Contactless Cards

An RFID card is a type of contactless smart card that uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to transmit data wirelessly. This contactless card contains an embedded RFID chip and antenna, allowing it to communicate with RFID readers without physical contact.

RFID cards operate in three different frequencies:

• Low Frequency (LF) cards operate at a frequency of 125 kHz, with a communication rate of under 10 kbit/s. These are the most common type of RFID card used. They are also able to operate in environments near liquids or moisture. Membership cards typically use LF RFID.
• The operating frequency for High Frequency (HF) cards is 13.56 MHz. In terms of security, these RFID cards are the most secure. HF RFID cards has a communication speed of around 424 kbit/s. HF RFID cards must also adhere to industry standards. This includes the ISO 15693 standard for vicinity cards, and the ISO 14443 standard for identification cards.
• Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) cards operate at frequencies between 860-960 MHz. This RFID card has the longest read range. These cards are subject to metal and liquid interference.

RFID cards are made of three main components: A microchip or integrated circuit (IC), antenna, and a substrate. The IC is responsible for data storage and processing the signals that are captured by the antenna. The antenna transmits and receives radio signals between the RFID card and the wireless RFID reader. It is usually embedded within the card’s structure and works in conjunction with the chip to facilitate communication.

The substrate is the material that houses the RFID chip and antenna. Common substrates include plastic (PVC), paper, or composite materials, which offer durability and flexibility.

Recent eco-friendly innovations have introduced payment cards made entirely of wood and bio-degradable materials. The RFID chip and antenna can be embedded on such cards.

When a passive RFID card comes within range of the electromagnetic field an RFID reader, the reader emits a radio signal that powers the RFID chip within the card. For active RFID cards, the card is not powered by the reader signal, but by the battery in the card. The chip then transmits stored data back to the reader. This process happens almost instantaneously, enabling quick transactions and data exchange.

RFID cards are used in many industries. They enable digitalization for companies through various applications.

RFID cards are commonly used as part of an access control system. Employees, visitors, or residents with an RFID card are granted access into certain buildings, zones, or facilities when presenting the card to installed RFID readers at entrance points. RFID cards ensure that only individuals who are authorized gain access to specific areas. This contributes to worker safety, for example. RFID cards are often used as part of a Single Sign-On (SSO) solution. These solutions can be used in smart factories, for example.

As part of digitalization in healthcare, RFID cards are used for patient identification, access to medical records, and for the inventory management of medication and medical equipment. They ensure that only authorized hospital staff gain access to sensitive patient information.

Digitalization in traffic and transport also benefit from RFID cards. In public transportation systems, RFID cards serve as electronic tickets. They enable a more efficient boarding process for buses, trains, and subways by enabling quick and contactless fare payments. Another application is parking management. RFID cards enable automated entry and exit, as well as cashless payments. RFID cards are also used as an authentication solution for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. They enable quick and secure access to charging stations, and also make billing and payment processing more convenient for users. These applications are often part of a smart city (digital city).

Payment is another big area of application for RFID cards. They are used for contactless payment systems in various industries, including retail, transportation, and hospitality. As a subset of RFID technology, Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology is also used for contactless payment. For more information visit the NFC card product hub.

In the hospitality industry, hotels use RFID cards for room access. Traditional keys are replaced with a more secure and convenient solution. The RFID cards are linked to the guest’s account and also allow access to various on-site services such as spa access, dining, and event entry.

There are many cases where an RFID card system is used to enable access control, authentication, and contactless payment. In educational institutions, RFID cards are used for student and staff identification, as well as for access control to various facilities, such as labs or dorms. An RFID card is also used as a payment card in cafeterias and bookstores. Libraries use RFID cards for book checkouts and returns, inventory control and management, as well as for access control.

For event management, RFID cards serve as tickets. They enable quick entry and access to various event zones and are also used as a cashless payment solution for food, beverages, and merchandise. Controlling access to stadiums and sports events with an RFID access control system contributes to digitalization in sports.