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

  • May 22, 2015
    ITF Annual Summit 2015
    The Annual Summit of the International Transport Forum 2015 will take place from 27-29 May in Leipzig, Germany, with the theme of Transport, Trade and Tourism. The summit is the unique platform for global discussions on strategies for transport in the 21st century. Since 2008, the Annual Summit has developed into the leading global get-together of the key players in transport and transport-related sectors, providing a unique platform for high-level exchange on strategic policy issues. Transport minist
  • March 10, 2017
    Remote monitoring, maintenance and repair From Siemens
    We look at Siemens’ common Remote Service Platform (cRSP) which provides automatic monitoring, preventive maintenance and, if needed, remote repair services for the connected customer facilities. It won’t replace the screwdriver or technician, but it will make their work so much easier as many failures can now be solved via remote maintenance. The platform has been certified by external audits and meets the highest security standards so that it can also be used for monitoring power stations and large med
  • March 30, 2017
    ISO standard aids interoperability and data security
    Star Systems International’s Stephen Lockhart, explains how ISO 18000-6C can boost both interoperability and data security in RFID tolling applications. As more states, municipalities and agencies deploy electronic tolling solutions to generate funds and reduce congestion at tollbooths, there have been increased calls for standardisation in the industry.
  • April 17, 2019
    Lyft recalls 3,000 e-bikes across US
    Ride-hailing company Lyft has recalled 3,000 electric bikes from cities in the US because of concerns over their braking systems. The brands affected are Citi Bike in New York, Capital Bikeshare in Washington, DC, and the Bay Area’s Ford GoBike. A similar statement on each company’s website says: “We recently received a small number of reports from riders who experienced stronger than expected braking force on the front wheel. Out of an abundance of caution, we are proactively removing the pedal-assi