Is The Tag” program and its accompanying Gen 2 UHF tag offering, the Adaptive Kernel (AK) family of tags. http://www.scs-mag.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1265&Itemid=73

Distribution agreement for N-Metal

Roxen CSE has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement for N-Metal, a technology that gives standards compliant LF RFID tags and readers the ability to communicate through metal encapsulated environments. http://www.morerfid.com/details.php?subdetail=Report&action=details&report_id=
1312&display=RFID

Goodyear introduces RFID to NASCAR

Advanced ID Corporation has been collaborating with Goodyear Vehicle Systems to develop and manufacture the RFID tags which will be embedded in NASCAR tires.
http://www.datamonitor.com/~6fc1afbafe8f4c09af9982
675b74d113~/industries/news/article/?pid=329C2046-
7F07-4E13-97BB-2EE75AE2553A&type=NewsWire

WHO insists on technologies like RFID for combating fake drugs

The World Health Organization wants the use of RFID and other sophisticated technologies for product tracking within supply chain management systems to be expanded and intensified. http://www.pharmaceutical-business-review.com/article_news.asp?guid=5A8E01FE-BF3D-49EE-8DB2-EB18BBF44A90

RFID to reduce counterfeit drugs

Targeting RFID for pharmaceutical industry, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) organized a seminar with Tagsys, a European company and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) explaining that RFID can play a major role in the pharmaceutical sector in India. http://www.business-standard.com/common/storypage.php?storyflag=y&
leftnm=lmnu1&leftindx=1&lselect=1&chklogin=
N&autono=215535

Digital Angel registers impressive growth

Digital Angel Corporation’s sale of RFID livestock tags has increased by 73% in 2005 as compared to 2004. http://www.morerfid.com/details.php?subdetail=Report&action=details&report_id=1286&
display=RFID

What’s the real size of the RFID market?

Most public RFID-related companies haven't seen much growth yet despite what the analyst reports say. Is 2007 the year? http://www.scdigest.com/assets/NewsViews/06-02-14-1.cfm

DoD’s review looks to RFID

RFID gets a paragraph - and that says a lot, says the DoD's Alan Estevez. http://www.scdigest.com/assets/NewsViews/
06-02-15-1.cfm

Start small, grow fast with RFID

Integrator plans to double its 2005 sales revenue by focusing on small companies that have to meet RFID mandates from retailers and the Department of Defense. http://www.bsminfo.com/Articles/2006_03/060304.htm

U.K. may try RFID to stop medical gear theft

National Health Service may turn to new technology to help stop the theft of expensive diagnostic equipment. http://news.zdnet.com/2100-9584_22-6043999.html?
tag=zdnn.alert

U.K. military to trial enhanced RFID tracking tags

To improve tracking of military supplies, the U.K. will test battery-enabled RFID tags readable at more than 100 feet. http://news.zdnet.com/2100-1009_22-
6044061.html?tag=zdnn.alert

Users weigh in on real-world use of RFID

The use of RFID tag systems in manufacturing is now providing a payoff for companies. http://cwflyris.computerworld.com/t/326949/
406208/10505/0/

Managing the RFID opportunity

Don't let hype overshadow risk.
http://www.regdeveloper.co.uk/2006/03/01/rfid_tibco_tnt/

RFID-embedded police badges debut in August

Along with handcuffs, guns and night sticks, cops' uniforms will soon include badges with RFID chips. http://www.internetweek.cmp.com/showArticle.jhtml?articleId=181500911

IBM expands RFID portfolio

IBM has announced new RFID services and software offerings and unveiled a new RFID center in Ireland for internal testing and customer pilots. http://www.computer-business-review.com/
article_news.asp?guid=FC091A4D-759E-49AE-9C31-449C71F1217F

Mad cow case underscores need for tracking system

A case of so-called mad cow disease in Alabama and ongoing efforts to trace the animal underscore the need for an automated national animal-tracking database, said experts. http://www.computerworld.com/databasetopics/
data/software/story/0,10801,109618,00.html?source=NLT_AM&nid=109618

Metro pushes back the forecast

Metro forecasts from the Cebit Trade show when item level tagging will move forward. http://www.future-store.org/servlet/PB/-s/y6m6yk194imhqdpav51h
748yzinf1p2/show/1007667/RFIDnet-Newsletter-2-2006-engl_06-03-06.pdf

EPCglobal™

Wal-Mart details its RFID journey

A little more than a year after Wal-Mart Stores began requiring big suppliers to use RFID tags, the retailer is seeing a return on its investment and pushing more partners to use the supply chain technology. http://cwflyris.computerworld.com/t/336071/
1396066/10882/0/

