Blank 125khz RFID Proximity TK4100 ID Clamshell Cards

125kHz RFID proximity cards are a practical choice for identification, access control, parking systems, employee credentials, and other applications that use low-frequency RFID technology. Our blank 125kHz RFID proximity TK4100 ID clamshell cards are designed for organizations that need durable, printable cards that can work with compatible 125kHz RFID readers.

The cards are available with TK4100 and other low-frequency RFID chip options, with PVC, PET, or ABS materials and several surface finishes. They can also be customized with full-color printing, numbering, barcodes, signature panels, magnetic stripes, and encoding services.

Whether you need blank proximity cards for internal issuance or customized RFID cards for a large access control project, choosing the correct chip, card construction, and personalization method is essential for reliable system compatibility.

What Is a 125kHz RFID Proximity Card?

A 125kHz RFID proximity card is a contactless identification card that operates in the low-frequency RFID range. Unlike a contact card, it does not need to be inserted into a reader. The user simply presents the card within the reader’s operating range, and the compatible RFID system detects the card.

TK4100 is one of the commonly used chip types for 125kHz RFID identification cards. These cards are often used in systems where a simple proximity-based identification credential is required.

A typical 125kHz RFID proximity card consists of a plastic card body, an embedded RFID antenna, and an RFID chip. The antenna communicates with the reader, while the chip provides the identification information required by the compatible system.

The actual reading distance depends on the reader, antenna design, installation environment, card construction, and surrounding materials. For the 125kHz products listed on this page, the typical reading distance is approximately 3–10 cm under suitable conditions.

Specifications

Blank 125khz RFID Proximity TK4100 ID Clamshell Cards

Material: PVC, ABS,PET
Surface: glossy, matte, frosted
Size: 85.5*54*1.8mm, or customized
Frequency: 125khz

Item: 125khz RFID proximity clamshell id cards
 Material: PVC, PET, ABS
 Surface: glossy, matt, frosted
 Size: standard credit card size 85.5*54*0.84mm, or customized
 Frequency: 125khz/LF
 Chip type:-LF(125KHz), TK4100, EM4200, ATA5577, etc
-HF(13.56MHz), NXP NTAG213, 215, 216, Mifare 1k, Mifare 4K, Mifare Ultralight, Ultralight C, Icode SLI, Ti2048, mifare desfire, SRIX 2K, SRIX 4k, etc
-UHF(860-960MHz), Ucode G2XM, G2XL, Alien H3, IMPINJ Monza, etc
 Reading distance: 3-10cm for LF&HF, 1m-10m for UHF depends on the reader and envirnment
 Printing: silk screen and CMYK full color printing, digital printing
 Available crafts:-preprinting: CMYK full color & silk screen
-signature panel
-magnetic stripe: 300OE, 2750OE, 4000OE
-barcode: 39,128, 13, etc
-numbering: inkjet, Thermal printing, laser printing
-encoding
 Application: Widely used in transportation, insurance, Telecom, hospital, school, supermarket, parking, access control, etc
 Leadtime: 7-9 working days
 Package: 200 pcs/box, 10 boxes/carton, 14 kg/carton
 Shipping way: by express, by air, by sea
 Price term: EXW, FOB, CIF, CNF
 Payment: by L/C, TT, western union, paypal, etc
 Monthly capacity: 8,000,000 pcs / month
 Certificate: ISO9001, SGS, ROHS, EN71
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TK4100 RFID Card Features

The TK4100 version is intended for applications using compatible 125kHz RFID proximity technology. It provides a simple card-based identification solution without requiring a physical contact interface.

Key features include:

  • 125kHz low-frequency RFID operation
  • TK4100 chip option
  • Contactless card reading
  • Standard credit-card format
  • PVC, PET, or ABS construction options
  • Glossy, matte, or frosted surfaces
  • Custom printing available
  • Optional numbering and barcode printing
  • Optional encoding service
  • Suitable for access control and identification applications
  • Custom dimensions and card configurations available

The card can be supplied as a blank RFID card or personalized according to the requirements of a specific project.

