CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA -- Murata and Beta Layout will team to offer an RFID starter kit based on Murata’s UHF passive RFID devices.

The kit comprises a reader/writer board, communication software, two reader antennas and four different kinds of RFID tag modules. One reader antenna is designed for standard applications where the detection range is up to several meters. The loop antenna is provided for use in hidden applications such as for anti-counterfeiting and brand protection. The kit is said to allow engineers to trial the full versatility and flexibility of Murata's RFID devices.

In a press release, Murata Europe business development manager Alexander Schmoldt said Beta Layout's rapid prototyping services makes it a "perfect partner."

"Beta Layout has a large pan-European customer base. They are a perfect partner for us to deploy our RFID technology into the electronics manufacturing and supply chain across Europe.”

Arne Hofmann, CEO of Beta  Layout, added, “Finally it is possible to use RFID on and in a PCB. Our solution to embed the [RFID device] in a PCB is not something far away in the future but available here and now. We will also use it to improve our own processes."