Summary

The 100TB28 NFC IC is a highly sophisticated integrated circuit designed to enhance Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities across various applications, including secure payments, healthcare, and transportation. Building upon the legacy of integrated circuits first conceptualized by Jack Kilby and Robert Noyce in 1958, the 100TB28 NFC IC epitomizes the advancements in microelectronics that have revolutionized modern technology. This IC is notable for its robust feature set, including secure authentication protocols, direction-finding capabilities, and compliance with global NFC standards, making it a critical component in the growing landscape of contactless communication. One of the distinguishing aspects of the 100TB28 NFC IC is its adherence to the NFC Forum’s technical specifications, ensuring interoperability and global compatibility. These specifications govern various NFC functionalities, such as peer-to-peer communication, card emulation, and reader/writer modes, all of which are essential for seamless integration into existing infrastructures. The IC also supports the NFC Forum’s Analog Specification and Personal Health Device Communication (PHDC) protocols, enabling its use in a broad array of applications from secure mobile payments to personal health data exchanges. The design and development of the 100TB28 NFC IC involve intricate decisions regarding component selection, either opting for off-the-shelf modules or custom-designed solutions. This flexibility in design allows for cost-effective prototyping and scalable production, tailored to specific industry needs. Advanced packaging techniques, such as multi-chip modules and three-dimensional integrated circuits, are employed to meet the increasing demands for performance and miniaturization without compromising reliability. Market adoption of the 100TB28 NFC IC is driven by its versatility and the rising demand for contactless solutions in various sectors, including retail, healthcare, and public transportation. Competitors like NXP Semiconductors and Infineon Technologies also contribute to the dynamic NFC market, continually pushing the boundaries of what these integrated circuits can achieve. The future of the 100TB28 NFC IC looks promising, with ongoing advancements in NFC technology and integrated circuit design, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of innovation in contactless communication.

History

The integrated circuit (IC), an essential component of modern NFC technology, was first conceptualized and independently invented by Jack Kilby and Robert Noyce in 1958

. Prior to this groundbreaking invention, electronic circuits were constructed using discrete components, such as individual transistors, resistors, and capacitors, which required significant physical space and were prone to reliability issues due to numerous manual connections. Kilby, working at Texas Instruments, demonstrated the first working integrated circuit on September 12, 1958. His prototype utilized germanium as the semiconductor material and featured a simple oscillator circuit. Noyce, at Fairchild Semiconductor, also developed an integrated circuit around the same time, utilizing silicon as the substrate, which eventually became the standard material for ICs. Integrated circuits revolutionized electronics by significantly reducing the size and complexity of electronic circuits. This technology overcame the “tyranny of numbers,” a term describing the limitations engineers faced with the manual interconnection of thousands of discrete components. The transition from discrete transistors to integrated circuits was marked by successive technological milestone events, such as the development of the single-chip digital signal processor in 1979. In the years following the invention of the integrated circuit, the technology evolved rapidly, leading to more compact and powerful computers and electronic devices. Today, integrated circuits are the fundamental building blocks of virtually all electronic equipment, including NFC-enabled devices. NFC technology itself builds upon existing high-frequency RFID standards and has become one of the “big three” consumer technologies, alongside Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, in use by billions of people globally. NFC chips, which are small ICs, are now standard features in smartphones and other devices, facilitating secure and versatile contactless communication.

 

Design and Development

The design and development of the 100TB28 NFC IC involve critical decisions about whether to use off-the-shelf components or design custom modules. For instance, adapting NFC-NTAG modules from suppliers like TechNexion can speed up the development process but increase the system’s cost, making this approach more suitable for prototyping or small-volume manufacturing

