Proximity Cards for Access Control Systems
Proximity cards are contactless access control credentials used to identify authorized users at doors, gates and other access-controlled openings. A proximity card is presented near a compatible reader rather than inserted or swiped. Traditional proximity cards commonly operate at 125 kHz and are widely used in commercial, institutional, residential and industrial access control systems.
ID Enhancements offers a broad selection of proximity cards, proximity key fobs, adhesive tags and 125 kHz access control credentials. Shop genuine manufacturer credentials or compatible alternatives for many commonly installed proximity technologies and access control systems.
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What Is a Proximity Card?
A proximity card is a contactless access credential used to identify a cardholder to an electronic access control system. Instead of inserting or swiping the card, the user presents the proximity card near a compatible reader.
The reader receives the credential's encoded identification data and the access control system determines whether that credential is authorized. The term proximity card is most commonly associated with traditional 125 kHz low-frequency RFID access credentials.
Understanding 125 kHz Proximity Technology
Traditional proximity access control systems commonly operate at 125 kHz. Frequency alone, however, does not guarantee that one proximity card will work with another manufacturer's reader or an existing access control system.
Compatibility may depend on credential technology, reader technology, bit format, facility code, card number, manufacturer-specific programming and the existing system configuration.
Proximity Cards, Key Fobs & Tags
Thin, credit card size proximity cards are popular for employee identification and access control. These imageable credentials may also be personalized with photographs, names, logos and barcodes using most compatible PVC ID card printers.
Thicker molded proximity cards provide a durable option when direct photo ID printing on the access credential is not required. They are commonly used for employee, visitor, contractor and other access control applications.
Compact proximity credentials attach easily to a key ring and are convenient for employees, residents and other users who do not need to carry or wear a full-size proximity card.
Small adhesive proximity tags provide another convenient credential form factor for compatible access control applications. A tag may be adhered to a cell phone, cell phone case, business card or other suitable surface to create a convenient access credential.
Facility Codes, Card Numbers & Proximity Card Formats
When ordering replacement proximity cards, matching the physical credential is only part of the process. The credential format and programming information must also be correct for the access control system.
One commonly used proximity card format is 26-bit, including HID's H10301 format, but many proprietary and manufacturer-specific formats are also in use. Depending on the system, ordering information may include a facility or site code, credential number range, bit format and other programming details.
Understanding Card Formats | View Proximity Bit Format Choices | Proximity Card Programming Punch List
HID® Proximity Cards
HID proximity technology is widely installed in commercial access control systems. HID's 125 kHz credential family includes proximity cards, key fobs and tags designed for a variety of reader technologies and system requirements.
ID Enhancements carries genuine HID proximity cards and credentials along with compatible alternatives for qualifying applications.
RapidPROX® 125 kHz Proximity Cards & Credentials
RapidPROX® provides organizations with a fast source for custom-programmed 125 kHz proximity cards and credentials, including imageable ISO cards, clamshell cards, key fobs and adhesive tags.
RapidPROX credentials are typically programmed and shipped within 48 hours, with same-day production available for qualifying urgent orders. RapidPROX credentials carry a lifetime warranty, with proximity wristbands covered by a one-year warranty.
What Do I Need to Order the Correct Proximity Card?
Before ordering proximity cards or replacement credentials for an existing access control system, confirm the credential technology and programming requirements rather than selecting a card based solely on its appearance.
- Existing credential manufacturer
- Proximity card or key fob part number
- Reader or access control system manufacturer
- Credential bit format
- Facility or site code
- Required credential-number range
A previous order number, existing proximity card information or records from the access control system may also help identify the correct configuration.
Proximity Cards vs. Smart Cards
Traditional 125 kHz proximity cards are widely used in established access control systems and are available as cards, key fobs and tags. They provide convenient contactless identification when presented to a compatible proximity reader.
Technologies such as HID iCLASS®, MIFARE®, MIFARE DESFire® and other higher-frequency credentials operate differently from traditional 125 kHz proximity cards and may provide additional capabilities depending on the access control system.
Shop Higher-Frequency Credentials »Proximity Card & Credential Technical Resources
Use these proximity card product guides, credential overviews and programming references for additional technical information.
RapidPROX®
HID®
Frequently Asked Questions About Proximity Cards
A proximity card contains an embedded RFID chip and antenna. When the card is brought within range of a compatible proximity reader, the reader energizes the credential and receives its encoded identification information. The access control system then compares that information with its authorized credential records to determine whether access should be granted.
Traditional low-frequency proximity access cards and credentials commonly operate at 125 kHz. Other contactless credential technologies operate at different frequencies, so technology and system compatibility should always be confirmed before ordering.
No. Two proximity cards operating at 125 kHz are not automatically interchangeable. Reader technology, credential format, facility code, card number and manufacturer-specific programming can affect compatibility.
The primary difference is physical form. A proximity card is generally carried in a wallet, badge holder or worn as an employee ID, while a proximity key fob attaches to a key ring. Compatible versions can perform the same basic function of identifying a user to an access control reader.
Compatible credential options are available for many HID 125 kHz proximity card applications, but reader technology, credential format, facility code, card-number requirements and system configuration should be verified before ordering.
Helpful information includes the existing proximity card manufacturer, part number, bit format, facility or site code and card-number range. Information from a previous order can also make identification easier.
Many thin ISO-style proximity cards are designed for personalization and may be printed with employee photographs, names, logos, barcodes and other identification information using a compatible ID card printer.
Need Help Identifying Your Proximity Card?
ID Enhancements has supplied access control credentials for more than 30 years. If you are unsure which proximity card, key fob or tag you need, provide the information from your existing credential or previous order and our team can help identify appropriate options for your access control system.
