RTLS = Real Time Location System. Imagine using your existing WiFi (802.11) network to locate assets within a couple meters! That’s what Ekahau does without the addition of costly hardware. They even make a soft client that allows for laptops and PDA’s to be tracked/located with their services as well.

The active RFID tag (T301) to the left even has two push buttons which allows for very cost efficient means for two-way communication. This is great for either wireless ANDON calls or parts replenishment in a manufacturing setting. Battery life can last up to five years and the tag even alerts the server when the battery is getting low.

The 1st time I tested this system I simply installed the RTLS software on a desktop computer and then placed a survey tool on a laptop. I roughly mapped a one-million square foot shop on an EZ-Go and was tracking my position with a few feet! All this took less than day to get up and running.

Good stuff, keep your eyes on this industry. I just attended an RFID symposium and though passive RFID ROI is debatable, active RFID has proven itself to be very effective for tracking high-value assets. You can visit the Ekahau web site here.