19 Jul 2010
Small reach – with large potential
One of the most exciting wireless technologies in the market is still fairly unknown among consumers. But NFC technology probably will not remain in the shadow of Bluetooth and WiFi much longer.
NFC stands for Near Field Communication. NFC users communicate by one device establishing a wireless data connection with another in close proximity.
The unique characteristic for NFC is its flexibility. Many wireless technologies use a relatively passive target object, such as an RFID tag. This object is in contact with a more active reader, which starts the communication and carries out all functions. NFC devices can function both as cards or tags and as readers. This flexibility enables NFC to support many more applications.
Currently there are four major types of applications for NFC. In “Touch and Go,” the most basic function, an NFC device can transfer or capture information in one direction – similar to RFID. This function is appropriate for functions such as opening doors or obtaining a prepaid ticket.
The “Touch and Confirm” applications are more advanced with two-way communication, where the user's device communicates with the reader, and confirms by the push of a button or a password. This function allows for a higher security level, which is necessary for making purchases. The feature is used in mobile phones to carry out cashless transactions.
In the next level, “Touch and Connect,” two NFC devices can actively transmit data, so that one user can send music, photos, or other information to another user when the devices contact each other. This function is similar to the current infrared technology, but is faster and easier to use.
The highest level, “Touch and Explore,” enables one NFC device to find out which services the other device offers and execute them. For example, hotel guests will be able to hold the mobile phone toward an NFC symbol and be asked about reserving a table in a restaurant, downloading a discount coupon, or participating in a loyalty program.