Card reader systems use electronic credentials—cards or key fobs—to control gate access. They're popular for multi-user applications where managing individual codes would be impractical.
How Card Access Works
- User presents card or fob to reader
- Reader detects the credential's unique ID
- System checks if ID is authorized
- If valid, signal sent to open gate
- Transaction logged for audit trail
Types of Cards and Fobs
Proximity Cards (125 kHz)
Traditional "prox" cards that work by holding near the reader.
- Pros: Affordable, widely compatible
- Cons: Can be cloned, limited security
- Cost: $2-5 per card
Smart Cards (13.56 MHz)
Higher-security cards with encrypted data.
- Pros: Very secure, can't be easily cloned
- Cons: Higher cost, requires compatible readers
- Cost: $5-15 per card
Key Fobs
Small tags that attach to keychains.
- Pros: Convenient, hard to forget
- Cons: Can be lost with keys
- Cost: $3-10 each
Reader Types
Standard Proximity Readers
Mount at entrance, read cards held within a few inches.
Long-Range Readers
Read cards from several feet away—convenient for drivers who don't need to reach out the window.
Multi-Technology Readers
Accept multiple card types plus PIN entry for flexibility or higher security.
System Components
Readers
The visible units mounted at entry points.
Controller
The "brain" that stores authorized credentials and controls access.
Management Software
Interface for adding/removing users, setting access levels, viewing reports.
Benefits of Card Access
- No codes to remember or share
- Easy to add or remove users
- Audit trail of all access
- Can assign different access levels
- Lost cards easily deactivated
Applications
- HOA and gated communities
- Apartment buildings
- Commercial parking facilities
- Office buildings
- Industrial sites
Want card reader access for your property? Standard Gate Co designs and installs card access systems. Call (323) 488-GATE.