Introduction to Ajax Tag Pack — key features at a glance
Ajax Tag Pack — 3× Contactless DESFire Key Fobs (38232.90.WH)is a compact, secure and convenient access key solution designed for use with the Ajax KeyPad Plus family of readers. Supplied as a pack of three white, ready‑to‑use key fobs, each Tag uses the MIFARE® DESFire® standard (ISO 14443‑A, 13.56 MHz) with hardware AES and Triple‑DES encryption. That combination delivers fast, contactless arming and disarming of Ajax alarm systems without the need to open an app or enter a passcode. Lightweight and sized for everyday use on a keyring, Tags can be assigned to named users with configurable access rights from the Ajax app, and a single Tag can be bound to up to 13 hubs for multi‑site convenience.
Detailed specifications and the benefits they deliver
The Ajax Tag Pack is built around a well‑established contactless access standard and focused on practical usability. Below are the key technical specifications followed by a short explanation of what each means for the end user.
- Model / SKU: 38232.90.WH (pack of 3)
- Pack quantity: 3
- Colour: White
- Communication technology: MIFARE DESFire
- Operating standard / frequency: ISO 14443‑A, 13.56 MHz
- Encryption / authentication: Hardware AES and Triple‑DES (DESFire)
- Compatibility: Ajax KeyPad Plus family (KeyPad Plus Jeweller, KeyPad S Plus Jeweller, KeyPad TouchScreen Jeweller/Fibra)
- Dimensions: 45 × 32 × 6 mm
- Weight: Approximately 7 g
- Operating temperature: −10 °C to +40 °C
- Operating humidity: Up to 75% RH
- Maximum bound hubs: Up to 13 hubs
- Service life: Up to 10 years (manufacturer)
- Manufacturer: Ajax Systems
What these specs mean in practice:
- Strong security:MIFARE DESFire with AES / Triple‑DES hardware encryption provides robust protection against cloning and unauthorised readouts compared with legacy RFID and simpler contactless chips.
- Quick, reliable operation:Tap the Tag to a compatible KeyPad Plus reader and the system arms or disarms instantly — no smartphone or code needed for the user, which speeds everyday operation for residents, staff or frequent visitors.
- Compact and durable:At 45×32×6 mm and about 7 g, Tags fit comfortably on a keyring and are rated for normal indoor/outdoor environmental conditions specified by the manufacturer.
- Multi‑site convenience:A single Tag can be bound to up to 13 hubs, making it useful for installers and organisations that manage multiple properties or systems without issuing separate credentials for each site.
- Administrative control:Tags are assignable to named users in the Ajax app; administrators can configure permissions and track usage via event logs to maintain oversight of who is accessing the system and when.
Use cases and scenarios where Ajax Tag Pack excels
The Ajax Tag Pack is well suited to a range of domestic and commercial environments where secure, fast and simple access control is desirable. Typical use cases include:
- Private homes and apartments:Families and residents can arm/disarm security systems quickly without needing to share app credentials or PINs. The compact fobs are convenient on a keyring and easy for all household members to use.
- Small offices and retail outlets:Staff who enter and exit several times a day benefit from frictionless access, while managers retain the ability to assign and revoke Tags and review entry logs for accountability.
- Property management and multi‑unit buildings:Because one Tag can be bound to multiple hubs, property managers or maintenance personnel can carry a single credential that works across several properties or apartments they service.
- Hospitality and short‑stay rentals:When combined with appropriate user provisioning workflows, Tags provide a low‑friction way to give temporary staff or housekeeping access without sharing permanent passwords or installing apps on every device.
- Service technicians and contractors:Contractors who need timed or revocable access can be issued Tags with customized permissions and tracked usage via system event logs.
Overall, Ajax Tags suit any scenario that prioritises speed, ease of use and secure, auditable access without the need for mobile phones or memorised passcodes.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
It helps to understand how Ajax Tags compare with other common access methods and key fob types:
- MIFARE DESFire vs MIFARE Classic:DESFire offers substantially stronger cryptographic protection (hardware AES / Triple‑DES) and a more modern authentication model than MIFARE Classic, which has known vulnerabilities. For installations where security is important, DESFire is the preferable choice.
- Contactless fobs vs NFC smartphone credentials:Smartphone‑based credentials offer convenience and remote provisioning, but rely on a phone being present, charged and unlocked. Contactless Tags are phone‑agnostic, immediate to use and ideal for users who prefer a physical token.
- Contactless fobs vs BLE tags:Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tokens can provide longer‑range wake or proximity features, but BLE adds power and pairing complexity. DESFire contactless tags are passive, maintenance‑free, and operate simply by tapping a reader.
- Ajax Tag vs other branded DESFire fobs (e.g., HID iCLASS, NXP solutions):Many brands offer high‑security DESFire credentials. Ajax Tags are optimised specifically for Ajax KeyPad Plus readers and integrate directly with Ajax hub provisioning and event logging. If you’re standardising on Ajax security hardware, the Tag provides plug‑and‑play compatibility and administration within the Ajax ecosystem.
Considerations: Ajax Tags are best paired with compatible Ajax readers — they are not universal replacement credentials for all access control systems. Also check warranty and commercial terms with your supplier if extended coverage is required, as the standard offering notes no included warranty beyond manufacturer declarations.
Customer impressions and typical feedback
There are a number of consistent themes in customer feedback and installer notes for contactless DESFire fobs used with Ajax systems. While individual experiences vary, common points include:
- Ease of use:Many users highlight the convenience of tapping a Tag to arm/disarm without opening an app or remembering a PIN — particularly useful for family members or staff in fast‑paced environments.
- Perceived security:Installers and security‑conscious customers often note confidence in DESFire encryption compared with older RFID technologies.
- Compact form factor:Reviewers appreciate the lightweight, keyring‑friendly design that makes the Tag unobtrusive in daily life.
- Management features:Administrators value the ability to assign Tags to named users, configure permissions and view event logs to audit access.
If you are evaluating user reviews from retailers or installer forums, look for information about real‑world durability, any environmental exposure experienced, and how straightforward the provisioning process felt with local installers — these practical notes often provide the best context beyond the technical data sheet.
Conclusion — why choose the Ajax Tag Pack?
The Ajax Tag Pack (38232.90.WH) is a practical, secure and cost‑effective option for customers who need fast, reliable contactless access to Ajax alarm systems. Its use of MIFARE DESFire with hardware AES/Triple‑DES encryption places it ahead of legacy RFID options for security, while its small size, light weight and keyring readiness make it convenient for everyday carry. Administrative features — assignable users, configurable permissions and event logging — give property owners and managers control and oversight. Finally, the ability to bind a single Tag to up to 13 hubs makes it especially valuable for multi‑site operations and service personnel.
For prospective buyers, the pack of three represents good value for households, small businesses or managers who want spare credentials for staff and visitors. Before purchase, confirm compatibility with your specific Ajax KeyPad Plus reader model and review Ajax Systems’ product documentation for installation and conformity declarations. With robust security, straightforward operation and flexible provisioning, the Ajax Tag Pack is a sensible choice for modern, user‑friendly access control within the Ajax ecosystem.
