Sun taps Java for ready-made RFID

Sun is hoping that adding Java to the RFID mix could make the switch from barcodes to RFID tags easier for retailers.

Sun is firmly targeting companies who've been forced into adopting the chips by mandates from retailers, including Wal-Mart, and US government bodies, including the Department of Defense, with its ready-made RFID package for retailers.

The Java-based 'slap and ship' style offering includes a Sun workstation and software, RFID printer, RFID reader and barcode reader. There's also user training thrown in too.

According to the company, the hardware, software and services bundle can get companies' RFID system up and running in one week.

The slap-and-ship approach has divided analysts, with some saying that it's currently the only affordable way for some retailers to implement the tracking technology, while others - and some retailers themselves - have warned that slap-and-ship is more of a supply-chain sticking plaster and leads to problems later on.

As well as its all-in-one RFID bundle, Sun has announced is looking to wrap up its industry solution architectures for different vertical industries, with retail - one of the fastest growing areas for RFID use - slated to be first out.

Sun has partnered with SeeBeyond to develop the industry-specific package, which should be out this quarter.