HID introduces iCLASS, a new 13.56 MHz, read/write, contactless smart card technology for multiple applications, the firm reports.
iCLAS features include encrypted data storage, mutual authentication, secure reading and writing of data, and user definable access keys. The development team at ASSA ABLOY?s Identification Technology Group used advanced semiconductor technology based on the 13.56 MHz frequency to meet numerous ISO standards. The line of iCLASS contactless smart card readers will include read only, read/write (with optional keypad or LCD terminal), and a biometric terminal option. Applications include access control; time and attendance; authorised access to office equipment; digital cash; IT authentication; lighting and HVAC control and billing; transit passes; guard tour patrol; equipment and material check-out; and loyalty and membership schemes.
Broader range
The standards enable many equipment and application developers to work with this technology to create a broader range of uses for the card. iCLASS readers can read data from cards compliant with the following standards: 15693 – read/write; 2Kbits (256Bytes) and 16Kbits (2KBytes) iCLASS credentials; 14443A – read only; MIFARE (serial number); 14443B2 – read/write; 16Kbits (2KBytes) iCLASS credentials. All radio frequency data transmission between the card and reader is encrypted using a secure algorithm. By using industry standard encryption techniques, iCLASS reduces the risk of compromised data or duplicated cards, HID say. Card data may also be protected with DES or triple DES encryption. iCLASS credentials will include multi-technology cards (iCLASS Prox and iCLASS Wiegand), as well as keyfobs, tags, and OEM modules. All iCLASS credentials will be available in either a 2Kbits (256Bytes) or 16Kbits (2KBytes) configuration. The iCLASS Tag supports the upgrade of existing barium ferrite, barcode, magnetic stripe, Wiegand or proximity systems to iCLASS technology. By affixing the iCLASS Tag to an existing card or device (such as a PDA or cell phone), users have iCLASS technology. The iCLASS OEM modules will allow third-party manufacturers to integrate the iCLASS technology into products manufactured by companies other than HID. Visit www.hidcorp.com
