OKI Introduces Traceability System as Measure Against Counterfeiting of Printer Consumables
TOKYO - OKI Data Corporation, an OKI Group company specializing in the printer business, today announced that it has introduced a "brand protection system," realizing high-precision assessment of authenticity via cutting-edge technology, as a measure against counterfeit ink ribbons and toner cartridges. The system will first be introduced in Asia starting in November 2010, and will be subsequently introduced in other regions.
The system is the world's first to incorporate both assessment of authenticity as well as traceability. It uses a Product Control Authentication System (PCAS) from TÃœV Rheinland Japan Ltd. and Lippmann hologram transfer printing technology from Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
The consumable packaging is sealed with a label on which a PCAS number-an encrypted 13-digit ID code intended to prevent counterfeiting-and a Lippmann hologram are printed. The Lippmann hologram, which is difficult to counterfeit, allows for simple assessment of authenticity with a single glance. Moreover, users can see instantly whether the PCAS number is a copy/forgery, or an official number unique to the product, simply by entering it on OKI Data's authenticity assessment service web page.
"OKI will be providing a simple authentication system to all end users where the label itself serves as both the seal and the counterfeit prevention measure," says Harushige Sugimoto, President of OKI Data. "In addition, the code and location entered into the authenticity assessment service enables traceability, not only for counterfeit goods but also for authentic items, allowing users to gain a better understanding of their consumables usage. OKI expects to see higher rates of recycling for used cartridges due to the introduction of this system."
[Glossary]
1. Product Control Authentication System (PCAS)
An online system offering a variety of functions including product validation and traceability throughout the supply chain, with a randomly generated 13-digit alphanumeric code at its core. This system enforces secure control of products by issuing reports.
2. Lippmann hologram: The surface of a film is coated with a special polymer layer, in which changes in the refractive index produce interference patterns. When light is projected onto these interference patterns, holographic images are reproduced via the diffraction phenomenon. Lippmann holograms offer a superior full-parallax three-dimensional effect in both horizontal and vertical directions with a realistic sense of depth, making it possible to create close renditions of real-life objects. Lippmann holograms use special materials and manufacturing processes, making them extremely difficult to counterfeit. Lippmann holograms have developed a global reputation for security performance due in part to their ability to accurately render specific design attributes, as they enable designs incorporating a realistic sense of depth and full-parallax effect.
About Oki Data Corporation
Oki Data Corporation specializes in the design, development, manufacture, and marketing of business printing solutions that empower organizations to communicate more effectively. A subsidiary of Tokyo-based OKI Electric Industry Co. Ltd. (established in 1881 as Japan's first telecommunications manufacturer), OKI Data Corporation fields representatives in 120 countries to offer innovative, leading-edge products and services worldwide. For more information, please visit www.oki.com
Notes:
The names of the companies and products mentioned in this document are the trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies and organizations.
