AWID 26-Bit Compatible Cards & Fobs
AWID 26-bit is a 125 kHz proximity format outputting standard Wiegand 26-bit data (facility code 1–255, card number 1–65,535) via the AWID proprietary air interface, widely used in legacy commercial and residential access control systems.
The AWID 26-bit format, also designated AWID26, is a 125 kHz low-frequency proximity credential format from Applied Wireless Identification Group that uses a proprietary card-to-reader air interface while delivering the industry-standard 26-bit Wiegand data stream to access control panels. AWID readers such as the SP-6820 and SR-2400 are prevalent in legacy commercial buildings and gated communities, and the format's distinct air interface means only AWID-compatible readers will successfully decode the card — making aftermarket compatible credentials valuable for property managers who cannot easily replace their installed reader infrastructure.
AWID 26-Bit specifications
- Brand / OEM
- AWID / HID Global
- Technology
- 125 kHz Passive Proximity (standard Wiegand 26-bit, AWID proprietary air-interface encoding)
- Frequency
- 125 kHz
- Chip
- AWID proprietary 125 kHz RFID coil; low-frequency passive transponder optimized for AWID reader family
- Bit formats
- 26-bit Wiegand (H10301-compatible output) — facility code 1–255, card number 1–65,535
- OEM part numbers
- CS-AWID-0-0, GR-AWID-0-0, AW-PROXLINC-CS, AW-PROXLINC-GR
Our compatible AWID 26-Bit credentials
American Key Cards manufactures non-OEM credentials engineered to work with your existing AWID readers — no hardware changes, encoded to your facility code and card-number range.
Can AWID 26-Bit cards be copied?
AWID 26-Bit is an open format, so a compatible card can be produced from your facility code and card number. We don't copy individual cards on request — we manufacture new, correctly-encoded credentials for systems you own or manage.
Standard AWID 26-bit cards carry no encryption — the 26-bit facility code and card number data are readable from the card. Credentials can be reproduced from facility and card number. The AWID air interface is distinct from HID Prox and Indala, requiring AWID-compatible readers, but the Wiegand output to the panel is the same standard 26-bit data stream.
Where AWID 26-Bit is used
- Commercial and light industrial buildings with AWID reader systems
- Parking and gated community access with AWID readers
- Multi-tenant apartment complexes using AWID SP-6820 or SR-2400 readers
- Legacy access control systems originally installed with AWID infrastructure
Compatible readers
AWID 26-Bit guides
AWID vs. HID 26-Bit Proximity Cards: What's the Difference?
Both AWID and HID output 26-bit Wiegand — yet an HID card will not work in an AWID reader. Learn why the air interface is the key difference and which card your system needs.
AWID 26-Bit Compatible Cards: Complete Buyer's Guide
AWID 26-bit cards use a proprietary air interface HID cards cannot substitute. Learn how to identify AWID readers, find your facility code, and order compatible replacements direct.
Related formats
You might also need
AWID 37-Bit
AWID 37-bit uses the H10302 structure — a 35-bit globally unique card number with no facility code — delivered via AWID's proprietary 125 kHz air interface to AWID-compatible readers.
View compatible cardsHID Prox H10301 (Standard 26-Bit)
The HID H10301 26-bit format is the most widely deployed proximity card format in North America, used on millions of doors across commercial and residential buildings.
View compatible cardsEM4100 (EM Marin 64-bit Read-Only)
EM4100 is the original and most widely deployed 125 kHz read-only proximity standard, using a factory-programmed 64-bit ID transmitted via Manchester-encoded ASK modulation.
View compatible cardsAWID 26-Bit — FAQ
What is the AWID 26-bit format and how is it different from HID 26-bit?
Both use 26-bit Wiegand data output to the access control panel (facility code 1–255, card number 1–65,535), but the air-interface encoding between card and reader is proprietary to each manufacturer. An AWID card must be read by an AWID-compatible reader; it will not be read by a standard HID Prox reader even though the panel receives the same 26-bit data.
How do I identify an AWID reader in my building?
Look for the AWID logo on the reader housing, or check for model numbers like SP-6820, SR-2400, or KP-6840. The property management office or original installer's documentation will also list the reader make and model.
What information do I need to order replacement AWID 26-bit cards?
You need your facility code (1–255) and the card number or range you want programmed (1–65,535). These should be on your existing card label or in the system installer's records. We program each card to your exact facility code and card number.