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What are the different types of iCLASS cards?
Main Generations & Technologies
HID iCLASS cards represent a series of 13.56 MHz high-frequency contactless smart card solutions that are offered across multiple technology generations, diverse form factors, and integrated multi-technology configurations.
- Standard iCLASS (Classic): The foundational system employs 13.56 MHz read/write technology incorporating elementary mutual authentication mechanisms.
- iCLASS SR (Secure Read): A fortified security implementation that establishes a secure coupling mechanism between the card and reader, ensuring that data and cryptographic keys remain inextricably linked throughout their interaction.
- iCLASS SE: The system incorporates advanced data protection capabilities through the implementation of a Secure Identity Object (SIO) data model, which provides comprehensive multi-layered security mechanisms.
- iCLASS Seos: The highest-level ecosystem tier provides comprehensive privacy and data protection standards of the utmost quality, with capabilities that extend to mobile device environments.
Common Models & Form Factors
- HID iCLASS 2000 / 200x: Standard ISO-thickness smart cards optimized for direct image and thermal transfer photo ID printing.
- HID iCLASS 202x (iCLASS + Prox): Dual-technology cards combining 13.56 MHz iCLASS with legacy 125 kHz HID Proximity for smooth access control migration.
- HID iCLASS 205x (iCLASS Key II): A convenient, pocket-sized contactless key fob form factor.
- HID iCLASS 206x (Adhesive Tag): A sticky-back disc or tag designed to upgrade older magnetic stripe or barium ferrite cards into smart credentials.
- HID iCLASS 2080 (Clamshell Card): A thicker, highly durable 13.56 MHz card built for heavy-duty wear and tear.