Near Field Communication is a form of radio communication between compatible devices, which must be close to each other. The devices establish peer-to-peer communication when they touch each other or are very close together, enabling them to exchange data. The technology is closely related to radio-frequency identification or RFID because they can both be used to send data or induce current in passive components. However, the maximum distance within which NFC devices can communicate is only 10 centimeters, as they rely on electromagnetic radio fields. Communication typically takes place when devices are between one and four centimeters apart. This means NFC devices are not suitable for things like inventory tracking. Like QR codes, the devices are more common in products that need to contain digitized information.
NFC devices are classified as either active or passive. Active devices both read and send data while passive devices contain information, but they cannot read any information themselves. An example of a passive device is an NFC Tag. An NFC Tag is basically constructed by embedding an NFC chip with a small antenna into a thin sheet of plastic. Different tags are made of varying layers of adhesive and plastic as well as the design and size of the antenna, which is usually constructed from thin aluminum. NFC Tags can store different types of information depending on their memory capacities.
NFC tags are small and cheap, which means they can be easily integrated into a wide range of products, including posters, business cards, stickers, passes and even prescription bottles. Since the tags are passive, they do not require any power of their own, as the power drawn from readers suffices to activate them. They offer great benefits to both individuals and businesses.
NFC devices establish secure channels and encrypt sensitive information like credit card numbers. Consumers using NFC-enabled phones can enhance their security by using passwords and installing anti-virus apps. Encoding and locking NFC Tags are two distinct procedures. While the tags can be re-encoded several times, the encoded data cannot be altered once tags have been locked. This means tags can be locked to protect the information they contain from unwanted change. NFC technology will help both small businesses and large corporations streamline their operations and increase customer satisfaction. Businesses can use NFC Tags anywhere since they do not need internal power.