Cards: Technology > Contactless

RFID

RFID (Radio-frequency identification) is a technology that uses radio frequency to exchange information. An RFID system consists of RFID readers and RFID media that exchange signals via radio waves, facilitating the exchange of information.

MIFARE

Mifare is widely used technology for contactless cards. It is typically used for various applications such as access control, public transport, payment systems, etc. MIFARE cards operate based on radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, enabling wireless data transmission between the card and a reader or other compatible devices.

Originally developed by NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips Semiconductors), MIFARE technology comes in various variants, each with its features and capabilities.

MIFARE Classic

One of the earliest MIFARE versions, MIFARE Classic cards use a frequency of 13.56 MHz and are known for their 4-byte and 7-byte UID formats. They have been widely used in various applications but are considered less secure due to vulnerabilities discovered over time.

MIFARE Plus

Introduced as an improved version of MIFARE Classic, MIFARE Plus offers enhanced security features. It supports various encryption algorithms and provides compatibility with existing MIFARE Classic infrastructures.

MIFARE Ultralight

These cards are designed for simple applications and offer lower memory capacity compared to other MIFARE variants. They are often used for one-time tickets or limited-use cards in transportation systems.

MIFARE Ultralight C

This version of MIFARE Ultralight adds an extra layer of cryptographic security to enhance data protection.

MIFARE DESFire

This is a more secure variant of MIFARE cards, offering a higher level of encryption and data protection. MIFARE DESFire cards are typically used in access control, electronic wallets, and other applications where security is crucial.

MIFARE Plus EV1

An evolution of the MIFARE Plus series, the EV1 version further enhances security features and supports various authentication methods.

MIFARE DESFire EV2

An upgrade to MIFARE DESFire technology, this version adds new features and improved security protocols, making it suitable for even more advanced applications.

Low-Frequency (LF) RFID

LF range covers frequencies between 30 KHz and 300 KHz. Typical LF RFID systems operate at 125 KHz or 134 KHz. This frequency allows for a short reading range, around 10 cm, and low reading speed. It is highly resistant to external interference. Typical applications for LF RFID include access control and animal tracking.

High-Frequency (HF) RFID

HF frequencies range from 3 to 30 MHz, with most RFID HF systems operating at 13.56 MHz. Interference moderately affects HF systems. HF systems are commonly used for ticket sales, contactless payments, and data transfer applications.

RFID Ultra-High Frequency (UHF)

UHF systems cover frequency ranges from 300 MHz to 3 GHz. RFID systems are compliant with the standard UHF Gen2, which uses frequencies from 860 to 960 MHz, with most operating between 900 and 915 MHz. UHF RFID reading systems can reach over 12 meters, have fast data transmission rates, and are highly sensitive to interference. UHF tags are commonly used in logistics and retail worldwide due to their long-range data reading capabilities.

NFC (Near-Field Communication)

NFC enables data exchange between devices and is more secure than other technologies as it can be protected with passwords. It can be read using a reader or a mobile phone, providing greater usability in everyday applications.

NFC operates at a frequency of 13.56 MHz, compliant with global standards like ISO 14443A, allowing the use of NFC systems with most modern Android and Apple mobile devices equipped with built-in NFC readers.

Passive and Active RFID Systems

Active RFID systems transmit their own signal with information stored on the chip, as they have their own power source, typically batteries. Active RFID systems operate at UHF frequencies and offer a reading range of over 100 meters. They are usually used on very large objects such as wagons, containers, or products monitored in large spaces.

Passive RFID systems get energy from the electromagnetic wave generated by the reader and do not have their power source. Most everyday-use RFID systems are passive RFID systems.