For system replacement projects, however, the card should always be matched to the existing RFID reader and access-control system. A card that operates at 125kHz is not automatically compatible with every 125kHz reader because chip protocol, data format, and system configuration can also affect compatibility.

TK4100 vs. EM4200 vs. T5577

Choosing the correct chip is one of the most important steps when ordering 125kHz RFID cards. TK4100, EM4200, and ATA5577 are not interchangeable in every RFID system.

FeatureTK4100EM4200ATA5577
Frequency125kHz125kHz125kHz / LF
Typical useBasic RFID identificationIdentification and proximity systemsConfigurable LF applications
Data capabilityFixed identification useIdentification useRewritable/configurable
Typical projectAccess cards, ID cardsAccess and identificationDevelopment, replacement, configurable credentials
CompatibilityTK4100-compatible systemsEM-compatible systemsDepends on reader/protocol configuration
Best forStraightforward card replacementExisting EM-based systemsApplications requiring configuration flexibility

The important point is that 125kHz is the frequency, not the complete compatibility specification. Before placing an order, confirm the existing card type, reader model, chip protocol, data format, and any required card number or encoding format.

If your existing cards are already working with a TK4100-compatible reader, a TK4100 card is generally the most straightforward option to investigate. If the system uses a different LF protocol, another chip may be more appropriate.

125kHz vs. 13.56MHz RFID Cards

125kHz and 13.56MHz are two different RFID technology families. They should not be treated as interchangeable simply because both are contactless RFID products.

Feature125kHz RFID13.56MHz RFID
Frequency125kHz13.56MHz
TechnologyLF RFIDHF RFID
Common applicationsBasic access control, proximity IDSmart cards, NFC-related applications, advanced access control
Typical reading distanceShort rangeShort range
Chip optionsTK4100, EM4200, ATA5577NTAG, MIFARE, DESFire and others
Data/security capabilityDepends on chip and systemWide range, including advanced secure chips
Smartphone interactionGenerally not supportedSome 13.56MHz technologies can support NFC devices
CompatibilityRequires LF-compatible readerRequires HF-compatible reader

A 125kHz TK4100 card cannot simply replace a 13.56MHz MIFARE card, and a 13.56MHz card cannot replace a 125kHz proximity card without changing the reader and system configuration.

For a replacement project, always identify the existing technology before ordering new cards.

Why Choose a Clamshell RFID Card?

Clamshell RFID cards are designed for applications where durability and easy identification are important. Their thicker construction compared with thin RFID inlays or paper-based credentials can provide a practical format for daily-use access cards.

Common advantages include:

Durable Card Construction

PVC, PET, and ABS can be selected according to the intended application and required appearance. The appropriate material can help create a card suitable for regular handling.

Easy Visual Identification

The card surface can be customized with company logos, employee information, card numbers, photographs, or other visual elements.

Contactless Operation

Users can present the card to a compatible reader without inserting the card into a slot or making physical electrical contact.

Flexible Personalization

Cards can be supplied with printed numbers, barcodes, signature panels, magnetic stripes, and other optional features.

Custom Printing and Personalization

A blank RFID card does not have to remain visually blank. For organizations issuing cards to employees, students, visitors, members, or customers, customized printing can make card management easier and provide a more professional appearance.

Available customization options can include:

  • CMYK full-color printing
  • Digital printing
  • Silk-screen printing
  • Sequential numbering
  • Barcode printing
  • Signature panels
  • Magnetic stripes
  • Custom artwork
  • Logo printing
  • RFID encoding

RFID Card Printing Options

Printing MethodSuitable ForMain Advantage
CMYK full colorLogos, photos, detailed designsDetailed visual reproduction
Digital printingVariable designs and smaller batchesFlexible personalization
Silk screenSimple graphics and solid colorsSuitable for selected high-volume designs
Inkjet numberingSequential card numbersSimple identification
Thermal printingVariable informationUseful for personalized data
Laser printingDurable numbering and markingsProfessional identification

Artwork requirements should be confirmed before production. For projects involving employee IDs or membership cards, it is also useful to define the relationship between the printed card number and the RFID chip number before manufacturing.

