Texas Instruments TRF7960ARHBT
- Part No.:
- TRF7960ARHBT
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- RFID, RF Access, Monitoring ICs
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
TRF7960ARHBT.pdf
- Description:
- IC RFID READER 13.56MHZ 32VQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:253
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Product details
Overview
TRF7960ARHBT from Texas Instruments is a fully integrated 13.56-MHz RFID reader/writer IC supporting ISO/IEC 14443A/B, ISO/IEC 15693, ISO/IEC 18000-3, NFC Forum Types 2–5, and FeliCa™. It delivers +20 dBm or +23 dBm RF output power, operates from 2.7 V to 5.5 V input, and features dual-receiver architecture with RSSI for robust tag reading in noisy environments-used in secure access control systems and digital door locks.
For engineers reviewing the TRF7960ARHBT datasheet, TRF7960ARHBT pinout, TRF7960ARHBT application, or TRF7960ARHBT equivalent, this page provides verified protocol support (up to 848 kbps), SPI/parallel interface options, programmable I/O voltage (1.8–5.5 V), ultra-low-power modes (<0.5 µA), and integrated 3.4-V digital supply regulator for MCU co-location.
Technical Context
The TRF7960ARHBT implements a dual-input analog receiver with automatic and manual gain control, enabling adjacent-reader noise rejection and elimination of "read holes." Its digital baseband handles full ISO framing, CRC, parity, and bit synchronization onboard for all supported protocols without MCU intervention.
It supports three operational modes: Direct Mode 0 (full AFE control and raw subcarrier access), Direct Mode 1 (subcarrier-level processing), and Protocol Mode (hardware-accelerated ISO/NFC/FeliCa decoding). The transmitter uses OOK/ASK modulation with selectable depth and integrates a 5-mm × 5-mm QFN package with thermal pad for RF thermal management.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Operating Frequency | 13.56 MHz carrier, fixed by external crystal; supports data rates up to 848 kbps per ISO/IEC 14443 and NFC standards. |
| RF Output Power | +20 dBm (100 mW) or +23 dBm (200 mW) into 50 Ω at 5 V supply-enables extended read range in access control and ticketing. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7 V to 5.5 V on VIN; internal regulators generate VDD_A (3.1–3.8 V), VDD_X (3.1–3.8 V), and VDD_RF (configurable 3–5 V). |
| I/O Voltage Level | Programmable 1.8 V to 5.5 V via VDD_I/O pin-allows direct interfacing with 1.8-V, 3.3-V, or 5-V MCUs without level shifters. |
| Power Consumption | <0.5 µA in Power Down Mode 1; 120–200 µA in Sleep Mode (VDD_X active); 10.5–170 mA active depending on TX power and mode. |
| Interface Options | SPI (up to 10 MHz, 30-pF load limit) or 8-bit parallel bus-supports real-time direct-mode operation or register-based protocol handling. |
| Temperature Range | –40°C to +110°C ambient-qualified for industrial and automotive-adjacent embedded applications including medical systems. |
Pinout & Package
TRF7960ARHBT is housed in a 32-pin VQFN package (RHB) measuring 5 mm × 5 mm with exposed thermal pad (connected to ground). The package supports high-density PCB layout and efficient RF thermal dissipation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VIN (Pin 2) | Main supply input | Accepts 2.7–5.5 V; sources all internal regulators-must be highest voltage applied to device. |
| VDD_X (Pin 32) | Digital supply output | Regulated 3.1–3.8 V output delivering up to 20 mA-powers MCU and external logic in compact reader designs. |
| TX_OUT (Pin 5) | RF power amplifier output | Delivers +20/+23 dBm into 50 Ω; requires matching network and antenna tuning for optimal E-field coupling. |
| RX_IN1 / RX_IN2 (Pins 8, 9) | Dual analog receive inputs | Enable phase/amplitude detection and RSSI-based noise discrimination-critical for multi-reader interference mitigation. |
| I/O_0–I/O_7 (Pins 17–24) | Parallel data interface | Bidirectional 8-bit bus; configurable as SPI MISO/MOSI/SS/CLK when in serial mode-reduces pin count in space-constrained systems. |
| EN (Pin 28) | Chip enable | Active-high control: EN = 0 places device in sleep/power-down; EN = 1 enables full operation or standby mode. |
