A proximity card is a mystery to many people who used them daily. It is not common knowledge to understand how a card the size of a credit card can open a locked door or log on to a secure computer network. Often the proximity card, also used as an employee ID badge, is just waved up to a card reader and a card holder is easily able to enter the secure area. The proximity card contains embedded information that is extracted by the card reader and submitted to a computer for authorization. The proximity card by itself does not provide access to secured areas. The proximity card is provides a means to hold information that is transmitted to a computer program that can analyze the data with a predetermined database. If this information extracted from the card is found in identical format in the database, the software program grants approval for card holder entry by transmitting information to the lock and access is granted.
To implement this type of system, a group or business must have a card reader, an access control panel and a computer. With correct installation, the complete access system functions in place of a security officer. Credentials, previously viewed visually, are reviewed electronically and card holders are only allowed in buildings or on computer networks at authorized times detailed in the access database.
The binary code inside the card provides the detailed information needed to determine whether the cardholder is authorized. This code is a series of ones and zeros that have a specific sequence. The binary code is provided to the card reader when the card is placed near the reader. The purpose of the reader is to obtain the binary code and to transmit it to the access control panel where the code is analyzed against the database. At times, additional coding may be entered into the card that is not needed at every entrance point. The card reader is able to determine the correct coding and will only transfer the sequence code to the access control panel for review.
Source: What is a Proximity Card?
Tags: id badge, id badges, prox card, proximity card, smart card
