Transponder: Definition, Advantages & Areas of Application

Many people are not even aware of it, but we encounter transponders in many areas of life. The following article shows what they are all about, what advantages they offer and where they are used. We also shed light on why transponders are revolutionizing locking technology in particular.

What is a transponder?

Transponders are used in various areas. In general, it is a device that can transmit and receive signals. This is why it is also referred to as a so-called radio communication device. It is therefore not surprising that the transponder is a telecommunications device.

Did you know that "transponder" is a portmanteau word? It is made up of the terms "transmitter" and "responder".

Transponders are based on RFID technology and therefore enable contactless identification. This makes its areas of application diverse. Transponders are mainly used in locking systems and can recombine with functions such as timekeeping, anti-theft protection and warehousing.

Transponders can take different forms:

• Plastic cards
• Key fob
• Bracelets
• Coins

Types of Transponders

There are different types of transponders that are used in different areas and have very special functions. We distinguish between three types:

• Active Transponders
• Passive Transponder
• Semi-Passive Transponder

Active Transponders

An active transponder has so-called active technology installed. What does this mean in practice? The user himself must become active to operate the transponder. For example, you press a button to achieve the desired effect.

For this reason, active transponders are equipped with their own battery. Thanks to its own transmitter, it can be used autonomously and is not dependent on radio waves.

With the help of an active transponder, up to 100 meters can be bridged. It also has a larger data memory than other types of transponders.

Simple active transponders are used, among other things, in the identification of aircraft. But active transponders are also the ideal solution for locating people and vehicles, as well as for safety systems and immobilizers.

Passive Transponder

The opposite of active transponders are passive transponders. These do not have their own energy supply, nor can they be used independently of radio waves. Rather, passive transponders require electromagnetic fields in order for them to receive energy.

The lack of energy supply has a significant advantage: this type of transponder is ready for use at any time. On the other hand, the range is shorter than with an active transponder. In addition, an active sensor is required so that the data on the passive transponder can be read.

Passive transponders are constantly used in our daily lives. Contactless payment by EC or credit card works exactly according to this principle. Passive transponders are also used in testing technology – for example, to transmit switching states to a reader without contact. 

Semi-Passive Transponder

Last but not least, there is a hybrid form between active and passive transponders – the semi-passive transponder. Basically, they work like passive transponders, only with the difference that they have their own energy source. This means that the duration of use is limited, but the range increases.

Semi-passive transponders are used wherever passive transponders are also used, but more power is desired. They react automatically if there is a corresponding proximity to an active sensor. It is not necessary for the user to actuate.

Advantages of transponders

Transponders come with a number of advantages. Regardless of the form in which they are used, they are resistant to dust, dirt and usually moisture. Therefore, they can also be used in harsh environments. They can easily withstand the conditions in various industrial sectors. This makes it a universal solution – for example, when it comes to access systems.

Furthermore, transponders are suitable for mass data transmission. This is what makes their areas of application so diverse. Companies benefit greatly from the RFID technology of transponders.

In contrast to analogue locking systems, transponders offer the great advantage that access authorizations can also be adjusted afterward. Where the entire lock used to have to be replaced, the problem of losing keys can now be solved with a few mouse clicks. Transponders are an ideal complement for digital, smart and, above all, practical and cost-saving solutions.

Areas of application of transponders

Transponders are used in various areas. These include, for example:

• Employee and service ID cards
• Attendance and time tracking
• Parking tickets
• Road tolls
• Local transport tickets
• Chips for (domestic) animals

Transponders are particularly suitable for companies. They revolutionize locking technology and create digital solutions that save time, costs and effort.

Transponders in digital locking technology

Basically, a transponder fulfills the same function as a key:It is used to open locked doors and allows users access to premises. However, the use of transponders is the digital locking technology, which offers some advantages in contrast to analogue procedures.

An RFID transponder for access to premises is also available in various forms. Many companies rely on special access cards or chips that are integrated into key fobs. Gyms, for example, give out wristbands in the classic way to open doors. And digital locking technology is also increasingly being used in residential complexes and apartment buildings.

Since a transponder can be individually programmed, it is possible for a user to open not only the main entrance, but also doors to special rooms or apartments. However, he has no access to other areas. This is an excellent way to control who can open which areas.

These access authorizations can be changed at any time – for example, when moving out of the apartment, leaving the company or if a person'responsibilities change. If a transponder is lost or stolen, it can be blocked individually without affecting the entire system. This means that the locking system does not have to be replaced in a costly and time-consuming manner, which saves time and money and contributes to increased security.

Even if a new room is added, it can be integrated easily and quickly. The new door can be easily added or removed from the system. Transponders in digital locking technology thus ensure a high degree of flexibility.

At BlueID, we offer modern, user-friendly and clever solutions that use transponders effectively. In this way, every locking system can be optimized.

Conclusion

Transponders contain an innovative technology that brings many advantages, especially to companies. While passive, active and semi-passive transponders are used in various areas of life, it is above all locking systems that are ideally complemented by them. At BlueID, you will receive practical solutions with transponders for your industry.