RFID & NFC
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology uses smart label to identify, track, and retrieve information for inventory management, supply chain management, freight management, physical access management, electronic toll collection, animal identification and more. An RFID tag consisting an integrated circuit (IC) is placed or embedded in the tracked object. It can then store data, which be read or rewritten by an RFID reader. The types of information that can be stored in an RFID tag include unique serial number, product’s manufacturing history, and shipping records. Most RFID tags are compact in size and are powered by an RFID reader; therefore, RFID tags need to operate at low voltage, consume low power, and be durable.
Near field communication (NFC) technology, a subset of RFID technology, enable two portable devices (i.e. smartphone) to communicate with each other. This technology can be used for smart cards, digital wallet, smart ticketing, and keyless access applications.
NVM IPs can be used in RFID/NFC tags to locally store information without continuous power supply. OTP can store unique identification numbers for read-only tags. Tags require unalterable programmable memory can use OTP while other tags require memory to be rewritten and reused multiple times can use MTP. With MTP, data can be written and erased on demand up to 100,000 times. Regardless, both eMemory’s OTP and MTP can operate at extremely low voltage, consume ultra-low power, and be able to retain data for up to ten years. Depending on the specific requirements of the application, chip designers have the flexibility to choose between OTP and MTP, or customize a hybrid solution.
Power-efficient
eMemory’s NVM IPs enable RFID/NFC tags that require extremely low power programming and read operations.
Lower testing costs
eMemory’s NVM solutions are optimized for reduced testing time through mass programming and no wake-up programming; thus, minimizing overall testing costs.
Lower manufacturing costs
eMemory’s NVM IPs are small in area and require no additional masks or processing steps, thereby reducing production costs. Our NVM IPs can be ported to different foundries, enabling multi-foundry manufacturing strategy.