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NFC (near field communications) is a short-range wireless technology that enable two devices to exchange securely small amounts of data when they're placed a few centimeters apart. The exchange happens through a magnetic field created by a device that acts as an initiator, generating a radio frequency identification field that can power a passive target or trigger another active target to initiate. That means that only one of the communication devices needs a source of power.
For that reason, targets can take very simple forms such as tags, stickers, key fobs or cards. They can securely store personal data such as debit and credit card details, loyalty program data, PIN numbers and networking contacts, among other information.
According to the NFC Forum, the three main uses of NFC currently are “sharing, pairing, and transaction.” Global companies are interested in NFC’s ability to provide pervasive marketing, simplify processes and facilitate contactless payment of goods. For consumers, some benefits involve the possibility to collect digital files, exchange data with people and interact with other devices in a more simple and intuitive way.
Passive Communication Mode: The Initiator device provides a carrier field and the target device answers by modulating the existing field. In this mode, the target device may draw its operating power from the Initiator-provided electromagnetic field, making the target device a transponder.
Active Communication Mode: Both Initiator and target device communicate by alternately generating their own fields. A device deactivates it's RF field while it is waiting for data. In this mode, both devices typically have power supplies.
Some examples of how NFC can be used:
- Transfer files between devices with a touch.
- Payment integration into a mobile device
- Electroic money integration with prepaid cards.
- Electronic ticketing for public transport.
- Personal electronic ID document.
- Download of information from kiosks, such as buses time table.
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