What is NFC?
NFC is a technology that allows short-range wireless communication between two compatible devices and is an abbreviation for near-field communication. It requires about a 4 cm distance to connect different devices.
NFC is used in many applications, such as contactless payments, data sharing, and access control. It uses a very low-power radio frequency to communicate between two devices. NFC is a very secure technology as it only operates when both devices are close.
Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular, with many credit cards, debit cards, and even smartphones now containing NFC chips. Data sharing is another application of NFC.
NFC-enabled devices can share data by simply tapping them together and are used for various tasks, such as sharing music, photos, or even contact information.
What is RFID?
Radio Frequency Identification is a method that uses radio waves to identify items. It is used to store and retrieve information from tags attached to objects. It uses automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technology to identify tags.
The tags are encoded with a unique serial number and other data that an RFID reader can read. The RFID system comprises a tiny radio transponder, a receiver, and a transmitter.
RFID tags track products from the store shelf to checkout. In retail, it tracks products from the store shelf to checkout. It is also used for inventory management, asset tracking, pet and livestock tracking, and security.
RFID technology offers several advantages over traditional barcodes. It is faster and more accurate than barcode scanning and can store more data than barcodes. It also allows for remote tracking of objects, eliminating the need to scan each item physically.
What is BLE?
Bluetooth low energy, or BLE, is a personal wireless network technology designed by BSIG(Bluetooth special interest group). Both BLE and Wi-Fi are incredibly similar regarding connectivity.
BLE is used where extended battery life is required, then fast data transfer rates. BLE technology aims to be a novel application in health care, fitness, beacons, security, and improved home entertainment and mobile payment Industries.
It is separate from the classic Bluetooth and has no compatibility, but Bluetooth basic rate/ enhanced data rate (BBR/EDR) and LE can coexist.
Most new uses for Bluetooth low energy technology include apps for public transit, smartwatches and wearables, blood pressure monitors, access control and door entry, and more.
Many mobile operating systems, including android, iOS, Blackberry, mac OS, Linux, and windows 8, support Bluetooth low energy.
Difference Between NFC, RFID, and BLE
NFC is a short-range communication that allows transferring of data between two devices. It can communicate two devices with a minimum difference of 4 CM. it is helpful in contactless payments.
At the same time, Radio Frequency Identification is a method that uses radio waves to identify items. It is used to store and retrieve information from tags attached to objects.
In contrast, Bluetooth low energy, or BLE, is a personal wireless network technology. BLE technology aims to be a novel application in health care, fitness, beacons, security, and improved home entertainment and mobile payment Industries.
Comparison Between NFC, RFID, and BLE
| Parameters | NFC | RFID | BLE |
| Functionality | It enables two-way communication between devices nearby. | It uses radio waves to transmit data from a tag to a reader. | It allows apps to communicate with BLE devices by lower power consumption. |
| Security | Provides secure communication between two devices. | Tags can be read from a distance and are used for asset tracking and access control. | It is also a secure wireless communication protocol. |
| Speed | It can transmit data at a speed of 424 kbp/s | It can transmit data at a speed of 640 kbp/s | BLE transmits Data at the speed of 1MB/s, |
| Ideal for | Contactless payments and data exchange. | For tracking inventory or logging access to a secure area. | Home automation devices, wireless medical devices, mobile payments. |
References
- Du, H., 2013. NFC technology: Today and tomorrow. International Journal of Future Computer and Communication, 2(4), p.351.
- Weinstein, R., 2005. RFID: a technical overview and its application to the enterprise. IT professional, 7(3), pp.27-33.
- Jeon, K.E., She, J., Soonsawad, P. and Ng, P.C., 2018. Ble beacons for the internet of things applications: Survey, challenges, and opportunities. IEEE Internet of Things Journal, 5(2), pp.811-828.