Ams introduces the next generation Near Field Communication (NFC) interface tag chip with superior data management and energy management capabilities

     Ams introduces the new AS3955 Near Field Communication (NFC) interface chip (NFiC) with unique energy harvesting capabilities and data transmission capabilities. Similar to previous AS3953 products, the AS3955 provides contactless bridging between near Field communication (NFC) card readers, such as smartphones and tablets, and any other microcontroller. However, the AS3955 can also provide power supply to the main device, collecting the RF energy radiated by the Near Field communication (NFC) card reader, and providing 5mA current at an output voltage of 4.5V, enough to charge a lithium battery.

     In addition, the AS3955 provides designers with a bidirectional data transfer mode, an extended mode that allows designers to transmit data using standard near Field communication (NFC) tag instructions while minimizing their interference with the host microcontroller. The second mode, tunnel mode, provides a transparent and very flexible channel between the Near Field communication (NFC) reader and the host microcontroller, allowing the user to freely implement any standard or dedicated communication protocol. Both the extended mode and the tunnel mode do not require the cache data of the EEPROM in the AS3955, so the data transmission speed is greatly improved.

     The AS3955 features a high-performance RF front end that can be connected to a simple external NFC antenna without the need for additional external components. At the same time, the AS3955 also has a built-in EEPROM(2kbits or 4kbits) and SPI or I2C interface, which enables communication through an external microcontroller.

     The AS3955 is fully compliant with the ISO14443A Layer 4 standard and the Near Field Payment (NFC) Forum standard, supports the functionality of NFC Class 2 tags, and also supports the analog functionality of NFC Class 4 tags when connected to external microcontrollers.

     With more advanced energy and data management capabilities than existing interface tags on the market, the AS3955 offers unmatched performance and flexibility. The energy it collects from the NFC device allows it to operate without the need for an external power supply. In addition, this captured energy can also be used to feed external circuitry, enabling independent, environmentally friendly, battery-free product designs such as wireless sensor interfaces, interactive games or toys, smart price tags, and smart payment cards.

     The AS3955's new stealth mode provides a unique data management feature. This mode enables the host microcontroller to close the RF channel of the NFC interface chip through I2C or SPI interface after the operation of Bluetooth pairing, so as to ensure the user's control over the NFC operation. In addition, the AS3955 provides 32-bit password protection for its EEPROM and adds a new silent mode that automatically prevents failed Bluetooth pairing operations. If the battery of the host is insufficient to support the Bluetooth module, the AS3955 automatically disables the RF circuit, preventing the device from starting the pairing operation.

     Superior power and data management capabilities make the AS3955 suitable for a wide range of industrial, consumer and gaming devices. Products can be configured or personalized, for example, we can customize products at the back end of the factory production line without the need for power. At the same time, high-speed data transmission and powerful energy harvesting capabilities also reduce the download time of configuration data, which effectively increases the output of high-capacity production lines.

     David Renno, product marketing Manager at ams, said: "If users are not demanding a connection between a near field communication (NFC) device and a microcontroller, then existing interface labels may meet their needs. However, because the AS3955 provides power to the main device and has advanced data transmission modes, it allows designers to design more complex and sophisticated systems. The AS3955 is designed to be widely used in new applications where interface tagging is not yet possible."