IDBlue

Cathexis Unveils World's First Mobile RFID Reader with Bluetooth

Cathexis (www.cathexis.com), launches IDBlue, the company's groundbreaking mobile pen-sized, Bluetooth-enabled RFID reader. Easily deployed in almost any environment, IDBlue is an RFID solution compatible with many different types of platforms from a wide range of industry-leading vendors. IDBlue's integrated Bluetooth technology, combined with its ability to be used as a stylus, enables seamless interaction with wireless handheld devices. Additionally, onboard data storage allows thousands of RFID tags to be read without requiring it to be linked to a computing device.

"Typical RFID handheld readers are bulky, heavy, and cumbersome, while the IDBlue is small and lightweight enough to fit in your pocket," says Steve Taylor, CEO, Cathexis. "We are offering a solution that is perfect for those jobs that require a high degree of mobility and accuracy from the reader." The IDBlue framework integrates with Microsoft BizTalk RFID, part of the upcoming Microsoft BizTalk Server 2006 R2 release, for automating and managing business processes to deliver real-time support for business activities. Microsoft BizTalk RFID provides plug and play management of devices, making adding other RFID-based technologies faster and easier to improve operational efficiency over the long term.

While the RFID market is well served with products that cater to applications that seek to automate entire processes — such as the shipping and handling of bulk orders — IDBlue is designed for those applications that require identification and tracking of specific items, typically requiring human interaction.

With IDBlue, Cathexis has already generated significant traction in the marketplace. Two organizations that are currently offering the product include WaveMark (www.wavemark.net) and Halspan (www.halspan.com). WaveMark provides information solutions that enable hospitals, surgical centers, and manufacturers to control and manage the flow of high-value, consumable medical devices. The company uses RFID technology to collect and report real-time information in a hands-free environment. Halspan Ltd. is one of the United Kingdom's leading providers of timber-based fire door products. The company has partnered with Cathexis to develop a modular solution for traceability, chain of custody, accountability, and inspection of fire doors. Unlike barcodes, which can be easily damaged and replicated, RFID technology can help ensure that each door is securely, permanently and uniquely identified. The IDBlue mobile RFID reader is key to ensuring the practical viability of the solution.