Personalisation project embeds RFID tags in CDs and DVDs

Stora Enso Digital Solutions can personalise and digitally print the DBS Discbox Slider packaging.

CDA Datenträger international sales director Nick Janssen said the firm embedded the RFID tags in the DVDs and CDs during manufacture.

"DVDs comprise two 0.6mm-deep discs, which are bonded together using special glue. We embedded the RFID tag and antenna between the two halves. On CDs, which are 1.2mm deep, the tag is placed under the protective UV coating," he said.

Although it is possible to see the antenna in the disc, if someone tried to remove it, they would damage the disc, Janssen added.

Prices for the discs range from £1.60 (€2.30) for a standard CD or DVD with an embedded UPM Raflatac transponder to £2.80 for a high-end finish and customised shaping.

Stora Enso said the system provided new applications in anti-counterfeiting and inventory logistics.

It has been used by Ford Rally Team, which gave VIP customers a DVD containing team information, sponsor trailers and video clips. The RFID tag allowed access to the VIP areas. The disc and packaging were personalised, even displaying photographs of individual VIPs.

Janssen said it would not be possible to track a CD or DVD through the supply chain using the RFID tag because the high-frequency technology had a limited broadcasting range.

"But we are investigating ultra-high-frequency, which is a good technology for anti-theft applications," he said.

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