Innovision launches 2Kbytes NFC/RFID tag platform

Innovision Research & Technology has launched an NFC/RFID tag platform offering up to 2Kbytes of memory. This new IC platform allows RFID and NFC integrators to select the optimal tag for their application performance and price requirements. It is intended to meet demand for high volume, small size, lower cost RFID/NFC tags for integration into smart objects, providing a family of devices finely tuned to their specific application requirement.

The additional memory sizes in the platform have increased from today's 96Bytes up to 512Bytes and it now offers even faster read/write/test operation speeds. These meet or exceed the data storage requirements for all anticipated non-payment NFC applications, including peer-to-peer connectivity, service initiation and Smart Posters. These larger memories will also allow developers to use digital signatures for more secure RFID/NFC applications.

With a product roadmap providing memories up to 2Kbytes already specified by the NFC Forum, the platform is designed to offer maximum flexibility to the smart object implementation NFC market.

Innovision's latest tag IC platform is also capable of providing on-chip capacitance up to 250pF in some cases to support miniature antenna designs, which enable the industry's smallest RFID/NFC tag form factors. The platform is both backwards-compatible with the company's existing Jewel and Topaz RFID/NFC products, and forwards-compatible for new releases of consumer products meeting the NFC minimum level of interoperability (MLOI) specifications. First samples of product based on the platform are expected to be available in the second half of 2008.

This latest release from the British NFC innovator responds to feedback from current industry events and ongoing NFC projects such as the O2 consumer trial (MPW 109). In this trial 500 existing O2 and Oyster customers used NFC mobile phones to read information embedded in Topaz 96Byte tags on Smart Posters and in a card wallet, to access information, special offers and VIP benefits throughout London. 96Bytes is the perfect amount of memory for storing URL and SMS requirements for today's applications.