All About Proximity Cards - By: J. Mathew

Proximity cards are extensively used by companies to keep control over the physical access of their employees. Each of the employees is allotted a proximity card, which they are required to show in front of the card reader. The card reader receives the ID from the card and it transmits the same to the central computer. It is only after that it is decided whether the person will get entry into the restricted area or not. Proximity cards are also known as prox cards. They basically refer to contact less integrated circuit devices, which are mainly used for security reasons. Proximity cards can be said to be a form of smart cards.

Uses of Proximity Cards

Proximity cards are basically access control smart cards that offer its users the dual advantage of logical access control as well as physical access control. These cards are of immense use to enterprises, as they provide accessibility to computers, networks and last but not least resources of the organization. Thus, proximity cards can enable you to gain access to restricted area and computer system. These proximity cards have largely reduced the overall security cost of organization. In addition to it, these prox cards can also be used for varied other purposes such as email encryption, web authorization, digital signatures and many more.

Proximity Card Reader

It is quite easy to install as well as use proximity card reader, as it is a highly simple access control system. It is based on a very simple mechanism. It is encoded in such a manner that it reads and responds to the various electronic signals received from access cards. Do not make the mistake of taking proximity card to be almost the same as swipe card used at ATM card reader. Unlike ATM card, you don’t need to bring your proximity card in direct contact with the reader. Even if you show the card from a distance of an inch or so, it will work. It is used a lot in parking garages. However, there are a few proximity card readers that require you to touch the card on the magnetic face of the card reader.

Proximity card readers are known for their versatility. You can install them anywhere on the computer, office table or entrance of the building. Most of the proximity card readers use rechargeable batteries, while others have a battery back up system. As in the case of most of the access control systems, you can customize proximity card readers to accommodate passwords and usernames.

Proximity Card Holder

A large number of employees use proximity card holders for protecting their proximity cards. It is usually used by people who need extra care of their proximity card. New varieties of proximity card badge holders are coming up in the market varying in style, color and texture. Cost differs from one type to another. The more the money you invest in buying proximity card holder, the better quality you get. More often, proximity badge holders come in the size of credit card.

About the Author

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