RFID and NFC RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a method of automatic object identification in which data stored in transponders, or RFID tags, is read or written using radio signals.
Radio frequency identification is based on the transmission and storage of data:
- Information is written to the chip via radio waves.
- The stored information is then read using a dedicated reader.
An RFID tag comprises several components:
- A microchip (integrated circuit) that stores data; it is also responsible for communicating with the reader;
- An antenna that enables data exchange between the tag and the reader;
- A substrate (or encapsulation) on which the chip and antenna are mounted;
- An outer casing or housing, which may include features for attaching the tag to various objects.
NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range wireless communication technology that enables data exchange between devices located within a range of up to 10 centimeters. NFC operates at a frequency of 13.56 MHz. An NFC interaction always involves an initiator (e.g., a smartphone or tablet with an NFC module) and a target (e.g., an NFC tag). The initiator actively generates a radio frequency field that powers the passive target and facilitates data exchange (reading or writing data).
Essentially, NFC is a subset of High Frequency (HF) RFID technology
