AIM/CompTIA offer RFID certification

By Bob Trebilcock, Editor at Large -- Modern Materials Handling, 10/18/2005

Everyone’s an expert. Or so it would seem to someone talking to systems integrators and vendors in the burgeoning world of RFID implementation.

That notion will soon be put to the test by AIM Global (724-934-4470), the association representing the data capture industry, and CompTIA, a global testing organization for IT-related topics.

The two organizations began working on an RFID certification program last year. The beta version of the first test will be available for registration on October 31 (877-551-7587).

“We view this as an important step towards offering the market a way to measure and validate the knowledge and experience of systems integrators and end users with responsibility for the installation and operation of RFID systems,” says Dan Mullen, president, AIM Global.

The test is designed to validate foundational knowledge in RFID. The two-hour test will consist of 115 multiple choice questions covering all the different disciplines involved in an RFID implementation, including tag and reader placement, and hardware and software implementation. Tests will be administered at a global network of test centers.

Candidates who pass the test will receive certification for the exam. “This is a great way to identify your strengths and weaknesses,” says Mullen.

Cost for the beta exam is $75, a discount off the regular price of $225. A blueprint for test preparation can be downloaded by clicking here.

While the initial test will cover a broad range of topics, Mullen says that future versions may differentiate between RFID technicians and systems managers responsible for data and network management.