Skip to main content

Star Systems issues statement on Neology complaint

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems supplier Star Systems International (SSI), has issued a statement in relation to the recent complaint filed by RFID supplier Neology to the United States International Trade Commission (ITC) (see ITS International website). On 5 January 2016, the ITC ordered that an investigation be instituted against a number of importers of RFID hardware into the United States. One of the importers being investigated is SSI. The investigation is based on Section 337 of the US
January 14, 2016 Read time: 2 mins
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems supplier Star Systems International (SSI), has issued a statement in relation to the recent complaint filed by RFID supplier Neology to the United States International Trade Commission (ITC) (see %$Linker: 2 Internal <?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-16"?><dictionary /> 4 24938 0 oLinkExternal ITS International website Visit ITS International website false /categories/charging-tolling/news/tolling-companies-to-be-investigated-unlawful-importation-of-rfid-products/ false false%>).

On 5 January 2016, the ITC ordered that an investigation be instituted against a number of importers of RFID hardware into the United States. One of the importers being investigated is SSI. The investigation is based on Section 337 of the US Tariff Act of 1930. In its complaint, Neology alleges that the companies against which it is directed are importing RFID equipment that infringes on certain patents held by Neology.

SSI wishes to clarify that the initiation of an investigation in no way signifies that the ITC has made any opinion or judgment on the merits of Neology’s complaint. SSI is of the strong opinion that its products are not infringing on any of Neology’s patents. SSI also believes that the validity of these patents and if/how they could be applied to the ISO 18000 6C / EPC Class 1, Gen 2 open standard is still subject to challenge. Consistent with this view, SSI intends to defend itself vigorously, and does not expect that its customers will be affected during, or upon conclusion of, the ITC investigation.

SSI managing director Bob Karr said, “This is an attempt by Neology to control and monopolise the use of the ISO 18000 6C / EPC Class 1, Gen 2 Open Standard in their niche markets. ISO 18000 6C / EPC Class 1, Gen2 as an open standard has been in use since 2005 by many organizations and industries, including the United States Department of Defence and most major retail organizations, with billions of tags and readers having been deployed over the years.  Such bullying attempts have so far been fruitless, and we are not expecting a different outcome this time. SSI has always been a proponent of open standards and will remain so as we continue to provide high quality products, service and support to our customers.

“We appreciate the continued support of our customers, suppliers, and other partners.”

Related Content

  • March 13, 2018
    UK govt seeks cycle safety evidence as report calls for new laws
    A report from legal expert Laura Thomas has claimed that there is a strong case for changing the law to combat dangerous cycling, which if implemented, would bring offences in line with dangerous driving. It ties in with the Department for Transport's Call for Evidence, which is seeking to address issues that cyclists and pedestrians face, or perceive when using the road infrastructure. Thomas said: “Overall, in my opinion, the present law on cycling is not sufficient. I suggest that an offence comprising
  • April 4, 2018
    ITE: position statement on C/AVs following fatal crash in Arizona
    A strong government role remains critical to ensuring that the deployment of connected and automated vehicles (C/AVs) improves the quality of lives for all citizens – according to the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). The Washington DC-based company’s new position statement has been published following the fatal crash involving a self-driving car in Arizona and the rapid development of the technology. ITE highlighted that governments must provide the regulatory oversight to ensure that C/AV test
  • December 19, 2016
    ITS associations highlight road safety, video analysis, new regulations
    ITS Australia has welcomed the country's National Transport Commission's roadmap of regulatory reform for automated vehicles, Ertico-ITS Europe has been appointed as the work-package leader for dissemination, exploitation and standardisation for the EU’s Cloud LSVA, French opportunities in the Italian ITS market formed the theme of ITS France’s first international breakfast meeting, TTS Italia vice president Diego Galletta highlighted the role of new technology solutions, Chris Philip, ITS Canada’s new boar
  • October 9, 2015
    Smart Mobility World 2015
    Smart Mobility World 2015, organised by ClickutilityTeam and Innovability, takes place in Monza, Italy, from 28-30 October 2015. It provides an opportunity to engage with experts in the machine-to-machine market, with an industry-led, market-driven conference agenda focused on the machine to machine market. Industry experts will share their expertise on trends impacting future development, alongside an exhibition of mobility solutions, applications and embedded devices.