SATO, a pioneer in the Automatic Identification and Data Collection (AIDC) industry and a leader in barcode printing, labelling, and EPC/RFID solutions, is announcing its support for today's launch of BizTalk Server 2006 R2. BizTalk Server's RFID capabilities, along with SATO's industry-leading RFID solution are enabling a wider adoption of RFID technologies. SATO's own initiative is to make the case for RFID industry standards to benefit from the value in the effective management of RFID data and related processes. Microsoft BizTalk Server 2006 R2 also enables integration with legacy systems and line-of-business applications.

BizTalk Server 2006 R2 includes the building blocks software developers need to build successful, plug-and-play vertical applications-including track-and-trace, asset tracking and inventory control. The SATO-developed Device Service Provider Interface makes use of the abstract classes in BizTalk Server to allow users to easily find, communicate with and configure SATO printers on a Windows platform. Additionally, SATO is working to extend the BizTalk RFID capabilities to its other RFID printers, including the recently launched GL series.

SATO's 'DCS & Labelling Worldwide' business model packages in one integrated solution the ideal hardware and consumables supplies, and full-service contracts for maintenance and support of RFID. Supply chain end-users using the SATO RFID solution have especially benefited from SATO's approach, from the extensive analysis of their business needs to the inclusive consultation, to the comprehensive support in operation and maintenance. By providing a uniform way to remotely connect to and manage SATO RFID printers, BizTalk Server 2006 R2 enables the supply chain end-users to identify products and materials in real-time, track and trace them throughout their lifecycle and throughout the supply-chain. SATO combined with BizTalk Server 2006 R2 capabilities enable customers to create value from the cost-effective management of RFID data.

"Compliance mandates from large retailers are putting RFID high on the agenda, but we are still wrestling with numerous barriers such as a lack of industry standards that hamper the wider adoption of RFID technologies. SATO's field-proven experience in complex, ground-breaking RFID deployments places the responsibility on us to lead the initiative to eliminate the barriers that prevent customers from connecting to and managing their RFID printers," said Brian Lang, Senior Manager of SATO International and head of the Solutions Sales & Marketing team. He reiterated, "Microsoft has created scalable, flexible RFID-enabled solutions that aligns with customers needs to have a seamlessly integrated solution- from printer to back end device."

"The SATO RFID solution uses BizTalk Server 2006 R2 to make it simple for customers to connect real-time RFID data," said Steven Martin, Director of the Connected Systems Division at Microsoft Corp. "Together we are enabling customers to connect real-time business processes and leverage intelligent RFID data."

To read more about the SATO RFID Solution, please visit: www.satoworldwide.com/rfid.html

About SATO
SATO is a pioneer in the Automatic Identification and Data Collection (AIDC) industry and the inventor of the world’s first electronic thermal transfer barcode printer. It revolutionized the barcoding industry by introducing the Data Collection System (DCS) & Labeling concept – a total barcode and labeling solution providing high quality barcode printers, scanners/hand-held terminals, label design software and consumables. SATO is one of the first in the industry to introduce a complete, multi-protocol EPC-compliant, UHF RFID solution.

SATO is publicly listed on the first section of Tokyo Stock Exchange in Japan. It has worldwide offices in the United States, Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom, Poland, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and China. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007, it reported revenues of US $705 million. More information about SATO Corporation can be found at http://www.sato.co.jp

Courtesy of  SATO