. These NFC-NTAG modules typically cost around $4 each. Alternatively, the team could design an original module using specialized transponders from companies such as Microchip Technology or STMicroelectronics. This method involves creating a custom printed circuit board (PCB), which takes longer but reduces the final device cost. Key components for an original NFC module include a transponder ($0.306), passive components (<$0.5), a 2-layer PCB (~$0.45), circuit board assembly (~$1.2), and an optional off-the-shelf antenna like the Molex 146236-0051 ($0.382). The overall cost of development can vary significantly based on factors such as system size, complexity, and the use of off-the-shelf components versus custom designs. Moreover, the decision to hire an electronics design company can impact costs. Firms based in North America or Europe generally charge more than those located in other regions. The expertise and experience of ASIC manufacturers, technological capabilities, and cost considerations also play a role in this process. Clients must weigh these factors carefully to achieve a balance between quality, cost, and deployment timelines. To address the increasing complexity and performance requirements without reducing transistor sizes, advanced packaging techniques are employed. These techniques include multi-chip modules, three-dimensional integrated circuits, and package-on-package solutions, collectively known as 2.5D and 3D packaging. These approaches allow for higher performance and reduced sizes by incorporating two or more dies in a single package. The evolution of integrated circuit technology, from the early 1970s’ modest transistor counts to today’s very-large-scale integration (VLSI) with billions of transistors, underscores the advancements in design and manufacturing processes. Modern EDA tools, essential for designing complex semiconductor chips, now incorporate artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and performance.

 

Technical Specifications

The 100TB28 NFC IC offers a range of features that are integral to its functionality in various NFC applications. This section delves into its specific technical specifications, capabilities, and compliance with relevant standards.

Profiles and Configuration Parameters

The 100TB28 NFC IC is defined in the Profiles Technical Specification, which elaborates on the device’s capabilities to discover services offered with various technologies. Each profile in the specification has distinct configuration parameters tailored to specific use cases. These include NFC device polling and the establishment of Peer-to-Peer communication, reading NFC Data Exchange Format (NDEF) data from NFC Forum tags, and combined polling for both NFC tags and devices

. Version 1.1 of the Profiles Technical Specification, which the 100TB28 NFC IC adheres to, omits NFC Forum Type 1 Tag features to streamline the implementation of future NFC-enabled devices while maintaining user experience quality .

 

Data Exchange Specifications

The 100TB28 NFC IC is built in accordance with NFC Forum Specifications, which form a technology standard for harmonizing and extending existing contactless standards. These specifications cover various operating modes, including card emulation, reader/writer, wireless charging, and peer-to-peer communication

. Developed by the NFC Forum Member Community, these specifications are accessible to the public for a nominal fee, with free access for members at the Associate level and above. The specifications, provided as PDF documents, ensure global interoperability between different NFC devices and existing contactless infrastructures by harmonizing the ISO/IEC 18092 and ISO/IEC 14443 standards with NFC technology .

 

Personal Health Device Communication

The Personal Health Device Communication (PHDC) Technical Specification facilitates the exchange of personal health data using NFC technology. The 100TB28 NFC IC supports this specification, providing an interoperable data transport for personal health devices conforming to the ISO/IEEE Std. 11073-20601 Optimized Exchange Protocol. Version 1.2 of this specification includes communication mechanisms for NFC Forum Type 5 Tag protocol, thus expanding the implementation options for future NFC-enabled personal health devices

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NFC Authentication Protocol

The NFC Authentication Protocol Technical Specification, which the 100TB28 NFC IC supports, defines a common feature set for major NFC applications, including financial services and public transport. It covers the digital interface and half-duplex transmission protocol of the NFC-enabled device in roles such as Initiator, Target, Reader/Writer, and Card Emulator. This specification includes bit-level coding, bit rates, frame formats, protocols, and command sets, ensuring efficient data exchange and compliance with the LLCP protocol. The specification also incorporates updates from ongoing alignment efforts with organizations such as EMVCo, ISO/IEC 14443, and ISO/IEC 18092

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Memory and Compatibility

Key memory specifications of the 100TB28 NFC IC include the total memory size, user memory, and specific storage capacities for URLs and plain text. The memory size can range from one-time programmable (OTP) to fully reprogrammable formats, while user memory determines the data storage capacity, influencing the tag selection. The chip’s compatibility with mobile devices is also a crucial consideration for selecting the appropriate NFC tag

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Integrated Circuits

Integrated Circuits (ICs) like the 100TB28 NFC IC are essential components in modern electronic devices.

