# RFID vs NFC: Understanding the Differences and Applications ## What Are RFID and NFC? **RFID** and **NFC** are two pivotal wireless communication technologies that have transformed how we track, identify, and interact with objects and data. While often mentioned together, they serve distinct purposes and operate under different principles. My personal journey with these technologies began over a decade ago when I first used an RFID key card for office access, sparking a deep fascination with contactless systems. This interest later evolved as I explored NFC for mobile payments, appreciating the seamless user experience. I've found that my aptitude for understanding technical protocols allowed me to quickly grasp the nuances between these standards, which I now apply in consulting roles. ### Core Technical Principles RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) is a broad technology for identifying objects using radio waves. An RFID system consists of a reader and a tag. The reader emits radio waves to power passive tags or communicate with active tags, retrieving stored data. NFC (Near Field Communication) is a subset of RFID, operating at 13.56 MHz under the ISO/IEC 14443 standard. It enables two-way communication between devices over very short distances (typically less than 4 cm). ## Detailed Technical Specifications and Parameters For professionals integrating these technologies, understanding specific product specifications is crucial. Below are detailed parameters for common components. *Please note: These technical parameters are for reference only. For exact specifications, please contact our backend management team.* ### Sample UHF RFID Reader Module (Model: TIANJUN-TR-860) * **Operating Frequency:** 860 MHz - 960 MHz (Adjustable) * **Protocol Support:** EPCglobal UHF Class 1 Gen 2, ISO/IEC 18000-6C * **Read Range:** Up to 12 meters (dependent on tag and environment) * **Interface:** USB 2.0, RS-232, RS-485, GPIO * **Chipset:** Impinj R2000-based integrated circuit * **Dimensions:** 165mm (L) x 125mm (W) x 25mm (H) * **Power Supply:** 9-12V DC ### Sample NFC Forum Compliant Chip (Model: TIANJUN-NFC-213) * **Standard:** ISO/IEC 14443 Type A & B, ISO/IEC 18092 (NFCIP-1) * **Operating Frequency:** 13.56 MHz * **Data Transmission Rate:** 106 kbit/s, 212 kbit/s, 424 kbit/s * **Communication Range:** Typically < 4 cm * **Chip Code:** NXP PN7150 core controller * **Memory:** 8 KB EEPROM, configurable for NDEF messages * **Package Dimensions:** 5mm x