Packaging

SkyeTek Sees Increased Awareness of Embedded Technology as the Next Generation of RFID

Monday 26. May 2008 - Tradeshow Audiences Eager to Adopt Embedded Technology to Enable Advanced Applications Across Vertical Industries

SkyeTek, Inc., the leading provider of embedded RFID reader technology, continues to see solid awareness and interest in embedded RFID technology, as evidenced by the eagerness on the part of recent trade show attendees to adopt the technology for use in a variety of industries.

SkyeTek executives attended a number of trade shows already this year where they witnessed strong growth opportunities for a variety of new RFID applications that can be achieved through SkyeTek’s embedded RFID solutions. For example, at CTIA Wireless held in Las Vegas, NV, in April, there was an entire pavilion dedicated to machine-to-machine (M2M) technology, which streamlines processes by removing the need for human interaction. Although M2M has been around for a while, traditional RFID has not been represented as part of that space. However, embedded RFID is poised to move into that industry, as it can seamlessly connect machines and physical goods to create an efficient, networked system.

Embedded RFID is also taking off in the inventory control and item level inventory management markets, especially in the healthcare industry, as SkyeTek saw at the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN) conference in Anaheim, California in March. RFID is embedded into smart shelves and cabinets, which enables distributors of high-end inventory, such as implants, to manage their inventory remotely. For example, a leading medical implant manufacturer announced plans to use RFID-enabled smart cabinets to track orthopedic implants consigned to hospitals. Many cabinet manufacturers also see the potential ROI for implementing embedded RFID solutions that can securely and accurately track inventory.

At ESC Silicon Valley in April, SkyeTek VP of marketing and strategy Martin Payne spoke on a panel about the evolution of RFID to a true networking technology. The session explored how RFID has come a long way from its roots as a supply chain technology and is now extending its reach into markets and industries where it was never before possible by integrating intelligent RFID seamlessly into existing networks to enhance operations. Martin explored the business and technical implications of using RFID as a networking technology and educated attendees on how RFID, applied as a networking technology, is transforming existing business processes, in item tracking, consumables authentication, patron management and contactless payment.

“It is clear that the market for embedded RFID is increasing, especially as people continue to gain a better understanding of the technology and the many applications it can enable,” said Payne. “There is certainly progress being made, as evidenced at the recent tradeshows we’ve attended and spoken where the audiences understood RFID is much more than just a supply chain technology, and that embedded RFID is the next wave of growth in the industry. This puts SkyeTek in a solid position to capitalize on the move toward embedded, as we offer the most comprehensive, secure and cost-effective embedded RFID reader solutions on the market.”

SkyeTek also exhibited at RFID Journal LIVE! in Las Vegas in April, one of the industry’s most important shows. At the show SkyeTek showcased their entire suite of embedded RFID reader modules, including the M7, which rounds out SkyeTek’s SkyeModule line and was named an RFID Journal Best in Show award finalist.