Here are the main questions on combo cards and their interoperability.
COMBO CARDS
Combo cards are ‘hybrid’ cards that integrate multiple independent chips, combining up to two contact chips or three different RFID chips. Combi cards can also include a magnetic stripe and a barcode, offering a wide range of applications.
Combi cards are widely used as cards for access control in hotels; combo cards for employee identification and access in companies and for student identification in schools and universities; combo cards for gym membership. Specifically, they are used when there is a need to perform multi-function use with the same card: access control, time attendance tracking, electronic purse for vending machines, or vehicle gate access.
Additionally, they are widely adopted as combo cards for loyalty programmes, where systems provided by different vendors are present.
How does combo card technology work? Since the combo card can integrate both RFID and combo chip technology, it operates in contact mode through the traditional card insertion into the reader, while in contactless mode, it functions by simply being brought near the RFID reader.
To use these cards, it is essential to understand the technical specifications of the integrated chips and the reading systems with which the cards need to interface. The cards can be configured to work with various access control systems and loyalty applications.
The benefits of combo cards lie in their interoperability and flexibility. In fact, with a single card, it is possible to access facilities that use different reading technologies, such as RFID, magnetic stripe and contact chip, simplifying management and reducing the need to carry multiple cards.
The data stored on combo cards varies based on the intended use. They can include personal information for identification, data for accessing specific services or areas, information related to loyalty programmes, and credit for use as an electronic purse.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT COMBO CARDS
Best combo cards for businesses
The best combo card solutions for businesses are characterised by their ability to integrate various chips and technologies, offering a versatile solution for different business applications.
At Partitalia, we have the following combo cards in our catalogue:
- Mifare Classic 1K EV1 S50 + EM4100
- Mifare Classic 1K EV1 S50 + EM4200
- Mifare Classic 4K EV1 S50 + EM4200
- Mifare Classic 1K EV1 S50 + T5567
- Mifare Classic 4K EV1 S50 + T5567
- Mifare Classic 1K EV1 S50 + 5555
- Mifare Classic 4K EV1 S50 + 5555
- RF81 + EM4200
- RF81 + T5567
- RF81 + 5555
Our combo cards are available in various materials: PVC, PETG, recycled PVC, and degradable PVC. PVC and PETG are thermoplastic materials resistant to high temperatures and chemicals, flexible, and offer excellent printability. Recycled PVC is derived from waste generated during the production of standard PVC, while degradable PVC is made so by the inclusion of additives that accelerate its decomposition in microbe-rich environments. Both materials are characterised by a lower environmental impact while maintaining the same technical properties as standard PVC.
DISCOVER OUR CUSTOMISABLE COMBO CARDS SOLUTIONS
Custom combo cards
In our Lainate facility, we produce customisable combo cards for access control, customisable combo card for loyalty and membership programs, using various printing and customisation techniques, enhancing the card with company logos, graphic elements, and information to improve its effectiveness and appearance.
Chromatic printing — logos and graphics — is carried out using offset printing, silkscreen printing, digital printing, UV spot varnish and hot stamping. Customisation, such as adding variable data like names, numbers, photos, or barcodes, is done through thermographic printing, laser printing, inkjet printing, and embossing.
FAQs combo cards
What is a combo card, and how does it work?
Combo cards are hybrid cards equipped with independent chips, capable of combining up to two contact chips or three different RFID chips. A combo card’s usage varies depending on the type of chip and the specific integrated functionalities, which can include identification, building access, electronic wallet, and more. It can support both contact mode, where the card is inserted into the reader, and contactless mode, functioning by simply being brought near the RFID reader.
What types of technologies are used in combo cards?
Combo cards can combine various technologies: RFID and contact chips, with the option to also include a magnetic stripe and a barcode.
How does a combo card differ from a single-function card?
Combo cards, compared to a single-function card, are characterised by interoperability. A single combo card, in fact, allows access to installations with different reading technologies, without the need to carry several cards.
What industries commonly use combo cards?
Combo cards are widely used by hotels, companies, schools and universities, gyms and sports federations for identification and access control. Additionally, they are adopted in loyalty programs, where systems provided by different vendors are present.
What are the uses of a combo card in business?
In businesses, combo cards are used for access control, employee identification and attendance tracking, when several functions need to be performed with one card. In addition, they can be used as an electronic purse for vending machines and the canteen, and for access control of vehicles in the company car park.
How do I select the right combo card for my business?
Choosing the right combo card depends on the specific interoperability requirements. At Partitalia, we have different types of combo cards available, offering a versatile solution for different business applications. Furthermore, our combo cards are available in different materials, such as PVC, PETG, recycled PVC and degradable PVC.
