Dual frequency disc tags contain two commonly used contactless chips and can be used with systems operating at different frequencies.
They are ideal for tracking various non-metallic products. They can withstand elevated temperatures for a short time and can be covered with pre-formed plastic.
The TK4100 RFID chip is a 125 kHz read-only chip that works similarly to the EM4200 and his predecessors, EM4100 and EM4102. It has a preprogrammed ID number which is used as an identifier in various RFID applications, and cannot be changed. The chip ID can be read with various
125 kHz RFID readers.
The NFC chips
NTAG213 (NFC Type 2) are made by NXP Semiconductors and are the most common inexpensive chips, designed for mass market applications. They work according to the ISO/IEC 14443-3A standard, have a preprogrammed 7-byte long unique ID number and a memory of 144 bytes which is equal to a 136 character-long URL address or other text.
The chip ID is always easily readable with many
NFC readers or mobile devices, and is visible to the public. The ID is usually used as an identifier which connects the product to the other information inside the manufacturer database.
The NFC chips memory can be programmed with regular NFC mobile phones (Android and newer iPhones) or desktop encoders. To program NFC tags with a mobile phone, you can use free applications like NFC Tools, NXP Tag Writer, and other NFC apps.
The chip encoding is quite simple. If you use an app
NFC Tools you have to click ‘Add Record’ – select a feature you want to use, write your data, and click ‘Write.’
NFC Tools has many other useful features like ‘Copy tag,’ ‘Erase tag,’ ‘Lock tag,’ ‘Read memory,’ ‘Format memory,’ ‘Set password,’ ‘Remove password,’ and some other commands for advanced users.
For a mass programming, we recommend using an encoder
ACR1252U and software like the
desktop version of NFC Tools.
The memory size of 144 bytes is enough for the following sample data:
“ID: PRO123456789RE; Prod_Date:14.9.2021; Lot_No.:SD266543FT988G; Key_Parameters:19-A3-46-23-F3-67-94; Service_Date:12.7.2021; Status: OK”
When writing custom data to an NFC chip, you may use your custom security key and the content will be hidden from non-authorized users.
The dual frequency disc tags can be used also for proof of ownership of various sporting equipment. The manufacturer can use the chips ID for manufacturing purposes and product tracking, the user can store and lock an ownership data like:
“This windsurf belongs to John Deep, 2803 Pike Street, San Diego, California, 92123, USA. If found, please call +1 858-597-5073.”
The combination of two chips allows you to identify the product even if one of the chips accidentally stops working.
The dual frequency tags by default do not contain any numeration or other printed elements or adhesive but if you need customization, please let us know and we will send you an offer.
Options for customization (for pricing, please send an inquiry)
Beside the dual frequency tags from stock, you can order the customized tags with the following features:
- Custom size or shape,
- Additional layer with adhesive,
- Printed elements like the company logo, serial number, chip ID codes, etc.
- Additional layer with on-metal protection
Reading test for dual frequency key fobs
We tested our dual frequency key fobs with different kinds of readers and measured the reading distances. This is not an official test, but was made to inform you what reading distances you may expect with your application.
The reading distance between the key fob and the reader is affected by many different factors, like the size of the antennas and quality of the chips, the interferences of metal, and electromagnetic signals, etc.
Technical specifications for dual frequency key fobs with NTAG213 and TK4100 chips
Chip: NTAG213
Chip manufacturer: NXP Semiconductors
Standards: ISO/IEC 14443-3A (NFC Type 2).
Memory size: 144 bytes of data which is equal to a 136 character-long URL address.
Security: 7-byte long preprogrammed chip Unique ID number, ECC-based originality signature, 32-bit password protection to prevent unauthorized memory operations and Field programmable read-only locking function
Operating frequency: 13.56 MHz
Reading distance: up to 10 cm (usually up to 5 cm)
Chip: TK4100
Compatible with: EM4100, EM4102, EM4200
Frequency: 125 kHz
Reading distance: up to 10 cm
Disc tag size: 25 mm
Thickness: approx. 1 mm
Material: PVC
Technical documentation for NTAG213 chips and software tools are available here:
https://www.nxp.com/products/rfid-nfc/nfc-hf/ntag-for-tags-labels/ntag-213-215-216-nfc-forum-type-2-tag-compliant-ic-with-144-504-888-bytes-user-memory:NTAG213_215_216
If you need larger quantities or personalized dual frequency transponders, please send us an inquiry with your specification.