Contents
What is FeliCa? – Contactless IC card technology and usage
FeliCa is a contactless IC card technology developed by Sony Corporation. It is widely used in Japan and other countries for various applications, including public transportation, electronic payments, and access control.
Technology
FeliCa is based on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, allowing communication between a reader/writer device and a FeliCa card by simply bringing them close together. The technology operates at a frequency of 13.56 MHz and enables quick and secure data transmission within a short range.
The FeliCa IC chip embedded in the card is responsible for storing and processing data. It consists of a memory area and a microcontroller, which perform tasks such as encryption and decryption of data, card authentication, and transaction processing.
Compared to conventional contact IC cards, FeliCa cards offer the advantage of faster and more convenient transactions as they do not require physical contact with the reader/writer device. This feature makes FeliCa technology ideal for use in busy environments where speed and efficiency are crucial.
Usage
FeliCa cards are widely used in various industries, primarily in transportation systems. In Japan, major transportation networks such as the railway, subway, and bus systems have adopted FeliCa as the standard contactless payment method. Users can simply tap their FeliCa cards on the reader device to access gates or pay for fares.
Furthermore, FeliCa has expanded beyond transportation. It is now commonly used for cashless payments in convenience stores, vending machines, and other retail establishments. Additionally, FeliCa technology is utilized in systems for attendance management, identification, and access control in offices, schools, and hospitals.
The convenience and versatility of FeliCa technology have made it an integral part of the daily lives of millions of people, not only in Japan but also in other countries where it has been adopted.
Conclusion
FeliCa technology has revolutionized contactless IC card systems, providing fast, secure, and convenient transactions. Its applications in transportation, payment systems, and access control have greatly enhanced efficiency in various industries. With continuous advancements and wider acceptance, FeliCa is likely to further innovate the way we interact with technology and access services in the future.
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