NFC/RFID Reader

Overview

The PeekSmith app supports reading NFC/RFID cards through two distinct methods. This feature allows you to identify specially embedded objects, such as poker cards or ESP cards, equipped with NFC/RFID chips, seamlessly integrating modern technology into your magic performances. These kind of cards are available from Electricks: RFID/NFC cards.

What is NFC/RFID?

NFC (Near Field Communication) and RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) are wireless communication technologies that allow data to be exchanged between a reader and a tag when they are in close proximity. NFC is a subset of RFID and operates at a shorter range, typically within a few centimeters. RFID and NFC tags contain small chips that can store data, which can be read by an appropriate device. For magicians, NFC/RFID technology is incredibly useful because it allows for the discreet identification of objects like playing cards, poker chips, or other items that can be embedded with these tags. This capability can enhance magic tricks by enabling performers to secretly identify objects in real-time without any visible interaction.

Using Your Phoneโ€™s NFC Reader

Using Your Phoneโ€™s NFC Reader If your smartphone is equipped with an NFC reader, you can use it directly within the PeekSmith app to read NFC/RFID cards. This method is convenient and requires no additional hardware. Simply hold the card near the phoneโ€™s NFC reader, and the app will display the cardโ€™s value on the PeekSmith screen.

We are selling compatible NFC/RFID cards (poker, flash and blank face), typically phones can work with both ISO14443A and ISO15693 variations.

Please note, that the PeekSmith app is not writing these cards, but using their unique identifier, and stores their assigned values in the app. This is different than other kind of solutions, where the value of the card is stored on the NFC/RFID tag.

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Using Hugo Shelleyโ€™s Insight / Insight Pro

PeekSmith app also supports integration with Hugo Shelleyโ€™s Insight and Insight Pro RFID readers. These devices are specifically designed for magicians and can read up to three RFID tags (cards) from a distance of up to 9 cm (Insight supports one card, Insight Pro supports three).

We are selling compatible NFC/RFID cards (poker, flash and blank face), make sure you buy the ISO14443A variations.

Reading the cards

Connect to the Insight device in the PeekSmith app โ€“ go to Settings, section NFC Reader and press the List devices button next to the Connect Insight title. Tap on your deviceโ€™s name. Once you read a card with Insight, the detected card(s) will be displayed on the PeekSmith screen (or can be sent to an API or so on).

Originally Insight supported Poker and ESP cards, we extended this support with letter, number and color cards. PeekSmith can display these cards as well. You need nothing extra to read these cards, but for programming, see the next section.

Make sure you turn on Smart Text and configure how PeekSmith 3 should display the cards (check the PeekSmith settings for related configuration).

Programming the Cards

You can use the original Insight app to program the cards. The NFC/RFID programming features are now available directly in the standard PeekSmith app.

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Connection Requirements

Before attempting to use NFC/RFID functionality:

  • Firmware: Ensure PeekSmith 3 has the latest firmware
  • Phone NFC: If using phoneโ€™s NFC reader, make sure itโ€™s functional and not blocked by case/cover
  • Insight Device: If using Insight/Insight Pro, ensure device is charged and within range
  • Cards Ready: NFC/RFID cards should be properly programmed and within detection range
  • Distance: Keep cards within 1-2 cm for phone NFC, up to 9 cm for Insight devices

Troubleshooting

Cards not reading:

  • Check that NFC/RFID cards are properly programmed
  • Verify phoneโ€™s NFC reader is functional (test with other NFC apps)
  • Ensure Insight device is properly paired and connected
  • Make sure cards are within proper detection range
  • Check that cards are ISO14443A compatible (for Insight devices)

Connection issues:

  • Restart the PeekSmith app
  • Ensure no other apps are using the NFC reader simultaneously
  • Check that PeekSmith 3 is properly connected to the app
  • Update to the latest firmware