HID 26Bit Format: H10301
The 26-bit format (Format number H10301) is the industry standard format for HID, and is an open format. The range of credential numbers available in this format is 1 to 65,525, and the range of Facility Codes is 0 to 255. Since this is an open format, it is quite possible that the card encoding from this format is duplicated mulitiple times over throughout the world. In addition, there are no restrictions from HID or ID Enhancements to prevent the duplication. The popularity of this bit format among numerous access control companies is the primary benefit of using the standard 26-bit card format.
HID 35Bit Format
The intent of the 35Bit Format was to provide large corporations their own proprietary format. While HID does not duplicate cards in this format, multiple other companies are able to provide this format, and again the propriatary nature of the format is diminished. The format is advantageous for users requiring large number ranges in a variety of facility codes.
HID 37Bit Format: H10302
This format was originally designed by HID to offer an open format to the industry, but avoid duplicating numbers. While HID still adheres to the non-duplication within their own organization, the H10302 Format is available from multiple other companies, including ID ENHANCEMENTS rendering this format no longer proprietary. The biggest advantage for this format now is the fact that card numbers can reach into the millions. However, not all access systems can accommodate numbers this high, nor can they handle a card without a facility code. Check with your system installer regarding your system capabilities before opting for this format.
HID 37Bit Format: H10304
This H10304 Format had the same intentions as the H10302 Format, but this format DOES contain a facility code. Again, while HID ensures that they will not duplicate, this format is provided by multiple companies now rendering this format no longer propietary. The biggest advantage for this format now is the fact that card numbers can exceed 500,000 and facility codes can be as large as 65,535. However, not all access systems can accommodate numbers this high. Check with your system installer regarding your system capabilities before opting for this format.
