RFID reader set free with Bluetooth

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Sep 17, 2004

Cathexis Innovations and Baracoda have launched the beta version of the market's first handheld Bluetooth 13.56MHz RFID reader.

Cathexis Innovations and Baracoda have launched the beta version of the market's first handheld Bluetooth 13.56MHz RFID reader.

The two companies have chosen a pen-type design for IDBlue that is revolutionary, given the device's size, ease of use and versatility.

The design and shape of the IDBlue device - similar to a marker-pen - differentiate it from typical RFID handhelds readers, making it truly innovative thanks to its size (small and lightweight) as well as its ease and flexibility of use.

Indeed, IDBlue is compatible with a range of machines, from PDAs to PCs.

IDBlue is ideal for applications requiring pinpoint accuracy reading - a feature that is currently not possible with most RFID devices on the market today.

In addition, the Bluetooth Reader developed by Baracoda and Cathexis is one of the first to harness the power of RFID.

Although IDBlue is a horizontal technology, it is suitable for most industries.

It is proving particularly attractive in the healthcare, defence and retail sectors for applications as diverse as inventory management, supply-chain and maintenance management, as well as document tracking.

Cathexis has teamed up with Baracoda to develop this next-generation Bluetooth RFID model.

As Steve Taylor, CEO of Cathexis, explains: "When I saw how Baracoda implemented Bluetooth into their other wireless mobility solutions, I knew we'd be a great team".

"By bringing both our strengths together, we created something revolutionary that all businesses could benefit from".

The two companies are the first to create a Bluetooth reader that affords wireless freedom by eliminating the need for a wired connection between the RFID reader and the central database.

Thomas Serval, President and CEO of Baracoda, explains: "We're very excited about the capabilities of the Bluetooth RFID reader".

"Its implications are huge for businesses".

"We believe our partnership with Cathexis will result not only in a lot more innovative products, but real solutions that will enable our users to increase efficiency and their bottom line, because in today's business world, technology is the key to streamlining processes, improving reach and increasing value".

"And we can provide the solutions to achieve that".