SATO RFID Kit and RFID tags and labels are now available

CHARLOTTE, NC - SATO America, a leader in barcode printing since introducing the first thermal transfer barcode printer in 1979, today announced a partnership agreement with CCL Label Inc., a global, innovative company committed to the long-term development of all forms of intelligent labeling products including RFID. CCL Label will manufacture all RFID tags and labels for SATO America and will resell SATO RFID-enabled printers.

Offering a convenient and inexpensive way to produce labels and tags with RFID capability, SATO's RFID Kit for SATO CL408e (2) and CL412e (2) printers (with serial numbers higher than 20390000) enables users to satisfy many new application requirements.

Utilizing high frequency chips embedded in the labels, the SATO RFID Kit enables the specific CL408e (2) and CL412e (2) printers to print on the label and program the chip inside the label simultaneously. The SATO RFID Kit allows these "smart labels" to be read even if the label is not in the line of vision of the reader that enables the labels to be read even through packaging. Additionally, the information encoded in the label or tag can be changed during its lifetime, which avoids removing and re-labeling items.

The SATO RFID Kit consists of an interface card and transmitter module and currently works with chips that operate at high frequency (in the 13.56 MHz range). Compatible products include TagIt® from Texas Instruments and I-Code® from Philips.

The SATO CL408e (2) and CL412e (2) printers with RFID capability are designed for the following applications:

• Anti-Theft
• Asset Tracking
• Baggage Tags
• Factory Automation
• Healthcare
• Industrial ID
• Pallet Tagging
• Process Control

SATO America offers innovative printing products that are convenient, reliable, cost-effective and easy to use, enabling users to recognize new ways to track their products and assets.

SATO America has been manufacturing industrial barcode printers for over two decades, delivering rugged dependability and reliable performance. The complete SATO product line includes direct thermal and thermal transfer printers, OEM print engines, printer accessories, label design software, labels and thermal transfer ribbons. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.satoamerica.com.