NFC tags

Each item in Yard Tower has its own link (URL). You can write this link to an NFC tag, which is often a small sticker. You can then stick this NFC tag, for example, on the box of your model train.

By scanning the NFC tag with your mobile phone, you can quickly view the item’s information.

NFC stands for “Near Field Communication” and is a technology that enables wireless communication over very short distances. For example, NFC technology is used for contactless payments with your bank card or phone.

On this page, you’ll learn how to easily write NFC tags.

Requirements

• NFC tags: writable stickers that are compatible with Type 2 or NTAG 213, 215 or 216.
• A mobile phone with an NFC-compatible chip. For example, an iPhone or Android phone.
• An app to write NFC tags. In this example, NFC TagWriter by NXP is used.

Step 1: Export a view

1. Create a new view named NFC tags.
2. Make sure the table layout is active.
3. Under Columns, select only Permalink and Name (place them in this order).

Step 2: Download and open in Excel

1. Click the Download button and select Microsoft Excel (.xlsx).
2. Open the file in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.

Step 3: Edit the spreadsheet file

1. Delete rows 1 and 2 (title and column names)
2. Add a new column at the beginning, fill each cell with the word “LINK_RECORD”
3. Add a new column to the right of the column with the URL, fill each cell with the word “URL”

Your file should now look like this:

Step 4: Write to NFC tags

1. Download the spreadsheet as a CSV file.
2. Make sure the file is on your phone.
3. Install the NFC TagWriter by NXP app. Google Play or App Store.
4. Open the app and choose Write from CSV
5. Follow the instructions in the app to write the NFC tags.

Step 5: Stick and scan

1. Stick the NFC tag on the box of your model train.
2. Scan the NFC tag with your mobile phone.
3. You will now see the item’s information.

Official documentation of NXP

View the official documentation of NXP for more information about NFC tags. Page 25 describes how to write NFC tags from a CSV file.

Is it safe?

Yes, NFC tags are safe. Before you can view your item’s information, you must first log in.