SkyeTek’s High-Frequency RFID Module Now Available
22 August, 2007
category: Contactless, Financial, RFID
SkyeTek’s latest release, an RFID-based, “entry-level” high-frequency reader module is described as “a robust, low power SmartCard solution in a small space,” according to one custmer.
The new SkyeModule M4 supports contactless payment applications and supports for all of the major credit card providers. It’s big selling point? A lower price.
SkyeTek lowers cost barrier for secure RFID applications
SkyeTek, Inc., the leading provider of embedded RFID reader technology, today announced the availability of the M4 HF SkyeModule.
The M4 provides industry-leading security and application features commonly found in high-priced readers but at a groundbreaking price that is well below those of typical entry-level HF reader modules. The M4’s three separate firmware personalities provide solutions for product authentication, contactless payment and access control.
“The M4 offers us the opportunity to implement a robust, low power SmartCard solution in a small space,” said Russ Corace, Executive Vice President, Printek, Inc. “This is of paramount importance for companies creating innovative, battery-operated, highly portable next-generation transaction devices.”
The SkyeModule M4 supports contactless payment applications with a firmware personality that includes support for all of the major credit card providers. With its Product Authentication personality, the M4 supports a wide range of ISO 15693 tags as well as advanced standards-based security protocols for protecting against unauthorized tag cloning or tampering.
This personality allows for the use of generic tags instead of proprietary secure tags, providing a savings of 50 to 75 percent on tag costs. This is a significant savings since tags can be priced up to 80 percent of the overall solution cost. Additionally, the M4’s Access Control personality supports ISO 14443 A and B and provides support for proprietary security solutions MIFARE and DESFire.
“As RFID adoption continues to grow across nearly every vertical market, advances in RFID security have lagged behind adoption rates leaving data susceptible to primitive hacking techniques,” said Rob Balgley, CEO of SkyeTek. “Our SkyeModule M4 is leading the way in solving this problem by making RFID-based transactions much more secure and convenient. By building in proven security standards, the SkyeModule M4 works seamlessly with existing IT networks and applications, helping RFID to become a true networked technology.”
The M4 Developer Kit includes all of the components required to develop and test an RFID reader solution. The kit includes a host interface board that allows developers to directly interface to the module using a serial RS-232 cable. In addition, the kit also includes an external PCB antenna for increased read range over the on-board antenna and a flex antenna that is tuned specifically for ISO 14443A/B.
The Developer Kit also includes SkyeWare 4, the next generation suite of industry leading developer tools and demonstration applications offered by SkyeTek. SkyeWare 4 offers tests for anti-collision, read range, memory, and secure memory. It also includes a host of test and development tools that allow a developer to determine the best tag and reader configuration for their needs. SkyeModule parameters can be quickly configured and firmware can be uploaded through an easy to use interface.
About SkyeTek, Inc.
SkyeTek, Inc. develops reader hardware and software that enables the pervasive adoption of RFID as intelligent networking technology. Numerous Fortune 500 and mid-market customers use SkyeTek’s products in applications such as item-level inventory, product authentication, access control, and patron management. In addition to selling SkyeModule readers, SkyeTek licenses ReaderWare software which allows customers to save 40 – 70% compared to the price of common reader modules available in the market today.
Based in Westminster, Colo., SkyeTek sells exclusively through OEMs, systems integrators, and distributors. For more information, visit http://www.skyetek.com or call 720-565-0441.
Tagnostic(R), ReaderWare(TM), and SkyeModule(TM), the SkyeTek logo, SkyeTek(R) and SkyeWare(TM) are trademarks or registered trademarks of SkyeTek, Inc. All rights reserved. All other trademarks or brand names are the properties of their respective holders.
