Atmel's ATA5558 RFID IC is a contactless read/write (R/W) device for multi- or single-tag applications in the low frequency (LF) range. Applications include animal identification, laundry management, industrial automation, item tagging, and ISO cards. An integrated anti-collision feature enables more than one tag to be read simultaneously. The IC's multitag identification is based on a deterministic anti-collision algorithm that requires unique tag identification information.

The IC features 1 kbit memory. For added security, password protection prevents unauthorized read and/or write access to protected user-definable memory pages. Specific programming (public mode) makes sure that the IC can be used as a standard R/W device when the anti-collision function is not needed. An integrated capacitor enables easy system design since a coil is the only external part needed. Samples of the LF RFID IC ATA5558 as die in tray packages are available.
Atmel, www.atmel.com

An RFID version of the Cognio Spectrum Expert spectrum analysis solution is available, as well as an updated version of the Cognio ISMS Mobile version 2.0 software. Known as Spectrum Expert for WiFi, this software provides support for WiFi access points, playback and capture of spectrum traces, and an improved user interface.

Spectrum Expert enables wireless information technology managers to quickly identify and locate interfering devices before they bring down or affect the network. Its capabilities extend beyond traditional spectrum analyzers to include cognitive analysis that accurately reads the spectrum and lists the devices transmitting. This makes spectrum management easier and is helpful in congested environments. Spectrum Expert can lock onto and track down non-802.11 devices such as cordless phones.

Spectrum Expert for RFID and Spectrum Expert for WiFi are expected to ship at the end of this month and will list at $4,995 and $3,995, respectively. The upgrade from ISMS Mobile to Spectrum Expert for WiFi is free to existing Cognio customers.
Cognio, www.cognio.com

The EPC Inlay Master software from Integral RFID works with off-the-shelf RFID readers to perform parametric testing and programming of Class 0, Class 1 and Gen 2 inlays, inline with existing high-speed, roll-to-roll RFID converting lines. Running on a standard Windows PC or laptop, it interacts with RFID readers and existing programmable logic controller (PLC) logic systems. EPC Inlay Master can be configured using pre-existing hardware to sequentially program good inlays and to test for bad inlays; activating remove-and-replace systems when needed and making it suitable for use in the RFID label converting industry. The software also contains data logging and process logging capabilities that allow roll-by-roll inlay yields to be recorded and archived.

EPC Inlay Master works with many of the industry-standard RFID readers. A free trial version of the software is available.
Integral RFID, www.integralRFID.com

A low-frequency (LF) MultiTag Reader platform from ACG Technologies features support for 125 kHz and 134.2 kHz transponders. This multifrequency capability enables the use of a single reader for multiple applications and is based on both of the two main LF technologies that have established themselves on the market. The Reader platform enables end-users to source LF ICs and transponders from a range of providers.

The reader is flexible and designed to support security and safety requirements, as well as the speed and interoperability requirements of existing and emerging LF applications. The reader complies with different ISO and de facto standards, including ISO 11784, ISO 11785 and ISO 18000-2. The protocols of a broad set of different transponder ICs are implemented into the reader, facilitating integration of the device into existing applications.
ACG Technologies, www.acg.de

RSI ID Technologies offers Super Gen 2 RFID labels that promise at least a 30% increase in performance, as well as greater adaptability. The increase in performance delivered by the labels can be measured by the increased range from tag to reader. The labels will feature a reading distance that is superior to current Gen 2 labels. The labels are one of the first orientation-insensitive Gen 2 labels on the market. This innovation allows them to be positioned in any vertical or horizontal manner and still maintain their readability. Based on proprietary materials and processes, the labels are more sensitive, robust and easier for readers to pick up signal transmissions.
RSI ID Technologies, www.rsiidtech.com

The EM4094 analog front-end IC from EM Microelectronic is optimized for 13.56 MHz RFID readers. This low-voltage IC accommodates a range of microcontrollers, supports multiple communication protocols and is suited for low-cost or handheld reader solutions. It operates via a 3.0 V to 5.0 V supply voltage with output power up to 200 mW and integrates an 848 kHz BPSK decoder; sparing the microcontroller from having to perform this ISO14443 type B specific operation. As a result, the reader manufacturer can select a cost-effective microcontroller that suits its processing and power requirements. The IC can also be used in a range of reader systems with subcarrier frequencies between 212 kHz to 848 kHz. The circuit features multiple receiver input for high communication reliability. It covers the ISO14443 A and B, Sony FeliCa or ISO15693 standards and operates with near-field communication (NFC) devices.

EM Microelectronic is also offering the EM4094 13.56 MHz RFID Demonstration Reader (EMDB408) as a reference design and development tool kit. It is compliant with the ISO14443 type A and B, Sony FeliCa and the ISO15693 standards supporting all mandatory commands. It also supports mandatory, optional, custom and proprietary commands of EM's transponder ICs: the EM4034, EM4035, EM4135 and the EM4006 read-only IC. The development tool kit serves as a reference design for reader manufacturers. It comes with a fully functional reader, 7.5 VAC/DC power supply, EM4034 and EM4035 tags in credit card format, a SIM card with cryptographic functions, USB cable, and CD ROM.
EM Microelectronic, www.microelectronic.com

OMNIKEY offers an advanced, dual-interface smart card reader that combines the advantages of contact and contactless smart card technology in one single USB desktop device. A newly designed housing and enhanced contactless features make the CardMan 5321 smart card suitable for all upcoming PC-based contactless applications.

The reader is based on a 13.56 MHz contactless smart card RFID interface that is compliant with ISO specifications 14443 A&B and 15693. The reader works with a variety of 13.56 MHz contactless smart cards including Philips (MIFARE, DESFire, MIFARE ProX), Texas Instruments (TagIt), HID (iCLASS), ST Micro, Infineon, Atmel and contactless JCOP including RSA operations.
OMNIKEY, www.omnikey