Cell phone as an RFID reader

[Jane Jukowsky]

Sorry if this might be off-topic: this may or may not involve Java.

I need a mobile device (can be any phone or PDA) to read an RFID tag and send a message to my server (via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or even SMS). I know Nokia has their Java-enabled NFC phones that (I think?) can act as RFID readers; other brands might have that as well.

Has anyone played with that? Is Java development needed, and if so, is it a complex project, or are there devices that will do that out of the box? I am not looking for big ticket $800 readers; something under $300.

[sivakumar arani]

Hi Jane,

nokia 6131 nfc may solve you purpose.


regards,

sivakumar

[Jane Jukowsky]

Thanks for the lead. A couple questions:

1. Is there a readily made app that would run on Nokia NFC, scan a barcode and send it to a server, or do I need to code that? If it's the latter, how much coding is involved, if I outsource it to someone experienced? What's the learning curve if I do it myself (lots of Java experience, zero Java micro edition experience)? Just need to count the beans before I get into the new field..

2. With NFC constantly on, what's the battery life?

3. Are the rumors accurate, that Nokia NFC line is about to be discontinued? I mean, it's a 2.5-year-old phone?

Thanks

[sivakumar arani]

Hi,

1) made up app may not be available.
i am not aware of reading barcodes. i have worked on smart card comm. using NFC.
not a big deal of learning nfc through j2me.

2) battery depends on handset make, type of communication. but NFC wont consume much.

[Jane Jukowsky]

Could you give me a time estimate, including the learning curve? Also - What do I do to counter theft? Can I turn the cell phone into a brick if it's stolen?