An interface antenna is positioned between a tag antenna associated with a
tag and a reader antenna associated with a reader. The interface antenna
receives an electromagnetic carrier signal transmitted by the reader
antenna and causes an increase in intensity of the electromagnetic
carrier signal at the location of the tag antenna, thereby increasing the
distance over which the tag can communicate with the reader. Where the
tag is attached to a packaged object, the interface antenna may be
included in the package to allow wireless data communication between the
tag and a reader external to the package. For example, the interface
antenna may be attached to a label on the package. At least a portion of
the interface antenna may be formed from a conductive ink applied to the
label and/or the container. The object may be a module, also known as a
customer replaceable unit (CRU), and the tag may be configured as a
customer replaceable unit monitor (CRUM).