Cost of RFID tags falling

Interesting data about Metro - although not surprising.
http://yahoo.reuters.com/stocks/QuoteCompanyNews
Article.aspx?storyID=urn:newsml:reuters.com:
20060310:MTFH93171_2006-03-10_16-31-11_L1815996&symbol=MEOG.DE&rpc=44

P&G selects Vue Technology

Vue Technology and The Procter & Gamble Company announced that P&G has implemented Vue Technology's TrueVUE™ RFID Networking Platform to showcase the retail industry's first end-to-end product visibility supply-chain solution. http://www.marketwire.com/mw/
release_html_b1?release_id=114011&tsource=3

Integral RFID releases major upgrade

Integral RFID announces the immediate availability of Instant EPC Hotspot, Version 2, with new support for Gen 2 RFID tags and Pharmaceutical level tagging. http://www.morerfid.com/details.php?subdetail=Report&action=details&report_id=1442&
display=RFID

Metro will use voice-operated RFID devices

The voice-operated, smart-tag system contains a high-tech glove equipped with an RFID reader and short-range Bluetooth. http://www.cio.in/news/viewArticle/ARTICLEID=957

EPCglobal awards accreditation mark to ADT Europe RFID

EPCglobal Inc. has awarded its Performance Test Center Accreditation Mark to ADT for its European RFID Performance Lab. http://www.rfidsolutionsonline.com/content/news/
article.asp?DocID=%7B4D5E45D0-FDEB-4E92-BB1B-94BFEB6B6F45%7D&Bucket=Current+Headlines&
VNETCOOKIE=NO

HP readying for Gen 2 RFID switch

Hewlett-Packard & Co in April will transition to the next generation of RFID technology known as electronic product code Gen 2. http://www.techweb.com/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=
180207075

Gen2 RFID labels price cut to 12.9p by SATO

SATO U.K. now offers 4" x 6" EPC Class 1 RFID labels, in both Gen1 and Gen2 specifications at the extremely low price of 12.9 pence. http://www.mhwmagazine.co.uk/bsp/10130/ews.asp?
DBID=103-281-013-010&iPage=1&id=3665

Biometrics

Joyo Bank to add biometric data to debit card

Japan's Joyo Bank will soon issue new chip-based debit cards with a chip that stores scans of the veins in a customer's finger. http://www.cardtechnology.com/article.html?id=200602132VEP2WV7

The tell-tale heart

Forget fingerprints. New biometric devices promise better ways to eyeball your ID. http://www.forbes.com/2006/02/16/
ibm-aladdin-biometric-cx_df_0216biometric.html?
partner=alerts

Japan starts issuing biometric passports

Japan has begun to issue passports with biometric data, meeting security measures imposed by the United States -- the top destination for Japanese travelers. http://www.physorg.com/news11914.html

Consumers give nod of acceptance to biometrics

The research of 1,000 households has shown that two out of three consumers believe their banks should be using biometric technology to combat identity theft. http://www.commentwire.com/article_news.asp?guid=
6F18292A-4395-4805-9401-DE85A7BA3DD0

France to start issuing biometric passports

France is to start issuing biometric passports April 17, the state printing company said Monday, raising the prospect of an end to a dispute that has caused a bottle-neck for citizens traveling to the United States. http://www.expatica.com/source/site_article.asp?subchannel_id=58&story_id=28207&name=France+to+start+
issuing+biometric+passports

Pay By Touch wants your fingers to do the shopping

Biometrics can save shoppers time and merchants money, which explains why fingerprints are becoming a payment option. http://news.com.com/2100-11390
_3-6044636.html?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=ns_

U.K. e-passports start their travels

Launch is gradual; passport holders won't be required to get biometric versions until current ones expire. http://news.zdnet.com/2100-1009_22-6041491.html

China approves facial recognition system

China has approved a biometric face recognition system that it plans to use it for public identification. http://feeds.thebeijingnews.net/?rid=55f149386143808d&cat=55582c89cb296d4c&f=1
http://cooltech.iafrica.com/science/909668.htm

ID Cards

Gemplus to supply 1 million ID cards for U.S. Defense Department

Gemplus International, a French smart card company, will supply 1 million smart cards to the U.S. Defense Department for its I.D. program known as the Common Access Card. http://www.cardtechnology.com/article.html?id=20060213BTL2IURS

U.K. card retailer ignores Chip-And-PIN deadline

U.K. greeting card retailer Clinton Cards plc.delays converting payment terminals to the new chip-and-PIN system because the Feb. 14 deadline falls in the middle of a busy sales period. http://www.cardtechnology.com/article.html?id=20060214LBQ0YOBY

Airport iris-scan system rollout extended

Iris-scanning immigration control technology has been rolled out to another terminal at Heathrow Airport. http://www.electricnews.net/news.html?code=
9674102

