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What is RFID?
RFID technology relies on radio waves to send and receive information between a tag and a reader. At its simplest level, an RFID reader sends a signal out to an RFID tag and the tag sends back an information-carrying signal.
What is NFC?
NFC or Near Field Communication is a method of wireless data transfer that detects and then enables technology in close proximity to communicate without the need for an internet connection. It’s easy, fast and works automatically.
NFC tags are a type of High Frequency RFID technology. All NFC tags are HF, but not all HF RFID tags are NFC. NFC operates in a very specific subset of high-frequency range – 13.56MHz – and have very different use cases and implementation considerations from other RFID categories.
What about QR Codes or 2D Barcodes?
NFC is often seen as an alternative to QR codes, which require scanning a square code with your device. Both technologies are designed for short-range transactions, but QR code scanning requires a camera, while NFC communication requires a near-field communication chip. NFC communication is arguably simpler since you don’t need to manually scan anything with your device. Additionally, NFC provides two-way communication, while scanning a QR code is a one-way transaction.
How is NFC Used?
NFC is primarily used in close range for access control to increase security, speed, and data collection. It typically has a read range of a tap to inches for scans but it also has the ability for stored value.
There are many other uses for NFC as well. Examples include:
- Paying a fare on public transit, such as a bus or train
- Confirming your ticket at a concert or sports event
- Syncing workout data from a fitness machine with your device
- Viewing special offers on your phone when you enter a store
- Loading information about an artist or piece of art at a museum
- Viewing a map and related information at a national park
- Loading a translated menu at a restaurant
- Checking in and checking out at a hotel
- Unlocking an NFC-enabled door lock
What types of products does WW&L have for NFC technology?
NFC can be applied to many different printed products depending on your use case. Primarily, for event managers looking for access control solutions, WW&L recommends:
- Tickets
- Credentials
- Wristbands
- Parking Passes
Frequently Asked Questions about NFC Technology
What is the read range of NFC?
Based on your NFC antenna your read range can vary anywhere from 6″ to requiring a tap on the reader.
How can NFC be used in my venue?
NFC offers a wide range of options based on application ranging from Access Control, Stored Value, Fan engagement, etc.
How secure is NFC?
NFC boasts a 32-64 bit encryption that matches the security of a typical bank card, making it a premium option for tap and go payment or access control.
What are the benefits of NFC versus a barcode?
NFC allows on average a 1-2 second faster read rate, cannot be duplicated/counterfeit and provides the ability to store back-end data.
What type of technology is NFC?
NFC is a form of Passive RFID technology, requiring an active reader to reach the data stored on the chip.
Why NFC over mobile for access control?
NFC provides faster throughput for access control, eliminates the need for wifi/data for the consumer to access their tickets and provides security with high levels of encryption.