Modernizing entry points is crucial for apartments, condos, co-ops, and gated communities. With various options like telephone call boxes, video intercoms, and key fobs, understanding the best solution can be challenging. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of apartment key fob systems, suitable for any multifamily residential building, and explains how they integrate with access control technology.
Whether you are a property owner, manager, or a member of a co-op, condo association, or HOA board, this article will equip you with essential knowledge about apartment key fob systems for residential properties.
Understanding Apartment Key Fob Systems
An apartment key fob system is a physical access control system that utilizes key fobs and an electronic key mechanism. The fob acts as a credential, granting authorized individuals access to the shared areas of an apartment or condominium complex.
These systems are also applicable in gated communities or residential campuses, controlling access at vehicle entry points, pedestrian gates, and communal facilities such as clubhouses or pools.
In apartment key fob systems, residents typically receive compact, quarter-sized key fobs, often referred to as key tags, which can be easily attached to a keyring. Credit card-shaped key cards are also an option, more frequently seen in commercial buildings or hotels. To gain entry, residents simply “tap” their key tags near a proximity reader installed at building entrances and gates.
For extended range access, battery-powered key fobs are available, capable of opening doors or vehicle gates from a greater distance. Additionally, RFID stickers can be affixed to vehicles, enabling automatic gate opening as the car approaches driveways and parking areas.
Key fobs are particularly advantageous for residential properties. A single fob can grant residents access to multiple entry points, including main doors, mail rooms, lounges, and parking facilities.
Furthermore, key tags can be issued to building staff and regular delivery personnel, facilitating maintenance and secure package deliveries without the need for constant door or gate attendants.
How Apartment Fob Keys Operate
Proximity readers, installed at building entryways, emit radio waves at common frequencies. These technologies are known as radio frequency identification (RFID), near-field communications (NFC), and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). When a key fob is presented to the reader, it transmits a signal back. The reader then verifies this signal against a system database. If the credential is authorized for that specific door or gate, the system activates a magnetic or electronic door lock mechanism to grant access.
Apartment Key Fobs and Security: Are They Safe?
Apartment key fobs offer numerous security advantages for residential buildings, along with a few limitations. Overall, they are a secure access control choice that significantly enhances building safety. However, like any security measure, they are not entirely impenetrable.
Security Benefits of Fob Keys:
- Detailed Security Logs: Each resident receives a unique key fob, and every entry is logged in a database, creating a comprehensive audit trail.
- Seamless Intercom Integration: Key fob systems can be integrated with telephone call boxes or, ideally, video intercoms. This integration allows residents to visually verify visitors before granting access, bolstering building security.
- Remote Deactivation Capability: Key fobs can be remotely deactivated when a resident moves out or if a fob is lost or stolen. This immediate deactivation feature maintains building security without the expense of physical lock changes.
Security Limitations of Fob Keys:
- Potential for Copying: Many standard key fobs can be copied, which means they may not be sufficient for properties with extremely high-security requirements.
- However, advanced key fob technologies like mobile device key fobs, biometric key fobs, and encrypted key fobs offer enhanced security and are significantly harder to duplicate.
Exploring Different Types of Key Fobs
Passive vs. Active Key Fobs
Passive key fobs operate without requiring button presses. They function only at close range to the access point, typically by “tapping” them against a proximity reader. Active key fobs, powered by batteries, transmit signals over longer distances (up to 100 feet), similar to remote car keys with lock/unlock buttons. These require the user to press a button on the fob to activate the access point.
Unencrypted vs. Encrypted Key Fobs
Encrypted fobs utilize advanced communication protocols to transmit encrypted data between the fob and the proximity reader. This encryption makes it extremely difficult to create unauthorized copies, offering a higher level of security.
Car RFID Tags
A comprehensive apartment key fob system can incorporate RFID tags for vehicles. These tags automatically trigger gates at driveways, community entrances, or parking garages to open as the vehicle approaches. This eliminates the need for drivers to manually present a key tag, enhancing convenience and traffic flow. RFID stickers can be easily placed on the vehicle’s windshield or near the license plate.
Mobile Phones as Key Fobs
Leveraging the same “tap to pay” technology found in modern smartphones, residents can use their mobile phones as key fobs with advanced systems. This eliminates the need to carry a separate key tag. Mobile phone-based credentials are also encrypted, providing a highly secure and virtually impossible-to-copy access method.
Biometric Fobs
Biometric fobs elevate security by incorporating fingerprint sensors for access control. Offering enhanced speed and security compared to traditional fobs, these systems rely on unique biometric signatures. Users must touch a fingerprint reader on their battery-powered key tag for authentication. Biometric systems are generally more expensive and are typically reserved for residential buildings requiring the highest levels of security.
Choosing the Right Apartment Key Fob System
When evaluating apartment key fob systems, consider these key features and characteristics:
Key Fob Security Level
Standard 125 kHz key fob systems are the most cost-effective due to their use of generic, unencrypted fobs. However, their ease of duplication means they offer a lower level of security. Buildings with high-profile residents or heightened security needs should consider investing in encrypted key fob systems utilizing protocols like Desfire, 13.56 MHz, or Mifare for enhanced protection.
Key Fob Type Versatility
Many apartment key fob systems are designed to support multiple credential types, allowing property managers to choose the best option for their residents. These can include traditional key tags, key cards, and mobile phone credentials. Some systems also support vehicle tags in sticker form.
