RFID and accessories

The most important thing is matching the frequency and standard to the reader.

125 kHz (EM-ID) – widely used thanks to its simple operation. The read speed is slower than at 13.56 MHz (meaning you sometimes have to hold the card/fob etc. a moment longer at the reader), but it isn't susceptible to radio interference (which means stable reading of the tag even when there's a lot of electronics around).

13.56 MHz (MIFARE) – used commercially, in newer access control systems. The tags are moderately sensitive to interference and provide fast data reading.

RFID tags are used primarily in: access control, working-time registration, user identification, and in parking and logistics systems.

UNIQUE tags – i.e. unique ones – come pre-programmed, and each tag has its own individual ID code. The codes are permanently stored (Read Only), which means no changes or overwrites are possible. This works well, for example, when assigning an individual code to an employee.

Copying RFID tags means that, once cloned, the tags have the same identifier – that is, they are identical. Copying the same tag is useful when you have, for example, an electronic lock that supports a maximum of 5 tags – you can then copy those tags for more people. However, it won't be useful when you hand tags to people you don't know, for example – because without other additional checks (e.g. cameras) you then won't be able to verify who opened the lock at a given moment (since the copied number will be identical for other people too).

Copying a tag is only possible on selected models – those marked in the listing as copyable.

That's why it's also worth emphasising that individual (UNIQUE) tags are not copyable – because they have unique identification numbers, and each one is permanently stored.

Sectors are parts of the memory inside the chip. While low-frequency tags (125 kHz) have only one number (ID), high-frequency tags (13.56 MHz) have 16 separate sectors, and different data can be stored in each sector – e.g. a user ID, a first and last name, etc.

Not always – UNIQUE tags are ready to use. In addition, some 13.56 MHz tags can also be programmed in all sectors except sector 0 – that is, they have a UID, and it's possible to program them in the remaining sectors.

It doesn't affect operation — it's only the practical form: a card – for your wallet, a fob – for your keys, a sticker / disc – to stick onto devices.

It's a tag that supports both 125 kHz (EM-ID) and 13.56 MHz (MIFARE) at the same time. It lets you work in two systems simultaneously.