Case Study: Arizona State University achieves future-proof campuswide security with HID Global

Future-Proof Multi-Function Card System Expands Campuswide Security for Arizona State University

Arizona State University needed to upgrade its aging Sun Card system, which had used magnetic stripe cards for meal plans, debit, and door access since 1997. With growing security concerns and a need for a future-proof, flexible platform, ASU looked for a contactless smart card solution that could support advanced access control and later technologies like biometrics. HID Global’s iCLASS technology was selected as part of the university’s new campuswide security strategy.

HID Global, working with integrator Henry Bros. Electronics, implemented a campuswide iCLASS-based access control system using iCLASS R10 and R40 readers, RK40 keypad readers, and 16-bit composite iCLASS cards with magnetic stripe. The solution improved security, enabled door-by-door access approval or denial, supported ADA-compliant entry, and added more flexible time-zone and access-level controls for areas like labs. HID Global’s Corporate 1000 Program also provided unique card numbering for ASU, and the university planned to issue more than 40,000 cards over two years as it moved to a single universal campus card with room to expand to holograms, magstripe, and biometrics.

Arizona State University

Mike Tiffin

Arizona State University