System Integration Capabilities
Inquire about the system’s ability to integrate with existing access control and security infrastructure, such as electronic door strikes, video intercoms or call boxes, and security cameras. If you have multiple controlled entry points, ensure the key fob system can manage access across all locations, including mail rooms, pools, gyms, and more.
System Features and Functionality
Assess if the key fob system is part of a broader platform that offers additional beneficial features for your building. These might include pin pad access, integrated intercom and video capabilities, and remote management software.
Cost Considerations
Basic key fob system hardware can start as low as $500 for a simple proximity card reader and a set of credentials. Integrated systems, such as video intercoms with built-in key fob readers, can range from $1,500 to $5,000. Installation costs are typically separate. Some modern systems utilize cloud-based software and databases, often incurring a nominal monthly fee, while others require on-site hardware.
User Capacity and Scalability
Verify that the chosen key fob system can accommodate the current and future number of users in your building, ensuring it can scale as needed.
Key Fob Software and Programming
For new installations, prioritize systems with cloud-based remote management software to streamline system programming.
Older apartment key fob systems often relied on dedicated on-site computers with cumbersome software to manage user databases. This required manual, on-site updates for each user addition or removal, and when fobs were lost or stolen.
Modern cloud-based management platforms, offered by many key fob system providers, allow building managers to access and control the system from any computer. This significantly reduces time and labor, especially for managers overseeing multiple properties. These platforms usually operate on a monthly subscription basis, which can be offset by reduced operational expenses.
Leading Manufacturers of Apartment Key Fob Systems
Numerous manufacturers specialize in apartment key fob systems. Here are a few major examples:
Aiphone
A globally recognized manufacturer of intercom systems, Aiphone is known for high-quality communication and security products. They offer a wide range of intercom solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial settings, including audio and video intercoms, door stations, and integrated access control systems.
HID Global (part of ASSA ABLOY)
HID Global is a global leader in smart cards, key fobs, and mobile access solutions. They provide scalable access control systems for various applications, offering advanced options like biometric authentication and two-factor security. HID is also a major provider of low-cost, unencrypted passive key fobs.
Swiftlane
Swiftlane specializes in advanced access control systems that integrate video intercoms with facial recognition technology. Their sleek, modern consoles are ideal for residential buildings and offices. Swiftlane systems offer multiple entry methods, including traditional key fobs, mobile phone tap access, and facial recognition.
DoorKing
DoorKing focuses on telephone call box entry systems, commonly used in large apartment complexes. Known for their durability, Doorking offers several models that include key fob access, though without video capabilities.
Giesecke+Devrient (G+D)
G+D is a global technology company specializing in biometric key fobs. Their StarSign product line features key fobs with integrated fingerprint readers, enhancing security in high-security residential environments.
Apartment Key Fob System Installation
While many companies manufacture key fob system hardware, installation is often performed by third-party system integrators. Installing these systems is generally not a DIY project unless your property has in-house staff with expertise in electrical engineering and security system setup.
Most access control systems require wiring for power and connection to door release mechanisms. Cloud-based systems may also need internet connectivity. Integrating components from different manufacturers requires specialized knowledge, making professional installation highly recommended.
Hardware manufacturers can typically recommend experienced installation companies in your area.
Cost of an Apartment Key Fob System
The cost for a basic single-entry key fob system starts around $500 but more commonly ranges closer to $1,000, including a basic proximity card reader and on-site database management. Cloud-based systems can reduce upfront costs but introduce monthly service fees.
Integrated systems with video intercoms can range from $1,500 to $5,000 for the primary entry point, with lower costs for additional doors without intercoms.
Consider the cost of credentials if using key fobs or cards instead of mobile phones. Standard unencrypted passive fobs can cost around $5 each in bulk, while active or encrypted fobs can be up to $50 per user.
Professional installation fees are additional and vary based on location and system complexity. Consulting with a system integrator or hardware provider will provide more accurate cost estimates.
For a starting point on pricing, consider requesting a quote from Swiftlane.
Why Choose Swiftlane for Apartment Fob Key Access?
- Swiftlane key fobs are integrated into a video intercom system, enabling residents to screen visitors and remotely unlock doors via their smartphones.
- Residents can utilize facial recognition for door access, often eliminating the need for a physical key fob.
- Key fobs can be temporarily loaned to guests for convenient access.
- Smartphones can be used as key fobs without requiring extra hardware.
- Swiftlane’s cloud-based management platform allows for remote system control, user management, and permission adjustments.
Get a quote from Swiftlane to learn more about our apartment key fob solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I program an apartment key fob myself?
Building managers and owners generally can program apartment key fobs after system installation. Installers provide the necessary hardware and software for system management, user administration, and key fob issuance.
Building residents typically cannot program key fobs themselves, as it requires access to the management software.
Is it possible to copy a key fob?
Copying or “cloning” a key fob is more complex than duplicating traditional keys. It requires specialized RFID reader equipment, readily available online, along with readily available online tutorials detailing the process and necessary equipment. Online marketplaces offer various key card cloners.
What type of signal do apartment key fobs use?
Apartment key fobs use different radio wave technologies for communication, including RFID, NFC, Bluetooth LE, and the older Wiegand protocol. These frequencies are safe and have been used for decades without demonstrated health risks.
What should I do if I lose my apartment key fob?
If you lose your key fob, contact your building manager or owner. They can access the key fob system backend and issue a replacement credential.
Can my key fob be used to track me?
Generally, no. Apartment key fobs cannot be used to track your location. They lack GPS, WiFi, or cellular network integration, preventing tracking once you leave the residential property.
