Involved in transformation (competence for DNA uptake). Required for DNA uptake but not for binding. May provide the driving force for transport of DNA through an aqueous channel. ATP + H2O = ADP + H(+) + phosphate Localizes mostly to the cell poles during the development of competence. Colocalizes with ComGA (PubMed:16009133). During competence a number of proteins (at least CoiA, ComFA, ComGA, DprA, RecA and SsbB) are thought to colocalize at the cell pole, in a disruption of comEC ComFA no longer accumulates (PubMed:17630974). During development of competence ComGA and presumably ComFA colocalize in discrete foci which accumulate at the cell poles and then delocalize without the overall levels of proteins decreasing, these processes are coincident with the timing of transformability and the site of DNA uptake (PubMed:16009133). Expressed in cells competent for DNA transformation; that is 5-15% of the population (PubMed:11918817, PubMed:16009133, PubMed:17630974). Expression activated by ComK (PubMed:11918817, PubMed:11948146). Destabilization of ComGA (PubMed:17630974). Belongs to the helicase family.