What is an RFID key fob: How do they work?
Key fobs are a powerful means of access control suited to many business environments. This compact and streamlined tool enables easy, quick and intuitive entry into a location, building or business floor – enhancing security and simplicity in any setting. Whether you already have an operational security system and you are looking to upgrade, or you’re just starting to explore your options for additional safety measures, key fobs are an excellent option. Keep reading to understand how they work and why they could be a wise investment for your workplace.
What are key fobs?
A key fob is a small device that contains RFID technology. This technology enables it to unlock doors electronically, this can come in the form of a compact plastic tag or a card. They have become increasingly popular due to the straightforward and simple means of use, as well as the immediate benefit of a business being able to manage entry into their facilities, floors or buildings. You will be able to easily control who can access which areas within your company, as well as see recordings of who passes through your doors and adjust who is granted entry. This adjustable nature makes key fobs an excellent choice for growing businesses, as you can change who can enter or exist alongside workforce changes or increased customer visits.
How do key fobs work?
Key fobs use RFID technology, which is an advanced barcode system that operates through magnetic fields. These fields are able to identify and track data on tags or chips, which contain pre-stored information. This data passes through radio waves, which is what enables fobs to function without the need to physically contact their matching reader. To use a key fob, an individual simply has to hold or wave the tag in front of the correct reader – if the data matches, then access will be granted. Every unique fob contains a microchip which carries specific data. This data communicates with the reader, indicating that access is suitable and the door or barrier can be opened. Key fobs can be programmed to allow access to multiple, singular or different locations.
Key fobs can be used for any setting that uses keyless entry systems. You will often key fobs in the following environments:
- Offices
- Apartments and residential buildings
- Recreational areas
- Gyms
- Car parks
- University campuses
- Multi-level workspaces
- Storage facilities
- Warehouses
What are the benefits of key fobs?
There are many benefits to investing in quality key fobs for your business. They are a small and highly efficient means of completely transforming the security and sentiment in your building.
The compactness of a key fob makes it a cost effective way of bringing a calm and streamlined air to your business. They are highly accessible, light and powerful, so everyone – from members of staff to visitors, clients and customers – can both use and enjoy the benefit of a key fob.
You can customise key fobs with your company logo or colours for a small yet impactful extension of your branding, giving those who carry your fobs a high-quality reminder of the services your business offers. For staff who present their fobs on their clothing or carry them out on their commute, this also poses the possibility for small scale local marketing, exposing your brand to like minded businesses and potential new talent for recruitment.
Key fobs can also correlate with many other kinds of safety accessories, including lanyards and keyrings. Due to their small nature, a keyring is the most commonly used accessory for carrying a key fob. Staff members or patrons can attach their fob to their keys or clothing for a quick and easy way to access their device. This display also makes customers and workforce members immediately identifiable, increasing the overall security and comfort in your environment.
