What are the differences between Fastag and NFC?

Banking & Finance Computers Signals and Systems

Let us learn the concepts of Fastag and Near Field Communication (NFC).

Fast Tag

FASTag is an electronic scanner system used for toll collection in India, which is operated by the National Highway Authority of India.

It incorporates the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for doing toll payments either prepaid or from savings accounts which are linked to it or directly toll owner.

The RFID enabled sticker which is fixed to a vehicle’s windshield, and a reader at the toll booth are used to scan this card and wirelessly and automatically processes the payment.

When we pass a FASTag-enabled toll plaza, we don’t need to stop our vehicles to make cash payment for the toll fee. we can keep driving and the fee will be paid automatically.

Advantages

The advantages of Fastag are as follows −

Convenience to users
Secure payment system
Protection against corruption
Money saving
Man power cost saves

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of Fastag are as follows −

Network failure
Glitches
Card safety
Ownership issues

Near Field Communication (NFC)

NFC operates within a radius of about 4 cm and also provides a wireless connection between your device and another device.

It allows for two-way communication, with both devices involved and are able to send and receive information.

This NFC connection does not depend on Wi-Fi, 3G, LTE or otherwise, and it doesn't cost anything to use.

With the help of a credit card which is linked to the device it is help to make payments by simply holding your device near an NFC-enabled payment machine.

There are many other uses for NFC as well. Examples include: Paying a fare on public transit, such as a bus or train.

Given below is the sample image of NFC −

Differences

The major differences between Fastag and Near Field Communication (NFC) are as follows −

NFC	Fastag
NFC code was created and developed by Franz and Philippein the year 2002.	Fastag was developed by the national payment corporation of India in the year 2014.
NFC is one type.	Fastag is represented in one type.
NFC is used for identity cards, contact less payments, mobile payments etc.	Fastag is used by the National highway authority for toll collection.
The technology used by NFC is inductive coupling between antennas of the connecting devices.	Fastag is based on RFID technology.
NFC storage capacity is up to 8 kilobytes	Fastag storage capacity is 3 kilo bytes.
NFC is not cost effective.	Fast Tag is cost effective
Only one NFC can be processed at a time.	At a time so many fastags can be read at toll plaza.
NFC popularity is moderate when compared to fastag.	Now-a-days Fastag's popularity has become High.
NFC is a two way communication.	Fastag is one way communication.