ID cards are compulsory

No they're not. Yes they are. No they're not.
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/03/14/
id_cards_compulsory/

Healthcare and Life Sciences

Paging (and tracking) Dr. Wi-Fi

Healthcare’s latest IT exhibition was full of wireless for use in management, communications and asset tracking. http://www.wi-fiplanet.com/news/article.php/3586156

Eclipsys and PanGo team up on healthcare RFID

Eclipsys Corporation and PanGo Networks have announced a joint partnership to help hospitals and other healthcare organizations expand the value of existing wireless. http://www.usingrfid.com/news/read.asp?lc=
p15153gx650zy

RFID support for Dutch nurses

Allévo Home Care Institute's 700 employees are using the RFID technology to improve the delivery of service to its patients across the Netherlands. http://www.wirelesshealthcare.co.uk/wh/news/
wk08-0006.htm

Problems with pharmaceuticals and RFID

A report from Venture Development Corp. shows that the global market for RFID systems in the pharmaceutical vertical will grow by nearly 118 percent over the next three years, but there are problems. http://www.chiefsupplychainofficer.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=165&Itemid=48

Birmingham and Solihull extends patient RFID tagging

Birmingham Heart of England and Solihull NHS Trust has announced that it is to further expand its trial of RFID wristbands on patients about to undergo surgery. http://www.e-health-insider.com/news/item.cfm?ID=1747

The 'RFID in Hospital' market will boom to $8.8billion by 2010

RFID & Emerging Technologies Guide to Healthcare" predicts that RFID and its related technologies in the hospital marketplace will skyrocket to $8.8 billion by 2010. http://www.morerfid.com/details.php?subdetail=Report&action=details&report_id=1417&
display=RFID

Healthcare sector in the Netherlands starts RFID pilot

Capgemini performs the research together with the Academical Medical Center (AMC) in Amsterdam, Geodan, Intel and Oracle. http://www.logisticsit.com/absolutenm/templates/article-datacapture.aspx?articleid=1532&zoneid=6

Orion tries out Stora Enso’s RFID

Stora Enso and pharmaceutical group Orion are carrying out a trial of pharmaceutical packages equipped with RFID tags. http://www.in-pharmatechnologist.com/news/ng.asp?n=66311-stora-enso-rfid-orion-jaakkoo-taara-oriola

Hospitals and health centers discuss reducing medical errors

Recognizing the need for hospitals and health centers to implement RFID and bar code processes to achieve greater efficiency, track moveable medical assets, and enhance patient safety. http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/060307/nytu174.html?.v=36

Smarter RFID

A new way of using RFID could improve safety in the petrochemical, food, pharmaceuticals and healthcare industries. http://www.theengineer.co.uk/Articles/Article.aspx?liArticleID=293687

RFID enlisted in fake drugs war

Two federal lawmakers introduced a bill this week that seeks to prevent the distribution of counterfeit and fraudulent prescription drugs by mandating the use of RFID or similar supply chain tools. http://www.techweb.com/wire/ebiz/181500369;jsessionid=
LLPWLAXMRICTIQSNDBCCKH0CJUMEKJVN

PCTS Announces Hospital RFID Tracking System

Patient Care Technology Systems (PCTS), a provider of advanced clinical information systems for high-acuity departments, announced today the integration with Parco Wireless' RFID tracking systems. http://news.tmcnet.com/news/2006/03/02/1423461.htm

RFID Seen as Promising, But No "Silver Bullet" for Pharma Industry

Even as implementations continue apace, adoption challenges remain and companies still struggle to find ROI in RFID. http://www.sdcexec.com/article.asp?article_id=8301&syn=rss

Healthcare RFID to track blood

People-tracking pilot gets wider by adding blood tracking. http://networks.silicon.com/lans/
0,39024663,39156599,00.htm

Optio Healthcare introduces new RFID solutions

Optio Healthcare introduces a new RFID and labeling solution, which allows healthcare facilities to generate thermal, barcode and RFID labels. http://www.in-pharmatechnologist.com/news/ng.asp?n=65947-optio-healthcare-rfid-labelling

PanGo and Eclipsys offer RFID solutions to healthcare sector

Eclipsys Corporation, The Outcomes Company, and PanGo Networks announced a joint partnership to help hospitals and other healthcare organizations expand the value of existing wireless and mobile networks using active RFID technology. http://www.dmreview.com/article_sub.cfm?articleId=
1048280

Locating systems

Multi-billion-dollar market predicted for RTLS

The number of companies offering real time locating systems (RTLS) has tripled in the last year. A new report on this topic from IDTechEx finds some exciting developments. http://www.electronicstalk.com/news/idh/idh102.html

