Third-Generation MicroRead® Chip Offers Turnkey Solution for Broad Range of Mobile and Consumer Applications
AIX-EN-PROVENCE, France, February 7, 2008 – Maintaining its position as the undisputed leader and trend setter in the near field communication (NFC) market, INSIDE Contactless today introduced the latest version of its MicroRead® multi-standard NFC chip, a third-generation product that sets a new standard for ease of integration. The MicroRead suite combines third-generation silicon, a full set of host interfaces, NFC software libraries and APIs, a field-proven reference design and robust standards support into a turnkey NFC solution ideal for a broad range of applications in any cell phone, smart phone, or other mobile or consumer electronics device.
The MicroRead chip offers the broadest range of NFC options, complying with the ISO 14443 A/B/B’ standard, ISO 15693 and ISO18092, and NFC forum specifications, allowing a MicroRead-enabled device to be used not only for all traditional NFC applications, but also for new applications such as access control, logistics and tracking, as well as a wide range of legacy RFID applications. INSIDE, together with other industry leaders, also was instrumental in developing the ETSI NFC-related standard, with the result that INSIDE now enjoys early implementation of these standards.
“Our third-generation MicroRead solution is the perfect answer to the increasingly complex requirements of mobile manufacturers who can now lead the evolution of the market with a mature, proven, advanced product,” said Philippe Martineau, executive vice president of the NFC Business Line at INSIDE Contactless. “MicroRead sets the standard for easy integration with a mature solution, including a complete package of hardware, software, and standards support designed to make it easy for device makers to get their products to market more quickly.”
According to Philippe Martineau, with this chip, INSIDE is anticipating the continuing evolution of NFC, which will bring the next generation of NFC applications to market.
The MicroRead IC is the first NFC chip to be both SIM- and SE- friendly. The unique multi-host router technology built into the MicroRead chip provides the capacity to implement any secure element, including SIM, SE or SD card, to support any business model.
Also unique is the MicroRead’s self-powered “battery-off” mode, which provides simplicity and convenience to improve the user experience by enabling transactions to take place successfully even when the host device is turned off or the battery is completely drained. The low-power card detection mode also provides a unique, battery life optimized, pop-up application mechanism to avoid the need to browse a menu or press a button to launch an NFC-based application.
Availability and Pricing
The INSIDE Contactless MicroRead multi-standard NFC solution will be available in sample quantities in the second quarter of 2008. Production volumes are anticipated to be available in the third quarter of this year. Please contact INSIDE for specific pricing information.