RFID Encoding and Numbering

Encoding is different from printing.

Printing puts visible information on the card, while encoding stores or configures identification data within the RFID chip when supported by the selected chip and system.

For example, a card may have:

  • A printed card number on the front
  • A barcode containing the same or related number
  • An RFID identification number used by the access-control system

These three identifiers can be coordinated during card production to simplify administration.

For replacement orders, provide the supplier with the required encoding format and test specifications whenever possible. If the cards must match an existing access-control database, compatibility should be verified before mass production.

Applications of 125kHz RFID Proximity Cards

125kHz proximity cards are commonly used in systems where short-range contactless identification is sufficient.

Typical applications include:

ApplicationExample Use
Access controlEmployee and staff entry
Office securityDoor identification
ParkingVehicle or user identification
SchoolsStudent or staff access
HospitalsPersonnel identification
MembershipClubs and facilities
TransportationIdentification credentials
TelecomPersonnel or facility access
RetailStaff access and identification
Visitor managementTemporary or permanent credentials

The appropriate chip and card format depend on the system used at each site.

125kHz RFID Cards for Access Control

Access control is one of the most common applications for proximity cards. A user presents the RFID card to a compatible reader, and the system checks the card’s identification information against its access database.

For a new access-control project, the card should be selected together with the reader and controller rather than independently.

For an existing system, identify:

  1. The current card frequency.
  2. The current chip type or protocol.
  3. The reader model.
  4. The card’s identification format.
  5. Whether the card contains printed or encoded information.
  6. The required card size and thickness.
  7. The quantity required.
  8. Whether custom printing is needed.

This information can significantly reduce the risk of ordering incompatible replacement cards.

How to Choose the Right 125kHz RFID Card

If you are not sure whether TK4100 is suitable for your project, use the following selection process.

Step 1: Identify the Existing Card

Check the existing card, packaging, reader documentation, or system supplier information. Look for terms such as TK4100, EM4100, EM4200, T5577, 125kHz, or LF.

Step 2: Confirm the Reader

The reader is often more useful than the card itself for determining compatibility. Check the reader’s supported frequency and RFID protocols.

Step 3: Decide Whether You Need a Fixed or Configurable Chip

For straightforward identification, a suitable fixed-ID LF chip may be sufficient. If your project requires configurable or rewritable LF credentials, discuss alternatives such as ATA5577 with the system provider.

Step 4: Choose the Card Construction

Select PVC, PET, or ABS based on the desired durability, appearance, thickness, and budget.

Step 5: Define Personalization

Decide whether you need full-color printing, sequential numbering, barcodes, signature panels, magnetic stripes, or RFID encoding.

Step 6: Test Before Mass Production

For large orders, request samples or conduct a compatibility test with the actual reader and access-control system before approving full production.

125kHz RFID Card Compatibility Checklist

Use this checklist before ordering replacement or customized RFID cards:

QuestionWhy It Matters
Is the reader 125kHz?Confirms the RFID frequency
What chip is currently used?Determines chip compatibility
What protocol does the reader support?Frequency alone is not enough
What is the required card number format?Prevents database conflicts
Is encoding required?Determines production requirements
What card thickness is required?Ensures physical compatibility
Is custom printing required?Affects artwork and production
What quantity is required?Helps determine production and packaging
Are samples required?Allows compatibility testing
Is a certificate required?Helps meet project procurement requirements

Production and Custom Order Options

The cards can be supplied for both standard and customized projects. According to the current product information, the listed production lead time is approximately 7–9 working days, while production capacity is stated at up to 8 million pieces per month.