Features

The 100TB28 NFC IC offers a comprehensive set of features designed to support a wide range of applications and enhance user experience. The device supports multiple standard functions, including collation, grouping with options like offset, stapling, saddle stitching, hole punching, eco stapling, and stapling on demand

. These features make it versatile for various media handling needs.

 

Media Support

The 100TB28 NFC IC is capable of handling diverse media types, ensuring compatibility with different materials. The multi-purpose tray supports thin, plain, recycled, color, heavy, coated, tracing, bond, transparency, label, pre-punched, letterhead, tab, and envelope paper. The upper and lower paper cassettes are compatible with thin, plain, recycled, color, heavy, bond, transparency, pre-punched, letterhead, and envelope papers, providing flexibility for various printing tasks

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Specification and Interoperability

Adhering to the Analog 2.0 Specification, the 100TB28 NFC IC ensures full interoperability with devices conformant to ISO/IEC 14443 or ISO/IEC 18092 by harmonizing analog parameters for contactless communication. This is critical for the reliable usage of NFC devices within existing infrastructure, such as contactless public transport applications. Version 2.1 of the specification introduces alignments to EMVCo and NFC-V Listen mode requirements, while Version 2.2 simplifies future NFC device implementations by removing Type 1 Tag features

. The device also includes the Profiles technical specification, which defines how various NFC activities can be combined to serve specific use cases, like peer-to-peer communication and reading NFC Data Exchange Format (NDEF) data.

 

Data Exchange

The 100TB28 NFC IC supports peer-to-peer communication between two NFC-enabled devices through an OSI layer-2 protocol, crucial for bi-directional communications in NFC applications. It defines connectionless and connection-oriented services, organized into three link service classes. The connectionless service offers minimal setup without reliability or flow-control guarantees, while the connection-oriented service ensures in-order, reliable delivery, flow-control, and session-based service layer multiplexing

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Direction-Finding Capabilities

One of the notable features of the 100TB28 NFC IC is its direction-finding capability, which enables precise positioning solutions. This feature relies on the principle of triangulation, determining the position of a point based on angles between three reference points. It is ideal for applications like asset tracking, indoor navigation, real-time locating systems, and beaconing. The direction-finding feature supports both Angle of Arrival (AoA) and Angle of Departure (AoD) modes, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of positioning systems

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Application and Standards

The NFC capabilities of the 100TB28 NFC IC extend beyond traditional uses, allowing for both one-way and two-way communication between endpoints. This makes it suitable for a wide array of applications, from simple data transfer to complex interactive systems. The device incorporates a variety of existing standards, including ISO/IEC protocols, ensuring broad compatibility and interoperability with other NFC-enabled devices and systems

. By supporting these features and adhering to industry standards, the 100TB28 NFC IC provides a robust solution for NFC applications across various domains, from secure payments to advanced navigation and tracking systems.

 

Applications

The 100TB28 NFC IC is employed in a wide range of applications, driven by its robust features and versatility.

Payment Systems

The use of smartphones as point-of-sale (POS) terminals is becoming increasingly common. According to the NFC Forum Roadmap, enhancing the range of NFC will improve device-to-device payments, making off-network payment systems more viable. This trend is evidenced by the POS industry’s movement towards smartphones for accepting payments, though unique considerations regarding power and mobility are necessary compared to traditional payment terminals

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Healthcare

The health sector stands to benefit significantly from NFC technology. NFC-enabled health cards and systems allow individuals to carry critical health data, facilitating quicker access to sensitive information for health professionals. This enhances service delivery while reducing paperwork and the burden on the system

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Multi-Purpose Tap

NFC technology offers ultimate consumer convenience through multi-purpose taps. This feature allows users to perform various functions with a single tap, thereby enhancing user experience and operational efficiency

