IT Tracking System Launched by RF Code
A new tracking system to keep pace of the information technology assets within a system was launched by RF Code. Their new system utilizes a 433 MHz active RFID system to monitor a variety of assets. The system was described in the RFID Journal.
The RF Code system includes three primary components: active RFID tags, a reader and antenna system attached to a server rack, and a middleware layer, Zone Manager. The reader system on the servers evaluate the information technology assets that are attached to the rack.
The Zone Manager tool filters duplicate tags and applies business rules to assess data before it is sent on to more complex asset inventory software. The Zone Manager software also assesses single strength from various tags to determine the exact location of assets.
Two different forms of the active tags are available. Those designed for use with the servers include an adhesive strip to attach to the server rack. The tag is situated such that it juts out to be within the range of the antenna readers. The second type of tags are attached to other assets that are not placed in the server racks. Two means are available to attach the tags.
Assets that are intended for system monitoring include laptops, rack-mounted servers, desktops PCs, and other information technology tools. The tracking system is designed for use with both mobile and stationary assets.
The company notes benefits associated with the use of active RFID tags rather than those which are passive tools, including interrogators and tags. The RF Code system enables inventory tracking and updating in real time.
February 12, 2008 Related topics: Product Launches, Standardization, IT & software, Materials Management