Proximity cards have become the backbone of secure access control for countless businesses, educational institutions, and organizations. These seemingly simple plastic cards, often referred to as prox cards, access cards, or key cards, contain sophisticated technology that allows for seamless and efficient entry. However, when the time comes to reorder, a common challenge arises: identifying the exact type of card you currently use. Misidentification can lead to compatibility issues, system disruptions, and, ultimately, unnecessary expense. This comprehensive guide will walk you through a detailed process of accurately determining your proximity card type and highlight smart strategies to save money when you need to replenish your stock.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Decoding Your Proximity Card:
- Visual Inspection: Your first point of call should be the card itself. Carefully examine both the front and back surfaces. Look for any printed information.
This might include:
- Brand Logos: Prominent logos of manufacturers like HID, Indala, AWID, or others can be a significant clue.
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Model or Part Numbers: Sometimes, a specific alphanumeric code is printed, which directly corresponds to the card type.
Here’s an example of a HID card. The information printed on this card allows us to determine the card as below:
1. Brand: HID®
2. Technology type: iCLASS
3. Memory size (1) and programming (*): - iCLASS 16k/2 / iCLASS Programmed
4. External ID Number: 12177 and suffix: 77
5. Sales order number (the unique reference from when the card order is placed): 12981526371-1 6. SR number
7. Material Type: Composite
- Delve into the Original Packaging: If your organization still has the original packaging the cards came in it often contains a wealth of information, including:
- The exact card model name or number.
- The chip technology used (e.g., HID ProxCard II, Paxton Net 2, HID DuoProx, etc).
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Consult Past Purchase Records: Your previous order documentation, such as invoices, purchase orders, or statements of work from your security system provider or card supplier, is an invaluable resource. These documents should clearly specify the type and quantity of cards ordered. Keep a well-organized record of past purchases to streamline future reordering.
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Leverage Your Security System Documentation: The documentation for your access control system itself might provide clues about the types of cards it supports. Review the system's manual or contact the system installer for this information. Knowing the system's specifications can narrow down the possibilities.
- Seek Professional Identification: If, after following these steps, you remain uncertain about your card type, don't worry! ID Cards Direct offers a professional testing service designed to accurately identify your proximity cards. By sending us a sample card, our experts can analyze its technical specifications and provide you with the precise identification you need. This service eliminates the guesswork and ensures you order the correct replacements.
Smart Strategies for Saving Money on Proximity Card Reorders:
Once you've confidently identified your proximity card type, you can explore cost-effective reordering options. Here's how to be a savvy buyer:
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Consider Compatible Alternatives: While you need to ensure compatibility with your existing system, exploring alternative brands can lead to significant savings. For example, Swiftprox cards offered by ID Cards Direct are designed to be fully compatible with many popular systems, including those using HID technology, but often come with a more budget-friendly price tag. Don't assume you must stick with the original brand if a reliable and compatible alternative exists.
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Evaluate Your Quantity Needs: Order the right quantity of cards. Avoid overstocking, which can lead to wasted resources if your needs change. Conversely, ordering in larger quantities can sometimes unlock bulk discounts. Analyze your usage patterns to determine the most economical order size.
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Shop Around and Compare Prices: Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Obtain quotes from multiple reputable suppliers, including ID Cards Direct, to compare pricing and potential discounts. Don’t forget – we also offer a price match promise!
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Factor in Lead Times and Shipping Costs: Consider the lead time for card production and shipping costs when making your decision. Often, the leading card brands offer a much longer shipping time when compared with comparable brands such as SwiftProx. This ultimately leads to delays and increases costs even further!
- Establish a Proactive Reordering Schedule: Don't wait until you're completely out of cards to reorder. Planning ahead can help you avoid rush orders and potential expedited shipping fees.
Ready to Reorder or Need Help Identifying Your Cards?
Accurately identifying your proximity card type is the first step towards a seamless and cost-effective reordering process. By following the steps outlined in this guide and considering compatible alternatives like Swiftprox, you can optimize your security budget without compromising functionality.
Contact ID Cards Direct today at +1-800- 711-5771 to discuss your proximity card requirements, explore the benefits of Swiftprox, or utilize our professional card identification service. Our team of experts is here to help you find the perfect solution for your organization's needs.