Need to reorder HID cards or fobs but not sure which is the right product/code? The best starting point is to send us clear photos of your existing card, fob, reader, box label or product label. HID products look similar but the programming details are different, so it's always better to check before ordering.
If you're using HID cards or fobs in your building and need to order more, it can be tricky to know exactly which products are right for your particular system.
In many cases, HID access control products are programmed directly by HID specifically to your own specific system, which means we need information from you before they can be matched correctly.
This might include a part number, format, facility code, site code or card number range. If those terms mean absolutely nothing to you, don’t panic, we can help guide you.
This guide explains what information you'll need when reordering HID cards, fobs and readers, and how to find it.
You can also view our full range of HID cards, fobs and readers.
The key HID details to look for
When reordering HID cards or fobs, there are four common details that may be needed: the part number, format, facility or site code, and card number range.
Part number
This helps identify the physical HID product, such as the card, fob, tag or reader model.
Format
This controls how the card or fob data is structured so your access control system can read it correctly.
Facility or site code
This helps identify the site, building or system group the card belongs to.
Card range
This is the sequence of card numbers required for your new batch of cards or fobs.
What is an HID part number?
A HID part number helps identify the product itself, usually whether the card, fob or tag on an operating system. However it's often not enough on its own. We may also need other details such as the format, facility code and card range to ensure the product works with your particular system.
What is an HID format?
The format is the way the data is arranged on the card or fob. This is one of the reasons two HID cards can look the same but work differently.
If the format is wrong, the card or fob may not be recognised by your access control system, even if the physical product is correct.
What is a facility code or site code?
A facility code, sometimes called a site code, is one of the details that may be programmed into an access control card or fob.
It helps your access control system recognise which group, site or building the card belongs to. For example, a school, office, apartment block or business site may have its own facility code.
Why it's important: if the facility code, site code or format is wrong, the new cards or fobs won't work with your system.
What is a card number or card range?
A card number is the individual number assigned to a card or fob. A card range is the sequence of numbers used when ordering a batch.
For example, if your existing cards run from 1001 to 1100, your next order may need to continue from 1101 onwards. This is a security requirement that means you don't end up with duplicate card numbers on your system.
What are open, closed and restricted HID formats?
Some HID formats are open, which means they can usually be ordered more easily. Others may be closed or restricted to a specific installer, distributor or organisation.
If your existing cards use a restricted format, it may not always be possible for a new supplier to provide the same programmed cards. In that case, you may need to go back to your original installer or authorised supplier.
If we think your HID format may be restricted, we will let you know before you order.
Not sure? Here's what to send us before ordering
The more information you can send us about what HID products you're currently using, the easier it will be for us to help identify the correct product. You don't need to understand all the technical details - clear photos are often the most helpful place to start.
Useful details to send us
- A clear photo of the front and back of your existing HID card or fob
- A photo of the original box label, if you still have it
- A photo of your reader
- Any part number shown on the packaging, card, fob or reader
- Your current card numbers or the next number range required, if known
- Your facility code or site code, if known
- Any previous order details, invoice number or supplier reference
- The quantity you need
Simple advice: if you're not sure, please check with us first. The easiest way is to send us photos of your existing products. We can then advise on any missing information and how to get it.
What if I don't have the original HID box label?
The original HID box label is very useful because it shows important ordering and programming details. However, if you don't have the box label, send us what you do have. This could include photos of the card, fob, reader, product label, previous invoice or any paperwork from your installer.
Will my HID cards and fobs work straight away?
Not always. Even when HID cards or fobs are supplied with the correct details, they may still need to be enrolled onto your access control system before they can be used.
Enrolling usually means adding the card or fob to your access control software and assigning it to a person, door, building or permission level. This is normally done by whoever manages your access control system, such as your installer, building manager, facilities team, security provider or system administrator.
Can my HID reader tell me which cards I need?
A HID reader label can be useful, but it doesn't always tell the full story. It will help identify the technology family, but the card or fob format, facility code and number range may still need checking.
If you have a reader label, send us a photo along with any existing cards, fobs or box labels.
What HID products are available?
Our HID range includes cards, fobs, tags and readers, including HID Prox, HID iCLASS and HID Indala options. HID cards, fobs and tags are generally supplied in packs of 100.
Already know which product you need? Go to our full HID cards, fobs and readers collection.
If you're unsure, it is best to contact us first with photos so we can help identify the correct option before you order.
Need help identifying your HID cards or fobs?
Send us clear photos of your existing card, fob, reader, box label or product label and we'll help you work out what you need.
FAQs
How do I know which HID card I need?
The best starting point is to send us photos of your existing card, fob, reader and any box or product label. If you know the part number, format, facility code or card range, send those details too.
Can I reorder HID cards using the number printed on the card?
Sometimes the printed number can help, but it is not always enough on its own. HID cards may also require the correct part number, format, facility code and card range.
What is a HID facility code?
A facility code, also called a site code, is part of the information programmed into many access control cards. It helps identify the site or system group the card belongs to.
What is a HID format?
The format controls how the card or fob data is structured and read by your access control system. If the format is wrong, the card may not work even if it looks correct.
What if I do not have the original HID box label?
Send us photos of the card, fob, reader and any information you do have.
Do HID cards work straight away?
Not always. Even when HID cards or fobs are supplied with the correct details, they usually need to be enrolled onto your access control system before they can be used.
