What is ISO-IEC 15693:2018?

Introduction

ISO-IEC 15693:2018 is an international standard for contactless smart cards and RFID devices. It specifies the physical characteristics, communication protocol, and data format for such devices, ensuring interoperability and consistency in their operation. This standard plays a crucial role in various industries, including transportation, access control, inventory management, and logistics.

Physical Characteristics

ISO-IEC 15693 compliant devices use radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to communicate wirelessly with card readers. These devices operate at the frequency of 13.56 MHz and utilize an inductive coupling mechanism for communication. The maximum communication range between the device and the reader is typically around one meter, although it can be extended with specialized equipment.

The size and shape of ISO-IEC 15693 compliant devices vary depending on their intended applications. They can be embedded in objects such as cards, labels, or even implants. The devices are designed to withstand environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and mechanical stress, making them suitable for a wide range of scenarios.

Communication Protocol

ISO-IEC 15693 uses a half-duplex communication protocol, meaning that data can be transmitted in both directions but not simultaneously. The device and the reader take turns transmitting data packets, ensuring a reliable and orderly exchange of information.

The protocol defines multiple command types that allow the reader to interact with the device, such as reading and writing data, locking and unlocking memory blocks, and performing cryptographic operations. Additionally, ISO-IEC 15693 supports anti-collision mechanisms that enable multiple devices to be identified and accessed concurrently within the communication range.

Data Format

ISO-IEC 15693 stipulates a consistent data format that encompasses data organization, encoding, and error detection. The device's memory is divided into multiple blocks, each with a unique identifier. Each block typically stores a fixed number of bytes, although different devices may support varying block sizes.

The data within the blocks can represent various types of information, including identification numbers, access permissions, or user-specific data. To ensure data integrity, error detection codes are used to identify and correct errors during transmission. This allows for reliable communication between the device and the reader, even in environments with potential interference.

In conclusion, ISO-IEC 15693:2018 is an important international standard for contactless smart cards and RFID devices. It provides guidelines for their physical characteristics, communication protocol, and data format, ensuring seamless interoperability across different systems. This standard has shaped and continues to shape numerous industries, adding convenience and efficiency to various applications involving contactless technology.