TOKYO--Aug. 21, 2006--Meritech and Cognio have teamed together to provide an RFID site survey tool capable of mapping RFID reader coverage and improving network performance. Meritech will integrate the Cognio UHF RFID Cardbus module into the iSite platform. iSite is a software application created for WiFi network deployments which provides a powerful design environment able to plot the coverage footprint of radio signals.
The new site survey tool reduces interference between readers and improves readability for tag detection and tag performance. Common problems in RFID networks include overlapping coverage areas and dead spots occurring within the coverage zone. iSite shows plots as a floor plan overlay, and includes information about signal strength, interference and coverage overlap. Plots are then used to identify and fix problem areas. iSite also provides prediction capabilities allowing network adjustments to be evaluated before they are applied.
"New RFID network deployments are typically plagued by poor reader performance due to the presence of objects that interfere with readers, such as large metal objects, microwave ovens, and even adjacent readers. A survey tool that plots reader coverage, and identifies adjustments that will improve network performance is crucial," said Fumio Kondou, a senior manager at DoCoMo Technology.
The iSite RFID site survey tool is targeted for semi-passive tag and active tag networks where readers reach distances of up to 30 and 100 feet respectively. Companies using RFID for data collection, asset management, and supply chain processes need accurate tag detection. As RFID deployments increase, network architects will greatly benefit from the use of site surveys with solutions such as iSite to improve network performance and maximize the cost to deploy mission critical business technologies such as RFID.
About Meritech Co., Ltd.
Meritech is a software development corporation that leverages wireless expertise to provide effective engineering solutions. Inspired by the possibilities of wireless technology, Meritech is focused on delivering solutions that empower technical professionals and improve the quality of network design and deployment.
About Cognio, Inc.
Founded in 2001, Cognio is the leading provider of spectrum analysis tools for unlicensed band applications. Cognio's solutions uniquely put names on devices, tell you the impact of each device on your network, and allow you to locate interference sources. Cognio is headquartered in the greater Washington, DC area, and is privately held with venture investments from Avansis Ventures, ABS Ventures and North Bridge Venture Partners. Additional information is available on the Web at www.cognio.com.
