Cisco Systems has announced the launch of an intelligent technology that serves as a foundation for deploying Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. Cisco Systems’ new technology will help enterprises deploy RFID solutions within the supply chain, enabling easier reading of information about products and assets.
A key element of Cisco’s RFID solutions is the extension of Cisco AON technology with network-embedded RFID middleware functions. This increases scalability, reduces deployment costs, and simplifies infrastructure. Cisco AON modules with RFID support can be installed anywhere in the enterprise network; at the edge for recording and filtering RFID events, and in the data center for authentication, additional filtering, aggregation, and application protocol bridging. When exchanging data with external business partners, AON modules can also perform tasks such as outbound data encryption, digital signature support, and content-based routing. Cisco AON technology for RFID enables response to localized events, allowing customers to fully optimize business application performance, as well as increase the value and relevance of the network as current and future RFID applications are deployed.
The company’s RFID solution is built using open standards that ensure interoperability with devices from various manufacturers. This solution is also supported by a global ecosystem of partners participating in the Technology Development Program.
The list price for the AON for RFID solution in the US is $16,250. The introduction of the solution to the North American and EMEA markets is scheduled for October 2005. In Asia, Japan, and emerging markets, the solution will be available in mid-2006.