Proximity cards play an essential role in modern access control systems, allowing employees, students, and authorized personnel to enter secured areas quickly and safely. When organizations need new credentials, ordering custom programmed proximity cards ensures the cards will work seamlessly with their existing system. However, placing an order can feel confusing if you’re not familiar with the required information.

Understanding a few key details about your access control system will make the ordering process much smoother and help ensure your new cards work properly right out of the box.

What Are Custom Programmed Proximity Cards?

Custom programmed proximity cards are access control cards that are encoded with specific data to match your organization’s access control system. Instead of receiving blank cards that require on-site programming, these cards are pre-programmed by the supplier with the correct card format, facility code, and card numbering.

This means the cards are ready to use immediately after delivery, saving time and reducing the risk of configuration errors.

Information You Need Before Ordering

Before ordering custom programmed proximity cards, it’s important to gather a few key pieces of information from your existing access control system. These details ensure the cards will be compatible with your readers and security software.

Card Format

The card format determines how data is structured on the card. Common formats include:

• 26-bit format
• 34-bit format
• 37-bit format

The correct format is essential because your access control system is configured to recognize specific data structures.

Facility Code

A facility code is a number assigned to your organization that helps the access control system identify which cards belong to your system. All cards issued within the same organization typically share the same facility code.

Providing the correct facility code ensures your new cards will be recognized by your system.

Card Number Range

Each proximity card has a unique card number that identifies the individual user. When ordering replacement or additional cards, you’ll need to provide the number range you want programmed.

Organizations often continue their existing sequence so their access control software remains organized and easy to manage.

Card Type or Technology

It’s also important to confirm the technology your system uses. Many proximity systems operate at 125 kHz, while others may use higher-frequency smart card technologies.

Ordering the correct card type ensures compatibility with your card readers.

Confirming Compatibility with Your Access Control System

If you are unsure about your card format, facility code, or card type, there are several ways to find the information:

• Check existing cards for printed numbers
• Review documentation from your access control system provider
• Contact your system integrator or installer
• Work with a credential supplier who can help identify the correct specifications
• Many suppliers can also decode sample cards to determine the proper configuration.

Choosing the Right Card Style

Once the programming information is confirmed, organizations can choose the card style that best fits their needs. Options may include:

• Standard proximity cards
• Printable proximity cards for photo badges
• Clamshell cards for durability
• Key fobs for convenient keychain access

Some organizations also choose cards that can be printed with employee photos or company branding, combining identification and access control into a single credential.

Benefits of Ordering Pre-Programmed Cards

Ordering custom programmed proximity cards offers several advantages for organizations:

• Immediate Use- Cards arrive fully programmed and ready to issue to employees or members.
• Reduced Administrative Work- There is no need to manually encode each card on-site.
• Consistency and Accuracy- Cards are programmed according to your exact system specifications, reducing errors.
• Scalability- Additional cards can easily be ordered as your organization grows.

Simplifying Proximity Card Ordering

Ordering custom programmed proximity cards doesn’t have to be complicated. By gathering a few key details—such as your card format, facility code, and card number range—you can ensure your new cards integrate seamlessly with your existing access control system.

Working with a knowledgeable credential supplier can also help simplify the process, ensuring you receive compatible cards that are ready to use as soon as they arrive. Whether you’re replacing lost credentials or expanding your access control program, the right proximity cards help keep your organization secure and running smoothly.

Need help ordering or programming your proximity cards? Contact us today to speak with an expert who can guide you through the process and ensure your access control system stays secure and efficient.