RC522 RFID Reader-Writer Module – 13.56MHz

The RC522 is a compact 13.56MHz contactless RFID reader and writer module built around the NXP MFRC522 integrated circuit. It is designed for low-voltage, low-cost, and small-size contactless communication applications, making it a practical choice for smart meters, portable handheld devices, access control systems, and general-purpose RFID projects. The module communicates with a host microcontroller via the SPI interface, which supports data transfer rates of up to 10Mbit/s and simplifies integration with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other development platforms.

The MFRC522 chip supports ISO/IEC 14443 A/MIFARE communication and is compatible with a wide range of MIFARE cards and tags, including MIFARE 1 S50, MIFARE 1 S70, MIFARE Ultralight, MIFARE Pro, and MIFARE DESFire. In reading and writing mode, the typical operating distance is up to 50mm, and the module includes a 64-byte FIFO buffer for send and receive operations, flexible interrupt modes, a programmable timer, a CRC coprocessor, and internal self-test capability. The module operates from a 3.3V DC supply (with the MFRC522 IC supporting a 2.5V to 3.3V range) and draws approximately 13–26mA during operation, 10–13mA in idle mode, and less than 80µA in sleep mode.

The board measures approximately 40mm × 60mm and operates over a temperature range of -20°C to +80°C. The module is a passive RFID interface—it does not include a display, wireless network interface, or enclosure. The supplied kit typically includes the RC522 reader/writer module, one blank MIFARE S50 card, and one keychain RFID tag, along with straight and right-angle header strips for flexible mounting. It is widely used for access control, time and attendance systems, inventory management, vehicle entry registration, and educational RFID experiments.