Together these companies represent multiple sources for every aspect of a fully implemented RFID system – chips, tag, and readers – as well as manufacturers of barcode and 2-D symbology equipment, wireless networks, mobile computers and terminals, software companies and RFID system manufacturers and integrators.

RFID is a complement to industry’s current bar code-based tracking systems, allowing companies to automatically track inventory throughout an entire supply chain. RFID automatic data collection typically does not require line of sight or manual scanning as do most bar code-based systems. For example, information from RFID-tagged cases on a pallet can be read automatically using fixed, mobile or handheld readers rather than requiring individual bar code scanning. EPC UHF Generation 2 RFID technology adds the capability to change and update the information on each tag as it proceeds, providing new levels of up-to-date information for better decision making.

EPCglobal Inc., a joint venture of the standards bodies EAN International and the Uniform Code Council, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to developing and overseeing standards for the newly emerging Electronic Product Code. As part of that work, EPCglobal Inc. participants are leading the development of standards for the use of RFID technology in a number of industries, including retail supply chains.