What is Near Field Communication (NFC)

Near Field Communication (NFC) is a technology that enables smartphones and other devices to communicate with each other using electromagnetic induction. Electromagnetic induction occurs between two NFC devices when they come within close proximity (usually 10 centimeters or less) to each other and creates an air-field transformer which allows the devices to communicate with one another.

There are two types of NFC devices, active and passive. A passive (non-powered) device would be a tag, key fob, card or sticker. An active (powered) device would be a lock or NFC enabled phone. A passive device can only be used with an active device due to the need for power. When a passive device is brought within the near field of an active device, the passive device “wakes” and communicates with the active device.

In the case of a key fob and a lock, the key fob will grant access to the room just by being presented to the lock within its’ near field (approximately 10 centimeters or less). This will also work with two active devices such as an NFC enabled phone and an NFC lock. Also, two NFC enabled phones will be able to connect with each other and share files or even pay someone just by touching phones.