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Software Development and Integration

For application-specific software, various demos, example codes, and source code packages are available to assist developers. These tools are provided for all major development platforms and languages, such as Java, JavaScript, Node JS, PHP, and Python, among others. This extensive support makes it easier for developers to integrate NFC capabilities into their applications quickly

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Secure Communication

NFC provides a secure communication channel, making it ideal for applications that involve sensitive information, such as mobile payments and access control systems. The technology ensures data remains confidential and protected from unauthorized access, adding an extra layer of security to transactions and information sharing

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User-Friendly Interface

One of the key advantages of NFC is its user-friendly nature. Users can initiate actions such as making payments or sharing data with a simple tap, which has contributed to the widespread adoption of NFC technology in various markets, including India. The close proximity requirement for communication reduces the risk of accidental data transfer, giving users full control over their interactions

. These applications highlight the diverse potential of the 100TB28 NFC IC in enhancing both user experience and operational efficiencies across various sectors.

 

Manufacturing Process

Semiconductor Fabrication

Semiconductor ICs are manufactured through a complex planar process which includes three key steps: photolithography, deposition, and etching. These steps are supplemented by doping and cleaning procedures. More recent high-performance ICs may use multi-gate FinFET or GAAFET transistors starting at the 22 nm node for Intel or 16/14 nm nodes for other manufacturers

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Clean Room Environment

The production of modern integrated circuits requires precision at an atomic level. Contamination from particles as small as a speck of dust can ruin a chip. Thus, semiconductor fabrication occurs in highly controlled clean rooms. These rooms feature special materials that do not emit particles, alongside highly effective air filtration systems that can change the air completely up to ten times a minute. Workers in these environments wear “bunny suits” made of ultra-clean material to prevent any contamination

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Front End and Back End Processes

The construction of an integrated circuit is divided into two main parts: the front end and the back end. During the front end, the individual components of the circuit are constructed. In the back end, metal is added to connect these components, and the chip is tested and packaged

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Advanced Packaging Techniques

To address the increasing difficulty of manufacturing smaller transistors, companies employ advanced packaging techniques such as multi-chip modules, three-dimensional integrated circuits, and through-silicon vias. These techniques, collectively known as advanced packaging, include 2.5D approaches like multi-chip modules and 3D approaches like die stacking used in High Bandwidth Memory. These methods involve integrating two or more dies within a single package to enhance performance and reduce size without decreasing transistor size

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Wafer and Process Technologies

Semiconductor wafers, typically made of monocrystalline silicon, serve as the substrate for ICs. Photolithography marks different areas on the substrate for doping or for the deposition of materials like polysilicon, insulators, or metal tracks. Doping, the introduction of impurities, modulates the electronic properties of the semiconductor. Advanced manufacturing nodes starting from 16/14 nm make use of multi-gate transistors for better performance

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Evolution of IC Manufacturing

Early integrated circuits were housed in ceramic flat packs, transitioning to dual in-line packages (DIPs) in ceramic and plastic forms. As VLSI circuit pin counts grew, packaging evolved to include pin grid arrays (PGAs) and leadless chip carriers (LCCs). The 1980s saw the advent of surface mount packaging, such as small-outline integrated circuits (SOICs), which allowed for finer lead pitches and more compact designs

. Today, the development of semiconductor materials and processes continues to evolve, enabling the production of more complex and powerful integrated circuits. Monocrystalline silicon remains the predominant substrate, although other materials like gallium arsenide are used for specialized applications such as LEDs and high-speed ICs .

