With a rich history dating back to the early 2000s, NFC technology has evolved from its roots in contactless payment systems to encompass a wide range of applications across industries. Today, NFC tags and chips enjoy a significant market share in sectors such as mobile payments, transportation, healthcare, retail, and the IoT (Internet of Things). Companies like NXP Semiconductors, Sony, and Samsung are at the forefront of NFC technology, continuously innovating and developing new solutions to meet the growing demand. NFC tags and chips find diverse applications, from enabling contactless payments and access control to facilitating smart packaging, asset tracking, and interactive marketing campaigns.
The near-field communication (NFC) technology is becoming increasingly popular for its convenience and ease of use. From contactless payments to smart advertising, NFC tags are revolutionizing the way we interact with the world around us.
What are various NFC tags and Chips?
NFC tags are small, battery-less devices that can be embedded in various objects and products. These tags contain an NFC chip along with an antenna that communicates with NFC-enabled devices, such as smartphones and tablets, by generating radio frequency signals and modulating data for transmission. When they are within close proximity of 10 cm or less, they operate at 13.56 MHz center frequency, at rates ranging from 106 kbps to 424 kbps.
NFC chips are the brains behind these tags, allowing them to exchange information wirelessly. They are the core components that enable devices to send and receive NFC signals. They also handle security protocols and manage power consumption to ensure efficient operation.
Moreover, these NFC tags come in different forms, including stickers, cards, and keychains. They can be easily programmed with specific actions or commands, such as opening a website, launching an app, or initiating a phone call.
Different types of NFC tags
There are two main types of NFC tags: Passive and Active.
1. Passive NFC tags rely on the power of the NFC-enabled device to operate. They are cost-effective and widely used for applications such as access control, loyalty programs, and inventory management.
2. Active NFC tags, on the other hand, have their own power source, usually a battery. This allows them to perform more complex functions and have a longer communication range. They are commonly used in applications where real-time data exchange is required, such as asset tracking and smart packaging.
Different types of NFC Chips
Various IC manufacturing companies develop chips for RFID (UHF RFID and HF RFID) and NFC technologies. NFC chips by these chip manufacturing firms are designed in various categories, features, and safety constraints.
Pupular NFC chips include:
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NFC Chips
|
Type
|
User memory
|
Features
|
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NTAG210
|
Type 2
|
48 bytes
|
7 byte UID; lockable; originality signature; password protection; UID mirroring
|
|
NXP NTAG210µ (micro)
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Type 2
|
48 bytes
|
7 byte UID; lockable; originality signature
|
|
NXP NTAG212
|
Type 2
|
128 bytes
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7 byte UID; originality signature; password protection; UID mirroring
|
|
NXP NTAG213
|
Type 2
|
144 bytes
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7 byte UID; lockable; originality signature; password protection; UID mirroring; counter
|
|
NXP NTAG213 TT
|
Type 2
|
144 bytes
|
7 byte UID; lockable; originality signature; password protection; UID mirroring; counter; Tag Tamper
|
|
NXP NTAG215
|
Type 2
|
504 bytes
|
7 byte UID; lockable; originality signature; password protection; UID mirroring; counter
|
|
NXP NTAG216
|
Type 2
|
888 bytes
|
7 byte UID; lockable; originality signature; password protection; UID mirroring; counter
|
|
NXP NTAG203
|
Type 2
|
144 bytes
|
7 byte UID; lockable; counter
|
|
NXP MIFARE Ultralight (MF0ICU1)
|
Type 2
|
48 bytes
|
4 byte UID; lockable
|
|
ST ST25TN512
|
Type 2
|
160 bytes
|
7 byte UID; lockable; TruST25 digital signature; 3-digit unique tap code
|
|
ST ST25TN01K
|
Type 2
|
160 bytes
|
7 byte UID; lockable; TruST25 digital signature; 3-digit unique tap code
|
|
NXP ICODE SLI
(SL2ICS20)
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Type 5
|
112 bytes
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8 byte UID; lockable; password protection
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|
NXP ICODE SLIX
(SL2S2002, SL2S2102)
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Type 5
|
112 bytes
|
8 byte UID; lockable; password protection
|
|
EM EM4425V10
|
Type 5
|
256 bytes
|
8 byte UID; lockable; originality signature; password protection; counter
|
|
EM EM4425V12
|
Type 5
|
256 bytes
|
8 byte UID; lockable; originality signature; password protection; counter
|
NFC Tag Applications in Various Industries
NFC tags are widely used in many different industries:
1. In retail, they can be used for interactive product displays, inventory management, and contactless payments.
2. In marketing, NFC tags enable personalized experiences, such as targeted advertisements and loyalty programs.
3. In transportation, they can facilitate ticketing and access control systems.
4. In healthcare, NFC tags are used for patient identification, medication tracking, and remote monitoring.
To conclude, NFC technology continues to evolve, and the possibilities for its applications are endless. From simplifying everyday tasks to transforming entire industries, NFC tags and chips are at the forefront of innovation. The convenience, ease of use, and versatility of NFC technology make it an ideal solution for a wide range of personal and professional use cases.
Frequently Asked Questions on NFC tags and NFC Chips
Q1) How to program an NFC tag?
Programming NFC tags is relatively simple and can be done using a smartphone or a computer with NFC capabilities. There are several apps and software available that allow you to write and customize NFC tags with specific actions or commands.
Q2) What is the security factor of NFC tags?
Security is a crucial aspect when it comes to NFC tags, especially for applications that involve sensitive data or financial transactions. Fortunately, NFC technology includes built-in security features to protect against unauthorized access and data tampering.
Q3) What are the various Popular NFC tag brands and manufacturers?
Some several popular brands and manufacturers specialize in the production of NFC tags. Some of the well-known brands include NXP Semiconductors, Sony, and Samsung.
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