An optical memory stripe is effectively a laser reading device that is able to store data and images up to a relatively high capacity (up to 4 MB). Importantly, it is a read-only device, meaning that the data it stores about a particular product cannot be updated during that product’s ‘lifetime’. The optical memory stripe can either be placed on a plastic card (such as electronic identity cards) or, if the material allows, directly affixed to the product it is identifying and tracking.
Used for
Tracking/Tracing
Suitable for
Small products
Medium-sized products
Large products
Goes on
Product
Packaging
Can be used for
Physical products
Visibility
Visible
Reading device needed
Yes
Connection to server
Yes
Description
This technology offers a high degree of security, as it is based on the WORM (write once, read many) data writing method, which does not allow data to be deleted, replaced or rewritten.
All optical memory stripe solutions currently on the market are patent protected.
Uses
This technology is most widely used for document authentication.
Implementation
If you want to use a card to associate an optical memory stripe to your product, no changes need to be made to the production process.
However, if you want to affix an optical memory stripe directly to your product, you will need to ensure that you have the appropriate processes in place to do this during production.
Cost
As the optical memory stripe solutions currently available on the market are patent protected, their cost is totally controlled by the patent holders.