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

Security, flexibility and reliability – what more do you expect from a locking system? RFID locking systems are a particularly modern and practical solution . This article shows how they work and what advantages they bring.

What is an RFID locking system?

RFID stands for "Radio Frequency Identification". It is a technology that is now mainly used for locking systems. RFID locking systems exchange radio waves within a transmitter-receiver circuit.

In principle, objects can be automatically identified using RFID. This makes the technology suitable for a wide range of applications. However, locking systems in particular benefit from this. Here, an identification device in the form of a transponder or a smartphone app communicates with the chip in the locking system. This allows users to open a door without a key.

In 1948, the basis was laid for the RFID technology that inactively used today. Originally, it was used in airplanes and tanks. After the Second World War, RFID was also increasingly found in the automotive and railway industries. It has now become a popular technology for locking systems and makes contactless payment by EC and credit card possible. And special chips with RFID technology are also used in animal identification.

How RFID locking systems work

For RFID technology to work, a transmitter and receiver are needed. A software solution is also used for locking systems. In the background, this regulates everything important about the access rights of the users.

In order for an RFID locking system to work, the following components are needed:

• RFID Reader
• RFID-Transponder / RFID-Tag
• Software

The RFID reader reads the information stored on the identification medium. In the case of locking systems, these are access rights.

RFID transponders store the necessary information. Depending on the area in which they are used, a different memory size is required. In addition, a distinction is made between passive, active and semi-passive transponders. These differ significantly in whether they have to be activated by the user for use or not.

The software controls the exchange of data between the hardware components and ensures that the right information arrives everywhere. At BlueID, you get RFID locking systems as a complete solution that includes all the necessary components.

Strictly speaking, a transponder contains a microchip and a coupling element as a data carrier. The reader generates an electromagnetic field that is received by the transponder antenna and transmitted to the microchip. The magnetic field then transmits the command to identify and query the information provided by the transponder. The transponder recognizes the device and its command. It then transmits the data to the magnetic field so that the reader can grasp it. The whole process takes only a few seconds.

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.
   ‍‍
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.
   ‍‍
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.
   ‍‍
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.
   ‍‍
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.