Contactless Cards

Contactless cards, also called proximity or “prox” cards, are commonly used to control access. Contactless cards use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. Two small embedded components enable the communication: a chip and an antenna. The chip stores a small amount of encoded information, often a serial number. The antenna communicates with a reader by way of radio waves. When a contactless card comes within range of a reader, it decodes the digital information and grants access.

Contactless cards generally need to be within 2.5” to 20” of a reader, making them a popular solution for quick, hands-free unlocking of doors. Limited handling of contactless cards limits wear and tear and extends life.