What is RFID/ NFC?

RFID

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. An RFID system consists of a tiny radio transponder (a device that emits a signal in response to a signal that it has received, also referred to as the “tag”), a radio receiver, and a transmitter( a device that produces radio waves with an antenna).

When triggered by an electromagnetic interrogation pulse from a nearby RFID reader, the tag transmits digital data back to the reader. This data can be whatever information the user wishes to insert on the tag.

Usually, this information comes in the form of inventory tracking numbers for products, identification of individuals in the form of access cards or tags, tracking of products during logistics, identification of animals in the form of RFID chips and many more uses.

There are two different RFID tags possible. Either they are active, meaning they have their own power source or they are passive. Passive tags do not have their own power source and have to be supplied with energy via an electromagnetic field produced by the reader.

Passive transponders or tags are available in three different RFID frequency ranges: Low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF) and ultra high frequency (UHF). The reading range of LF and HF systems is usually only a few centimeters. UHF tags, however, are often readable over distances of more than one meter.

NFC

NFC (Near-Field Communication) is also based on the RFID protocols. The main difference to RFID is that a NFC device can act not only as a reader, but also as a tag (card emulation mode). In peer-to-peer mode, it is also possible to transfer information between two NFC devices.

NFC systems operate on the same frequency as HF RFID (13.56 MHz) systems. Therefore, there are only short read range limitations.

Because of the short read range limitations, NFC devices have to be in very close proximity - usually no more than a few centimeters. That's why NFC is often used for secure communications, especially for access controls or in the consumer sector for contactless payment.

What is the difference between the 13.56MHz and the 125kHz frequencies?

125kHz

When a 125kHz card comes within range of a reader, the card immediately begins to transmit its card number. The data transmitted by the card is not encrypted and is always the same. Data transfer is only one way.

Apart from the low cost, the only real advantage of 125kHz is that due to the lower power requirements and small amount of data being transmitted, it offers a good read range (of about 10cm) and a short read time. This allows users to present, swipe or wave their card in the general direction of the reader to get a successful read.

This is usually used for access control.

13.56MHz

The MIFARE standard 13.56MHz was originally created as a ticketing solution for transport systems, while also addressing the security issues with the 125kHz technology by enabling two way communication between the card and the reader. This also saw the introduction of card encryption and the ability to store data on the card.

When the card approaches the RF field of the reader, the card and reader begin a secure communication session using shared encryption keys. Once this is established, the card number is transmitted and the communication session is closed off. This process happens very quickly, however it does take slightly longer than a 125kHz based system and means that generally, a MIFARE card cannot be simply swiped or waved at a card reader, but must be presented. Also, the two way process requires more energy than 125kHz, meaning a slightly reduced read range of around 7cm.

Products available at Netram

NTAG Range:

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The chips are most commonly inserted into Cards, Key Fobs, Wristbands, Labels, and Tags.

At Netram we supply a wide range of NTAG contactless products.

     We sell the NTAG 213 in the form of keychain tags, plastic, wooden and metal cards, sticker tags, anti-metal tags, and wearable stainless steel rings. The NTAG 213 NFC chip has 144 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications.

     The NFC NTAG 215 comes in the form of a card with a usable memory of 504 bytes.

     The NTAG 216 card is sold at Netram in the form of a card and has a capability of storing 924 bytes.

NTAG 213 - White NFC Card

This is a plain white NFC card with an Ntag213 Chip.

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 213 NFC chip has 144 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

NFC Sticker Tag – NTAG213

This is a plain white round sticker with a diameter of 29mm.

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 213 NFC chip has 144 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

NTAG 213 Keychain Tag

This is a keyfob or also known as a keytchain tag with an Ntag213 Chip.

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 213 NFC chip has 144 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows iPhone and BlackBerry.

NTAG213 NFC Anti Metal Tag 29mm

These 29mm Durable Waterproof NTAG213 on Metal  NFC Disc Token Tags are readable and writable. These NFC tags has anti metal layer built inside so that it can be used on metal, aluminium or electronic surfaces directly.  NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 213 NFC chip has 144 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

Wooden Ntag213 Card (Bamboo)

This is a Wooden Ntag213 Card that is made out of eco-friendly bamboo.

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 213 NFC chip has 144 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

FPC Ntag213 Tag 10x10mm

FPC  Micro RFID stickers are widely used in electronic products. Examples: Toys, food, tobacco, wine, cosmetics, accessories, security and home entertainment applications, wearable smart application and some insert applications.

