HID Global, trusted leader in solutions for the delivery of secure identity, announced the addition of the IronTag® UHF transponder to its innovative portfolio of RFID tags. Originally designed for tracking aircraft parts during assembly and maintenance, the IronTag device tolerates the harsh conditions of manufacturing and processing as well as vehicle and equipment operation. Ideal for tracking assets under demanding conditions, the tag is optimally engineered for high performance when mounted on metal surfaces.

“We built the IronTag for the aircraft industry, making it extremely durable,” said Richard Aufreiter, director of product management for Identification Technologies with HID Global, “We also recognize that the IronTag 176 device provides reliable, cost-effective RFID tracking capabilities in a much broader range of applications subject to rough conditions, including tracking metallic parts, tools, equipment and vehicles.”

The rugged IronTag transponder is waterproof; resistant to shock, vibration and chemical exposure; and is able to withstand temperatures from -40° F to +356° F (-40° C to +180° C). It also delivers an exceptional size-to-performance ratio. The compact unit measures just 2.1 x 0.9 x 0.27 in (53 x 23 x 7 mm), and mounted on metal, it delivers a read range up to 13 ft (4 m). The contactless chip provides a 512-bit user memory, in addition to 96-bit EPC and 64-bit TID.

UHF technology ensures IronTag devices deliver advanced anti-collision capability and fast data rate communication to enhance a broad spectrum of logistics applications. The tags are compliant with UHF EPC Class 1 Gen 2 and ISO 18000-6C, and are compatible with ATA Spec 2000 and SAE AS5678 specifications.