))) Texas Instruments Showcases Smarter RFID Case-Level Tracking in Automated Distribution Facility

))) LAS VEGAS, NV (June 16, 2003)

A single instance of mistaken identification of goods in the distribution center can cause a costly chain reaction of errors resulting in losses in productivity, inaccurate orders and shipment delays. Texas Instruments RFid Systems is providing a first-hand demonstration to attendees at the Distribution Business Management Conference (formerly Warehouse of the Future) of how its 13.56 MHz radio frequency identification (RFID) smart labels are used to automatically identify and accurately track goods at the case level to improve data management throughout the supply chain. Texas Instruments is the only RFID manufacturer showcased as part of the DBM Distribution Lab, a 75,000 square-foot, fully-functional, interactive facility that allows attendees to tour the latest innovations in logistics and distribution.

During the continuous, hour-long simulation of the pick, pack and ship process, Texas Instruments 13.56 MHz, ISO 15693 smart label inlays are printed and programmed via a Lexmark T632 mono laser printer to create a finished RFID label. RFID provides a unique ID, and unlike other methods in which items must be physically separated or read individually, numerous RFID tags can be read simultaneously. The RFID labels are attached to each case, which are loaded onto pallets and moved throughout the warehouse via forklifts. The cases are rolled onto a takeaway conveyer belt and each RFID tag is read using a TI-RFid™ S6550 reader/antenna. The RFID reader automatically identifies the location and contents of each box, and matches it with the order and shipping information, viewed via laptop computer, to ensure orders are filled accurately. Data such as time and date of shipment, pallet and caseload data, expected delivery location, and more, can be written to each RFID tag and viewed throughout the pick/pack/ship process.

“We’re seeing companies choose RFID smart labels to create smarter, more flexible supply chain systems,” said Bill Allen, marketing communications manager for Texas Instruments RFid Systems. “RFID can be used to manage goods at the pallet, case and item level, increasing data accuracy in the merchandise lifecycle and dramatically cutting operating costs, while lifting sales and providing an overall favorable return on investment.”

In addition to the DBM Distribution Lab demonstration, Texas Instruments (Booth # 120) is showing its 13.56 MHz smart label technology, including how RFID is used for item-level tracking across the entire integrated supply chain from manufacturing, distribution to retail stores and for point-of-sales transactions. DataBrokers, Inc., a systems integrator based in Fairfield, Ohio, designed and implemented the wireless inventory management system being demonstrated at the show.

Using 13.56 MHz smart labels printed and programmed on a Zebra Technologies (Vernon Hills, Ill.) printer, items are tagged and sent through a tunnel reader and read simultaneously without line-of-sight. The objects are then placed on RFID-enabled shelves and individual items are quickly and easily identified providing real-time inventory capabilities. Finally, at a POS terminal, items are read via an S6350
TI-RFid™ reader to demonstrate secure and fast checkout with the additional benefits of increasing loyalty and enabling one-on-one CRM.