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 213 NFC chip has 144 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

NTAG 213 - Black NFC Card

This is a plain black NFC card with white edges and a Ntag213 Chip.

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 213 NFC chip has 144 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

NTAG215 Plain White Card

This is a plain white NFC card with an Ntag215 Chip. It has more memory than the Ntag213.

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 215 NFC chip has 540 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

NTAG216 Plain White Card

This is a plain white NFC card with an Ntag216 Chip. It has more memory than the Ntag213 & Ntag215. It has 924 bytes organised 231 pages with 4 bytes per page.

NTAG technology has a contactless chip, meaning it is great for access control, cashless vending, stock tracking, logical access, storing contact details, web links and more. This chip runs at 13.56MHz frequency. The NTAG 216 NFC chip has 924 bytes of usable memory and is suitable for web addresses, trigger, task launcher and similar NFC applications. NTAGs are the most suitable for marketing campaigns, because they are compatible with the different mobile operating systems: Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

Mifare 1k Range:

The MIFARE 1K is based on NXP MF1 IC S50, which is connected to a coil with a few turns and then embedded into plastic to form the passive contactless smart card. The communication layer (MIFARE RF Interface) complies with part 2 and 3 of the ISO/IEC14443A standard. It is contactless transmission of data and energy and no battery is needed.

MIFARE 1K is fundamentally used for storing memories, while a simple security mechanism divides the memories into segments. Therefore, it is ideal for high volume transactions in all different applications, such as transport ticketing, time attendance solutions, car parking, road-tolling etc.

NFC (13.56mhz) Keychain Tag

The NFC Tag (13.56MHz) is widely used in electronic locks or customer identification as well as other systems where a small and easy to carry tag is desired. It can be read by almost any 13.56MHz RFID/NFC reader that can handle 13.56 cards.

Application Ideas:
  • Access Control System
  • Identification
  • Object Tracking

NFC Mifare Card (13.56Mhz) Classic

The NFC Tag (13.56MHz) is widely used in electronic locks or customer identification as well as other systems where a card is desired. It can be read by almost any 13.56MHz RFID/NFC reader that can handle 13.56 cards.

Application Ideas:
  • Access Control System
  • Identification
  • Object Tracking

Dual Plain White RFID Cards ( Mifare 1k & 125Khz)

Each card has a two unique serial numbers which can be used to identify the card - one on 125khz frequency and another on 13.56mHz. Alternatively, the chip within the card can be encoded.

The cards are plain white PVC and therefore are suitable for monochrome or full colour personalisation to one or both sides, with the use of any plastic card printer.

The TK4100 is a proximity card containing a CMOS integrated circuit for use in electronic read-only radio frequency applications and combined with an NXP MIFARE chip for compatibility on dual systems.

Applications: Access control, time and attendance, transport, print release, cashless vending

TK4100 (125kHz)

The TK4100 is a basic, read-only, 125 kHz RFID chip with a unique serial number for the purposes of identification. They are suitable for use in applications for access control, time and attendance monitoring, or other applications where there is not a high level of security required. They come in the form of cards, or can be inserted and installed into devices that require long distance reading capabilities in the form of a module.

RFID Card - 125kHz

This is a basic RFID card is used for presence sensing, etc. Works in the 125kHz RF range. These cards come with a unique 32-bit ID and are not re-programmable. Card is blank, smooth, and mildly flexible.

RFID 125kHz Keychain Tag

This is a basic RFID keyfob or also known as a keychain tag. It is generally is used for presence sensing, etc. Works in the 125kHz RF range. These tags come with a unique 32-bit ID and are not re-programmable.

USB RFID Readers

125KHz USB RFID Reader

This is a simple and easy to use USB RFID Reader for 125Khz. It uses standard HID drivers so no installed applications or specific drivers are required.
It allows you to read the card number into any edit text box such as an input field in a piece of software or something simple as notepad. This is great as it works with exisiting software packages and means that you won't need to do any software modications in order to read RFID Cards.

13.56Mhz USB RFID Reader

R20XC is a high performance 13.56MHz RFID smart card reader. It does not only feature convenience and simpleness but also ensures stable and reliable data. With an USB interface, it can be used without a driver. The reader distance is up to 80mm. It can be widely used for RFID ( Radio Frequency Identification System ) and project, such as automated parking management system, personal identification, access control, production access control, etc.

Custom Branding & Bulk Purchases

Here at Netram we offer printing on cards of the highest quality. We can also add your logo to any keyfobs and stickers for an additional cost.

We offer discount on bulk purchases with a lead time of 10 - 15 working days. Contact us to get your quote today! 

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