 

Market Adoption

The market adoption of the 100TB28 NFC IC is driven by several key factors that appeal to a wide range of industries and applications. The increasing reliance on NFC technology in various sectors such as telecommunications, automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, and aerospace has contributed to the growing demand for customized and tailored solutions offered by ASIC manufacturers. These manufacturers leverage their extensive expertise and experience in semiconductor design, fabrication, and testing to meet the diverse needs of their clients, ensuring optimized performance, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in their NFC IC solutions

. One of the most significant impacts of multi-purpose tap advances is the improved usability and enhanced convenience they bring to end-users. For instance, a smartphone with NFC capabilities can enable multiple actions with a single tap, such as issuing paperless receipts, delivering loyalty points, purchasing travel tickets while applying correct taxes and concessions, thus streamlining the user experience. This versatility in functionality is particularly attractive to markets focused on improving customer interaction and operational efficiency. Moreover, the NTAG21x family, equipped with the Fast Read command, enhances the registration speed capability of inline processes such as print and label manufacturing. This capability helps avoid bottleneck risks in fast processing environments, which is crucial for industries requiring high-speed operations. Additionally, the Integrated Originality Signature feature in these NFC tags provides a robust solution for detecting unauthorized copies, addressing product authenticity concerns that are increasingly critical in competitive business landscapes. The cost considerations of NFC or RFID development can vary significantly depending on several factors, including system size, complexity, and the necessity of custom-designed components versus off-the-shelf solutions. Geographical location also plays a role, with development costs being higher in North America and Europe compared to other regions. Clients often weigh these factors when selecting an ASIC manufacturer to ensure a balance between quality, cost, and deployment timelines.

 

Competitors

The market for NFC ICs is highly competitive, with several key players offering innovative solutions across various applications. One notable competitor is NXP Semiconductors, which provides a range of NFC products compliant with ISO/IEC 14443 and ISO/IEC 15693 standards. NXP’s NTAG series, for instance, features the Fast Read command that enhances tag registration speed and supports product authenticity through the Integrated Originality Signature, addressing counterfeiting issues effectively

. Another significant competitor is Infineon Technologies, a prominent player in the semiconductor industry. Infineon delivers a variety of NFC and RFID solutions that are leveraged in automotive, industrial electronics, and chip card applications. Their NFC products are known for their power efficiency and reliability, making them a strong contender in the market. NFC standards are a critical factor for interoperability, and these competitors, among others, ensure their products adhere to specifications like ISO/IEC 14443, ISO/IEC 15693, and NFC Forum Type Tags. This adherence guarantees compatibility with a wide range of NFC-enabled devices and infrastructure.

 

Future Developments

The future of the 100TB28 NFC IC is promising, driven by ongoing advancements in NFC technology and the continuous evolution of integrated circuits (ICs). The exponential growth of NFC technology is a reflection of the forward-thinking approach and dedication to innovation within the industry

. According to Mike McCamon, Executive Director of the NFC Forum, future developments in NFC technology are expected to significantly enhance payment methods, brand engagement, device power, and access to sustainable products and services. Key to these advancements are the evolving standards and specifications governing NFC technology. The NFC Forum’s Analog Specification has undergone multiple revisions to improve interoperability and simplify the implementation of future NFC-enabled devices. Version 2.2, for example, removed certain features to streamline device implementation without compromising user experience, while Version 2.3 introduced the 8-Shaped Coil to the glossary as a mandatory part of reference equipment. In addition to specification updates, industry engagement is crucial. Companies actively involved in NFC technology are encouraged to participate in discussions to contribute to significant advancements in the field. The strong commitment from leading industry players suggests that NFC technology is entering an exciting new phase, promising considerable progress in the coming months and years. The development of the 100TB28 NFC IC is also influenced by broader trends in IC manufacturing. The shift towards smaller MOSFET design rules and cleaner fabrication facilities has been pivotal in increasing the density and efficiency of ICs. Moreover, the transition to more energy-efficient CMOS technology has been essential in managing power consumption in increasingly complex VLSI devices. The practical completion of designs has been facilitated by advancements in electronic design automation (EDA) tools, which perform most functional verification work. Finally, the mass production capability, reliability, and building-block approach to IC design ensure that standardized ICs like the 100TB28 are rapidly adopted in place of discrete transistors. This standardization has revolutionized electronics, enabling the development of smaller, faster, and more efficient devices. Future developments in the 100TB28 NFC IC will likely continue along these paths, integrating new innovations and standards to enhance functionality and user experience. The focus on making NFC technology more prevalent and versatile will undoubtedly drive further advancements in this field.