RF Code names Joe Dugan CEO

RF Code, Inc., announced that Joseph (Joe) Dugan has joined the company as president and chief executive officer. http://www.sys-con.com/read/188770.htm

RTLS sees surge

Yankee Group today revealed that the campus-based real-time location systems (RTLS) market, while still formative, is experiencing a surge in market growth. http://www.yankeegroup.com/public/news_releases/
news_release_detail.jsp?ID=PressReleases/news_RTLS_09062005.htm

Ekahau, Symbol Technologies team to location-enable passive RFID

Ekahau Inc and Symbol Technologies Inc (The Enterprise Mobility Co) have announced a solution to help organizations more efficiently track the location of inventory and assets with RFID. http://neasia.nikkeibp.com/dailynewsdetail/003613

Eisenhower Army Medical Center selects Ekahau

The Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center at Fort Gordon, Ga., will deploy the Ekahau RTLS to wirelessly track assets. http://www.wirelessdevnet.com/news/2006/feb/14/
news7.html

Report: RTLS market worth $2.7b in 2016

Research firm IDTechEx of Cambridge has released a report on the real-time location systems (RTLS) market and its growth prospects over the next decade. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=nd7cmtbab.0.x4pcmtbab.tlhae5aab.5
816&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.idtechex.com%2Fproducts%2
Fen%2Farticles%2F00000453.asp

Single chip RTLS

G2 Microsystems of Santa Clara, CA have announced a single chip support of Wi-Fi based RTLS as well as ISO 24730 and the capability to support the EPCglobal™ numbering system. http://www.wi-fiplanet.com/news/article.php/3594226

Wireless Computing

Bluetooth shipments to increase

After seeing shipments more than double in 2005, the Bluetooth market is expected to see a 71 percent increase in Bluetooth radio shipments to 500 million in 2006, according to market research firm ABI Research. http://www.eetimes.com/showArticle.jhtml;jsessionid=
AG5BPSJGZI3CYQSNDBNCKH0CJUMEKJVN?articleID=
183700144

IEEE group reaches pact on mesh WiFi

Two proposals for mesh standards have been merged to create an uncontested standard that will be used in municipal networks and other outdoor wireless projects. http://www.techworld.com/mobility/news/
index.cfm?NewsID=5564

Breaking news: 802.11n draft 1.0 approved

The IEEE voted in January to accept a proposal--largely that of the Enhanced Wireless Consortium with some changes--as a pre-1.0 draft. http://wifinetnews.com/archives/006361.html
http://www.techworld.com/mobility/news/index.cfm?newsid=5549&inkc=0

As ISO ponders, China restarts WLAN debate

China is re-igniting its campaign to establish a domestic wireless LAN technology that it claims is more secure than the 802.11i standard but that would be incompatible with 802.11i and earlier versions used throughout the rest of the world. http://www.eet.com/news/latest/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=181502600

National Express trials in-coach Wi-Fi

U.K. coach firm National Express has launched a trial which has seen Telabria's mSystem mobile Wi-Fi hotspots installed on coaches between London and Cambridge. http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/03/10/coach_wi-fi_trial/

Long-distance lovers can still drink together

Could glowing, Wi-Fi wine glasses let people in long-distance relationships feel more in touch with their other half? http://www.newscientisttech.com/
article/mg18925425.400.html

INTEL single chip merges WiFi & WiMax

Intel plans to start selling WiMax PC cards in the second half of this year for consumers who want to get WiMax at home. http://www.redherring.com/Article.aspx?a=16015&hed=
Intel%20Merging%20Wi-Fi%20with%20WiMax&sector=Industries&subsector=Computing

The future for Ultrawideband

Dr Kevin Kahn, Intel Senior Fellow and Director of the Communications Technology Lab. Is focussing on broadband access to the home, wireless LANs and PANs, spectrum policy, and related Internet issues. Read his views on UWB. http://insight.zdnet.co.uk/0,39020415,39256269,00.htm

Intel speeds up Wimax plan

Intel says it will bring forward the rollout of its new scheme for long-range wireless internet. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4785742.stm

Another one for WiMedia in UWB war

CSR joins the heavyweight gang. The battle over short-range, high-speed wireless technology Ultra Wideband (UWB) has entered a new phase with the announcement by CSR, a major Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chip maker, that it will back one of the two competing UWB standards. http://www.techworld.com/mobility/news/index.cfm?RSS&NewsID=5479
http://www.reed-electronics.com/electronicnews/article/
CA6311862?title=Article&spacedesc=news&nid=2647

ITU approves UWB standard

The International Telecommunications Union’s Study Group 1 has approved a series of draft recommendations from an October spectrum-management meeting that gives ultrawideband radio the status of a Global Regulatory Standard. http://www.eetimes.com/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=180207151