Packaging is listed as 200 cards per box and 10 boxes per carton. Shipping can be arranged by express, air, or sea depending on the order quantity, destination, and required delivery time.

For larger projects, it is recommended to confirm the following before production:

  • Final card dimensions
  • Card thickness
  • Material
  • RFID chip
  • Encoding requirements
  • Printing artwork
  • Card numbering
  • Barcode requirements
  • Packaging
  • Quantity
  • Delivery schedule

Quality and Certification

The product information lists ISO9001, SGS, RoHS, and EN71 among the relevant certifications or compliance documentation.

Certification requirements can vary by market and project. If a specific certificate or test report is mandatory for your application, request the applicable documentation before placing the order.

For commercial RFID projects, quality control should cover both the physical card and RFID performance. Sampling can include visual inspection, dimensional inspection, printing quality, card durability, and RFID reading tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a TK4100 RFID card?

A TK4100 RFID card is a low-frequency proximity card designed for compatible 125kHz RFID readers. It is commonly used for identification and access-control applications.

Is TK4100 the same as 125kHz?

No. 125kHz describes the operating frequency, while TK4100 identifies a particular chip technology. Other chips can also operate in the 125kHz LF range.

Can a TK4100 card work with any 125kHz reader?

Not necessarily. The reader must support the card’s specific chip technology, protocol, and data format. Frequency compatibility alone does not guarantee system compatibility.

Can I print my company logo on a TK4100 card?

Yes. Custom printing options can include CMYK full-color printing, digital printing, and silk-screen printing, depending on the required design and production method.

Can these RFID cards include card numbers?

Yes. Numbering options can include inkjet, thermal, or laser printing. Sequential numbering can also be coordinated with RFID encoding when required.

Can I add a barcode?

Yes. Barcode options can include commonly used formats such as Code 39 and Code 128, subject to project requirements.

What is the typical reading distance?

The listed typical reading distance for LF and HF cards is approximately 3–10 cm. Actual performance depends on the reader, antenna, installation environment, card design, and surrounding materials.

Are 125kHz cards secure enough for every access-control system?

Not necessarily. Basic 125kHz proximity technology is suitable for many identification applications, but high-security applications may require more advanced RFID technologies with stronger security features. The security requirements of the complete access-control system should be evaluated before selecting a card.

Can I order a custom size?

Custom dimensions can be discussed. The standard card format is approximately 85.5 × 54 mm, while the final thickness and construction should be confirmed according to the selected product configuration.

How should I test compatibility?

The best approach is to test sample cards with the actual RFID reader and access-control system before placing a large production order. If possible, provide the supplier with the existing card type and reader model.

Why Order Custom 125kHz RFID Proximity Cards?

For organizations replacing existing proximity cards or launching a new identification program, a customized RFID card can combine electronic identification with clear visual branding.

A well-designed card program can provide:

  • Consistent employee or member identification
  • Professional company branding
  • Easy card-number management
  • Barcode or magnetic-stripe integration
  • Contactless user identification
  • Flexible material and surface options
  • Bulk production for large projects

The most important consideration is compatibility. Before selecting a TK4100 RFID card, confirm the frequency, chip type, reader protocol, and required identification format.

Get a Quote for TK4100 RFID Cards

If you need 125kHz RFID proximity cards for access control, employee identification, parking, membership, school, hospital, or other applications, provide your required quantity, card design, existing reader information, and chip requirements.

For replacement projects, sending a photo of the existing card and reader model can help determine the appropriate RFID card configuration. For new projects, we can help you compare TK4100 and other LF RFID chip options based on the required application.

Custom card size, material, printing, numbering, barcode, encoding, packaging, and shipping options can be discussed according to your project requirements.

Choose the RFID technology first, confirm compatibility with the reader, and then finalize the card design and personalization requirements. This approach helps ensure that your finished 125kHz RFID cards are both visually suitable and technically compatible with the intended system. Feel free to leave us a message.