 

Key Players and Organizations

The development and advancement of NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, including the 100TB28 NFC IC, has been significantly influenced by various key players and organizations. These entities have contributed through innovation, standardization, and implementation of NFC technology across multiple industries.

NFC Forum

The NFC Forum is a crucial non-profit industry association established on March 18, 2004, by leading companies including NXP Semiconductors, Sony, and Nokia. The organization aims to promote the use of NFC technology by developing specifications, ensuring device interoperability, and educating the market about NFC capabilities. The Forum’s specifications include five distinct tag types that offer varying communication speeds, memory capacities, and security features, which are essential for the flexibility and robustness of NFC technology in various applications

. As of January 2020, the NFC Forum had over 120 member companies, illustrating its broad influence and importance in the NFC ecosystem . The NFC Forum also provides a certification program to ensure that devices meet specific standards of performance and interoperability, enhancing the user experience by guaranteeing that certified devices function seamlessly with one another . The Forum has introduced Candidate Technical Specifications, which are advanced drafts open for industry feedback to fine-tune their quality and relevance before final adoption . These specifications are vital for maintaining the high standards of NFC technology and ensuring secure, reliable transactions globally.

 

Applied Materials

Applied Materials is a significant player in the semiconductor industry, providing services and materials crucial for manufacturing semiconductor chips used in various electronic devices. The company is known for its investments in digital infrastructure, which help shorten product development cycles and support the advancement of semiconductor technology, including those used in NFC solutions

. Applied Materials’ role in the supply chain underscores the interconnectedness of semiconductor production and NFC technology development.

 

ASML

ASML, based in Veldhoven, Netherlands, is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of chip-making hardware, software, and services. The company specializes in lithography systems, which are essential for creating the intricate patterns on semiconductor chips. These chips are foundational to the functionality of NFC ICs like the 100TB28, highlighting ASML’s critical role in the broader semiconductor and NFC industries

. ASML’s advancements in lithography technology contribute significantly to the miniaturization and efficiency of NFC components.

 

Qualcomm

Qualcomm is another influential company in the semiconductor industry, particularly noted for its impact on mobile and smartphone applications through its Snapdragon 5G platform. Qualcomm’s innovations in mobile technology enhance the capabilities of NFC-enabled devices, enabling more sophisticated and efficient communication solutions. Additionally, Qualcomm’s semiconductor mentorship program aids startups in refining their products, fostering innovation and growth within the industry

. Together, these organizations and companies play vital roles in the ongoing development and implementation of NFC technology. Their contributions ensure that NFC continues to evolve, offering enhanced security, interoperability, and user experience in a variety of applications.

 

Comparative Analysis

Understanding the distinctions between RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and NFC (Near Field Communication) technologies is essential for comprehending the broad landscape of contactless communication systems. While both technologies utilize radio waves for communication, they cater to different applications and exhibit distinct characteristics.

Key Differences

RFID and NFC differ significantly in their communication range, power requirements, and data transfer capabilities. RFID technology typically supports a range of several meters, making it ideal for applications such as supply chain management and asset tracking

. Conversely, NFC operates over much shorter distances, usually limited to about 4 centimeters, which makes it well-suited for secure contactless payments and smart device pairing. Another notable difference lies in their power requirements. RFID tags can be passive, powered by the RFID reader, or active, with their own power source, allowing them to transmit data over longer distances. In contrast, NFC tags require an initiator device to supply power, further limiting their range and potential applications. The data transfer abilities also set the two technologies apart. RFID is better suited for transferring large amounts of data, thanks to its longer range and varied power options. On the other hand, NFC is optimized for smaller data exchanges, which are typically sufficient for its primary applications like payment processing and device pairing.

