Electronic Product Code (EPC) |
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Like the Universal Product Code (UPC), the Electronic Product Code™ (EPC) is a globally unique serial number that identifies an item in the supply chain. This allows inquiries to be made about a single instance of an item, wherever it is within the supply chain. Currently, the 96-bit EPC is the most prevailing version and contains information about the manufacturer, the type of object and a specific serial number that relates to the specific object being monitored. Because the EPC can hold such detailed information, it is central to the RFID compliance initiatives set in motion by many leading retailers and the DoD. Not only can specific companies track their offerings down to the item level under this scheme, trading partners can also more precisely track inventory and supplies that cross global borders.
The EPC and all protocols and standards relating to it are overseen by EPCglobal, a not-for-profit joint venture set up by the Uniform Code Council, which licensed the EPC technologies developed by the Auto-ID Center, and EAN International, the bar code standards body in Europe. EPCglobal is an umbrella organization overseeing local chapters that will work with companies to encourage the adoption of EPC technologies. EPCglobal will issue EPCs to companies that subscribe to its service. Detailed information about the electronic product code and the EPC Network can be found at EPCglobal's website, www.epcglobalinc.org
Zebra is a working member of EPCglobal and will sustain intimate involvement in this important initiative to establish a leadership position in the delivery of "EPC compatible" smart label solutions. |
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