TI demonstrates new ZigBee modules

TI seems to be on the warpath to making sure ZigBee becomes the ad-hoc standard for wireless mesh networking for control systems such as gas meters, electric meters, HVAC control, etc. http://www.thewirelessreport.com/2006/02/
21/ti-demonstrates-new-zigbee-modules/

City of London switches to Wi-Fi

The City of London, along with Wi-Fi firm The Cloud, today announced plans to install a "dense and comprehensive" Wi-Fi Internet network throughout London's Square Mile. http://www.newsfactor.com/story.xhtml?story_id=41719

"Smart antennas" are the future of wireless

The approval of a mobile 802.16x standard could open the door to low-cost, wireless broadband -- but not for a few years. Investors might want to take the time to adjust expectations. http://www.wired.com/news/columns/0,70241-0.html?tw=wn_index_2

First cell phone Java trojan on the loose

Alerts have gone out from several security companies warning users of an in-the-wild Trojan horse able to infect nearly any cell phone. http://www.internetweek.cmp.com/showArticle.jhtml?articleId=181401390

RIM settles with NTP For $612.5 Million

Research In Motion has reached a $612.5 million settlement with NTP, whose patent-infringement suit had threatened to halt the use of RIM's popular BlackBerry email device. http://www.internetweek.cmp.com/showArticle.jhtml?articleId=181500909

Homeland Security

State Department unveils trial of electronic passports

The State Department on Friday announced it has started issuing electronic passports on a trial basis. http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?articleid=
33436&dcn=e_gvet

U.K. Issues Its first E-Passports

The United Kingdom will issue its first electronic passport this week, the U.K. Home Office says. http://www.cardtechnology.com/article.html?id=
20060306B7Q549QY

Feds extend RFID tests in travel documents

The Homeland Security Department expects to begin a second phase of tests this summer issuing travel documents containing RFID technology to foreign visitors. http://www.washingtontechnology.com/news/1_1/
daily_news/28147-1.html

Concern for port security is legitimate

The Bush administration needs to show Congress why national security won't be hurt by a deal that gives a company based in the United Arab Emirates management of six major U.S. ports, former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge said. http://www.cnn.com/2006/POLITICS/02/20/port.security/
index.html?section=cnn_topstories

Privacy

RFID privacy debate leaves questions unanswered

A debate at a trade show addressed concerns around lack of communication by government agencies, among other privacy issues around RFID technology. http://www.informationweek.com/news/showArticle.jhtml;
jsessionid=WDCXCTU1HDBPQQSNDBGCKHSCJUMEKJVN?
articleID=181400038

At the NY Times RFID stands for Really Fictitious Incomplete Details

Another statement about viruses – this time about the fact that the press covered the story without much thought. http://loftwares.blogspot.com/2006/03/at-ny-times-rfid-stands-for-really.html

Where Europe differs from U.S. on RFID

Europe is more serious on Security and Privacy issues than the United States. Europe already has laws dictating what information can or cannot be collected about citizens. http://www.ecommercetimes.com/story/jO8g49Kgg31
MVt/Europe-Signals-Broader-RFID-Strategy.xhtml

Growth of RFID must respect privacy, says EIU

RFID technology is having a tangible impact on a wide array of industries across the globe, according to a report by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). But the briefing warns that industry must still address privacy concerns. http://www.out-law.com/page-6715

Homeland security to track individuals

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is looking for technology that can read government-issued documents from up to 25 feet away, pinpoint pedestrians on street corners, and glean the identity of people whizzing by in cars at 55 miles per hour, according to a new book outlining threats to privacy. http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/02/
spychips.html

Bar Code

Bar code blunders

The accuracy of bar code price scanning has improved steadily in recent years, but shoppers are still at risk of routine overcharges in many stores, an Observer analysis has found. http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/charlotte/business/
13683977.htm?source=rss&channel=charlotte_business

General Technology

Symbol shuffles management amid Exodus

Industrial PDA and mobile system vendor Symbol Technologies Inc said yesterday it had replaced its chief technology officer and that several other executives were leaving the company. http://www.cbronline.com/article_news.asp?guid=
94F32F95-1078-48A3-AAB4-84664715A205

U-Boat's enigma cracked with PCs

Sixty years after the end of World War II, a network of several thousand PCs has cracked a message enciphered with the famous Enigma machine. http://www.internetweek.cmp.com/showArticle.jhtml?articleId=181500910

AIM Global taps industry leader

AIM Global, the trade association, announced the election of James S. Childress, president and general manager of LXE Inc., as the new chairman of the board of directors. http://www.mmh.com/index.asp?layout=articleXml&xmlId=366129820

Lords set to reject ID cards bill

Government faces defeat as opposition peers say it is introducing compulsory biometric cards by 'stealth'. http://politics.guardian.co.uk/homeaffairs/story/
0,,1724874,00.html?=rss#article_continue

