A breakthrough RFID printing technology that enables direct encoding to and printing of small RFID tags

Singapore, June 02 2008 - SATO, a pioneer in the Automatic Identification and Data Collection (AIDC) industry and a leader in barcode printing, labeling, and EPC/RFID solutions announced its patent-pending RFID printing technology: a thermal printhead fitted with a uniquely designed coupler. This coupler makes it possible to send data with such precision that it allows direct and exact encoding to small-sized inlays. Printing of small RFID tags does not require any need for additional label converting and RFID inlay insertion process: therefore the term, Direct Inlay Printing (DIP).

RFID mandates, including those set by major retail groups, are driving up the need for UHF RFID systems. UHF RFID tags offer obvious benefits in terms of high bulk reading capability even in challenging environments. This innovative RFID printing technology is also ideally-suited for the requirements of closed-loop UHF RFID applications.

In addition to the uniquely advantageous mechanical setup of the UHF RFID printer, the benefit of this patent-pending technology is that it guarantees a much higher throughput, as it prints precisely without constant label adjustment or back feeding. Also, this innovative technique is ideally suitable for EPC Gen 2 RFID compliance requirements as it ensures void tag are identified and correctly marked.

With DIP, suppliers have an affordable system to meet their RFID compliance pallet and case tagging requirements. They will fit into existing applications at case level, even equip users for future item level tagging requirements. The small size tags – they can be as small as 97 x 27 mm – are accepted by major retailers in combination with the existing EAN128 shipping labels. DIP-enabled pallet and case labeling applications do not require any need to integrate into existing ERP or WMS systems. Simple “Slap&Ship”¹ application needs can be just as adequately met: a scanner is connected to the printer, without any modification to existing IT infrastructure, to automatically capture data from existing barcode labels and encode that data to and print RFID tags on-demand.

“DIP is just rewards for our considerable investment in R&D, specifically in RFID printing to help drive wider adoption of technology in the supply chain,” said Kaz Matsuyama, Managing Director of SATO International. He added, “The easy integration into existing applications and IT systems, on top of cost savings and operational efficiencies offer proof of justifiable returns of investment, even for compliance labeling applications.”

¹Slap&Ship” refers to applying an RFID tag on a case or pallet just before it is shipped from a supplier's facility to a retailer's facility. A scanner is connected to the printer, usually without any modification to the existing IT infrastructure, to automatically capture data, which is transmitted to the RFID tag. The usage of RFID is strictly to meet the retailer's requirements, as set sometimes in RFID mandate such as Metro’s or Wal-Mart’s.

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About SATO
SATO is a pioneer in the Automatic Identification and Data Collection (AIDC) industry and the inventor of the world’s first electronic thermal transfer barcode printer. It revolutionized the barcoding industry by introducing the Data Collection System (DCS) & Labeling concept – a total barcode and labeling solution providing high quality barcode printers, scanners/hand-held terminals, label design software and consumables. SATO is one of the first in the industry to introduce a complete, multi-protocol EPC-compliant, UHF RFID solution.

SATO is publicly listed on the first section of Tokyo Stock Exchange in Japan. It has worldwide offices in the United States, Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom, Poland, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and China. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008, it reported revenues of US$767 million. More information about SATO Corporation can be found at www.sato.co.jp/english

About SATO America, Inc.
SATO America, Inc., based in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been a leader in barcode printing solutions for over two decades. Recognized throughout North and South America for delivering rugged dependability and reliable performance throughout its family of products, SATO America has developed printing solutions for a wide range of industries and applications. The complete product line includes direct thermal and thermal transfer printers, RFID Smart printers, OEM print engines, 10.5-inch wide web printers, printer accessories, label design software, labels, and thermal transfer ribbons.

About SATO International
SATO’s international global headquarters, SATO International Pte. Ltd is located in Singapore. Previously an international division, it was incorporated as a holding company in Singapore in 2001 to oversee the sales, marketing and customer services activities of all its Group Member Companies. More information about SATO International can be found at www.satoworldwide.com

*Conversion is based on an average exchange rate of 1US Dollar = 114.43 Japanese Yen.

Contact:
Yuji Shimizu
Manager, Corporate Planning
SATO International PTE. LTD.
438A, Alexandra Road #05-01/04
Alexandra Technopark
Singapore 119967
Tel: (65) 6271-2122
Fax: (65) 6271-2151
Email: communications@sato-int.com