In a bid to spur adoption of RFID, and to simplify licensing of its RFID intellectual property portfolio, Intermec announced a limited-time Rapid Start Licensing Program that provides manufacturers access to Intermec's broad portfolio of RFID innovation at attractive rates. The program provides the marketplace with clear guidance about which vendors are licensed to use Intermec's RFID IP and simplifies technology cross-licensing issues. According to terms of the program, Intermec's 145-plus RFID patents, including continuations, will be available in four portfolio families, for a special rate, to licensees who execute Rapid Start Licensing Program agreements through August 31.

"Intermec remains committed to helping introduce the full benefits of supply chain RFID," says Intermec president Tom Miller. "Our program addresses customers' desires for multiple suppliers of this technology. At the same time, we respect the years and resources invested in our intellectual property portfolio and will take the necessary steps to protect it from use by unlicensed technology vendors."