 

Technological Overview

RFID

RFID technology is centered around the use of radio waves to achieve non-contact automatic identification. An RFID system consists of an RFID tag, an RFID reader, and a background processing system

. The tag, which can be active or passive, contains a microchip and an antenna. Active RFID tags have their own power source and can transmit data over longer distances, while passive RFID tags rely on the power generated by the RFID reader’s radio waves. RFID tags can be adhered to objects and people, and the specific data information stored in the tags can be read by the RFID reader using an antenna to send radio signals. This interaction allows for efficient identification, management, and analysis of data, making RFID an ideal choice for applications like inventory management and major sporting events, where rapid identification and large data storage are crucial.

 

NFC

NFC technology builds on the foundation of RFID but is designed for very short-range communication, typically within a few centimeters. This makes NFC particularly effective for secure transactions and the pairing of smart devices

. NFC tags require an initiator device to supply power, which simplifies the design and reduces the cost of the tags themselves. While NFC’s range is limited compared to RFID, its ease of use and security features have led to widespread adoption in consumer electronics, particularly for contactless payment systems and the quick pairing of devices like smartphones and tablets. The close-range communication of NFC also adds a layer of security, as the short distance minimizes the risk of interception by unauthorized devices.

 

Applications and Future Trends

The applications of RFID and NFC continue to expand as the technologies evolve. RFID excels in scenarios requiring long-range communication and robust data management, such as supply chain logistics, asset tracking, and large-scale event management

. In contrast, NFC is predominantly used in environments where secure, short-range communication is paramount, including contactless payment systems and the rapid pairing of personal devices. As both technologies advance, we can expect further integration and overlap in their applications.

 

Notable Use Cases

The 100TB28 NFC IC has proven to be versatile across various applications due to its advanced features and compatibility with existing systems. Its implementation spans multiple industries, enhancing operational efficiency and providing secure solutions.

Transportation and Ticketing

The 100TB28 NFC IC’s integration in the transportation sector, especially in public transit systems, has significantly improved ticketing processes. With a unique 7-byte serial number and a 32-bit password protection, it ensures the authenticity of tickets and prevents the use of cloned counterfeit tickets

. This technology supports faster boarding processes, which reduces customer queuing times and enhances overall operational efficiency. Furthermore, the three independent 24-bit one-way counters facilitate flexible ticket tariff schemes and improve reloading, trip counting, and expiry date management for transport operators.

 

Retail and Contactless Payments

In the retail sector, the 100TB28 NFC IC supports contactless payment solutions, enabling faster and more convenient checkout experiences for customers

. Many stores and businesses have adopted this technology to allow payments via smartphones, smartwatches, or contactless cards. This application not only speeds up transactions but also reduces the need for cash handling, improving overall customer satisfaction and security.

 

Healthcare

In healthcare, the 100TB28 NFC IC is employed to track and manage vacant hospital beds automatically and improve patient safety by ensuring the correct administration of medications

. Additionally, it assists in logging social care workers’ visits and tracking patient outcomes, which can be analyzed to enhance healthcare processes and practices. RFID readers and tags used in conjunction with this NFC IC help automate various processes, reducing human error and creating more streamlined workflows.

 

Event Management

The use of the 100TB28 NFC IC in event management is notable for its ability to track attendee movements across a site, offering insights into behaviors and enhancing the overall event experience

. By enabling fast read commands, it supports quicker access control and reduces wait times at events such as concerts and exhibitions. This technology can also facilitate in-store check-ins, allowing customers to access discounts and rewards by simply tapping their smartphones on NFC-enabled terminals.

Internet of Things (IoT) and Industry 4.0

The simplicity of the one-command interactions required for NFC technology has made the 100TB28 NFC IC a cornerstone in the development of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)

. Its ability to seamlessly integrate with other Mifare-based systems and its compatibility with a wide range of applications make it an ideal solution for smart environments, from industrial automation to consumer electronics.