A proximity reader can scan a contactless smart card called a proximity card without having to enter it into the device. Although proximity cards are frequently used for access control, they can also be utilised for identification, payment processing, and time and attendance monitoring.
The use of proximity cards is significant for a variety of reasons. They first offer a practical and effective method for regulating access to buildings and other restricted areas. Proximity cards can be configured to allow access to particular locations or at particular times, and they can be scanned fast and easily. This may aid in enhancing security and lowering the danger of unauthorised access.
Second, proximity cards can boost operational effectiveness in a variety of contexts. Proximity cards, for instance, can be used to monitor staff attendance and manage access to resources and equipment. Productivity can increase and time theft can be decreased as a result.
Third, there are numerous ways that proximity cards can be utilised to improve security. Proximity cards, for instance, can be used to identify people in the case of a security crisis as well as track the movement of people and assets. Additionally, proximity cards can be used to provide two-factor authentication, which strengthens access control systems’ security.
Here are some concrete instances of proximity cards being used in various sectors of the economy:
Security: To regulate access to buildings, offices, and other restricted areas, proximity cards are frequently utilised. Additionally, they can be used to limit access to particular rooms or locations inside a facility. For instance, entering a server room or data centre may need a proximity card.
Education: To regulate access to buildings, classes, and other facilities, proximity cards are frequently used in schools and universities. They can also be used to monitor student attendance and grant access to facilities like the cafeteria and library.
Hospitals and other healthcare facilities utilise proximity cards to regulate access to patient areas, staff areas, and medical equipment. Additionally, they can be used to keep track of patient identification and grant access to facilities like the cafeteria and pharmacy.
Government: To regulate access to secure areas, proximity cards are employed in government buildings and other government facilities. The DMV and the social security office are only two examples of the government services that can be accessed by citizens thanks to them.
Business: To regulate access to buildings, offices, and other facilities, proximity cards are utilised in enterprises of various sizes. They can also be used to monitor staff attendance and grant access to tools like printers and copiers to workers.
Proximity cards can be utilised in a variety of additional applications aside from those mentioned above, such as:
Processing of payments: Proximity cards are accepted at shops, eateries, and other establishments. This is a practical contactless method of making purchases of products and services.
Proximity cards can be used to keep track of staff time and attendance and to compute payroll. This may aid in lowering time theft and enhancing payroll accuracy.
Identification: People can be recognised using proximity cards. This can be helpful for security needs as well as for other uses like rewards programmes and onboarding for new employees.
The use of proximity cards is a useful and significant technology that can enhance ease, effectiveness, and security in a range of contexts.
The advantages of proximity cards
Comparing proximity cards to other access control methods like keys and key cards, proximity cards have a number of advantages. A few of the main advantages of proximity cards are as follows:
Convenience: Using proximity cards is simple and practical. They don’t require being put into a reader and may be read quickly and easily. They are therefore perfect for use in busy places.
Proximity cards offer greater security than other access control methods. They can be set to allow access to particular locations or at particular times, and they are challenging to reproduce or counterfeit.
Efficiency: In a variety of scenarios, proximity cards can help to increase the efficiency of operations. Proximity cards, for instance, can be used to monitor staff attendance and manage access to resources and equipment. Productivity can increase and time theft can be decreased as a result.
Scalability: Proximity card systems can be expanded to meet expanding enterprises or organisations due to its scalability.
The best methods for selecting a proximity card system
It’s crucial to take your company or organization’s unique needs into account when selecting a proximity card system. Among the things to take into account are:
Your facility’s size and complexity will determine whether you require a proximity card system that can handle a high volume of users and doors.
Your necessary security measures: A proximity card system that includes cutting-edge security features like two-factor authentication and encryption is required if you have stringent security requirements.