RFID and NFC
NFC is a subset of RFID technology, both of which belong to non-contact wireless communication technology, but there are significant differences in communication distance, functional characteristics, and application scenarios.
1、 Technical origin and inclusion relationship
Including logic: All NFC devices belong to the RFID category, but not all RFID devices are NFC devices.
Development history: NFC was jointly developed by Philips and Sony in 2003, evolved based on RFID technology, and later jointly established the NFC Forum with Nokia to promote global standardization.
Bottom level commonality: Both are based on electromagnetic induction coupling effects and use a "reader+electronic tag+backend system" infrastructure to achieve data transmission.
2、 Comparison of core technical parameters
table
Comparison Dimension RFID NFC
The working frequency covers multiple frequency bands including low frequency, high frequency, ultra-high frequency, and microwave, with a fixed use of 13.56MHz high frequency band
The communication distance ranges from a few centimeters to tens of meters, with ultra-high frequency reaching up to ten meters, strictly controlled within 10 centimeters, and stable transmission within 3-5 centimeters
The communication method is mostly one-way communication, with only the reader reading tag information supporting two-way point-to-point communication, and devices can directly exchange data
The working mode reader and tag roles are fixed, and cannot switch between supporting card mode, read-write mode, and point-to-point mode for free switching
The encryption mechanism for low-frequency/high-frequency tags in the security section is simple and easy to be copied and stolen. Short distance natural anti remote interception is used, and most payment scenarios adopt tokenized two-way authentication
The transmission rate varies greatly in different frequency bands, with higher ultra-high frequency rates and fixed support for three speeds: 106kbps, 212kbps, and 424kbps
3、 Differences in typical application scenarios
RFID mainstream applications
Batch inventory of logistics and warehousing, full trajectory tracking of goods transportation
Automatic recognition and deduction of ETC fees on highways
Animal traceability, medical device asset management
Quick bulk settlement of retail store products
Mainstream NFC applications
Mobile payment: Apple Pay, Huawei Pay and other mobile phones can complete transactions by touching POS machines
Intelligent interaction: Simulate access cards and bus cards on mobile phones, and pair Bluetooth devices with just one touch
Data exchange: Two NFC phones can quickly transfer small files such as photos and contacts when they are close together
Anti counterfeiting traceability: high-end Baijiu and luxury goods pass NFC label verification