Key cards, identification badges and keypunch locks have been the traditional answers but they are often not enough in today’s world. Facilities with multiple sites, high-security facilities with multiple levels of clearance, or that rely on temporary and short-term contract staff, need smarter access systems without creating a hassle for employees. A complete RFID-based access control and ID badge system is designed to work in conjunction with existing systems, and consists of a plastic card, tag, reader and system software.

The information stored and updated on a 13.56 MHz RFID card may consist of an employee’s name, department, clearance, access authorization and employment status, more information than a standard barcode or magnetic stripe can retain. When a card is activated at an entrance, for example, this information is recorded with a time, date and location of the reader, and saved in the central security database or in the security office. The employee doesn’t have to swipe, scan or sign anything. This automatic and online audit trail of who has entered the building or security zone within the building, when and how long they stayed would be priceless if a security breach were to occur.