What Is a Near Field Communication (NFC) Tag?
A near field communication (NFC) tag is a small wireless device that enables short-range communication between compatible devices. Utilizing technologies such as pulse width modulation (PWM), NFC tags allow for data exchange simply by bringing devices into proximity.
Recognized globally, NFC tags are used in various applications, including Felica—a Type F NFC standard commonly employed in Japan’s “Osaifu-Keitai” (mobile wallet).
Applications of NFC Tags
NFC tags are used in a range of contexts, including:
1. Home Appliances
Utilized in devices like smartphones, credit cards, and transport cards (e.g., Suica), NFC tags enable quick and secure transactions such as fare payments and auto-charging.
2. Industrial Equipment
Used in industrial settings for automated equipment control and monitoring.
3. Power Supply Adapters
AC-to-DC converters, serving as power supply adapters, are essential in charging portable devices like smartphones and laptops.
4. Electric Vehicles
In electric vehicles, AC-to-DC converters are crucial in the charging systems, supplying DC power to the vehicle’s battery from an AC source.
Principles of NFC Tags
NFC Tags function based on various standards like Type A, B, F, and ISO/IEC15693, standardized by ISO and IEC:
1. Type A
Developed by NXP Semiconductors, this inexpensive standard is used in applications like Taspo.
2. Type B
Created by Motorola, this standard features a built-in CPU for high-speed processing and security, suitable for driver’s licenses and basic resident registration cards.
3. Type F
Sony’s Type F standard is the basis for Felica technology, offering twice the communication speed of standard NFC.
4. ISO/IEC15693
This standard is commonly used for IC tags in logistics applications.
Other Information on NFC Tags
1. NFC Tags and NFC Readers
NFC tags and NFC Readers form the core of NFC technology, facilitating electronic transactions and data exchange. Modern smartphones can also function as NFC Readers.
2. NFC Tag Pairing and Handover
NFC tags can pair devices similar to Bluetooth and facilitate data exchange handovers to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for larger data transfers. This functionality enhances NFC’s utility in various technological applications.