Press Releases

A regular feature of HighTechAIDCourier will be a review of interesting press releases from around the world. Please send your press releases to news@hightechaid.com, but do not forget to include a URL to the full release on your web site. Here are this month’s selections:

Magellan Technology and UPM Raflatac join forces to tag pharmaceuticals by applying high-speed RFID

New offering to help pharmaceutical companies to apply RFID successfully throughout their supply chain in order to improve efficiency, safety and anti-counterfeit.
Sydney, Australia / Tampere, Finland — 21st March 2006 Magellan Technology and UPM Raflatac have formed a strategic partnership to address the most challenging aspects of tagging pharmaceuticals by using RFID: high-speed issuing at pharmaceutical manufacturers, reliable identification throughout the supply chain, fighting counterfeit products with security features and dedicated RFID labels. The partnership was announced at Interphex 2006, the largest pharmaceutical manufacturing show of the year being held in New York, March 21 - 23. http://www.magtech.com.au/folder.
2006-01-16.8737780017/magellan-
technology-and-upm-raflatac-join-
forces-to-tag-pharmaceuticals-by-
applying-high-speed-rfid

Savi Technology Releases Newly Designed Active RFID Tag For Shipments In Harsh Supply Chain Environments

New Low Profile U-Shaped Form Factor Protects RFID Components Inside the Container
WASHINGTON, DC - March 7, 2006 - Savi Technology, a leading provider of RFID supply chain solutions, today announced the release of a new low-profile version of its flagship active, data rich RFID tag for military and commercial container shipments in particularly harsh supply chain operating environments. Called the Savi Tag ST-656, the ISO container door tag comes in a new U-shaped form factor that clamps tightly onto the left door of the container, enabling the RFID electronics to be protected on the inside of the container while a low-profile plate on the outside contains an antennae that communicates with fixed or mobile reader networks. The flat external plate also contains a beeper for audio alerts of the tag’s location and status. http://www.savi.com/news/2006/
2006.03.07.shtml

Impinj Aligns With UMC to Deliver Logic NVM Cores on 0.18um and 0.13um Process Technologies

Proven Technology Enables Standard Logic CMOS Integration With No Additional Processing
SEATTLE, WA and HSINCHU, TAIWAN--(MARKET WIRE)--Feb 27, 2006 -- Impinj, Inc., the fabless semiconductor company whose patented Self-Adaptive Silicon® technology enables its intellectual property (IP) products business and UMC (NYSE:UMC - News), (Toronto:2303.TO - News), a world-leading semiconductor foundry, today announced a strategic partnership to deliver Impinj's AEON® family of embedded nonvolatile memory (NVM) cores for UMC's 0.18um and 0.13um CMOS technologies. AEON NVM cores require no additional masks or processing steps for seamless integration into UMC's processes, resulting in shortened time-to-market for customers incorporating AEON memory into their SoC designs. http://www.mobiusvc.com/pages.php?pn=overview&sub=inthenews&id=2546

AIM Honors Industry Leader with Dilling Award

Alan Haberman Receives 2006 Distinction
Newport Beach, CA – March 2, 2006 – AIM Global, the association for Automatic Identification and Mobility awarded its highest honor, the Richard R. Dilling Award, to Alan L. Haberman, Governor-at-Large of GS1 US (formerly the Uniform Code Council), in recognition of his major contributions to the development and growth of the Automatic Identification and Mobility industry. http://www.aimglobal.org/members/
news/templates/rfid.asp?articleid=
796&zoneid=3

Cape Systems Releases Version 2.06 Of Its RFID Tag Locator Software

March 2, 2006 – CAPE Systems Group, Inc., a leading provider of software technology for packaging design, RFID asset tracking, pallet optimization, inventory and warehouse
management, supply chain execution and order fulfillment, today announced the release of Version 2.06 of its RFID Tag Locator software designed for RFID tag placement analysis and pallet-reading optimization. http://www.capesystems.com/
cape_systems_press_releases.htm

Overlake Hospital Medical Center to Use Advanced Technology in Pilot Program to Reduce Medication-Use Process Errors

Omnicell Point-to-Point System Expected to Increase Patient Safety
BELLEVUE, Wash., March 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Overlake Hospital Medical Center will launch a pilot program to begin implementing SafetyMed(TM) RN, the bedside patient safety automation system from Omnicell, Inc. http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/
stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/
story/03-10-2006/0004318047&EDATE=

GTSI and AeroScout Provide Industry's First Asset Tracking Solution for VA Hospitals

