NXP Semiconductors MF3DH4200DA6/00J

Overview

MF3DH4200DA6/00J from NXP Semiconductors is a contactless multi-application smart card IC compliant with ISO/IEC 14443A, featuring 4 KB EEPROM, 70 pF input capacitance, Common Criteria EAL5+ security certification, and support for AES-128 and 3DES cryptographic engines. It enables secure public transport ticketing, micro-payment, and access management in compact form-factor cards.

For engineers reviewing the MF3DH4200DA6/00J datasheet, MF3DH4200DA6/00J pinout, MF3DH4200DA6/00J application, or MF3DH4200DA6/00J equivalent, key selection considerations include its high-input-capacitance (70 pF) MOB6 package for thin-card designs, EV2-specific Transaction MAC and MIsmartApp features, backward compatibility with DESFire EV1/D40, and ISO/IEC 7816-4 APDU interoperability with NFC readers.

Technical Context

The MF3DH4200DA6/00J implements a fully programmable file system supporting unlimited applications and up to 32 files per application-including Standard Data, Value, Linear/Cyclic Record, Backup Data, and Transaction MAC file types-with file size defined at creation. Its on-chip backup management and automatic anti-tear mechanism ensure transaction-oriented data integrity across all file types with backup.

It integrates hardware-accelerated cryptographic engines for DES (56/112/168-bit), AES-128, and CMAC authentication; supports mutual three-pass authentication; and delivers RF data rates up to 848 kbit/s. The device includes Proximity Check and Originality Check sensors to counter relay attacks and verify genuine NXP silicon.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MF3DH4200DA6/00J is housed in the MOB6 plastic leadless module carrier package (SOT500-3), designed for embedding into smart cards and thin-format credentials. This surface-mount module contains no user-accessible pins; electrical connection is made via bonded wire leads to an integrated antenna coil.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar contactless multi-application IC applications.

Compared with MF3DH4200DA6/00J, MF3D4200DA6/01 trades high-input-capacitance robustness for standard RF coupling, while MF3DH8200DA6/01 extends memory headroom at identical mechanical and security specifications - making MF3DH4200DA6/00J the optimal balance of thin-card compatibility, EAL5+ assurance, and cost-efficient 4 KB capacity for mainstream Smart City deployments.

Availability

MF3DH4200DA6/00J is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for secure public transport ticketing, micro-payment systems, and multi-application smart city credentialing requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and certified security compliance.

Supply support for MF3DH4200DA6/00J includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and identification markets, with leadership in contactless ICs and NFC technology.

The MF3DH4200DA6/00J belongs to the MIFARE DESFire EV2 product line, engineered specifically for high-assurance, multi-service contactless credential systems in Smart City, transit, and secure access applications.

FAQ

What security certifications does MF3DH4200DA6/00J hold?

MF3DH4200DA6/00J is certified to Common Criteria EAL5+ for both hardware and software, matching the assurance level required for banking cards and electronic passports. This certification validates its resistance to side-channel attacks, fault injection, and logical exploitation - confirming that MF3DH4200DA6/00J meets stringent global standards for secure credential ICs used in regulated environments.

How does the 70 pF input capacitance of MF3DH4200DA6/00J benefit card design?

The 70 pF input capacitance of MF3DH4200DA6/00J improves RF coupling efficiency in compact or ultra-thin card formats where antenna size is constrained. This allows reliable operation at extended read ranges (up to 100 mm) even with smaller coils, making MF3DH4200DA6/00J ideal for wearable credentials, slim ID cards, and hybrid paper-plastic tickets where traditional 17 pF variants would suffer reduced sensitivity.

Is MF3DH4200DA6/00J compatible with existing MIFARE DESFire EV1 infrastructure?

Yes, MF3DH4200DA6/00J operates in backward-compatible mode with MIFARE DESFire EV1 and D40 systems out-of-the-box. It supports legacy commands, 2TDEA/3TDEA cryptography, and ISO/IEC 7816-4 APDUs - allowing seamless integration into deployed transit or access systems without reader firmware upgrades, while retaining the option to activate EV2-specific features like Transaction MAC or MIsmartApp when needed.

What distinguishes the Transaction MAC feature in MF3DH4200DA6/00J from standard MAC implementations?

The Transaction MAC in MF3DH4200DA6/00J is a dedicated file type that generates cryptographically signed proofs of completed transactions - such as fare deductions or loyalty point accruals - using on-card secret keys. Unlike generic MACs, it binds transaction data, timestamps, and application context into a single verifiable signature, enabling offline audit trails and eliminating backend dependency for real-time validation in MF3DH4200DA6/00J-based systems.

Can MF3DH4200DA6/00J support multiple independent applications on one card?

Yes, MF3DH4200DA6/00J supports unlimited applications, each with up to 32 files and independent cryptographic keys. Applications are logically isolated - access to one application's data requires explicit authorization via its own key set - enabling true multi-tenancy on a single credential. This architecture underpins MF3DH4200DA6/00J deployments in Smart Cities where transport, payment, ID, and loyalty services coexist securely on one card.