If you’re anything like me – a marketing intern and college student living in the age of the metaverse – card readers may sound simple and, quite honestly… a little boring. Even if you don’t match that description at all, that may be where you stand on the subject too. After reviewing Elatec’s manual on RFID systems, it’s clear my first assumption was correct – to a certain extent; the second, not so much.
With the wave of an ID card or smartphone, RFID systems enable employers, students, and consumers to access all kinds of goods, services, and physical locations. This technology makes these interactions so seamless we rarely think about the hardware required to make it possible: the RFID reader.
While simple to use, I’ve learned these devices can be pretty complex, with Elatec’s reader having the ability to read more than 60 RFID transponder technologies of low and high frequencies and also Bluetooth Low Energy used in many smartphones. Having the right device with the proper compatibilities can be the difference between harmonious operations and lots of frustration and support tickets. Thankfully, Elatec has a “universal” reader that can “read all major card technologies worldwide,” enabling these devices to integrate with your current systems and platforms. These readers can be embedded into a machine or connected externally via a USB cord or other connector.
When implementing an RFID solution, one of the most important considerations is security – both in terms of user data and unauthorized access or use of sensitive information and/ devices. Elatec offers readers that support advanced encryption to prevent card cloning or data interception. For maximum security, you can get a reader with a customizable API that can support additional security measures, like multi-factor authentication.
Another necessary component of implementing an RFID solution is ensuring the form factor, hardware interfaces, OP requirements, and physical characteristics of the reader are appropriate for the particular placement and connection type. Whether embedded in a wall panel, kiosk, or printer, the location of your device and reader may make size and design important considerations in which reader you choose to utilize. Readers connected externally will require housing and hardware interfaces appropriate for the environment in which they’re used.
RFID readers may need an update after installation for various reasons, such as adding new transponder technologies or responding to evolving security threats. Suppose your readers are widely distributed across multiple devices (or even mobile, as part of a fleet management solution). In that case, the ability to support remote updates will be an essential feature to look for.
ELATEC makes a variety of readers with different capabilities, so regardless of the intended purpose, need for remote programming, or need for universal compatibility, you can be sure there’s an option for you. ELATEC can also develop customized reader solutions as required, giving further confidence there’s a solution for you.
Who knew those tiny card swipe readers most of us rely on daily could be so complex?? While it may be initially daunting to parse through which card reader option is best for you, ELATEC and ACDI aim to make this process as easy as using the devices themselves, giving you peace of mind and ensuring you have the tools you need to make every day a success!
