Walluf–ACG Identification Technologies, a leading component and technology supplier in the smart card and RFID markets, announces that it has added Near Field Communication (NFC) support to its HF mifare Easy and HF Multi ISO reader families.

NFC operates over short distances and enables electronic devices such as cell phones and PDAs to connect with each other and share information simply by being positioned close together. As no further configuration from the user is required, NFC paves the way to a great number of applications, particularly in the public transport and event management sectors. ACG’s enhanced RFID readers enable system integrators to provide more versatile ticket validation and fare collection terminals. Another useful application is at entry gates for systems that use or could use NFC-compliant devices such as mobile phones.

The easy-to-integrate HF Multi ISO reader family includes the plug-in module for handheld devices which, empowered with NFC capability, is ideal for use in mobile applications, and more specifically mobile payment applications based on NFC technology. Existing ACG RFID readers with integrated bootloader can also be NFC-enabled in the field via a simple firmware upgrade. This feature allows newly-developed transponder ICs to be added to the readers’ spectrum of compatible RFID chips, guaranteeing maximum flexibility in the sourcing of transponders and thus protecting the end user’s investment.

In order to comply fully with the security requirements of contactless payment applications, ACG HF RFID readers are equipped with state-of-the-art security features such as advanced key management systems and interfaces and sockets for connecting Security Access Modules. These features enable operators to effectively protect themselves from payment fraud.

About ACG ACG Identification Technologies is an independent component and technology supplier serving the entire value chain of smart card and RFID-based systems. Headquartered in Walluf (Germany), ACG has 21 locations throughout Europe, the Americas, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa.

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