New RFID Chip for Libraries: ICODE-SLI S

Philips has announced a new RFID chip for libraries with enhanced security and privacy features. It is the next generation ICODE chip and has a next generation name to go with it: ICODE-SLI S. (Pronounced eye-code-sly-ess?)

The new chip boasts a "password protection feature that prevents unauthorized access to sections of the on-chip memory and allows only authorized parties to have the capability to modify the stored data" and "prevents people from illicitly switching off the electronic article surveillance (EAS) anti-theft functionality." It is compatible with ISO 15693, ISO 18000 and HF EPC class-1 protocols as well as the ICODE infrastructure.

According to Philips the chip is "specifically suited for automated management of media in libraries" and faster check-out of books, CDs and DVDs.

Not sure what the practical ramifications of the new chip are but if you use Philips chips (or your RFID vendor does), you might want to have a sit-down with them to find out when you'll see any benefits from this new technology.

Oh, and see if they'll pay to have all your books retagged with the groovy, new chips too.