What Does 'NFC (Near Field Communication)' Mean?

Edward Martel author Edward Martel
What is NFC (Near Field Communication)?
Photo by Yura Fresh on Unsplash

Near Field Communication (NFC) is a short-range wireless technology that allows for the exchange of data or power between devices. It operates at a frequency of 13.56 MHz and has a range of approximately 4 cm (1.5 inches).

NFC technology is widely used in a variety of applications, including contactless payments, access control, and data transfer. One of the most common uses of NFC is in mobile phones, where it is used for contactless payments through services such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.

To make a payment using NFC, a consumer simply holds their phone near a payment terminal, which then reads the payment information stored on the phone and processes the transaction. This eliminates the need for the consumer to swipe a card or enter their payment information manually.

In addition to mobile payments, NFC technology is also used in access control systems. For example, some businesses use NFC-enabled badges or fobs to allow employees to access certain areas of the building. When an employee holds their badge or fob near a reader, the reader is able to communicate with the device and grant access if the employee is authorized.

NFC technology can also be used to transfer data between devices. For example, a consumer could use NFC to transfer a photo from their phone to a friend’s phone by simply holding the two devices close together. This is commonly known as the “tap and go” feature.

In general, NFC technology offers a convenient and secure way to exchange data and make payments. Its short-range and low-power nature make it well-suited for a variety of applications, and it is likely to continue to be a popular technology in the future.

More information

Near Field Communication (NFC) technology has three modes of operation: peer-to-peer mode, reader/writer mode, and card emulation mode.

  • Peer-to-peer mode: This mode allows two NFC-enabled devices to communicate with each other and exchange data. For example, two people could use their NFC-enabled phones to share a photo or document by simply holding the phones near each other.
  • Reader/writer mode: In this mode, an NFC-enabled device, such as a phone or tablet, can read data from an NFC tag or sticker. These tags can contain a variety of information, such as a URL or a phone number, and can be placed on objects like posters or business cards. When an NFC-enabled device is held near the tag, it can read the information stored on the tag and take an action based on that information.
  • Card emulation mode: In this mode, an NFC-enabled device can mimic a contactless payment card or access control card. For example, an NFC-enabled phone could be used to make a payment at a store by holding it near a payment terminal, just as a contactless payment card would be used. Similarly, an NFC-enabled phone could be used to access a building or other restricted area by holding it near a reader that is programmed to recognize the phone as an authorized card.

NFC wireless charging

Wireless charging is a technology that allows devices to be charged without the need for a physical connection, such as a USB cable. There are several different technologies that can be used for wireless charging, including near-field communication (NFC), radio frequency (RF), and inductive charging.

Inductive charging is the most common type of wireless charging and is based on the principles of electromagnetic induction. It uses an electrical current to create an electromagnetic field, which is then used to transfer energy from a charging pad to a device that is placed on the pad.

NFC wireless charging uses NFC technology to transmit energy wirelessly. In this type of wireless charging, an NFC-enabled device is placed near an NFC wireless charger, and the charger uses NFC technology to transfer energy to the device.

RF wireless charging is another type of wireless charging that uses radio waves to transmit energy. It has a longer range than inductive or NFC wireless charging and can charge devices from a distance of several feet.

Wireless charging technologies offer a convenient way to charge devices without the need for a physical connection.

Each type of wireless charging has its own unique features and capabilities, and the best choice for a particular application will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the device being charged.