Modernizing access points is essential for apartment buildings, condos, co-ops, and gated communities. With options ranging from telephone call boxes and video intercoms to key fobs, understanding the best solution for your property can be complex. This guide focuses on key fob systems for apartments and multifamily residential buildings, detailing their integration with access control technology.
Whether you are a property owner, manager, or a board member of a residential association, this article provides crucial information about apartment key fob systems for enhancing security and convenience in residential properties.
Understanding Apartment Key Fob Systems
An apartment key fob system is an electronic access control system employing key fobs as credentials. These systems grant authorized individuals access to common areas within apartment buildings or condominium complexes.
Their utility extends to gated communities and residential campuses, managing access at vehicle entry points, pedestrian gates, and shared amenities like clubhouses or pools.
In residential settings, key fobs, often called key tags, are typically compact and fit easily on a keyring. Key cards, similar in size to credit cards, are also available but more commonly used in commercial buildings or hotels. Residents simply “tap” their key fobs near a proximity reader installed at building entrances and gates to gain access.
For added convenience, longer-range, battery-powered key fobs can open doors or vehicle gates from a distance. RFID stickers are another type of fob that can be affixed to vehicles for automated gate access as the car approaches.
Key fobs offer significant advantages for residential properties. Residents can use a single fob for multiple access points, including main entrances, mail rooms, lounges, and parking areas.
Key fobs can also be issued to building staff and delivery personnel, allowing for secure maintenance and package deliveries without the need for constant on-site staffing.
How Apartment Key Fobs Function
Proximity readers, installed at building entryways, emit radio waves at common frequencies such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Near-Field Communication (NFC), and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). When a key fob is presented, it responds by sending a signal back to the reader. The reader then verifies this signal against a system database. Upon successful authorization, the system activates a magnetic or electronic door lock, granting access.
Apartment Key Fob Security: Benefits and Drawbacks
Apartment key fobs offer numerous security advantages but also present certain limitations. Overall, they are a secure option for access control that can significantly improve residential building security, although, like any security measure, they are not impenetrable.
Security Advantages:
- Access Logs: Each key fob is unique to a resident, and entry times can be recorded in a database, providing an audit trail.
- Integration with Intercoms: Key fob systems can be integrated with telephone call boxes or, ideally, video intercoms. This integration allows residents to visually verify visitors before granting entry, enhancing building security.
- Remote Deactivation: Key fobs can be remotely deactivated when a resident moves out or if a fob is lost or stolen. This feature allows for immediate security adjustments without the need to physically change locks.
Security Disadvantages:
- Potential for Copying: Many standard key fobs can be copied, which means they are not entirely foolproof for properties with very high-security requirements.
- However, more advanced types of key fobs like mobile device fobs, biometric fobs, and encrypted fobs offer enhanced security and are much harder to duplicate.
Exploring Different Types of Key Fobs
Passive vs. Active Key Fobs
Passive key fobs require close proximity to the reader to function, usually needing to be “tapped” against it. They operate without buttons. Active key fobs, powered by batteries, can transmit signals over greater distances (up to 100 feet). Similar to remote car keys, they typically have buttons that users must press to unlock an access point.
Unencrypted vs. Encrypted Key Fobs
Encrypted key fobs utilize secure communication protocols to encrypt data transmitted between the fob and the reader. This encryption significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized duplication, making these fobs much more secure.
RFID Car Tags
For comprehensive access management in residential communities, RFID tags for cars can be integrated into key fob systems. These tags automatically trigger gates to open at driveways, community entrances, or parking garages as a vehicle approaches, eliminating the need for drivers to manually present a key fob. RFID stickers can be easily placed on a car’s windshield or near the license plate.
Mobile Phone Credentials
Modern key fob systems increasingly support the use of mobile phones as credentials. Leveraging technologies like NFC, similar to “tap to pay,” smartphones can act as key fobs. This eliminates the need to carry an additional fob. Furthermore, the encryption inherent in smartphones makes them highly secure against cloning.
Biometric Key Fobs
Biometric fobs represent the cutting edge in key fob security. They incorporate fingerprint sensors for access control, offering a higher level of security and speed compared to traditional fobs. These battery-powered fobs require users to scan their fingerprint to authenticate before access is granted. While generally more expensive, they are ideal for residential buildings requiring the highest levels of security.
Selecting the Right Key Fob System for Your Apartment Building
When considering apartment key fob systems, several factors should be evaluated to ensure the chosen system meets the specific needs of your property and residents.
Security Level of Key Fobs
Standard 125 kHz key fob systems are typically the most affordable due to their use of generic, unencrypted fobs. However, their lower security level means they are susceptible to copying. For properties prioritizing high security, investing in encrypted key fob systems is advisable. These systems often use protocols like Desfire, 13.56 MHz, or Mifare, which offer robust protection against unauthorized duplication.
Variety of Key Fob Types
A versatile apartment key fob system should support multiple credential types, allowing property managers to select the most convenient options for residents. Options include traditional key tags, key cards, and mobile phone credentials. Some systems also support vehicle RFID stickers, enhancing access control for parking areas.
System Integration Capabilities
It is crucial to verify if a key fob system can integrate with existing security infrastructure, such as electronic door strikes, video intercoms, call boxes, and security cameras. For properties with multiple entry points, ensure the system can manage access across all relevant doors, including mail rooms, pools, gyms, and other shared facilities.
System Features and Functionality
Consider the features included with the key fob system. Ideal systems may offer additional functionalities like pin pad access, integrated intercom systems, video capabilities, and remote management software. These features can significantly enhance the overall security and operational efficiency of the access control system.
