NFC Chip Selection
Selecting the right NFC chip is crucial for security, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Overview
Near Field Communication (NFC) chips are the cornerstone of physical product authentication. Understanding the different types, frequencies, and standards will help you make the right choice for your implementation.
NFC Types
NFC chips are categorized into different types based on their capabilities:
- Type 1: Basic read/write capability, low memory
- Type 2: Most common for consumer applications, good balance of features
- Type 3: Higher data rates, common in Japan (FeliCa)
- Type 4: Higher memory capacity, enhanced security features
- Type 5: Extended range, industrial applications (ISO 15693)
Frequency and Standards
All NFC chips operate at 13.56 MHz and comply with various ISO standards:
- ISO 14443-A: Most common standard, used by NTAG series
- ISO 14443-B: Alternative protocol, less common
- ISO 15693: Extended range (up to 1 meter), used by ICODE series
- ISO 18092: NFC peer-to-peer communication
Recommended Chips
Based on extensive testing and integration experience, we recommend the following NFC chips for TAG IT Network implementations:
NTAG 424 DNA
The NTAG 424 DNA is our top recommendation for high-security applications, particularly luxury goods authentication.
The NTAG 424 DNA provides the highest level of security with hardware-based cryptographic authentication, making it ideal for high-value items.
Key Features:
- AES-128 hardware encryption
- Secure Dynamic Messaging (SDM) for URL-based authentication
- Anti-cloning protection with unique chip signature
- 416 bytes user memory
- Transaction MAC for tamper detection
- Read counter with rollover protection
Security Features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| SUN (Secure Unique NFC) | Generates unique authentication codes per tap |
| Rolling Counter | Prevents replay attacks |
| Encrypted File System | Protects sensitive data at rest |
| Originality Signature | NXP-signed chip authenticity verification |
NTAG 213/215/216
The NTAG 21x series offers a cost-effective solution for general product authentication where budget is a primary concern.
Key Features:
- Password protection (32-bit)
- UID mirror for URL encoding
- Memory options: 144 bytes (213), 504 bytes (215), 888 bytes (216)
- Wide compatibility with all NFC-enabled smartphones
- Low cost per unit at scale
NTAG 213 is ideal for high-volume deployments where cost optimization is critical. While security is lower than NTAG 424, the UID-based verification still provides meaningful protection.
ICODE SLIX
The ICODE SLIX series is designed for industrial and supply chain applications requiring extended read range.
Key Features:
- Extended read range (up to 1.5 meters with industrial readers)
- ISO 15693 compliant
- EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) support
- Password protection
- Ideal for logistics and inventory management
ICODE SLIX chips are not natively supported by all smartphones. Ensure your use case accounts for reader requirements.
Chip Comparison Table
Use this comprehensive comparison to select the right chip for your specific requirements:
| Feature | NTAG 424 DNA | NTAG 213 | NTAG 215 | NTAG 216 | ICODE SLIX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memory | 416 bytes | 144 bytes | 504 bytes | 888 bytes | 896 bits |
| Security Level | Very High | Basic | Basic | Basic | Medium |
| Encryption | AES-128 | None | None | None | None |
| Anti-Clone | Yes (SUN) | UID only | UID only | UID only | UID only |
| Read Range | ~5 cm | ~5 cm | ~5 cm | ~5 cm | Up to 1.5 m |
| Mobile Support | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Limited |
| Price Range | $0.50 - $1.50 | $0.08 - $0.20 | $0.10 - $0.25 | $0.15 - $0.35 | $0.20 - $0.40 |
| Best Use Case | Luxury goods | Mass market | Amiibo, gaming | Data-heavy apps | Industrial |
Form Factors
NFC chips are available in various form factors to suit different product types and integration methods:
Tags
Pre-made NFC tags with adhesive backing. Ideal for quick deployment and testing.
- Circular tags (25mm, 30mm diameter)
- Square tags (various sizes)
- Anti-metal tags (with ferrite shielding)
Labels
Printable NFC labels that can include branding and product information.
- Paper labels (cost-effective, indoor use)
- Synthetic labels (water-resistant, durable)
- Tamper-evident labels (security applications)
Inlays
Raw NFC inlays for integration into custom products or packaging.
- Wet inlays (with adhesive)
- Dry inlays (for lamination/embedding)
- Custom antenna designs for specific applications
Cards
Rigid NFC cards for membership, access control, or premium product certificates.
- PVC cards (standard credit card size)
- Wooden cards (eco-friendly, premium feel)
- Metal cards (luxury applications, requires special antenna design)
Approved Vendors
TAG IT Network has certified the following vendors for NFC chip supply. Using approved vendors ensures compatibility, quality, and support:
| Vendor | Specialization | Region | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| NXP Semiconductors | Chip manufacturer (NTAG, ICODE) | Global | OEM Partner |
| Smartrac | Inlays, tags, labels | Global | Gold Partner |
| Identiv | Tags, readers, solutions | Americas, EMEA | Silver Partner |
| HID Global | Enterprise solutions, cards | Global | Silver Partner |
| Linxens | Custom inlays, antennas | EMEA, APAC | Certified |
| Murata | Compact form factors | APAC | Certified |
Contact us at partners@tagit.network to inquire about becoming an approved vendor or to request quotes from certified suppliers.
Ordering Guide
Follow these guidelines when ordering NFC chips for your TAG IT Network implementation:
Quantities
- Samples: 10-100 units for testing and prototyping
- Small batch: 1,000-10,000 units for pilot programs
- Production: 10,000+ units for full deployment
- Enterprise: 100,000+ units (contact for volume pricing)
Customization Options
- Pre-encoding: URL, UID mirroring, or custom NDEF records
- Pre-personalization: Unique keys per chip (NTAG 424 DNA)
- Custom printing: Logos, serial numbers, QR codes
- Custom antenna: Optimized for specific materials or form factors
Lead Times
| Order Type | Standard Lead Time | Rush Available |
|---|---|---|
| Stock tags (no customization) | 1-3 business days | Same day |
| Pre-encoded tags | 5-7 business days | 2-3 days |
| Custom printed labels | 10-14 business days | 5-7 days |
| Custom inlays/antennas | 4-6 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| NTAG 424 DNA personalized | 2-3 weeks | 1-2 weeks |
Visit the TAG IT Network Partner Portal to access volume pricing, place orders, and track shipments. Enterprise customers can contact sales@tagit.network for custom quotes.