RFIDNFCTags

RFID and NFC tags are compact devices that combine an integrated circuit and an antenna to store and wirelessly transmit data to readers. They come in passive form, which draws energy from the reader, and active form, which includes its own power source.

RFID operates across several frequency bands. Low-frequency (LF) tags use about 125–134 kHz and are common in animal tagging and some access-control systems. High-frequency (HF) tags use 13.56 MHz and include Near Field Communication, which supports secure, short-range data exchange with mobile devices.

NFC is a subset of HF RFID optimized for near-field interaction. Standards include ISO/IEC 14443 and ISO/IEC 15693 for HF and vicinity RFID, and the NFC Forum specifications that define tag types and data formats such as NDEF. Type 2 and Type 4 are common in NFC implementations.

A tag consists of an antenna and a microchip that stores data. Memory capacity ranges from tens of bytes to several kilobytes, depending on the tag type. Security features may include password protection, cryptographic authentication, and, in some cases, secure elements for payment or access control.

Typical applications include asset tracking, inventory management, access control, transit fare media, contactless payments, event tickets, product authentication, and consumer engagement through smart packaging.

Limitations include short read range for NFC, potential privacy and security risks from skimming or cloning, environmental impacts on performance, and considerations for durability and data persistence.