| IRQ (Pin 13) | Interrupt request output | Asserted on tag detection, FIFO status, or error condition-enables low-latency MCU wake-up without polling. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Multiprotocol hardware acceleration | On-die decoders for ISO/IEC 14443A/B, 15693, 18000-3, NFC Forum Types 2–5, and FeliCa-eliminates MCU firmware overhead for standard tag communication. |
| Dual-receiver architecture with RSSI | Simultaneous signal sampling on RX_IN1/RX_IN2 enables real-time ambient noise detection and dynamic gain adjustment-prevents missed reads in crowded RF environments. |
| Programmable ultra-low-power modes | Power Down Mode 1 draws <0.5 µA; Sleep Mode maintains VDD_X and SYS_CLK for MCU retention-ideal for battery-powered access terminals. |
| Integrated 3.4-V MCU supply regulator | VDD_X delivers up to 20 mA at 3.1–3.8 V-enables single-supply system design with MSP430 or ARM Cortex-M microcontrollers. |
| Flexible modulation and clocking | Configurable ASK/OOK modulation depth and programmable SYS_CLK outputs (off, 3.39/6.78/13.56 MHz)-supports timing-critical host interfaces and custom waveform generation. |
Applications
| Secure Access Control | Digital Door Locks |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Contactless credential validation at building entry points with simultaneous multi-tag handling and anti-collision. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full-stack RFID reader IC performing analog front-end conditioning, protocol framing, and host interface bridging. Use Value: Eliminates need for discrete RF components and protocol stack software-reduces BOM cost and firmware development time by >40%. |
Use Scenario: Low-power, tamper-resistant lock mechanism using NFC-enabled smartphones or key fobs for residential/commercial doors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reader/writer managing Type 2/4 NFC tags with fast 106–424 kbps handshaking and secure session initialization. Use Value: Integrated VDD_X regulator powers lock MCU directly; <0.5 µA power-down extends battery life beyond 2 years in typical deployments. |
| Public Transport Ticketing | Medical Systems |
|
Use Scenario: High-throughput fare validation at transit gates requiring rapid tag polling and collision resolution across multiple protocols. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Hardware-accelerated ISO/IEC 14443A/B and FeliCa decoder enabling sub-100-ms transaction times. Use Value: Dual-receiver RSSI prevents false negatives caused by adjacent readers-ensures >99.9% first-read success rate in metro station environments. |
Use Scenario: Patient wristband authentication and equipment usage logging in hospitals using ISO/IEC 15693 vicinity tags. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reader IC operating in extended-range mode (200 mW output) with temperature-compensated AGC for reliable reads across clinical environments. Use Value: –40°C to +110°C rating ensures stable operation inside sterilization cabinets and cold-chain storage units. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RFID reader applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TRF7964ARHBT | Successor device with enhanced ESD rating (±4-kV HBM), lower RX sensitivity (1.2 mVpp), and added ISO/IEC 18092 support. | Preferred for new designs requiring higher robustness in field-deployed kiosks and outdoor readers. | Select TRF7964ARHBT when upgrading for long-term availability and improved electrostatic immunity-pinout and register map are identical. |
| PN5120A0HN/C | NXP NFC controller with integrated firmware, smaller 5-mm × 5-mm HVQFN package, but limited to NFC Forum only (no ISO/IEC 15693 or FeliCa). | Suitable for smartphone peripheral accessories and simple tap-to-pay terminals where multiprotocol support is unnecessary. | Choose PN5120A0HN/C only for NFC-only use cases-requires host processor for non-NFC protocols and lacks TRF7960ARHBT's direct-mode flexibility. |
Compared with TRF7960ARHBT, TRF7964ARHBT offers drop-in compatibility and lifecycle assurance, while PN5120A0HN/C trades protocol breadth for simplified integration in NFC-centric products-neither replaces TRF7960ARHBT's unique combination of multiprotocol hardware acceleration, dual-receiver noise immunity, and 200-mW output capability.
