ID Enhancements, Inc. / Proximity Cards / Frequently Asked Questions

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FAQs

Are Access Cards All the Same?

What is the difference between "Contact" and "Contactless"?

Proximity Card Internal Image

Contact vs. Contactless Smart Cards

Two technologies, same high level of security
How do contact and contactless smart cards differ?
It essentially boils down to convenience.

• Contact smart cards
Contact smart cards must be inserted into a smart card reader to establish a direct contact between the reader and a micromodule on the smart card surface. This physical contact permits the transmission of data, commands and card status.

• Contactless smart cards
Contactless smart cards (such as HID, Indala, AWID or Casi) only require close proximity to a reader (typically within a few inches) to enable the transmission of data, commands and card status, hypothetically taking less time to authenticate vs. contact smart cards. Both reader and card have an internal antenna that securely communicates with the other.

Using advanced data encryption technologies, contactless smart cards are every bit as secure as their contact counterparts.

Contactless technology is ideal for mass transit, large corporations or any other entity tasked with moving thousands of people through their access control systems each day using cards from HID, Indala, AWID, and more.