Card inlays refer to the internal components of a plastic card that are embedded within its structure, often consisting of a combination of materials and technologies that enhance the card’s functionality and durability. Card inlays are critical for all types of cards, including credit cards, ID cards and RFID cards.
There are two main inlays for plastic cards, one is the PVC inlay and the other is the RFID inlay.
PVC inlay / PVC core layer
PVC inlay, also known as a core layer. The core layer is the material that sits between the outer layers of the plastic card. It serves as the base of the card, providing structural integrity and housing any embedded technology, such as magnetic stripes, RFID chips or smart card components. PVC is the most commonly used material for the core layer of plastic cards. It is known for its flexibility, durability and cost-effectiveness. It provides a strong base for the card and can withstand daily wear and tear.
RFID inlay
The RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) inlay is a key component to realize the function of RFID technology. This layer houses the RFID chip and antenna, allowing the card to communicate wirelessly with the RFID reader. The RFID inlay refers to the embedded components within the plastic card that enable RFID communication. The RFID inlay typically consists of
RFID chip: A small microchip that stores data, such as a unique identifier or other related information. This chip is responsible for processing the data and transmitting it to the RFID reader.
Antenna: The conductive element that enables the card to send and receive radio signals. The antenna is designed to operate at a specific frequency to communicate effectively with the RFID reader.
Substrate: The material that houses the RFID chip and antenna and provides structural support and protection. The substrate is usually made of materials such as PVC.
RFID inlays are widely used in access control, payment systems, identification, event management, etc.
Despite the finished PVC cards, you can also purchase semi-finished card material such as PVC core layers and RFID inlays separately from HYDcard and produce cards yourself.
