QR & NFC - Simplify Trapping
NFC and QR codes make trap records a breeze. No more finding traps on a map, searching by name, or scrolling through lists - just tap the NFC tag, or scan the QR code.
Note: NFC / QR is only enabled for traps. If you would like this feature enabled for all installation types, please vote here.
QR & NFC Overview
Trap.nz's NFC/QR code functionality streamlines fieldwork by providing context-sensitive actions based on user access level. Scanning a code:
- Opens the trap record form for existing project members.
- Offers to download the project if the user has access but hasn't synced it yet.
- Prompts to request membership for users not yet part of the project.
- Displays a "Join Trap.nz" option for new users.
This feature simplifies data entry, access, and collaboration directly from the field.
This can provide project details to the public and be used in conjunction with the project landing page content, to promote your conservation efforts.
About NFC / QR
QR codes can be read directly from the website, or printed. Most mobile phone cameras will read QR codes by default, but some may require QR functionality to be turned on.
NFC (near field communication) allows NFC enabled phones to read and write to NFC tags, allowing tap and go functionality for servicing installations. As of 2024 over 70% of mobile phones are NFC enabled.
Android Trouble shooting:
When reading QR or NFC, Android is opening in the browser, not the App
Steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to Apps & notifications (or Apps).
- Scroll down and find Trap.nz
- Tap on Set as default / Open by default.
- Ensure Open supported links is checked.
- Ensure Supported web addresses includes qr.trap.nz, and it is checked.
Using NFC tags
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NFC tags allow you to enter trap records quickly via Near Field Communication, just tap and go, rather than having to locate on the map.
If working on multiple projects, it will switch projects automatically, and even download the project first (if online and a member.)
They also allow passers by to get information about the project, and even request project membership.
Easy to program using the app, and reusable if needed. |
Where can I get NFC tags? NFC tags are available online in many shapes and formats depending on your needs (think waterproof, flexible, etc.) It is critical to get a supported type however, see supported types.
How do I enabled NFC?
For Android:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Connections (or Connected Devices depending on your device).
- Select NFC or Near Field Communication.
- Toggle NFC to On.
Note: The steps may vary slightly by manufacturer. If you don't see the option, your phone may not support NFC.
For iPhone:
- iPhone XS, XR, and later: NFC is enabled by default, no need to manually enable it.
- iPhone 7 to iPhone X: NFC is also on by default, but only works with apps that support NFC.
Note: iPhones do not read empty tags. You must write to the tag using the app before it can read a tag.
Supported NFC tag types
NXP - NTAG213, NXP - NTAG216, NXP - Mifare Ultralight
Note these are confirmed working. Other types may also work.
Adding NFC chips to your installations
In the app, tap on the Trap you would like to a NFC Tag too, to open the catch form.
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Click on the “Installation details” and scroll to the bottom of the form to the “Manage NFC,” this will open the NFC page where you can Write, Erase, or Lock a NFC code.
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To write a code, select the tab, “write NFC,” place the disc to be written on a flat surface, and hold the phone closely over it; you may need to slowly move it around to allow the phone to read the chip. When the phone recognises the chip, it will make an electronic chime or vibrate once it has created a link to the installation.
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Click on the screen, then select “done” to return to the add catches form, where you can select close to close the screen.
Fix the chip to your installation.
To open the catch form for the installation, simply hold your phone over the chip until it recognises it, and select trap.nz to open it, and you will be taken to the catch form if you are associated with the installation.
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If you have not been assigned to this installation or are not a project member, You will see the following messages.
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If the project is registered as a private project, or the installation is retired, you will see this message.
Using a QR codes
QR codes allow you to enter trap records quickly via the phone camera.
Note: NFC / QR is only enabled for traps. If you would like this feature enabled for all installation types, please vote here.
Which phones are compatible with QR?
Technically, all phone cameras are compatible with QR codes. However, some older phones may require an app for you to scan them. If your camera does not recognise a QR code, install a free QR reader from your app store.
The trap will have a QR code fixed to it.
Open your camera and point it at the QR code.
This will give you a trap.nz tab (see bottom of the screen). Tap this tab
If you are a project member and have been assigned the installation. It will open the add catches form for the installation so you can add records.
If you are a project member but haven’t been assigned the installation. You will be directed to the project but it will not open the add catches form.
If the project is private, and you are not a member, you will see the following screen.
If you are not in the project you will see the following screen.
Finding your unique trap QR code
QR codes have now been generated for every trap listed on trap.nz. You can print them out and use your mobile phone camera to access the "Add Catches" form. (Most phones have this feature built-in, but some may require downloading a free QR code reader app.)
Note: NFC / QR is only enabled for traps. If you would like this feature enabled for all installation types, please vote here.
To find the unique code for your trap
Click on the trap (via the website) either using the map or the manage traps tab and click on the “view.”
This will open the trap-selected page, where you will now see the unique QR code for this trap.
Click on the QR. This will then open another page that shows the QR with the name of the project and the name of the installation.
If you have multiple installations for which you want to use QR codes, right-click on the image above and select "Copy image." We recommend pasting it into a table within a document that you can print. Alternatively, you can use the NFC function.