NFC in the washing machine, what is it - a useful function or an advertising trick from manufacturers? We will find out what the essence of this technology is, what brands have implemented it and what ordinary users say about this.
NFC - what kind of technology?
Technology is becoming smarter, and using it is easier. Manufacturers of washing machines decided to supplement them with another useful function - they gave them the opportunity to closely "communicate" with a smartphone. The acronym NFC stands for "Near Space Communication." This technology is used for wireless data transmission in a short range. Thanks to the NFC, devices interact between which a small distance is not more than 20 cm.
Choice Issues When Using AGR
The washing process and the design of washing machines are constantly being improved. New technologies are applied, programs and modes are developed. The desire to improve the wash, to make it differentiated - with the possibility of choosing the conditions for different clothes, leads to an unexpected effect - complicating the choice of mode.
Before starting the washing machine, the user has to evaluate the loaded laundry, the degree of contamination and other factors and, based on them, set the washing parameters - all this takes time, makes you hesitate in thought, and as a result, you can make a mistake - set the temperature too high, it’s not enough long wash, etc.
How does NFC work?
Today, many people practically do not part with smartphones - this gadget can replace them with a TV, terminal, tablet, laptop. With it, you can solve a variety of problems - just download the appropriate application.
As applied to washing machines, the NFC technology works like this:
- The automatic washing machine (CMA) is equipped with an NFC module with certain capabilities - it is built into the washing machine.
- Thanks to a special sensor, the CMA is able to run unique programs. The basic set of programs available in the washer can now be supplemented - through the NFC-module and special software that is installed on the smartphone. The application has settings.
- The user, having selected the necessary settings for washing in his smartphone, brings it to the washing machine. Having brought the smartphone closer to the corresponding icon, the person transfers the data to the washer, according to which the process will go.
An application for using NFC technology can be standard or released specifically for a specific model of CMA.
Diagnostics
Another purpose of the NFC-module - operational troubleshooting. This mode starts in the same way as downloading new programs - the smartphone is simply brought up to the corresponding symbol and the check starts.
The application will analyze the received data and display information about the breakdown on the screen. In addition, the user will be given instructions to troubleshoot the diagnosed malfunction. After reading the message, the owner of the washer will decide whether to contact the service or fix the damage on their own.
Pros and Cons of NFC
Advantages of SMA with NFC modules:
- Downloading new conditions, selected for specific things - taking into account the tissues, contamination, the desired speed, etc.
- Diagnostic ability.
- There is no need to enter passwords or perform any other steps for the interaction of the mobile phone with the washer. All you need to do is just bring the smartphone to the typewriter.
- Simplicity. To take advantage of the new function, you do not need to have special knowledge - even those who are “with you” with equipment and computer technologies can use it without problems.
Disadvantages:
- Short range. Compared to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The smartphone has to be brought close to the typewriter - you can not set the washing program or diagnostics while lying on the couch or, especially, being outside the house.
- To implement the function, you must have a smartphone with the NFC chip.
- Applications and AGRs from different manufacturers may be incompatible.
Which brands have introduced the new technology?
The control function using the module is not the property of any particular brand. This interaction is used not only in washing machines, but because it can be implemented by different manufacturers.
Candy
Candy brand launches SMA with smart management technology. The machine does almost everything by itself, and to control it the user needs only a mobile phone. Smart Touch is responsible for connecting the mobile gadget to the washer.
In addition to wireless control, the Candy Smart Touch series includes diagnostics and statistics - the CMA systematizes information about how the user erases most often and offers optimal washing options. Kandy with wireless connectivity is slightly more expensive than its predecessors - about 15-20%.
LG
Owners of Android smartphones, having installed a special application - LG Smart Laundry, can transfer basic or new programs to the machine. Also, LG provides diagnostics using a mobile device. CMA series with short-range control module - LG F12U1.
Alternative from Samsung
Samsung has long introduced smartphone control technology. To implement the function, users download Samsung Smart Washer. Data is transmitted via Wi-Fi. Being at a distance, you can control the on / off of the device, set the spin mode and program, turn on the timer, select the temperature and more. Unlike SMA with NFC, Samsung’s cars do not need the gadget to approach the body of the washing machine. But in the washers with the near field module, it is possible to select new washing conditions from your mobile gadget.
What do users say?
Users have already appreciated the control function from a mobile phone, and if you summarize their opinion, you get something like "an interesting thing, but nothing special." Here is what the owners of the NFC washing machines say:
- The function is available only for phones that support NFC - in many cases there are connection problems.
- Thanks to diagnostics, you can find out a lot of useful information - about disinfection, self-cleaning, etc.
- There are much more programs in the application than in the typewriter itself - it is possible to select the optimal washing conditions.
Conclusions
To summarize:
- NFC technology is a nice but not revolutionary feature. Thanks to it, program setup is simplified and new washing possibilities are opened.
- The cost of short-range control system increases by 20%, but does not create much control comfort - you cannot control the machine even from a short distance.
NFC is an ordinary chip designed to increase the rating of washing machines in an endless series of competing brands and models. Its presence or absence does not have a particular effect on the cleanliness of the laundry and the durability of the apparatus.