ITRI and NDT to Jointly Explore Market for RFID Tag Readers

Taipei, June 22, 2009 (CENS)--Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) of Taiwan has signed a contract with Newport Digital Technologies Inc. (NDT) of the U.S. to supply the latter 10,000 customized mini-sized, ultrahigh-frequency RFID (radio-frequency identification) tag readers, paving the way for Taiwanese makers to enter the global market for RFID applications.

Jonhsee Lee, president of ITRI, indicated that ITRI's independently developed miniature RFID tag reader is only 4cm wide and 5.5cm long, only half that of any competing models and already certified by EPC (Electronic Product Code) Global as the smallest ultrahigh-frequency model in the world. The reader can be easily embedded in portable devices, such as PDAs and Mobile Kiosks, perfect for logistics companies, manufacturers with warehouses and large-sized wholesalers.

ITRI's ultrahigh-frequency RFID tag reader incorporates Japan-based Hitachi's information security software and domestically developed miniature RFID reader modules and related technologies, and is recognized by NDT for its excellent functionality. Helped by NDT with system integrations and global distribution channels, ITRI is optimistic to see the product well-received in the U.S. Accordingly, ITRI will contract Taiwanese makers to fill the big order from NDT.

Michael Lutton, president of NDT, said that his firm is glad to work with ITRI on the promotion of the functional, world's smallest ultrahigh-frequency RFID tag reader, hoping to provide an economical, optimal solution for buyers in the global market for RFID applications through cooperation with ITRI. NDT will help to introduce the product into U.S.'s largest wholesaler Wal-Mart and local telecom companies.