Proximity Card Programming Guide & Punch List
Ordering proximity cards, key fobs or access credentials? Use this guide to gather the programming information needed to ensure your new credentials are configured for your access control system.
Proximity credentials are not always interchangeable simply because they look alike. The credential technology, programming format, facility code and card number range must match the requirements of your access control system.
ID Enhancements programs many proximity card and key fob orders at our production facility. Depending on the product, credentials may also be supplied unprogrammed or with manufacturer/factory programming. Providing the correct information when ordering helps prevent compatibility issues and unnecessary delays.
If you are replacing existing credentials, your previous card box, label or purchase documentation is often the easiest place to locate this information.
Proximity Card Programming Checklist
Before ordering, identify these four items:
- Credential Technology
- Programming Format / Bit Format
- Facility Code
- Card Number or Credential Number Range
Identify the Credential Technology
First determine which proximity technology or credential family your access control system uses. A card programmed correctly for one technology generally will not operate on a reader designed for another technology.
Common 125kHz proximity technologies include:
- HID Prox
- Indala
- AWID
- CASI / GE
- Keri Systems
- Kantech ioProx
- Other manufacturer-specific 125kHz technologies
Determine the Programming Format
The format, sometimes called the bit format, determines how credential data is structured and transmitted to your access control system. It is commonly established when the system is originally installed.
Common proximity card formats include:
- H10301 - 26-Bit
- H10302
- H10304
- H10306
- N10002
- C15001
- D10202
- S12906
Many additional proprietary and manufacturer-specific formats are available.
Confirm the Facility Code
The facility code identifies a group or site within many proximity card formats. Your system may require a specific facility code in order for newly programmed credentials to be recognized.
Depending on the format and system configuration, an organization may use one facility code or multiple facility codes.
Your order may require:
- A specific existing facility code
- A new or available facility code
- No facility code, depending on the credential format
Select the Card Number Range
Each programmed credential typically contains a unique card number used by the access control system to identify the credential holder.
When adding credentials to an existing system, confirm the starting number or number range required and avoid duplicating active credential numbers.
Numbering options may include:
- Sequential card numbers
- Specified starting card number
- Matching internal and externally printed numbers
- No external printed numbering, when available
Where Can I Find My Existing Proximity Card Programming Information?
If you are ordering replacement proximity cards or key fobs, check the packaging from your previous credential order. Manufacturer labels frequently contain important ordering information such as the product number, format, facility code and credential number range.
You may also be able to locate this information in your access control software, installation records, previous invoices or documentation supplied by your security integrator.
Important: Verify Programming Before Ordering
Programmed access credentials are manufactured or encoded to the specifications supplied with the order and are generally non-returnable. Please verify the technology, format, facility code and card numbering before submitting your order.
Shop Proximity Cards, Key Fobs & Access Credentials
ID Enhancements offers a broad selection of 125kHz proximity credentials, including OEM products and compatible alternatives for many of today's leading access control systems.
Shop 125kHz Proximity Credentials Shop HID Proximity Credentials Explore RapidPROX®Proximity Card Programming FAQs
What information is needed to order programmed proximity cards?
Most programmed proximity credential orders require the credential technology, programming or bit format, facility code and card number range. Requirements vary by manufacturer and access control system.
What is a proximity card format?
A proximity card format defines how credential information is arranged electronically. Different formats can use different bit lengths and data structures for facility codes and card numbers.
What is a proximity card facility code?
A facility code is a value used by many access control credential formats to identify a particular organization, site or credential group. The facility code must be compatible with the configuration of the access control system.
Can I use a different facility code?
Some access control systems can accept multiple facility codes, while others may be configured more restrictively. Verify your system configuration before ordering credentials with a different facility code.
Where do I find my HID card format and facility code?
Start by checking the label on a previous box of HID credentials, your prior purchase records, or your access control system documentation. If the information is unavailable, your access control administrator or security integrator may be able to identify the required programming.
Are programmed proximity cards returnable?
Credentials programmed to customer-supplied specifications are generally considered custom products and are non-returnable. Programming information should therefore be verified carefully before ordering.
