ICODE DNA vs ST25TV512

NXP ICODE DNA offers 252 bytes user memory with AES-128 authentication vs ST25TV512's 64 bytes with tamper detection. Both ISO 15693, different security approaches.

Side-by-side specs

Frequency
ICODE DNA
13.56 MHz
ST25TV512
13.56 MHz
Protocol
ICODE DNA
ISO/IEC 15693-2, ISO/IEC 15693-3
ST25TV512
ISO/IEC 15693, NFC Forum Type 5
Memory
ICODE DNA
2016 bits user memory (63 blocks × 4 bytes), 2048 bits total EEPROM (64 blocks × 4 bytes, last block reserved for 16-bit counter)
ST25TV512
512 bits (64 bytes) EEPROM user memory
Interface
ICODE DNA
RF (contactless)
ST25TV512
RF (contactless)
Temp Range
ICODE DNA
-40°C to +85°C (junction temperature), -55°C to +125°C (storage)
ST25TV512
-40°C to +85°C
Form Factor
ICODE DNA
Wafer (sawn, bumped wafer, 120 µm with 7 µm Polyimide spacer, on film frame carrier)
ST25TV512
UFDFPN5 (1.7×1.4 mm), sawn/bumped wafer (75 µm or 120 µm)
Security
ICODE DNA
AES-128 mutual authentication (3 user keys), 32-byte ECC-based originality signature, unique 64-bit UID, memory segmentation with access privileges, per-block write lock, 16-bit…
ST25TV512
Two 32-bit passwords (or one 64-bit), TruST25 digital signature, Kill mode, Untraceable mode, password encryption, tamper detect (optional), EAS

Verdict

Choose ICODE DNA if you require larger memory capacity and cryptographic authentication for high-value anti-counterfeiting applications. The chip provides 2016 bits (252 bytes) of user memory organized in 63 blocks of 4 bytes each, nearly four times the capacity of the ST25TV512. Its AES-128 mutual authentication with three independent user keys enables robust challenge-response schemes suitable for pharmaceutical tracking, luxury goods authentication, and secure supply chain applications. The 32-byte ECC-based originality signature provides factory-programmed proof of authenticity that cannot be cloned. Memory segmentation with configurable access privileges allows selective protection of different data zones, while per-block write lock and a dedicated 16-bit counter support ticket validation and consumable tracking. Both chips operate at 13.56 MHz on ISO/IEC 15693 protocol with unique 64-bit UIDs, but ICODE DNA's cryptographic engine offers stronger protection against sophisticated counterfeiting attempts. Choose ST25TV512 if you need privacy protection features, tamper detection, or Electronic Article Surveillance compatibility within a smaller memory footprint. The 512-bit (64-byte) EEPROM is sufficient for basic identification, URL links, or simple product data. Its TruST25 digital signature provides originality verification similar to ICODE DNA but without mutual authentication capability. The ST25TV512 distinguishes itself with Kill mode for permanent deactivation and Untraceable mode that prevents tag tracking after point of sale, addressing consumer privacy concerns under regulations like GDPR. Two 32-bit passwords (configurable as one 64-bit password) provide basic access control with optional password encryption to prevent eavesdropping. The optional tamper detection input can monitor physical security seals or packaging integrity, making it suitable for pharmaceutical blister packs or warranty labels. NFC Forum Type 5 compliance ensures smartphone compatibility. The significantly smaller memory makes it more cost-effective for high-volume retail applications where privacy features and EAS integration outweigh the need for extensive data storage or cryptographic authentication.

FAQ

What is the memory difference between ICODE DNA and ST25TV512?

ICODE DNA provides 2016 bits (252 bytes) of user memory across 63 blocks, while ST25TV512 offers 512 bits (64 bytes) of EEPROM user memory. ICODE DNA has approximately four times the storage capacity.

Which chip has stronger authentication security?

ICODE DNA offers stronger authentication with AES-128 mutual authentication supporting three user keys and challenge-response protocols. ST25TV512 provides password-based access control (32-bit or 64-bit) and digital signatures but lacks cryptographic mutual authentication.

Do both chips support privacy protection features?

Only ST25TV512 includes dedicated privacy features with Kill mode for permanent deactivation and Untraceable mode to prevent post-sale tracking. ICODE DNA focuses on authentication security rather than privacy protection, though both have configurable access controls.

Sourcing ICODE DNA or ST25TV512 in volume?

Roxtron builds custom RFID and NFC products around both ICODE DNA and ST25TV512. Tell us your project — quantities, form factor, timeline — and we'll come back within 24 hours with pricing and lead times.