RFID / proximity

Description

Contactless smart cards (also known as RFID or proximity cards) need only proximity to a reader to complete a transaction using radio frequency technology. They have an embedded antenna, a contactless integrated circuit chip (ICC) that can be a microcontroller with internal memory or just a memory chip. Cards with microcontrollers can store large amounts of data and carry out functions such as encryption, authentication and digital signatures.

Classifications

Contactless technology conforms to international standards (ISO/IEC 14443) and comes in the following classifications:

  • 125KHz (low frequency)
    These are generally read only and include HID, EM4102, Hi-Tag and more.
  • 13.56MHz
    Multi-application technology. Cards include Mifare, Legic, I-code and others.
  • UHF & 2.45GHz
    Microwave frequencies for long reading distance. Cards include EM4122, Ucode and more.

Contactless technology is available in a variety of formats. Besides cards, Databac offers tags, key fobs, wristbands, labels, mobile phone subscriber identification modules (SIMs), USB-based tokens and even screws and nails.

Passive contactless cards are powered by an electromagnetic signal from a reader, while active cards are battery-powered and more costly.

Dual-interface and hybrid cards

Hybrid cards have two chips, one with a contact interface and one with a contactless interface. The two are not connected. Dual-interface cards have a single chip with both contact and contactless interfaces. This allows the same chip to be accessed using either a contact or contactless interface.

» Browse our hybrid card range.

Applications

Contactless smart cards are used in many applications, including public transport, access control, cashless vending, parking, loyalty, credit/debit cards, gambling, road toll, secure ID, electronic passports, driving licences and GSM subscriber identity modules.

» Click here to view our range of contactless readers.