Smartcards - Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q.  What the difference between Proximity Cards and Smart Cards?

• Proximity cards are contactless credentials that operate on a 125kHz frequency.  When waved within the proximity of the reader, the data is read and upon confirmation, the door or gate is opened.  

• A smart card can be either contact or contactless and operate on a higher frequency of 13.56MHz.  Unlike proximity cards, smart cards can store additional information, enhancing the capabilities of the card, such as two-factor authentication.