Complete Wi-Fi-Based Active RFID Solution Available on GTSI's PCHS Contract
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- GTSI Corp. (Nasdaq: GTSI - News), and AeroScout, Inc., a pioneer in the field of Wi-Fi-based location and visibility solutions, today announced a strategic partnership to deliver Wi-Fi-based asset tracking and location solutions to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals throughout the United States. The joint solution, which has been added to GTSI's PCHS (Procurement of Computer Hardware and Software) contract, enhances the VA's ability to improve health care to the nation's veterans. http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/
060215/sfw080.html?.v=44

AXCESS & Texas A&M Develop RFID Sensor Systems

DALLAS, TX USA --(PRNewswire-FirstCall) -- AXCESS International Inc, a leading provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, today announced a partnership with Texas A&M University in support of its research and development of wireless sensor monitoring combined with RFID networks. AXCESS has provided its ActiveTag(TM) on-demand, semi-active RFID technology to the Sensor's and RFID Technologies Laboratory for students to research and develop applications for business projects. The first initiative involves designing and delivering a system used by a hazardous chemicals distributor that monitors temperature and chemical vapors. The complete system is currently in the testing phase and will be released at the end of March. http://www.tempsensor.net/
modules.php?op=modload&name=
News&file=article&sid=500&mode=
thread&order=0&thold=0

Sirit Announces Financial Results for the Fourth Quarter and Year Ended December 31, 2005

Toronto, ON – March 21, 2006 – Sirit Inc. (TSX: SI), a leading provider of radio frequency identification (“RFID”) technology, today reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2005. http://www.sirit.com/index.php?
option=com_content&task=
view&id=150&Itemid=144

Smartcode Corp. Expands Its Asia Pacific Presence With 16 New Partnerships

SmartCode Corp.'s new Partnerships in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Vietnam expand SmartCode Corp.'s presence in the Asia Pacific Region
New York, NY. March 21, 2006. SmartCode Corp. - The RFID Company™, the world’s leading manufacturer of low cost, high performance RFID hardware solutions announced today the establishment of 16 additional partnerships in the Asia Pacific region. http://www.smartcodecorp.com/
newsroom/14-03-06.asp

TrenStar Ranks in Top 5 Denver Area Software Developers for Fourth Consecutive Year

DENVER — March 16, 2006 — Mobile asset management specialist, TrenStar Inc., today announced that it ranked as the fourth largest software developer in the Denver area by the Denver Business Journal. This marks the fourth consecutive year that TrenStar has been among the top five software developers in the area. http://www.trenstar.com/resources/
pr_dbj_mar06.asp

South Bay Expressway Selects Sirit as its SR-125 Tollway Supplier

FasTrak(TM) Deployment Expands State Wide Toll System Interoperability
TORONTO, March 13 /CNW/ - Sirit Inc. (TSX: SI), a leading provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, has been selected as a supplier of its Title 21, FasTrak, toll tags and reader hardware to the new South Bay Expressway in San Diego County, California. Sirit was initially contracted to provide readers and antennas and has received a follow-on purchase order for approximately U.S.$1.3 million to provide FasTrak toll tags. This represents a new toll customer for Sirit and incremental revenue commencing in the second half of 2006. http://www.sirit.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=
view&id=149&Itemid=144

RightTag Unveils BT RIGHTReader, Industry’s First Bluetooth-Enabled Wireless RFID Scanner

New Access Control Scanner Also Added to RightTag’s Suite of RFID Solutions
SANTA CLARA , Calif. , Feb. 27, 2006 – RightTag, Inc., a leading provider of comprehensive wireless and wireline RFID solutions, today announced the availability of the industry’s first 13.56 MHz wireless radio-frequency identification scanner with Bluetooth. The new scanner, BT RIGHTReader, offers users greater flexibility by eliminating the need for cumbersome wires and transmitting data to devices up to ten meters (~10 yards) away. RightTag also announced today the RIGHTScanner, a compact and inexpensive RFID scanner designed for companies looking to increase security and control and monitor access, or to better track product inventory. http://www.righttag.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=
view&id=39&Itemid=45

Wherenet Expands European Presence; Strong Demand For Active RFID Solutions Fuels Momentum

Replication and Expansion of WhereNet Applications at BMW and New Deployments at Large European Logistics Hubs Drove Strong Growth in 2005
SANTA CLARA, Calif.—March 7, 2006—WhereNet Corp., the leader of wireless solutions for tracking and managing enterprise assets, announced today that it significantly expanded its European market presence in 2005 as major automakers, retailers, and transportation and logistics providers installed the standards-based WhereNet® active RFID, real-time locating system (RTLS) technology to reduce operational costs and inventory while increasing throughput and productivity. http://www.wherenet.com/
pressreleases/pr_03_07_2006.html

Globe Composite Solutions Unveils Non-Metallic Roller Conveyor System for RFID Applications

