Abstract: Security in inductively coupled communications systems, such as near field communications (NFC), may be improved by restricting signals carrying user data to an authorized data transmission region. Security may be particularly important when the NFC carries financial transaction information or authorization credentials. Scramble signals may be transmitted along with data signals carrying the user data and designed to overshadow the data signals outside of the authorized data transmission region. The scramble signal transceiver may be designed to have a slower decay rate with distance from the transceiver than the data signal. By adjusting the power levels of the scramble signal and the data signal, the authorized data transmission region may be adjusted. Scramble signals may not be required if the data signal strength outside the authorized data transmission region is below the minimum threshold value required by eavesdropping receivers.

Abstract: The disclosed inventions relate to a method and apparatus for creating scramble signals. The disclosed inventions further relate to a method and apparatus for creating scramble signals from data signals. The disclosed inventions also relate to a method and apparatus for creating minimum-energy scramble signals. The disclosed inventions further relate to a method and apparatus for exploiting sleep and wake commands to achieve efficient data and scramble signals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for preventing unauthorized users from gaining access to a wireless network. A processor allows only data transmissions from the directions of the authorized users to access the network. Data transmissions from other directions are not allowed to access the network. The present invention also relates to a method and apparatus fore transmitting information only in selected directions, while in directions not selected, information cannot be inferred from the transmitted signal or signals.

Abstract: The disclosed inventions relate to a method and apparatus for creating one-sided interrogation zones. The disclosed inventions further relate to a method and apparatus for determining the direction of movement of tagged items that pass by an RFID reader. The disclosed inventions also relate to a method and apparatus for combining one-sided interrogation zones of two or more antenna arrays to create an interrogation zone that maintains its width over a large range of distances.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for transmitting a narrow signal beam are disclosed that allow the precise location of RFID tags to be determined and reduce tag collisions. Also disclosed are a method and apparatus for improving the efficiency of RFID systems.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for preventing unauthorized users from gaining access to a wireless network. A processor allows only data transmissions from the directions of the authorized users to access the network. Data transmissions from other directions are not allowed to access the network. The present invention also relates to a method and apparatus fore transmitting information only in selected directions, while in directions not selected, information cannot be inferred from the transmitted signal or signals.