RFID lab

Background

There is a growing requirement to realize in full the benefits of RFID, radio frequency identification.

Because of the massive opportunity for RFID within the supply chain, the technology is being offered with an increasing array of hardware components available from vendors in considerable variety.

This proliferation of RFID hardware means that solutions are often available with different:

1. Frequencies
2. Emitted radiated power
3. Standards of compliance
4. Immediate data handling and data transfer capabilities after initial data acquisition.

The multiplicity of hardware on offer is extended to multiple solutions to RFID software and varying degrees of ability in enabling the use of data to improve processes or systems already in place (business software, decision support, analytical tools.)

The market is in need of platform solutions that allow direct RFID benefits to be seen quickly and that enable the wide range of hardware to be easily integrated into data gathering and analysis software that users are confident will work.

It is this task to which MIT and its research into RFID applications is devoted.

Operation

The RFID Systems Integration Laboratory invites vendors, users and above all, supporters of the Forum to contribute, participate and guide the set–up, experimentation and innovation at the RFID Lab.

Users can suggest specific testing requirements for either software, hardware or assembled systems

Users can directly request that the Lab research and⁄or create innovative solutions and sponsor them accordingly.

Vendors are able to work with the Lab and can refer clients to the Lab to experiment with new technology

Vendors are able to use the lab as a demo facility with accompanied visits with their customers

Individuals from vendor companies or users may take advantage of the fellow–in–residence option available through the MIT Forum for Supply Chain Innovation and send personnel to MIT to work on their specific project.

The Lab expects to host foreign standards, in both hardware and software, depending on vendor, user or member requirements