What is NFC?

April 16, 2024

In the modern world where connectivity and accessibility are essential, PVC cards have evolved beyond their basic identification function. The introduction of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology has revolutionized the way we interact with these cards, offering a more fluid and versatile experience. In this article, we'll explore in depth what NFC technology is and how it's applied to PVC cards.

What is NFC technology?

Near Field Communication (NFC) is a wireless technology that enables communication between devices in close proximity. It works by emitting short-range radio waves, enabling two devices to communicate when they're just a few centimetres apart. This technology is widely used in a variety of devices, from smartphones to PVC cards, including credit cards, connected business cardsamong others.

Does NFC work without the Internet?

Yes, NFC can work independently of an Internet connection. Using short-range radio waves, this technology enables direct communication between two NFC-compatible devices placed close together. So whether for contactless payments, file transfer or access control, NFC offers fast, secure connectivity without the need for an Internet connection.

How do I activate NFC on my phone?

To activate the NFC function on your phone, follow these general steps, but please note that the interface may vary slightly depending on the make and model of your smartphone:

Open your phone's settings. This can be done by tapping the settings icon in the main menu, or by swiping down from the top of the screen and tapping the gear icon.
Look for the "Connections" or "Network and Internet" option in the settings.
In the "Connections" or "Network and Internet" menu, look for the "NFC" or "Sharing and connection" option (this may also be listed under "Wireless and network connectivity").
Press the "NFC" option to access its settings.
Activate the toggle switch next to "NFC" to enable it. Depending on your phone, you may also be prompted to activate other options such as file sharing via NFC or Android Beam.

Once you've activated NFC, you can use it for contactless payments, file sharing and other NFC-compatible functions. Make sure your phone is unlocked and the screen is on for NFC to work properly.

How is NFC technology applied to PVC cards?

The integration of NFC into PVC cards has opened up a world of possibilities in terms of functionality and convenience. By incorporating an NFC chip into a PVC card, it becomes an interactive tool capable of performing a variety of functions with a simple touch. Some of the most common applications for PVC cards with NFC technology include :

Connected business cards : Imagine handing out a business card that, with a simple touch, allows the person to access your contact details, website or social network profiles. Business cards with NFC eliminate the need to manually exchange information, making them a modern and practical option for professionals and entrepreneurs.
Access control : In corporate and institutional environments, NFC-enabled PVC cards are commonly used for access control. Employees can simply touch their card to an NFC reader to unlock doors, activate equipment or access restricted areas securely and efficiently.
Contactless payments : With the growing popularity of contactless payments, PVC cards with NFC technology are being used by businesses and organizations to facilitate fast, secure transactions. Users can simply touch their card to a compatible payment terminal to make a purchase, eliminating the need to use cash or physical cards.
Presence control : In educational or professional environments, NFC-enabled PVC cards are used to accurately record attendance. Students or employees can touch their card to an NFC reader as they enter or leave a location, facilitating automated attendance tracking.

Encoding an NFC chip

If you want to implement NFC-connected access badges or business cards in your company, you have several options. You can use a printer with an encoding function like the Evolis Primacy 2, or an NFC reader/writer like the ACR122U, with an appropriate application to write the information on the chip.

Another option is to outsource printing andNFC encoding cards to specialized companies. Printags offers not only PVC card printing services, but also a solution that includes NFC encoding and logistics for theshipping and tracking of PVC cards.

This service enables companies to concentrate on their core business, by delegating NFC printing and encoding to experts.

Print customizable NFC cards

Printags offers a print-on-demand service for customizable NFC cards to meet specific business needs. With our offer, you can obtain high-quality, fully personalized NFC cards, suitable for a variety of applications such as connected business cards or identification cards.

Our one-off printing process guarantees careful production to your specifications, and our commitment to quality and reliability ensures outstanding results with every order.