Do RFID Cards Expire?

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How long do RFID cards last? Do they have an expiration date? What factors affect their lifespan? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and provide some tips on how to extend the life of your RFID cards.

RFID Card Lifespan

The lifespan of an RFID card depends on several factors, such as the type of RFID card, the environmental conditions, the frequency of use, and the physical durability. Generally speaking, RFID cards can last for 20 years or more under normal conditions. However, if the card is exposed to high heat, harsh chemicals, physical damage, or electrostatic discharge, it may stop working sooner.

There are three main types of RFID cards, based on the frequency of the radio waves they use: 125KHz Card, 13.56MHz Card, and UHF RFID Card. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and may have different lifespans depending on the application.

125KHz RFID Card

125KHz Card is a low-frequency RFID proximity card that is commonly used for identification and access control. It has a short reading range of a few centimeters, and a low data transfer rate. It is also vulnerable to interference from metal and water. However, it is relatively cheap, simple, and stable, and can work well in harsh environments.

The lifespan of a 125KHz Card is mainly determined by the quality of the chip and the antenna, and the protection of the plastic body. If the chip or the antenna is damaged, the card will not function properly. Therefore, it is important to choose a reliable RFID card manufacturer that can provide high-quality products and services.

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13.56MHz Card

13.56MHz Card is a high-frequency RFID card that is widely used for payment, transportation, and security. It has a longer reading range of up to 10 centimeters, and a higher data transfer rate. It can also support encryption and authentication, and store more data on the chip. However, it is more expensive, complex, and sensitive to interference than 125KHz Card.

The lifespan of a 13.56MHz Card is mainly affected by the environmental conditions and the frequency of use. If the card is exposed to high temperature, moisture, dust, or magnetic fields, it may degrade the performance of the chip and the antenna. If the card is frequently inserted and removed from the reader, it may wear out the contact points and cause data loss. Therefore, it is advisable to store the card in a cool, dry, and clean place, and use a protective case or sleeve to prevent physical contact.

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UHF RFID Card

UHF RFID Card is an ultra-high-frequency RFID card that is suitable for logistics, inventory, and asset management. It has the longest reading range of up to 10 meters, and the fastest data transfer rate. It can also support multiple tag reading, and have a large memory capacity. However, it is the most expensive, power-consuming, and complex type of RFID card. It is also the most susceptible to interference from metal and water.

The lifespan of a UHF RFID Card is mainly influenced by the quality of the chip and the antenna, and the design of the card. If the chip or the antenna is defective, the card will not work at all. If the card is not well-designed, it may not be compatible with the reader, or may cause interference with other cards. Therefore, it is essential to choose a professional RFID card manufacturer that can provide customized solutions and technical support.

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How to Extend the Life of RFID Cards ?

There are some simple steps you can take to extend the life of your RFID cards, regardless of the type and the application. Here are some tips to follow:

•  Keep the card away from heat, moisture, dust, and direct sunlight, as these may damage the chip and the antenna.

•  Avoid bending, scratching, or cracking the card, as these may break the circuit and cause data loss.

•  Use a protective case or sleeve to prevent physical contact with the card, especially if it is a contactless card.

•  Do not place the card near magnetic fields, such as magnets, speakers, or microwaves, as these may erase or corrupt the data on the chip.

•  Do not expose the card to electrostatic discharge, such as static electricity, as this may fry the chip and render the card useless.

•  Clean the card regularly with a soft cloth and a mild detergent, and dry it thoroughly before using it.

•  Replace the card before it expires, as the expiration date may indicate the end of the warranty or the validity of the data.

Conclusion

RFID cards are a great technology that can help you improve your business efficiency and security. However, they are not indestructible, and they do have a limited lifespan. By understanding the factors that affect their lifespan, and following the tips to extend their life, you can make the most of your RFID cards and avoid unnecessary costs and inconveniences.

If you are looking for high-quality RFID cards for your business, you can contact DAFTags, one of the leading RFID card manufacturers in China. They can provide you with various types of RFID cards, such as 125KHz RFID Card, 13.56MHz RFID Card, and 860~960MHz frequency UHF RFID Card, as well as customized solutions and services.