Industry's First RFID-Friendly Roller Conveyor Enhances Tag Readability
DALLAS TX, March 1, 2006 - Globe Composite Solutions, Ltd. announced today at the RFID World Conference and Exposition that it has developed the industry's first 100% non-metallic roller and conveyor side frame system to significantly enhance the performance of RFID-enabled material handling applications. The new patent-pending conveyor system, NMR-6689TM, eliminates potential interference from metallic components, thereby increasing read-rate accuracy and allowing clients to use multiple RFID systems within close proximity without misreads or double counts. The first NMR-6689TM system is scheduled to be delivered for initial product testing early next week. http://www.globecomposite.com/
nav.php?press_release_22

New Intermec RFID Purchase Programs Increase Accessibility to Gen 2 Technology

Programs designed to benefit companies upgrading from legacy equipment and first-time RFID enterprise customers
Full line of Gen 2 equipment and media now shipping
EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 27, 2006 - Intermec Inc. today launched two ambitious RFID purchase programs designed to help companies worldwide obtain the superior business benefits of Gen 2 RFID equipment and technology, while maximizing previous investments in earlier-generation RFID. The programs are designed to aid both companies that purchased RFID equipment and tags to meet early compliance deadlines, and companies now considering initial RFID implementations. Global standards set in 2005 have spurred development of Gen 2 products that offer the benefits and capabilities customers most request. Intermec's programs allow companies to take advantage of the Gen 2 RFID systems now reaching the market. http://www.intermec.com/eprise/
main/Intermec/Content/About/
NewsPages/pressRelease?pressID=682

Sirit Launches Innovative Line of Plug-n-Play RFID Reader Products

Everyday devices instantly transformed into cost-effective RFID readers and writers
RFID WORLD 2006, DALLAS, Feb. 27 /CNW/ - Sirit Inc. (TSX: SI), a leading provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, today unveiled the Sirit Plug-n-Play product line - an innovative and cost-effective family of Secure Digital (SDIO) and USB based multi-protocol 'plug and play' products, supporting a wide range of RFID applications. http://www.sirit.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=
148&Itemid=92

Checkpoint Systems Tapped by Europe's Largest Retailer for Loss Prevention Technology; Carrefour's Source-Tagging Program is Largest Ever Conducted

THOROFARE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 23, 2006--Checkpoint Systems, Inc. (NYSE: CKP), the leading provider of radio frequency-based product identification and shrink management solutions for retailers and consumer package goods manufacturers worldwide, today announced the signing of a strategic agreement with Carrefour, Europe's largest retailer, to roll out an aggressive source-tagging program to help reduce shrink. http://www.checkpointsystems.com/
default.aspx?page=news&idnews=
223

The Final Comment

We always try to find something to keep away those boring evenings while you wait to get back to work. This month is no exception, try these:

What if Microsoft designed the iPod box? http://youtube.com/watch?v=EUXnJraKM3k

Are you a list person? Here’s some top ten lists:
The 10 Most Eccentric People You Didn't Know - http://www.2spare.com/
item_45962.aspx

Top 10 Accidental Discoveries - http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/
14.03/start.html?pg=3

Top 10 Strangest Lego Creations - http://www.techeblog.com/index.php/
tech-gadget/top-10-strangest-lego-creations

Take a look, if you're man enough, inside the Silicon Valley Fight Club. In an unassuming suburban garage, frustrated codeslaves secretly convene to thump each other with rolled-up magazines, toilet seats, and baking pans. http://cbs5.com/watercooler/
local_story_059005903.html

The guys at Make Magazine retrofited one of those Roomba robotic vacuums so it could be remote-controlled via Bluetooth. Then they covered it in green cloth and played Frogger with it late at night on a busy street in Austin, Texas. http://news.com.com/2300-1041_3-6049976-1.html?tag=ne.gall.pg

GPS Drawing: For folks who don't have enough to do? http://www.gpsdrawing.com/info.htm

How much do you know about bats? http://www.lhs.berkeley.edu/batquiz/

Weird picture of the week http://www.theweirdsite.com/
weirdpic.htm

Funniest tech support tales on the Internet http://www.techtales.com/

Fishing for squirrels http://www.eecs.harvard.edu/~yaz/
en/squirrel_fishing.html

Love satire? You'll love SatireSearch http://www.satiresearch.com/go.asp?sid=45323

Please tell us what extra you want from the newsletter and don’t forget to tell your friends to subscribe. You can forward your ideas to news@hightechaid.com. No part of the newsletter may be reproduced without written permission. No liability is accepted for any action arising from the contents of the newsletter; readers are advised to seek professional opinion on the use of any products described. Opinions expressed in any article by an outside contributor are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers of the newsletter.

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