RFID fights crime

In an effort to help combat product counterfeiting, Atmel has created the CryptoRF, according to Industry Week.

It is a 13.56MHz RFID device with a 64-bit embedded cryptographic engine, mutual authentication capability and up to 16 individually configurable zones.

By locking product authenticity in hardware, this new device creates unique "signatures" based on information that is never transmitted or allowed to be accessed in any way.

Azalea Software`s bar code printing tools are now built into the newly-released Crystal Reports 2008 from Business Objects, according to PR-USA.

This integration of Azalea`s leading bar code software now allows all Crystal Reports 2008 users to create popular bar code types, including UPC, Code 128, Code 39, and POSTNET bar codes in a simple one-click process.

"We are taking Crystal Reports to a whole new level today," said James Thomas, VP of BI Content & Tools at Business Objects. "Our customers will now be able to quickly integrate any Azalea bar code product directly into their reports, to increase the report usability and reduce their total ownership cost as a result."

Queensland commuters face months of confusion after the state government conceded it cannot introduce its new smart card system simultaneously across the public transport network, said couriermail.com.au.

In an admission the system is still dogged by concerns over technology flaws, the government announced the so-called "go cards" would only begin in some areas from next month, while the introduction timetable for others remains a mystery.

The staged delivery over several months next year means some train and bus commuters will be able to use the cards on certain trips, while other passengers won`t be able to access the technology at all.