These new printers can write data onto RFID tags in addition to printing labels and tickets. Defective tags are automatically detected, thereby reducing the possibility of errors down the line. The RFID module adopted by SATO operates at a frequency of 915MHz (UHF), which conforms to the EPC Class 1 standard. Support for more frequencies is being developed in tune with demand and ratification of standards.
SATO has been actively involved in RFID technology, recently introducing the multi-protocol EPC-compliant RFID solutions service offerings for customer pilots and beta tests. SATO also fully supports the Uniform Code Council's (UCC) Electronic Product Code (EPC) initiatives and the recent Wal-Mart mandate, requiring its Top 100 suppliers to embed RFID tags at the case and pallet level by 2005. The SATO EPC Class 1-compliant RFID printing solution is now running in the Wal-Mart RFID testing and development lab located in Bentonville, Ark.
