What is a HID iCLASS tag?

An HID iCLASS Tag is a specific type of contactless smart card credential manufactured by HID Global. Think of it as a small, coin-sized disc that contains the same secure iCLASS technology found in their smart cards, but in a different form factor.

Its primary purpose is to provide a convenient and cost-effective way to upgrade existing ID badges or other non-metallic items to a secure iCLASS credential.

Detailed look:

What is iCLASS Technology?

Before diving into the “tag,” it’s important to understand iCLASS itself. iCLASS is HID Global’s proprietary 13.56 MHz High-Frequency (HF) RFID smart card technology. It is known for offering:

• High Security: iCLASS uses mutual authentication (both the card and reader verify each other), encrypted data transfer, and 64-bit diversified keys for read/write capabilities. This makes it significantly more secure than older 125 kHz proximity (Prox) cards, which are easily cloned.
• Read/Write Capability: Unlike basic Prox cards, iCLASS cards (and tags) have internal memory (e.g., 2K bit/256 Byte, 16K bit/2K Byte, 32K bit/4K Byte) that can be read from and written to. This allows for more complex applications.
• Multi-Application Support: The memory can be securely partitioned into multiple “application areas,” allowing a single credential to be used for various purposes (e.g., access control, cashless vending, time & attendance, secure printing, biometric template storage).
• ISO 15693 and often ISO 14443B Compliance: It adheres to relevant international standards for contactless communication.

What Makes an iCLASS Tag Different?

The HID iCLASS Tag (e.g., models like the 2060, 2061, 2062, 2063, 2064 series) is essentially an iCLASS chip embedded in a small, round, and usually adhesive-backed form factor.

• Form Factor: Instead of a standard CR80 plastic card, it’s a small, durable disc (typically made of Lexan).
• Adhesive Back: Most iCLASS Tags come with industrial-strength adhesive on one side.
• Purpose: Its main purpose is to be attached to an existing non-metallic card or device to instantly transform it into an iCLASS-enabled credential.

Why Use an iCLASS Tag? (Key Purposes and Benefits)

1. Seamless Upgrade from Legacy Technologies:

   • From Prox or Magnetic Stripe: Many organizations have existing employee ID badges that use older, less secure technologies like 125 kHz proximity or magnetic stripe. Instead of reissuing all new plastic cards, they can simply stick an iCLASS Tag onto the existing badge. This provides the enhanced security and functionality of iCLASS without the high cost and logistical challenge of a full “rebadging” project.
   • From Contact Smart Cards: Similarly, if an organization uses contact smart cards for logical access (computer login) but wants to add contactless physical access, an iCLASS Tag can be adhered to the existing contact smart card.

2. Adding Contactless Functionality to Non-Credential Items:

   • The adhesive allows the tag to be attached to almost any non-metallic object, such as a cell phone, PDA, keychain, or other personal item.¹³ This turns the personal item into a secure iCLASS credential, allowing users to conveniently use their everyday devices for access or other applications.

3. Cost-Effective Transition: It provides a cost-effective way to introduce iCLASS technology and its benefits (enhanced security, multi-application capabilities) without immediately replacing all existing infrastructure or credentials.

4. Versatile Applications: Like iCLASS cards, iCLASS tags can be used for:

   • Secure physical access control
   • Network log-on security (logical access)
   • Cashless vending
   • Time and attendance
   • Biometric identification (storing templates)
   • Public transportation and customer loyalty programs (if integrated into relevant systems)

Limitations:

• Non-Metallic Surfaces: The tag will not work if adhered to a metallic surface, as metal shields the RFID signal.
• Single-Use Adhesive: The industrial-strength adhesive is typically designed for a single application; attempts to remove and reuse the tag may damage it.
• Potential Interference: Care must be taken not to place it over other 13.56 MHz RFID chips on the same card, or over magnetic stripes in a way that interferes with their functionality.
• What is RFID tag and reader?
• iCLASS Tag Datasheet