Build Complete Android-Based RFID Access Control Demo Using RFID Emulator

Why Build RFID Access Demo System?

In IoT education, smart building integration, and access control development, low-cost, visual, and interactive demo platform significantly improves teaching and presentation efficiency. By using an Android phone as RFID card emulator, paired with a Bluetooth smart lock and NFC reader module, users can demonstrate a full “tap-to-unlock” workflow. This setup is ideal for:

• Classroom and hands-on training
• Customer prototype demonstrations
• Fast hardware solution validation

System Components: The 3 Core Modules

Configure Android RFID Emulator

To configure your Android phone for RFID emulation:

1. Enable NFC and Host Card Emulation (HCE) in settings
2. Use Android Studio to create a custom app with HostApduService
3. Register AIDs (e.g., F0010203040506) and APDU response rules
4. Install and launch the app to start simulating RFID cards

This process allows your phone to behave like a 13.56 MHz smart card when near reader.

Set Up the NFC Reader Module

Use the PN532 module and connect it via UART or USB to a controller such as a Raspberry Pi, Arduino, or PC.

Steps:

• Configure the PN532 to work in UART or USB mode
• Develop a program to continuously listen for NFC signals and read the UID
• Verify if the UID is authorized, then send the unlock signal to the Bluetooth module

This makes the NFC reader act as a gatekeeper for access validation.

Implement the Bluetooth Smart Lock Logic

Once the NFC module confirms a valid UID:

1. It sends an unlock command to the Bluetooth module
2. The module triggers the relay to open the lock (for a preset duration)
3. It provides feedback via a buzzer or LED light
4. After a short delay, the system automatically relocks the door

You can implement communication using BLE GATT profiles or serial AT commands.

Full System Workflow

Here’s how the complete system works:

• The user opens the RFID emulator app on their Android phone
• They tap the phone on the NFC module
• The module reads the UID and checks against the authorized list
• If valid, the system sends a BLE command to unlock
• The door unlocks, and the system provides feedback (e.g., green LED)
• You can optionally integrate a web dashboard or display panel for demonstrations

This step-by-step process is excellent for classrooms, trade shows, and client presentations.

Application Scenarios and Expansion Ideas

This system offers strong value for education, integration demos, and proof-of-concept development:

• Technical training on RFID/NFC systems
• Client-facing access control solution demos
• Early-stage interaction design testing
• On-site product exhibits and trade shows

Expansion Ideas:

Add web dashboard → View and record unlock logs in real time
Integrate facial recognition or fingerprint scanner → Enable multi-factor authentication
Connect to a cloud platform → Simulate a SaaS access control backend

Conclusion: Build a Low-Cost Yet Powerful Teaching & Demo Platform

By combining an Android RFID Emulator, a standard NFC module, and a Bluetooth smart lock, educators and integrators can quickly build a fully functional, cost-efficient, and visually intuitive access control demo system. It not only enhances training and customer engagement but also accelerates the rapid prototyping process for modern IoT-based door access systems.

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