Multi-Protocol Readers: Another ViewNot sure if this has been posted https://subscriptions.aimglobal.org/moredetails.asp?article=55&list=1
Date: Feb 18, 2004
MULTI-PROTOCOL READERS: ANOTHER VIEW
Cliff Horwitz, CEO of SAMSys, argues that, far from being an impediment to present standardization efforts, multi-frequency, multi-protocol readers are the path to the future.
In the January issue we looked at whether readers that supported multiple protocols and multiple frequencies would have an effect on the volumes - and therefore price - of any one type of tag. The answer to that question was "yes."
The logical conclusion was that multi-protocol, multi-frequency readers might actually be a hindrance to the development of a single standard and might serve to keep tag costs higher than might otherwise be possible.
Herein is the problem with logic - at least in this case. The problem, according to some, was that while the conclusion may have been logical, the question was not.
It is true that allowing more than one type of tag to be used in a given application (such as Wal-Mart or the DoD) will reduce volumes and keep costs higher in the short term. On the other hand, the idea that tag cost is the major cost issue is one of the great myths in RFID today, according to Cliff Horwitz, CEO of SAMSys, Inc., a manufacturer of RFID readers.
"The cost of the system is far greater than the cost of the tags," Horwitz pointed out. "Having to install multiple readers or, worse, having to replace readers to adapt to evolving technology is far more expensive than some incremental tag costs."
SAMSys pioneered the multi-frequency, multi-protocol reader (more commonly known as "agile" readers) at a time when standards were not well formed. According to Horwitz, the concept was to provide users with a way to implement RFID without fear of having their investment becoming obsolete. Now that standards are being adopted, the need is still there. "At this point," Horwitz says, "no single standard can be broad enough and comprehensive enough to encompass all the complexities of RFID." He also pointed out that standardization is not yet finished.
In the short term, Horwitz said, "Agile readers are actually aiding and abetting deployment during a time when the standards process is still becoming better defined. They make it possible for companies to conduct the pilot programs they need to undertake in order to a) become familiar with the technology and b) go forward with full implementation - without fear of obsolescence."
Over the longer term, Horwitz continued,"It seems to be generally accepted, within both the mandates of Wal-Mart, the DoD, Meto and others, that there will be multiple classes of tags that will operate at different frequencies. In order to complete implantation throughout the supply chain, the use of multiple frequencies and multiple protocols will be necessary. For example, Class 0 and Class 3 tags side-by-side will require different protocols (at least) and likely multiple frequencies. There may also need to be some differences in frequencies according to the national regulatory issues in the destination country."
Wal-Mart apparently supports this view, encouraging its suppliers to purchase agile readers with an eye to future developments. Both Wal-Mart and the DoD admit they are still exploring applications and encourage their suppliers to do the same. Agile readers will permit them to experiment more easily.
Horwitz also pointed out that the current EPC tags are not the ultimate goal for carton and pallet tagging. Most of the current implementations are looking forward to the development of Version 2 EPC protocols and standards. And beyond.
Horwitz believes that tag costs will come down in any event. "But," he adds, "at a certain point economies of scale offer a diminishing return. While volumes must reach a critical mass, or tipping point, to make tag costs more reasonable, there's only so far tag costs can come down."
"Again," Horwitz concluded, "tag cost is not really the most significant issue. Obsolescence is the real threat. Agile readers help future-proof today's applications."
SAMSys: 'www.samsys.com '