IBM RFID Printer Ready for Global Industry Standard

IBM Infoprint(R) 6700 R40 Complies With Second-Generation Global EPC Specification

BOULDER, CO -- Sep 14, 2005 -- IBM today announced that its cutting-edge RFID printer is now ready for the global Electronic Product Code (EPC) Class 1 Gen 2 specification, enacted by EPCGlobal, an industry standards organization.

The IBM Infoprint 6700 R40 now interoperates with RFID tags and other equipment that complies with the Class 1 Gen 2 specification, which is designed to be a single worldwide standard, eventually succeeding several specifications that are in the marketplace today.

Introduced in June, the Infoprint 6700 R40 can print both traditional bar codes and RFID verified tags. The scalable solution can be used in current supply chain infrastructures and then be upgraded to RFID technology when needed. It is a key component of IBM’s comprehensive, end-to-end RFID solutions that include hardware, software, support and services.

“Clients around the world are embracing the capabilities of our new RFID printer,” said Doug Oathout, vice president, IBM Printing Systems Division. “The Infoprint 6700 can now be part of an environment that is based on the Gen 2 standard the world is converging on, delivering tremendous flexibility and value to clients in a variety of industries.”

Improving RFID Reliability and Efficiency
To improve reliability and efficiency of the supply chain, the Infoprint 6700 R40 can verify each RFID tag before any mission-critical information is encoded on the chip or printed on the label. If a tag is faulty, the printer can move to the next tag and continue output without operator intervention, to eliminate the unreliable tag. This enhanced reliability can help customers reduce lost revenue due to returns, distribution errors and missed schedules.

The Infoprint 6700 R40 can quickly and easily integrate with existing operating systems or ERP infrastructure environments. It can also seamlessly integrate with IBM WebSphere software to provide a real-time view of the entire RFID supply chain from a single location. The comprehensive IBM solution can share supply chain information between the printer and the network to update the status of inventory, shipping and tracking details.

The Infoprint 6700 R40 is part of a family of thermal printers that also includes the Infoprint 6700 R60 and R80. The entire line became available on June 20. The R40’s Gen 2 capability is scheduled to be available November 18, 2005. For more information, contact an IBM representative or visit www.ibm.com/printers.

About IBM Printing Systems Division
With more than 40 years’ experience helping customers with print solutions, IBM Printing Systems Division specializes in output solutions for the on demand era. IBM Printing Systems’ offerings include printers, software, consultation, systems integration, supplies, service and support. For more information visit www.ibm.com/printers.

Contact Information

David Scholes

IBM Media Relations

IBM

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