NTAG213
The NTAG213 is a popular NFC (Near Field Communication) tag chip developed by NXP Semiconductors, widely used in smart products, authentication, and IoT applications due to its balance of memory size, speed, and security features.
What is NTAG213?
- Type: NFC Forum Type 2 Tag
- Technology: Based on ISO/IEC 14443-A standard
- Type : NXP213 or compatible
- Memory Size: 144 bytes of usable user memory (EEPROM)
- Security: Supports password protection and 32-bit password + 24-bit pack
NTAG213 tags are compatible with most smartphones and NFC readers, making them ideal for cross-platform applications.
How It Works
-
Passive Communication:
NTAG213 does not have its own power source. It is powered by the electromagnetic field generated by an NFC reader (e.g., phone or Arduino RC522). -
Data Exchange:
Data is exchanged using short-range radio communication (13.56 MHz). The reader sends commands; the tag responds with stored data or status. -
Memory Access:
- Memory is structured in pages, each with 4 bytes.
- Pages can be read, written, or locked.
- Tag supports fast read and anti-tearing mechanisms.
Memory Structure
| Section | Page Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| UID & Header | 0 – 3 | Manufacturer data, unique identifier (UID) |
| Lock Bytes | 4 – 5 | Bits to lock pages to prevent further writing |
| Capability | 6 | Tag capability container (TCC) |
| User Memory | 4 – 39 | 36 pages × 4 bytes = 144 bytes usable data |
| Configuration | 40 – 43 | Access conditions, password protection, etc. |
| Password/Auth | 44 – 47 | Password and PACK for simple authentication |
Key Features
- 144 bytes user memory (suitable for text, URLs, small JSON)
- Password-protected access (write-protect or read/write protection)
- Lock bits for permanent write protection on selected pages
- UID is unique per tag and can be used as a hardware ID
- Supports fast read command for efficient data access
Common Use Cases
- Product authentication
- URL redirects (via NDEF records)
- IoT device identification
- Tagging 3D printing filament spools (e.g., TigerTag project)
- Inventory and asset tracking
Reading and Writing Data
-
Writing:
Use an NFC-enabled device or module (like RC522 with Arduino) to send write commands to specific pages. -
Reading:
Most phones and readers can read NTAG213 tags using NFC apps or custom software. Data can be interpreted as plain text, URLs, or structured formats (like JSON or hex blocks).
Notes
- NTAG215 and NTAG216 are similar in structure but offer more memory:
- NTAG215: 504 bytes
- NTAG216: 888 bytes
They are all compatible with the same NFC protocols.