27 Mar 2009

ERT Systems and Ensure Technologies are working to develop radio tags for emergency responders
Ypsilanti-based Ensure Technologies and Ann Arbor-based ERT Systems LLC have signed an agreement to develop radio tags designed specifically for the emergency services market.

ERT Systems has licensed Ensure Technologies' radio-frequency identification tag hardware for more than a year for use in its ID tags and Drop Readers. This agreement calls for the two companies to co-develop a new tag specifically designed for the tracking and locating of onsite first responders.

"The new tag is an improvement for us on all fronts," stated Dennis Carmichael, ERT Systems president. "It's more rugged, has longer battery life and improves read range, all in a case that's smaller and lighter than our current model. It's a huge step forward."

Added Ensure Technologies president John Dunlap: "ERT Systems has developed a very innovative solution for real-time tracking and locating of onsite emergency response teams. This agreement leverages our technologies, but more importantly provides increased performance to provide better tracking and locating of first responders, potentially saving lives. We are excited to be part of this important program."

The new tag design is expected to be in production by July.