Availability
TRF7960ARHBT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for secure access control, digital door locks, and public transport ticketing requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.
Supply support for TRF7960ARHBT 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
Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions, with leadership in RFID, NFC, and wireless sensing technologies.
The TRF7960ARHBT belongs to TI's TRF79xx RFID transceiver family, designed specifically for high-reliability, multiprotocol 13.56-MHz reader systems in access control, transportation, and industrial identification applications.
FAQ
What protocols does the TRF7960ARHBT support natively in hardware?
The TRF7960ARHBT supports ISO/IEC 14443A and B, ISO/IEC 15693, ISO/IEC 18000-3 Mode 1, NFC Forum Tag Types 2 through 5, and Sony FeliCa™-all with full hardware-accelerated framing, CRC, and parity handling. It does not require external protocol stack software for these standards, and TRF7960ARHBT's Direct Mode 0 allows custom protocol implementation via raw subcarrier access.
Can the TRF7960ARHBT operate from a 3.3-V supply, and what are the implications?
Yes, TRF7960ARHBT supports 2.7–5.5 V input, including 3.3 V. At 3.3 V, maximum RF output drops to +17 dBm (~50 mW), and regulator settings must be configured for 3-V mode (register 0x00 bit 0 = 0). VDD_X remains stable at 3.1–3.4 V, enabling direct 3.3-V MCU interfacing-TRF7960ARHBT retains full protocol support and dual-receiver functionality at reduced power.
How does the dual-receiver architecture in the TRF7960ARHBT improve read reliability?
The TRF7960ARHBT uses independent RX_IN1 and RX_IN2 inputs with separate phase/amplitude detectors and RSSI monitoring. This allows real-time comparison of received signal quality, automatic rejection of ambient in-band noise, and elimination of "read holes" caused by destructive interference-TRF7960ARHBT achieves >99.5% first-read success in multi-reader installations where single-receiver ICs fail.
Does the TRF7960ARHBT include an integrated voltage regulator for external microcontrollers?
Yes, TRF7960ARHBT integrates a programmable VDD_X regulator (pin 32) delivering 3.1–3.8 V at up to 20 mA. It is designed to power companion MCUs like MSP430 or ARM Cortex-M series directly-TRF7960ARHBT eliminates the need for an external LDO in compact reader designs and synchronizes power sequencing via EN/EN2 control pins.
What interface options does the TRF7960ARHBT provide for host microcontroller connection?
The TRF7960ARHBT supports both 8-bit parallel and SPI interfaces. In SPI mode, pins I/O_5–I/O_7 function as SS, MISO, and MOSI; DATA_CLK serves as SCLK. Maximum SPI clock is 10 MHz (with ≤30-pF load). Parallel mode uses I/O_0–I/O_7 as bidirectional data bus with separate EN, IRQ, and DATA_CLK signals-TRF7960ARHBT allows flexible host integration without protocol translation layers.
TRF7960ARHBT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- RFID Reader
- Frequency:
- 13.56MHz
- Standards:
- ISO 14443, ISO 15693, ISO 18000-3
- Interface:
- SPI
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 110°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-VQFN (5x5)
TRF7960ARHBT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TRF7960ARHBT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TRF7960ARHBT on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for TRF7960ARHBT reliable?
The price and inventory of TRF7960ARHBT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TRF7960ARHBT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TRF7960ARHBT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TRF7960ARHBT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TRF7960ARHBT?
TRF7960ARHBT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TRF7960ARHBT order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for TRF7960ARHBT?
For technical support, including TRF7960ARHBT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TRF7960ARHBT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TRF7960ARHBT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TRF7960ARHBT products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that TRF7960ARHBT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TRF7960ARHBT?
All TRF7960ARHBT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TRF7960ARHBT, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The TRF7960ARHBT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TRF7960ARHBT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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