RFID Locking System: How it works, advantages & areas of application

RFID locking systems enable contactless access, enhance security, and offer clear advantages over traditional keys. Thanks to modern RFID technology, RFID locks can be used flexibly, providing greater convenience and reliable protection.

Security, flexibility, and reliability, these are exactly the qualities that make an RFID locking system so attractive. Unlike traditional keys, RFID locks enable convenient, contactless access and can be tailored to different requirements. In this article, you will learn how RFID technology works in detail, what advantages it offers, and why it excels when it comes to security.

What is a RFID locking system?

An RFID locking system is an electronic access control solution that opens doors contactlessly using radio frequency technology. RFID stands for “Radio Frequency Identification” and describes the wireless data transmission between a transponder (e.g., card, chip, or smartphone) and the lock. When the user holds their identification medium up to the reader, a radio signal is transmitted, verified, and the door is unlocked if access rights are valid. In this way, RFID replaces the traditional key and enables secure, convenient entry.

How RFID Locking Systems Work

The RFID principle is based on the interaction between a transmitter and a receiver. In an RFID locking system, the RFID reader, the RFID transponder (e.g., card, chip, or smartphone), and a software solution take on these roles.

The RFID reader generates an electromagnetic field. When the user holds their transponder close, the antenna inside receives the signal and activates the integrated microchip. This chip transmits stored information, in the case of locking systems, the access rights, back to the reader. The software checks the data in real time and unlocks the door if valid authorization is present.

There are passive, active, and semi-passive transponders. Passive RFID tags draw their energy directly from the reader’s field, while active ones use their own power source, enabling greater ranges. Semi-passive systems combine both principles.

This RFID functionality enables fast, contactless, and secure data exchange that opens a door within seconds.

RFID Security

The security of an RFID locking system primarily depends on the technology and encryption methods used. Modern RFID systems employ encrypted data transmission and dynamic codes, making it very difficult to simply copy a transponder. However, there are differences between inexpensive and high-quality RFID locks: while basic systems are more vulnerable to manipulation, professional solutions offer a very high level of protection. Additionally, lost transponders or cards can be deactivated and replaced at any time, a clear advantage over traditional keys.

Types of RFID Locks

RFID locks are electronic access systems that open doors using radio frequency technology. They rely on a transponder, such as a card, a key fob, or a smartphone app, that communicates wirelessly with the lock. Different types include:

• Card locks using RFID cards as the identification medium
• Chip locks using key fobs or small transponders
• Smartphone-based locks with an app or digital key
• Combination solutions that allow multiple media in parallel

What all variants have in common is that lost transponders can simply be deactivated without replacing the entire lock. This gives RFID locks flexibility and security in residential complexes, businesses, and hotels.

Advantages of RFID technology in locking systems

More and more companies and property managers of apartment buildings are using RFID technology for their locking systems. There are many reasons for this.

1. ‍Hands-free use: Since an RFID transponder comes in the form of a card, key fob or something similar, users can open doors without having to use a key. This makes handling very easy and uncomplicated.
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2. More security: If a user loses a key, or it is stolen, the entire locking system usually has to be replaced. Not so with RFID technology. In this case, it is sufficient to change the access authorizations in the software. This increases safety and saves time, money and effort.
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3. Flexibility: Access authorizations can be adjusted at any time without having to replace the hardware. Users can open as many locks as they like with their transponder, provided they have received the appropriate authorization.
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4. Savings: RFID locking systems are not only inexpensive when a transponder is lost. Savings can also be achieved in general, as these systems are low-maintenance and not prone to failure.
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5. Easy installation: In contrast to many other locking systems, companies and owners save a lot of work during installation. An RFID locking system can be installed quickly and without much effort.

More and more companies are appreciating RFID locking systems to a great extent. The abundance of benefits makes them a popular choice.

Differences of RFID locking systems

Not every RFID locking system works the same. In fact, there are some factors that can vary. For example, RFID technologies distinguish between three frequency bands:

• Low Frequency (LF)
• Radio Frequency (RF) and
• Ultra High Frequency (UHF)

Depending on the area of application, a different frequency is recommended. Low-frequency transponders are usually used primarily for animal identification, while high-frequency transponders are used for high data rates. This also includes access controls. UHF systems, on the other hand, allow ranges of several meters, which makes them suitable for industrial use. Parking management is one possible area of application.

Furthermore, RFID technology can be used on different types of locks. There are even RFID padlocks that work on a similar principle to large-scale digital locking systems.

Conclusion

RFID locking systems offer a lot of great benefits, which is why they are very popular. RFID locks are mainly used in company buildings and residential complexes. Thanks to BlueID, you get tailor-made solutions that meet your individual requirements.