Savi Tech deploys solar-powered RFID readers

Savi Tech deploys solar-powered RFID readers Drawing on developments from its military logistics contracts, Lockheed Martin subsidiary Savi Technology has begun deploying solar-powered radio frequency identification readers and signposts.
   The devices, originally designed by Savi Tech for use in Kuwait by the U.S. Army Product Management Office of Joint Automatic Identification Technology, are now being deployed in the commercial sector as well.
   The solar-powered signposts activate RFID tags attached to vehicles or pieces of equipment. The tags then report the assets’ positions to nearby RFID readers, which relay the information to Savi software that automatically updates the assets’ latest location. Utilizing solar power provides an energy efficient and environmentally friendly power source for users’ RFID hardware, and eliminates the need to install electrical infrastructure in remote areas, according to Mountain View, Calif.-based Savi Tech.
   In addition to military deployment, Savi Networks operates an RFID-based network in Colombia using the solar powered signposts and readers to track the status and security of containerized cargo shipments managed by Colombia-based logistics provider Emprevi Ltda. The Colombia system, developed by the Savi Tech joint venture Savi Networks, includes solar-powered panels at supply chain checkpoints, including source factories and port facilities, to monitor in-transit goods manufactured in and exported from Colombia.
   Savi Tech is also developing plans with the U.S. Defense Department to expand the use of solar-powered applications to other areas in the Middle East and beyond.