Proximity cards are primarily used for access control applications. They are similar to contactless smart cards, but are passive, read only devices. Proximity cards contain embedded RFID antenna and can nominally be read from distances up to 10".

RFID Technology

Radio Frequency Identification Technology is a method of identifying objects using radio waves. RFID works by employing an RFID transponder (or tag) and a reader. The RFID transponder is comprised of a microchip that holds information to identify an object, product, or person and an antenna for transmitting this data to the reader. The antenna transmits the data to a reader that converts the radio waves to usable information.

Unlike bar code and magnetic stripe technology, RFID transponders can be read anywhere within the magnetic field sent out by the reader. Radio waves can travel and be read through many non-metallic objects. Because RFID antennas can be embedded into many objects, including plastic cards, and still be detected, data is protected from the wear and tear of everyday use and environmental elements. Depending on the power of the reader, an RFID antenna can be read from direct contact up to 20 feet.

Even though RFID technology has been in use since World War II, its implementation has become widespread with the increasing use of proximity cards in security and access control type applications. As security has gained a heightened awareness, corporations, hospitals and even schools have begun to employ access control systems to monitor and secure entrances, labs, departments, and other areas that need to limit admittance to authorized individuals. Proximity cards can also be programmed uniquely, and utilized in many applications other than access control such as time and attendance, employee certification, emergency medical data storage, and biometric verification.