What Are NFC Tags?
A simple overview of NFC tags, how they work with smartphones, and the different types you can easily purchase for tagging equipment, locations, or assets.
What Are NFC Tags?
NFC (Near Field Communication) tags are small, inexpensive chips that can store simple information such as a web link, phone number, or text message. When someone taps their smartphone against the tag, the phone instantly reads the information and performs the programmed action.
Many modern smartphones already have NFC capability built in, so no additional apps or hardware are required for basic use.
Organizations commonly place NFC tags on equipment, doors, rooms, or other assets to make it easier for staff to quickly access information, submit reports, or complete tasks directly from their phone.
How NFC Tags Work
NFC tags contain a small chip and antenna. When a phone is placed close to the tag (usually within an inch), the phone powers the tag wirelessly and reads the stored data.
That data can trigger actions such as:
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Opening a webpage
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Starting a text message
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Opening a form
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Linking to an asset or system record
Opening a webpage
Starting a text message
Opening a form
Linking to an asset or system record
Because they require no batteries and very little maintenance, NFC tags are commonly used in maintenance, inventory tracking, inspections, and asset management workflows.
Common Types of NFC Tags
There are several types of NFC chips available, but most common use cases rely on the NTAG series developed by NXP. These tags differ mainly in memory size, speed, and durability.
NTAG213
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Most common and affordable option
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Enough memory for links and basic actions
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Good for general use
Most common and affordable option
Enough memory for links and basic actions
Good for general use
NTAG215
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Slightly larger memory capacity
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Often used for applications needing more stored data
Slightly larger memory capacity
Often used for applications needing more stored data
NTAG216
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The largest memory capacity in the NTAG series
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Can store longer links or more complex data
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Often considered the most flexible option
The largest memory capacity in the NTAG series
Can store longer links or more complex data
Often considered the most flexible option
Many users prefer NTAG216 tags because they offer the most storage and are typically very responsive when scanned.
Types of NFC Tags You Can Buy
NFC tags come in several physical formats depending on where they will be used.
Sticker Tags
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Thin adhesive labels
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Easy to place on equipment or walls
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Good for indoor use
Thin adhesive labels
Easy to place on equipment or walls
Good for indoor use
Coin / Disc Tags
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Small plastic discs
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More durable than stickers
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Good for equipment or high-touch areas
Small plastic discs
More durable than stickers
Good for equipment or high-touch areas
Waterproof / Industrial Tags
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Designed for outdoor environments
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Resistant to moisture, heat, and wear
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Ideal for mechanical rooms or exterior equipment
Designed for outdoor environments
Resistant to moisture, heat, and wear
Ideal for mechanical rooms or exterior equipment
Most of these options are inexpensive and easy to purchase online, and they can be programmed using a free NFC writing app on a smartphone.
Why Teams Use NFC Tags
NFC tags are commonly used to simplify workflows by allowing staff to interact with systems quickly in the field.
Examples include:
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Submitting maintenance requests
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Opening inspection forms
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Accessing equipment records
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Reporting issues tied to a specific location or asset
Submitting maintenance requests
Opening inspection forms
Accessing equipment records
Reporting issues tied to a specific location or asset
By placing tags directly on equipment or in specific areas, teams can reduce the time spent navigating systems and ensure that information is always tied to the correct location.
Check out this article for a deeper overview of how to use NFC tags within FlowPath.
Interested in Implementing NFC Tags?
If you're interested in implementing NFC tags with your FlowPath workflows, our team is happy to help.
Reach out to support@getflowpath.com or contact your dedicated Customer Success Manager to discuss setup options and best practices for your environment.
They can help you determine the best workflows, tag placement strategies, and automation opportunities to get the most value from this implementation.