Comparing HID 37-Bit Proximity Cards with 26-Bit and Other Formats

Have you ever wondered why some access cards seem more secure than others? The secret often lies in the number of bits they use. In the world of access control, HID proximity cards are a common sight, but not all of these cards are created equal. The difference between a 26-bit card and a 37-bit card might seem small, but it can have a big impact on your security.

Imagine you’re choosing a lock for your home. Would you prefer a simple lock that many people might have a key for or a more complex one that’s much harder to duplicate? That’s similar to the choice between different bit formats in proximity cards. HID access control cards have long been the industry standard, but with the introduction of the 37-bit format, many security professionals are reassessing their choices. 

Proximity Card Technology

Let’s understand the basics of proximity card technology:

• Proximity cards use radio frequency identification (RFID) technology
• They contain an embedded antenna and integrated circuit
• When presented to a compatible reader, the card transmits its data wirelessly
• The reader then sends this data to an access control system for verification

HID Prox II cards are among the most widely used proximity cards in the industry. Bit formats determine how data is structured and transmitted from the card to the reader. Key aspects include:

• The total number of bits used to store information
• How these bits are allocated (e.g., for facility codes, card numbers, etc.)
• The level of security and uniqueness provided by the format

Understanding these formats is crucial for proximity card vendors and end-users alike.

HID 26-Bit Format: The Industry Standard

The 26-bit format has long been the go-to choice for many organizations. Here’s why:

• Widely supported by most access control systems
• Simple structure: 8 bits for facility code, 16 bits for card number
• Allows for 255 facility codes and 65,535 unique card numbers

However, the 26-bit format has limitations:

• A limited number of unique combinations
• Increased risk of card number duplication across different organizations
• Less secure compared to newer formats

Bristol ID Technologies is a renowned company that offers customized solutions for organizations seeking to enhance their 26-bit proximity card systems with HID printable proximity cards.

Read More Articles: Exploring the Benefits of 125 kHz Proximity Cards for Secure Access

HID 37-Bit Format: Enhanced Security and Flexibility

HID 37 bit proximity cards offer several advantages over the 26-bit format:

• Larger data capacity: 16 bits for facility code, 19 bits for card number
• Supports up to 65,535 facility codes and 524,287 unique card numbers
• Significantly reduced risk of card number duplication
• Enhanced security due to a more complex data structure

Benefits of the 37-bit format include:

• Greater flexibility for large organizations or multi-site implementations
• Improved protection against unauthorized card cloning
• Compatibility with advanced access control features

Comparing 26-Bit and 37-Bit Formats

Let’s break down the key differences between these two popular formats:

Other HID Proximity Card Formats

While 26-bit and 37-bit formats are common, HID offers several other options:

• 33-bit format: Balances security and compatibility
• 35-bit format: Offers corporate 1000 program for dedicated formats
• 48-bit format: Provides maximum security and uniqueness

Each format has its own strengths and is suited to different organizational needs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Proximity Card Format

When selecting a format for your access control system, consider:

• Size of your organization and potential for growth
• Required level of security
• Compatibility with existing systems
• Budget constraints
• Need for custom programming or special features

Consulting with experienced proximity card vendors can help in making an informed decision.

Implementation Challenges and Solutions

Switching to a new card format can present challenges:

• Compatibility issues with existing readers
• Need for system-wide updates
• Potential downtime during the transition

Solutions to these challenges include:

• Phased rollout of new cards
• Upgrading readers to support multiple formats
• Working with experienced vendors for a smooth transition

Best Practices for Managing Proximity Card Systems

To maximize the benefits of your proximity card system:

• Regularly audit and update access rights
• Implement strict card issuance and retrieval procedures
• Train employees on proper card usage and security protocols
• Keep software and firmware up to date
• Consider multi-factor authentication for high-security areas

Customization Options for HID Proximity Cards

HID printable proximity cards offer various customization options:

• Custom printing with company logos and employee information
• Encoding with specific facility codes and card numbers
• Integration with photo ID systems
• Addition of visual security features (holograms, UV printing, etc.)

Note: Customization can enhance both security and brand identity.

Read More Articles: Exploring the Different Types of Office Cleaning Services in NYC

Cost Considerations: 26-Bit vs. 37-Bit and Other Formats

When evaluating costs, consider:

• Initial investment in cards and compatible readers
• Long-term savings from enhanced security
• Potential need for system upgrades
• Scalability for future expansion

While 37-bit cards may have a higher upfront cost, they can offer long-term value through improved security and flexibility.

The Bottom Line 

Choosing between HID 37 bit proximity cards and other formats depends on your organization’s specific needs and goals. While the 37-bit format offers enhanced security and flexibility, the 26-bit format remains a viable option for many applications. Other formats provide additional choices for specialized requirements.

At Bristol ID Technologies, we understand the complexities of choosing and implementing the right proximity card system for your organization. With decades of experience in the identification and access control industry, we offer expert guidance and advanced solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our range of HID access control cards, including HID Prox II cards, ensures that we can provide the perfect fit for your security requirements.