System Cost Considerations
The cost of a basic key fob system, including a proximity card reader and credentials, can start as low as $500. However, for more integrated systems, such as those combining video intercoms with key fob readers, costs can range from $1,500 to $5,000. Installation costs are typically separate. Some modern systems utilize cloud-based software management, which may reduce upfront hardware costs but introduce a monthly subscription fee.
System Capacity and Scalability
Ensure that the chosen key fob system can accommodate the current number of users and is scalable to support future growth in residents or staff.
Key Fob Software and Programming
For new installations, cloud-based remote management software is highly recommended for programming and managing the key fob system.
Older systems often required on-site computers with cumbersome software, making user management and system updates labor-intensive. Cloud-based systems allow property managers to manage the system remotely from any computer, significantly reducing administrative overhead, especially for properties with multiple buildings. While these systems often involve a monthly subscription, the operational efficiencies and reduced labor costs typically justify the expense.
Leading Manufacturers of Apartment Key Fob Systems
Numerous manufacturers specialize in apartment key fob systems, offering a range of solutions to meet diverse needs. Below are a few of the major players in the market.
Aiphone
Aiphone is a global leader in intercom systems, renowned for high-quality communication and security products. They offer a variety of intercom solutions suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial applications, often integrating access control features like key fob compatibility.
HID Global (part of ASSA ABLOY)
HID Global is a worldwide leader in smart cards, key fobs, and mobile access solutions. They provide scalable access control systems for a wide range of applications, including residential complexes, commercial buildings, and government facilities. HID is known for offering advanced security options, including biometric and two-factor authentication, alongside cost-effective unencrypted passive key fobs.
Swiftlane
Swiftlane specializes in modern access control systems that integrate video intercoms with facial recognition technology. Their sleek, user-friendly consoles are ideal for residential buildings and offices. Swiftlane systems offer multiple entry methods, including traditional key fobs, mobile tap access, and facial recognition, providing flexible and secure access solutions.
DoorKing
DoorKing focuses on telephone entry systems, commonly used in larger apartment communities. Known for their robust and weather-resistant designs, DoorKing offers several models that include key fob access, although primarily focused on audio communication without video capabilities.
Giesecke+Devrient (G+D)
Giesecke+Devrient (G+D) is a global technology company specializing in high-security key fobs, including biometric options. Their StarSign product line features key fobs with integrated fingerprint readers, enhancing security by ensuring only authorized users can gain access. This is particularly beneficial for high-security residential environments.
Installation of Apartment Key Fob Systems
While many companies manufacture key fob system hardware, installation is typically carried out by third-party system integrators. Professional installation is generally recommended as it involves electrical wiring for power and door release mechanisms, as well as network connections for cloud-based systems. Integrating different components from various manufacturers also requires specialized expertise.
Hardware manufacturers can often recommend certified installation companies in your area experienced with their products. Unless your property has in-house staff with expertise in electrical engineering and security systems, DIY installation is generally not advisable.
Understanding the Costs of Key Fob Systems
The cost of an apartment key fob system varies based on complexity and features. A basic system for a single entry point can start at around $500, but typically averages closer to $1,000, including a proximity card reader and on-site database management. Cloud-based systems may reduce initial hardware costs but introduce monthly service fees.
Integrated systems, combining video intercoms with key fob access, range from $1,500 to $5,000 for the primary entry point. Additional doors without intercoms will cost less. Credential costs also need to be factored in, ranging from approximately $5 each for basic passive fobs to $50 for more secure active or encrypted fobs.
Professional installation fees are an additional cost, varying based on location and system complexity. Obtaining detailed quotes from system integrators or hardware providers is essential for accurate budgeting.
For specific pricing on key fob systems, consider requesting a quote from Swiftlane.
Why Swiftlane is an Excellent Choice for Apartment Key Fob Access
Swiftlane offers a comprehensive and advanced key fob access solution for apartments, featuring:
- Integrated Video Intercom System: Swiftlane key fobs are part of a video intercom system, enabling residents to screen visitors and remotely unlock doors via their smartphones, enhancing security and convenience.
- Facial Recognition Access: Residents can also use facial recognition for door access, reducing the need to use key fobs for everyday entry.
- Guest Key Fob Feature: Residents can temporarily grant key fob access to guests, providing a secure and controlled way to manage visitor entry.
- Smartphone as Key Fob: Residents can use their smartphones as key fobs, eliminating the need for extra hardware and streamlining access.
- Cloud-Based Management: Swiftlane’s cloud platform allows building management to remotely control the system, manage users, and adjust permissions, simplifying administration and improving responsiveness.
Get a quote from Swiftlane to explore how our solutions can benefit your property.
Frequently Asked Questions about Apartment Key Fobs
Can I program an apartment key fob myself?
Building managers and owners typically can program apartment key fobs themselves after the system is installed. Installers provide the necessary software and hardware to manage the system, add or remove users, and issue new fobs. However, residents usually cannot program fobs independently as system management access is restricted to authorized personnel.
Is it possible to copy a key fob?
Copying a key fob, or cloning, requires specialized RFID reader equipment, which is available online. While not as simple as copying traditional keys, tutorials and equipment are accessible for those attempting unauthorized duplication. However, encrypted and more advanced key fobs are significantly harder to copy.
What type of signal do apartment key fobs use?
Apartment key fobs communicate using various radio wave standards, including RFID, NFC, Bluetooth LE, and Wiegand protocols. 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, immediately contact your building manager or owner. They can deactivate the lost fob and issue you a new one through the system management software.
Can apartment key fobs be used to track my location?
No, apartment key fobs cannot be used to track your location. They do not contain GPS technology or connect to WiFi or cellular networks, and therefore cannot be used for tracking purposes outside of building access logs.
