The GSMA has produced technical core requirements (TS.26 NFC Handset API & requirements) and related test cases (TS.27 NFC Test book) for testing the UICC based NFC functionality in mobile devices. GCF and PTCRB have added these GSMA test requirements into their respective certification programs. Therefore, and among other mandatory requirements, mobile manufacturers must pass these GSMA test cases using officially accredited test laboratories under these certification schemes.

In order for handset manufacturers to test the behavior of their NFC device, under the conditions defined in the GSMA test cases, and to verify its compliance with the specific GCF/PTCRB certification requirements, UL and 7Layers have developed automated test platforms, that are officially validated by GCF and PTCRB. These will allow handset manufacturers to complete their conformance and pre-conformance test projects.

“The GSMA NFC test solution is compatible with other NFC related tools in our portfolio, representing the perfect cost-effective platform to test and certify UICC-based NFC devices. We are delighted to be able to improve and expand our test tool portfolio to meet current market demands and address our customers’ testing needs”, comments Maxim Dyachenko, Manager Service Line Test Tools at UL’s Transaction Security division.

“Near Field Communication (NFC) services are continuously increasing in numbers worldwide. The aim of testing UICC-based NFC services is to ensure connectivity, data security and accountability for service providers, mobile network operators (MNOs), manufacturers and implementers of mobile NFC payment services. UL and 7Layers have cooperated in order to bring to market a cost effective and easy to extend solution”, explains Magdy Ahmed, Product Manager at 7Layers.

The GSMA NFC Test Solution brought to market by UL and 7Layers mainly consists of two test platforms:

• UL’s Collis Compliance Test Suites for NFC devices
• 7layers InterLab Test Solution Device/UICC