RFID tags for access control systems – how to choose the right technology

How do you find out which RFID tag is suitable?

RFID tags for access control systems are an important part of a secure and smooth access solution for companies, BRFs and installers. Choosing the right tag from the start makes it easier to have a system that works stably in everyday life.

Before comparing different RFID technologies, it is often wisest to first find out which tag actually works with the system that is already installed. Many times it is possible to extract important information directly from the tag that is currently in use.

If the tag has a number or marking, it can often help us identify which technology or system it belongs to. Tags with numbers often give us a good starting point when helping customers find the right replacement or addition.

You can also look at previous invoices if they have anything there, or in your reader's manual. If there is someone who manages the access control system on site, they may also sometimes know what technology is used.

If you are unsure, you can also send us a picture of the tag, preferably where the number or marking is clearly visible. In some cases, you can also send us a sample, which makes it even easier to check what fits as we read the code and then send the tag back to you with information.

For added peace of mind, we also offer a tag that can be used to test compatibility before making a larger purchase. If you then place an order, the cost of the test tag will be fully refunded.

Read more about our test tag here

Why is it important to choose the right RFID tag?

An RFID tag must be compatible with the system used in the property or business. If the wrong technology is chosen, the tag will not work properly in the reader, even if it appears to be the right model.

This can lead to unnecessary wrong purchases, extra administration and extra work that could have been avoided in the first place. Therefore, it is always wise to start from what system is already installed before ordering new tags.

For companies, the right RFID tag means a smooth solution for staff, visitors and daily access. For BRFs, it means better control over entrances, gates, garages, laundry rooms and other common areas. For installers, it means greater security in that the right product is used directly in the project.

The right technology makes everyday life easier

When the right RFID technology is chosen from the start, the solution becomes more stable and easier to manage over time. It becomes easier to add more tags, easier to administer permissions and less risk of problems when new users are added to the system.

In many cases, it is precisely during additions that mistakes occur. You see a tag that looks similar to the old one, order the same shape or color, but miss that the technology inside is not the same. Therefore, the most important thing is always to ensure chip type and compatibility, not just appearance.

USB reader for Assa, Aptus, RCO or Axema and others.

RFID readers for different systems and needs

For an RFID system to function stably, you need not only the right tag, but also the right reader. We offer RFID readers for several different technologies and applications, including LF, HF, combined readers, HID, magnetic cards and Omnikey.

With us you will find both readers for simpler use and more advanced solutions. We also offer programmable readers from our own brand ACCESS, which can be adapted to different needs. Some models you can program yourself, and in other cases we can help before delivery.

For those who need a flexible solution, there are also USB-compatible readers that can be used with computers, printers, visitor systems and other RFID-based solutions.

If you are unsure which reader is best suited, we are happy to help you find the right model for your system.

See our full range of RFID readers here.

Combined RFID reader for several common technologies.

Practical RFID readers for systems where easy connection is important.

Common RFID technologies in access control systems

There are several common RFID technologies on the market, and the right choice depends on the system being used and the future needs.

MIFARE

MIFARE is one of the most common technologies in modern access control systems. It is often used in offices, apartment buildings, commercial properties and other environments where a smooth and proven solution is desired.

For many customers, MIFARE is a natural choice when they need to supplement existing tags or expand a system already used in the business or property.

See our range of RFID tags with MIFARE here.

DESFire

DESFire is well suited to more advanced access control systems where higher security, greater flexibility and a more future-proof solution are important. It is often a good option for businesses and properties that want to choose a modern technology with good future prospects.

DESFire is available in several different versions and is well suited when looking for a solution for more advanced access control needs.

See our range of DESFire tags here.

EM4200

EM4200 is often used in older access control systems and is still found in many existing installations. When upgrading an older system, this technology is often needed to make everything work together.

For many properties, EM4200 is therefore a practical choice when you want to continue using the system you already have in place.

See our range of RFID tags with EM4200 here.

Combined RFID tags

In some cases, there may be a need for tags that combine multiple technologies. This can be practical in environments where different systems are used in parallel, or when you want to simplify the everyday life of users who need access to multiple types of readers.

Then combined RFID tags can be a good alternative. They are often used when you want to combine several functions in the same tag and reduce the need to carry several different badges or cards.

See our range of combined tags with MIFARE and EM here.

RFID tags for many different brands and access control systems.

Tags come in several shapes and materials depending on the area of use.

It's not just about technology, but also about the right system

In practice, it is often not just a matter of choosing between MIFARE, DESFire, EM4200 or combination tags. Many people are actually looking for an RFID tag that works with a specific brand or access control system.

That's why we offer RFID tags for many different types of systems and brands. With us you will find tags for Aptus, Assa Abloy, Axema Vaka, Paxton, RCO, Salto, Vanderbilt, Yale Doorman, Zaptec and many other solutions.

This makes it easier to find the right one, whether you want to replace old tags, order more for users in an existing system, or purchase tags for a new installation.

See our range of brand-specific RFID tags here.

Common needs of companies, BRFs and installers

The need for RFID tags can vary greatly depending on who will use them.

For businesses

Companies often need a simple and reliable solution to give staff and visitors access to the right parts of the business. This can be offices, warehouses, staff areas or other restricted areas. When the access solution works smoothly in everyday life, it saves both time and administration.

For BRFs

In a BRF, RFID tags are often used for gates, entrance doors, garages, laundry rooms and other common areas. Here it is important that the solution is easy to administer, easy to supplement and adapted to the system that is already installed.

For installers

Installers need products that work right out of the box and are easy to order. Choosing the right RFID tag from the start reduces the risk of problems in the project and makes delivery safer for both the installer and the end customer.

How do you know which RFID tag you need?

It is common to know that you need more tags but not exactly which model or technology is required. Many access control systems look similar on the outside, but use different types of chips and technologies.

A good first step is therefore to start from:

• which system is already installed
• what type of tag is used today
• if there is information about the make or model
• whether it concerns an older or newer access control system

The more information you have about the existing installation, the easier it will be to make the right choice from the start.

We help you find the right RFID tag

Choosing RFID tags shouldn't be complicated. With the right guidance, it's faster to find a solution that works in practice and fits both today's needs and future additions.

We are happy to help companies, BRFs and installers find the right RFID tag based on the existing system, current tag or other information about the installation. Regardless of whether you need a smaller number of tags or a larger delivery for an entire project, the goal is the same: that you get a solution that works right away.

See our full range of RFID tags

Are you looking for RFID tags for access control systems, properties or professional installations? We offer tags for several different technologies, systems and applications.

See our full range of RFID tags here.

We can also help you find the right solution if you are unsure which technology or model best suits your system.

Do you need help choosing the right RFID tag?
Please contact us and we will help you find a solution that suits your access control system, your property or your project: Call us at +46 31 70 70 201  or by email:   secureus@secureus.se