Clamshell Access Cards

A clamshell card is two plastic halves sealed around the antenna and chip. It is thicker than a credit card, about 0.07 in, and usually has a slot punch for a clip or lanyard. Clamshells are the cheapest and toughest way to issue access cards. The trade-off: you cannot print on them directly. If you need a photo ID, put an adhesive-backed PVC card on the front or choose a thin ISO card instead.

44 products

Find the right clamshell

Technology first, then format. A clamshell only works if both match your reader and panel.

  • HID 125 kHz prox: HID 1326 ProxCard II (open format), plus Identiv 4000 and 4001 compatibles in H10301, H10302, Corporate 1000, Honeywell, NAPCO, Keyscan, Lenel, DSX, AMAG, Simplex, Continental and Kantech XSF formats.
  • Pre-programmed for a system: Kantech HID-C1326, RBH 1326-64, ADI 1326, PCSC PC-23 and the ADI 0E-CLAMPK25.
  • Other prox brands: AWID CS-AWID, Kantech P10SHL ioProx, Kantech and Indala ShadowProx and FlexCard, Rosslare AT-ERC-26A, RBH-PROX-CS-50 and BradyPROX.
  • 13.56 MHz smart: HID 2080 iCLASS, HID iCLASS SE 3350, HID 5656 Seos, Kantech ioSmart MFP-2KSHL and Identiv 4100 MIFARE Classic 1K.
  • UHF: AWID CS-UHF and RBH AW-CS-UHF clamshells for AWID long-range readers.

The fastest way to reorder is to read the part number printed on an existing card. Then confirm your facility code and next free card number in your software, and send both with the order.

FAQ

Can I print on a clamshell card?

Not in a card printer. Clamshells are too thick and uneven. Print a thin adhesive PVC card (10 to 20 mil) and stick it to the front, or buy a printable ISO card in the same format.

Is a clamshell more durable than a PVC card?

Yes. The thicker body protects the antenna from bending. That is why clamshells are popular for staff who keep the card in a pocket or wallet.

Will any clamshell work on my reader?

No. A clamshell is just a card shape. It must use the same technology (125 kHz prox, iCLASS, MIFARE or UHF) and the same format your system expects.

Unsure of your technology? Read proximity cards vs smart cards, or check our HID compatible cards guide.