These days, the typical student ID card carries much more than a name and photo. For students enrolled at Ireland’s Mary Immaculate College, the cards now provide access to campus buildings, dormitories, and their dorm rooms. The college recently installed a proximity card access control system that involves wall readers, IP-based door locks, and other integrated security features, all operating across a single network. To gain access to campus buildings, students must now hold their student IDs up to special proximity card reader. The cards provide convenience, enhanced security, and completely eliminate the need to carry physical keys.

With electronic access control upping the level of campus safety for students and staff, school officials are now looking at other ways to utilize the new and improved students IDs. Possibilities for additional functions include integration with student printing and photocopying, cashless vending, and parking fees.