Types of access control card systems

Written by: Pam Gaulin

The key to today's advanced security technology is the access control card. You can control access to your entire office building or sensitive areas therein simply by issuing an access control card to employees. This advanced security system is used to protect all types of building entryways, from college dorms and customer service operations to hospital units and in-store pharmacies.

In addition to providing employees proper access, the cards may be used to effortlessly track attendance and track the movement of both equipment and people through your facility. With the right system, a business can track who is accessing which areas of the company, and when.

Types of access control cards

Most types of cards are fairly similar in appearance. They're usually about the size of a credit card but made of a thicker, more durable plastic. They may be printed with the user's photo, when visual identification is also part of your security system. Many businesses choose to provide access cards with retractable holders, making it easy for frequent users to wear.

Barcode - The least expensive advanced security using keyless entry is the barcode access control card reader system. Barcodes are easy to make and to use and are read optically by a reader. Embedded in each card is a series of magnetic wires for security purposes.

Magnetic - These cards have a magnetic strip on one side, similar to a credit or debit card. Magnetic cards are slid through an electromechanical reader that reads the card and then grants access to a particular door.

Proximity - These cards only need to be placed near a reader to be recognized. The system uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, and a microchip that can last for up to five years.

Smart cards - The smart card contains a computer chip that holds more information than the standard RFID proximity card.

The first two types – barcode and magnetic cards – are "contact" cards, since they need to make contact with a reader. Proximity and smart cards use contactless technology instead. Contact cards are less expensive to purchase and print, but contactless-cards are sometimes faster and easier to use.

Card control

Cards may be easily deactivated if they are lost or stolen, or if a former employee has failed to return the card he or she was issued. The cards also may be replaced easily, and re-assigned. For the best prices on buying contact and contactless cards in batches, request access control card prices from multiple vendors using BuyerZone's free quote request service.