Access control credentials are the cards, key fobs, tags, wristbands, and other devices people present to an access control reader to identify themselves at a secured door, gate, or entry point. Choosing the correct credential is critical. Two cards that look nearly identical—or even operate at the same frequency—are not necessarily interchangeable. Credential technology, manufacturer compatibility, programming, facility code, card number, bit format, encryption, and reader capabilities can all affect whether a credential will work with an existing access control system. ID Enhancements offers access control credentials for commercial, healthcare, education, government, residential, manufacturing, and other facility applications, including traditional proximity credentials, smart cards, key fobs, printable credentials, and multi-technology options.
Access control credentials are the cards, key fobs, tags, wristbands, and other devices people use to identify themselves to an electronic access control system. When a credential is presented to a compatible reader, the system uses the credential's information to determine whether access should be granted.
Credentials come in many physical formats, including ISO-style cards, clamshell cards, key fobs, adhesive tags, wristbands, printable cards, and multi-technology credentials. While the physical format matters, the technology inside the credential must also be compatible with the reader and access control system.
125 kHz proximity credentials are widely used in commercial access control systems and established installations. Users simply present the card or fob within range of the reader. There is no need to insert or swipe the credential.
Proximity cards are commonly carried in a wallet, badge holder, or lanyard. Some can also be personalized with employee information, photos, company logos, barcodes, or other visual identification.
Proximity key fobs provide a compact credential that can attach to a key ring. They are often used by employees, residents, contractors, and other users who don't need a traditional identification card.
Compatibility matters: Not all 125 kHz credentials are compatible with every access control system. Manufacturers and platforms can use different technologies and data formats. Before ordering, identify the existing card or key fob whenever possible.
Smart cards and other 13.56 MHz credentials are commonly used in newer access control environments and system upgrades. Depending on the technology and platform, these credentials can support encrypted communication and more sophisticated security features.
Examples include:
These credentials are often selected when an organization wants stronger security features or a longer-term migration path. However, 13.56 MHz by itself does not guarantee compatibility. You should verify the credential technology, encryption, application configuration, reader capabilities, and access control platform.
The primary difference between proximity and smart card credentials is the communication technology used by the credential and reader.
Often found in established systems and useful when maintaining or expanding an existing installation.
Commonly used in newer systems and security upgrades. Depending on the technology and configuration, smart credentials may provide stronger security and encryption.
Combines more than one credential technology and can be useful when facilities use different readers or are migrating between platforms.
The correct credential is the one that works with your readers, programming, access control platform, and security requirements.
Selecting the credential technology is only part of determining compatibility. Many access control credentials contain information such as a facility code and card number that the system uses to identify the credential and assign access permissions.
The 26-bit format is common in legacy proximity systems, but many other bit formats are available.
When reordering credentials, useful information includes:
Physical appearance isn't enough. Two cards can look identical while using different technology or programming.
Magnetic stripe cards store data on a magnetic stripe and are read by swiping the card through a compatible reader. They are used in certain identification, membership, loyalty, time and attendance, and legacy applications.
Magnetic stripe cards may use Track 1, Track 2, Track 3, or combinations of tracks. Verify the required track and encoding before ordering replacement cards.
A single credential can contain multiple technologies. This allows one card to support different readers, systems, or applications.
Multi-technology credentials can be useful when a facility has multiple access control systems or is transitioning from an older technology to a newer platform. Compatibility should be confirmed for each technology contained in the credential.
Printable access control cards combine visual identification with electronic access. They can be printed with information such as:
The embedded proximity or smart card technology handles electronic identification while the printed surface can serve as a visual ID badge.
Not every access control credential is designed for direct-to-card printing. The construction of the card can affect print quality and printer compatibility. Verify the card and printer requirements before ordering. Composite or specialized cards may be recommended for certain printing and lamination processes.
Compact credentials that attach to a key ring and are useful when a traditional visual ID card isn't required.
Tags can attach to another item for convenient access identification. Confirm compatibility and proper placement for the application.
Wristband credentials can be useful when cards or key fobs are inconvenient, including recreation, fitness, hospitality, and certain facility applications.
Regardless of the physical format, the credential technology must match the reader and access control system.
If you need replacement cards or key fobs for an existing system, start with a working credential. Look for the manufacturer, model or part number, technology, facility code, existing card number range, and bit format if known.
Reader manufacturer and model information can also help confirm compatibility. Providing accurate information makes reorders easier and helps prevent problems with duplicate card numbers or incorrect programming.
A new access control installation gives you more flexibility when selecting credentials. Consider the complete system and how it may evolve over time.
Access control credentials are used across many types of facilities, including:
Different facilities can have different credential needs. A hospital may need a printable employee ID combined with electronic access. A residential property may prefer compact key fobs, while a corporate campus may use smart credentials and advanced security features.
Don't choose an access control credential based only on its appearance or frequency. Identical-looking credentials can use different technologies and may not work with the same access control system.
Before placing an order, verify:
If you're unsure what credential you need, provide information from a working card or key fob, the reader, or a previous order. This can help identify the correct replacement.
ID Enhancements offers a selection of access control credentials for new installations, system expansion, replacements, and technology migrations.
When ordering, compatibility should be confirmed with your existing or planned access control system.
Need help identifying a credential?
Contact ID Enhancements with the manufacturer and part number, plus the facility code, card number range, bit format, or reader information when available.
