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How to test ST25DV NFC FTM mode transaction with MCU integration

chai2145
Senior

‎2025-01-10 8:03 PM

 

Hi everyone,

I am currently working on a project involving the ST25DV NFC tag connected to a microcontroller (STM32). My goal is to test the Fast Transfer Mode (FTM) functionality. Here's the workflow I am aiming to achieve:

1. An NFC device (e.g., a smartphone) sends an FTM response/request to the ST25DV tag.

2. The microcontroller receives the FTM request/response from the ST25DV NFC tag and handles it accordingly.

I am looking for guidance on the following:

How can I simulate and verify the full FTM communication flow (NFC device ↔ ST25DV ↔ MCU)?

Are there any specific tools or software recommendations for testing FTM functionality?

Can I use ST25 NFC app to test FTM? Understand there is a app to test FTM demo using ST25 discovery kits. However I just need to test the transaction like send request to MCU thought FTM.

Regards,

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3 REPLIES 3
Pelozuelo
ST Employee

‎2025-07-25 5:59 AM

Below is a detailed guide to help you simulate, verify, and test the full FTM communication flow:

1. Understanding the FTM Communication Flow

  • NFC Device (e.g., smartphone) sends an FTM request to the ST25DV tag.
  • The ST25DV tag forwards this request to the MCU via its I2C/SPI interface.
  • The MCU processes the request and sends back a response to the ST25DV.
  • The ST25DV then transmits the response back to the NFC device.

2. Simulating and Verifying Full FTM Communication Flow

Hardware Setup

  • ST25DV NFC tag connected to your STM32 MCU via I2C or SPI.
  • NFC device (smartphone or NFC reader) to interact wirelessly with the ST25DV.

Steps to Verify FTM Flow

  1. Enable FTM on ST25DV:

    • Configure the ST25DV registers to enable Fast Transfer Mode.
    • Refer to the ST25DV datasheet and AN4247 application note for detailed register settings.

  2. MCU Firmware:

    • Implement an interrupt or polling mechanism to detect FTM requests from ST25DV.
    • Parse the incoming FTM request data.
    • Prepare and send the appropriate FTM response back to ST25DV.

  3. NFC Device Interaction:

    • Use an NFC device to send FTM requests.
    • Monitor the MCU logs/debug output to verify the request reception and response transmission.

  4. Debugging:

    • Use logic analyzers or I2C/SPI sniffers to monitor communication between ST25DV and MCU.
    • Use UART or SWO debug output on STM32 to trace firmware behavior.

3. Tools and Software Recommendations for Testing FTM

Tool/Software Purpose Notes

**ST25 NFC Application**NFC tag management and demo testingSTMicroelectronics app supports ST25DV and includes FTM demo for discovery kits.
**NFC-enabled Smartphone**To send custom FTM requestsUse NFC apps that allow raw NFC command sending.
**ST25DV Discovery Kit**Hardware platform with ST25DV and MCUUseful for reference firmware and FTM demo implementation.
**STM32CubeIDE + ST25DV Middleware**Develop and debug MCU firmwareST provides middleware libraries for ST25DV to ease integration.
**Logic Analyzer (e.g., Saleae)**Monitor I2C/SPI communication between ST25DV and MCUHelps verify timing and data correctness on the bus.

4. Using ST25 NFC App for FTM Testing

  • The ST25 NFC app by STMicroelectronics is primarily designed for:
    • Reading/writing NFC tags.
    • Demonstrating FTM on ST25 Discovery kits.
  • It can be used to send FTM requests to the ST25DV tag.
  • However, the app’s FTM demo is tailored for the Discovery kit environment.
  • For your use case (just sending FTM requests to MCU via ST25DV), you can:
    • Use the app to send FTM commands.
    • Monitor MCU response handling.
  • If you need more control over the FTM payload, consider:
    • Developing a custom NFC app (Android/iOS) that sends raw FTM commands.
    • Using NFC tools that allow sending custom NDEF or raw commands.

5. Additional Tips

  • Refer to ST25DV AN4247 Application Note: It contains detailed info on FTM operation and examples.
  • Firmware Examples: Check ST’s firmware packages for ST25DV and STM32 for FTM examples.
  • NFC Forum Compliance: Ensure your FTM commands comply with NFC Forum Type 5 Tag specs.
  • Debugging: Use serial output on STM32 to log received FTM requests and sent responses for easier troubleshooting.
chai2145
Senior
In response to Pelozuelo

‎2025-07-25 6:07 PM

Hi,

Thank you.

Use NFC apps that allow raw NFC command sending -> Can use the ST25 apps? I cannot find any tab to send raw NFC command.

 

regard，

kim

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Brian TIDAL
ST Employee
In response to chai2145

‎2025-08-05 1:16 AM

Hi,

When using the ST25 Android™ NFC Tap application, after tapping a tag, use the hamburger button to access the Send Custom Command option. You can then send raw commands.

Rgds

BT

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