HID Signo readers are commonly associated with HID iCLASS and Seos credentials, but many Signo reader profiles also support additional high-frequency technologies including MIFARE® Classic, MIFARE® DESFire® EV1, EV2 and EV3, as well as select low-frequency proximity credentials. This gives organizations more flexibility when choosing cards, fobs and mobile-ready credential platforms for access control.
More Options than just iCLASS
While HID strongly promotes their own iCLASS and Seos technologies, Signo readers can often be configured to read other credential types as well, depending on the reader model, profile and access control system configuration. iCLASS is not the only credential you can use in your Signo reader. You do have options!
View MIFARE ProductsSubstantial Credential Savings
MIFARE and DESFire credentials can provide a more cost-effective alternative to proprietary HID smart credentials. The iCLASS 2000PGGMN sells for $4.71 each. The MIFARE 1K Classic sells for $1.59 each. The DESFire EV2 ISO sells for $2.29 each. Lower cost without sacrificing reliability or performance.
View DESFire ProductsStep into the Future Gradually
MIFARE and DESFire operate at 13.56 MHz, which is the more modern frequency, and offers more secure options. IDE offers scaleable credential solutions for entering this modern platform. Simply click below for a listing of our "combi" credential solutions that include combi cards and combi fobs.
View Combi Credentials
Using the DESFire CSN as the Credential Number
DESFire cards are capable of advanced encrypted smart card applications, but many everyday access control systems do not use the full secure application layer. In many real-world installations, the reader simply outputs the card's CSN, UID or serial number to the access control panel, and that number is used as the credential identifier in the software database.
In these cases, the DESFire card is being used more like a high-frequency serial number credential rather than a fully managed encrypted smart card. This approach can reduce complexity, avoid advanced key management and still give customers access to a modern 13.56 MHz credential platform at a reduced cost.
Common in:
- Gyms & Fitness Centers
- Schools & Universities
- Corporate Office Buildings
- Financial Institutions
- Government Facilities
- Airports & Transportation Hubs
- Hospitals & Healthcare Campuses
- Military Bases
DESFire Usage: Two Common Approaches
Important Compatibility Note
Reader capability does not automatically guarantee system compatibility. The HID Signo reader profile, output format, access control panel, software settings and credential numbering structure must all be compatible. Some systems may use Wiegand output, others may use OSDP, and some deployments may be locked into specific credential technologies or secure profiles.
MIFARE Classic
MIFARE Classic credentials are commonly used in hotels, apartment communities, schools, fitness centers, parking systems and commercial office environments where affordable high-frequency credential technology is preferred
MIFARE DESFire EV1/EV2/EV3
DESFire credentials are also widely deployed in healthcare, higher education, government and critical infrastructure environments where enhanced security, scalable credential management and multi-application smart card functionality are important.
HID iCLASS SE / SR
HID smart credentials are frequently specified in new access control deployments and are commonly promoted by security integrators supporting HID-based systems.
HID Seos
HID's high-security credential platform designed for mobile credentials and modern secure applications. Utilized wherever mobile technology convenience is a preference.
125 kHz Proximity
Proximity technology is supported for backward compatibility in many installations, and is still commonly used today in offices, schools, manufacturing facilities, churches and multi-tenant commercial buildings. Its long-standing reliability, simple deployment and broad compatibility with 125 kHz reader infrastructure, continue to make 125kHz proximity credentials a practical solution for many everyday access control environments..
Bottom Line
HID Signo readers can offer more credential flexibility than many customers realize. For organizations that simply need a reliable credential number, MIFARE or DESFire CSN output may provide a practical, lower-cost alternative to higher-priced iCLASS credentials. For higher-security environments, DESFire can also support advanced encrypted applications when properly programmed and managed.
