Your Guide to Choosing the Right Proximity Card
Proximity cards- In today’s fast-paced, security-conscious world, controlling who enters your workplace is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you run a healthcare facility, educational campus, government building, or commercial office, one of the most cost-effective and reliable tools for secure access..
At Groove Identification Solutions, we specialize in helping organizations across Canada choose, configure, and supply the right solutions for their access control systems. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about proximity cards: how they work, what types exist, and how to choose the right option for your business.
What Is a Proximity Card?
A proximity card, often referred to as a "prox card," is a contactless credential that grants authorized access when presented near a compatible card reader. Unlike magnetic stripe or barcode cards, a proximity card does not require physical contact with the reader, making it more durable and efficient in high-traffic environments.
These cards typically operate at 125 kHz frequency and contain a chip and antenna embedded inside the plastic body. When held near a reader, the card transmits its unique ID number, which is validated against the access control system.
Proximity cards are widely used across industries for:
Employee and visitor access
Secure entry to buildings and restricted zones
Time and attendance systems
Identification in parking lots, labs, and server rooms
Types of Prox Cards We Offer
At Groove Identification Solutions, we provide a wide range of prox card types to meet various system and budget requirements. Here are the most common options:
1. HID ProxCard II
This is one of the most widely used proximity cards in North America. It is compatible with HID access control readers and supports a 26-bit Wiegand format by default, with options for custom formats and facility codes.
2. Clamshell Style
Durable and rigid, these thicker cards are ideal for environments where longevity is critical. They typically cannot be printed on but can be paired with adhesive ID overlays for photo identification.
3. ISO Thin Printable Cards
These are printable cards that combine the functionality of proximity technology with the option to add photo ID, logos, and variable text using a card printer.
4. Key Fobs and Tags
Compact, keychain-compatible credentials that offer the same access functionality as a full-size card. Ideal for mobile workers or applications where cards may be lost or damaged easily.
5. Adhesive Proximity Discs
Small adhesive-backed discs with an embedded RFID chip that can be affixed to other surfaces, such as employee badges or phone cases.
Why Use a Prox Card for Access Control?
There are several advantages to using prox card systems for your organization's security and identification needs:
✔ Contactless Convenience
Cards can be read without touching the reader, reducing wear and minimizing contact in healthcare and cleanroom environments.
✔ Enhanced Security
Each prox card has a unique ID number and can be easily deactivated if lost or stolen, helping to maintain control over facility access.
✔ Integration with Other Systems
Many companies integrate proximity cards with systems such as:
Employee ID badges
Time and attendance trackers
Parking and gate access
Multi-tenant building access
✔ Scalability
From a small office to a multi-site enterprise, prox card systems scale effortlessly as your business grows.
How a Proximity Card Works
The inner workings of a prox card are relatively simple, yet powerful. When the card is brought within a certain distance (typically 2–6 inches) of a reader:
The reader emits a low-frequency RF field.
The antenna inside the card is energized by this field.
The card’s chip transmits its unique identifier to the reader.
The access control panel compares the ID to its database.
If valid, the system unlocks the door or records the entry.
The process is virtually instantaneous, which is why proximity cards are favored in high-volume entry points.
Who Uses Prox Cards?
Proximity cards are used across a broad range of sectors in Canada:
● Healthcare & Hospitals
To protect patient data and control access to sensitive zones like pharmacies and labs.
● Educational Institutions
For dorms, faculty buildings, computer labs, and student services.
● Government Facilities
For secure areas, staff-only offices, and public service buildings.
● Commercial Real Estate
Multi-tenant buildings often rely on prox card systems to ensure each tenant has controlled access to their designated areas.
● Manufacturing & Logistics
Track and control movement in production zones, equipment rooms, and inventory areas.
GrooveProx: Our In-House Prox Card Brand
Looking for a cost-effective alternative to HID Prox cards? We offer GrooveProx—our high-quality line of 125 kHz proximity cards compatible with most HID readers. These cards are:
Fully tested for HID compatibility
Available in ISO and clamshell styles
Customizable with facility codes and card numbers
Cost-saving without compromising performance
Need help determining if GrooveProx will work for your system? Contact us for a free test card!
Why Choose Groove Identification for your Prox Cards?
Groove Identification Solutions is a Canadian leader in physical security and ID solutions. When it comes to sourcing the right card for your business, here’s what we offer:
✅ Expert Support
We help you select the correct format, card type, and encoding—ensuring seamless integration with your existing system.
✅ Fast Shipping Across Canada
We keep large quantities of Technology Cards inventory in Canada, so you get what you need quickly without cross-border delays.
✅ Custom Card Printing
We can pre-print your logo, employee ID information, and barcode onto proximity cards—saving you time and hassle.
✅ Full Line of Accessories
From badge holders to custom lanyards and reels, we supply everything you need for a complete access solution.
Proximity Card FAQs
Q: Can I use a Prox card for employee ID purposes?
Yes! Proximity cards can double as employee ID badges with photo printing and branded designs.
Q: Are GrooveProx cards compatible with HID readers?
Absolutely. GrooveProx is specifically designed to match HID 125 kHz formats at a lower cost.
Q: Can I encode cards myself?
In most cases, encoding is handled by us or through your access control system. Some systems allow on-site encoding using specific printers and software.
Q: How do I know what format my system uses?
We can help you identify your card format with a sample scan or system details. Reach out and we’ll guide you through it.
Final Thoughts: Secure Your Workplace With the Right Access Card
If you're looking to upgrade your access control system or just need a reliable source for replacements cards, Groove Identification Solutions is here to help.
We’ll guide you through card selection, system compatibility, and provide ongoing support to make sure your organization stays secure and efficient.
Ready to Order or Learn More?
Contact Groove Identification Solutions Today
📍 29 Centennial Rd. Unit 3, Orangeville, Ontario
📞 1-888-940-3645
🌐 www.groovebadges.com
📧 info@groovebadges.com
