Symbol to buy RFID company Matrics

Symbol Technologies has moved to beef up its RFID (radio frequency identification) capabilities with an agreement to acquire Matrics, a maker of RFID readers and tags.

Symbol will pay $230m (£126m) in cash for privately held Matrics.

Matrics makes RFID products for vertical markets such as retail, defence and transportation, and focuses on products designed to comply with the emerging EPC (Electronic Product Code) standard.

Symbol plans to integrate Matrics products into its line-up of wireless and data capture products.

Last month, RFID rival Intermec Technologies filed suit against Matrics, alleging patent violations. Intermec is seeking licensing fees from Matrics.

Stephen Lawson writes for IDG News Service