Introduction to the Ajax Tag Pack of 3 and its key features
Ajax Tag — Pack of 3 (black)is a set of encrypted contactless key fobs designed to make arming and disarming Ajax alarm systems fast, intuitive and secure. Each Tag uses MIFARE4 DESFire contactless technology (ISO 14443-A, 13.56 MHz) combined with AES and Triple-DES hardware encryption and anti-copy authentication. Sold as a three-pack (SKU references include 38228.90.BL / 42852.90.BL), these Tags are intended for homeowners, commercial premises and service personnel who need reliable, convenient access control that integrates with the Ajax KeyPad family.
Key features at a glance:
- DESFire contactless authentication (ISO 14443-A, 13.56 MHz) with AES & 3DES hardware encryption.
- Fast, one-motion operation — present Tag to a compatible KeyPad to arm or disarm without entering a PIN or using the app.
- Assignable user names and permissions in the Ajax app; every Tag action is recorded in the event feed.
- One Tag can be bound to up to 13 hubs, enabling multi-site or multi-hub deployments.
- Compact, lightweight design — sold as a pack of three with a quick start guide.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Ajax Tag is built around proven contactless authentication hardware and modern encryption standards. The technical foundation is MIFARE DESFire, a platform commonly used in secure access control, transport ticketing and other applications that require robust anti-cloning and encrypted communication.
- Model / SKU: Ajax Tag 3 pack of 3; references: 38228.90.BL / 42852.90.BL
- Communication technology: MIFARE DESFire
- Operating standard: ISO 14443-A (13.56 MHz)
- Encryption / Authentication: AES & Triple-DES hardware encryption; anti-copy authentication
- Compatibility: Ajax KeyPad family (KeyPad Plus, KeyPad S Plus, KeyPad TouchScreen where supported)
- Max bound hubs: Up to 13 hubs
- Operating temperature: 6minus;10 6C to +40 6C
- Operating humidity: Up to 75% RH
- Dimensions: 45 D7 32 D7 6 mm (note: datasheet contains a likely typo showing 0.6 mm; confirm thickness with Ajax if exact tolerance matters)
- Weight: 7 g
- Pack contents: 3 Tags + quick start guide
Benefits of these specifications:
- High security: DESFire chips combined with AES and Triple-DES hardware encryption reduce the risk of cloning, replay attacks and eavesdropping compared with plain, unencrypted RFID tags.
- Speed and convenience: Users simply present a Tag to a compatible KeyPad to arm or disarm the system, eliminating the need to type PINs—useful when hands are full, for accessibility, or for rapid access by staff and service teams.
- Auditability and access control: With assignable user names and recorded events in the Ajax app, administrators can track who accessed the system and when, and can quickly revoke or change permissions.
- Flexible deployment: The ability to bind a Tag to up to 13 hubs makes these fobs suited to multi-site businesses, managed properties and installers supporting several customers with a single credential where appropriate.
- Form factor and durability: Lightweight and compact, Tags are easy to carry on keyrings and designed to operate in normal domestic and commercial environments within the stated temperature and humidity ranges.
Use cases and scenarios where the Ajax Tag excels
Ajax Tags are well-suited to a variety of real-world scenarios where quick, secure access is required.
For homeowners who want simple daily control of their alarm system—without memorizing PINs or unlocking a phone—the Tag provides a tactile, immediate method to arm and disarm. Its particularly useful for households with seniors or children where PIN entry could be inconvenient.
Retail shops, small offices and professional suites benefit from fast staff access during shift changes. Each staff member can be issued a Tag with individual assignment in the Ajax app so access can be limited and monitored. Tags remove the need to distribute and manage PINs across teams.
Cleaning crews, maintenance teams and contractors often need temporary or recurring access. Tags can be issued and managed centrally, and when duties end a Tag can be disabled without changing locks or sharing secure codes.
Because each Tag can be bound to multiple hubs (up to 13), integrators managing multiple properties or multisite operations can issue single credentials that work across several installations—simplifying credential management for clients with multiple locations.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating access credentials there are several common alternatives: basic unencrypted RFID fobs, legacy proprietary proximity tokens, smartphone-based mobile credentials, and more feature-rich enterprise readers from specialist brands. Ajax Tag targets a middle ground where strong encryption, simplicity and integration with Ajax alarm hardware matter.
- Vs. unencrypted RFID fobs (low-cost):Many low-cost fobs use older chips (for example, MIFARE Classic or simple proximity) that are easier to clone. Ajax Tags DESFire with AES/3DES and anti-copy authentication provides markedly better protection against cloning and skimming.
- Vs. smartphone credentials:Mobile credentials provide convenience and remote provisioning, but rely on users carrying a phone, battery life and Bluetooth/NFC compatibility. Tags are inexpensive, battery-free, instantly usable and especially handy for users who prefer a physical token.
- Vs. enterprise readers and high-end credentials:High-end enterprise systems (often used for large commercial sites) may offer extended features—such as multi-factor authentication, tamper detection and custom credential lifecycle tools. Ajax Tag is optimized for Ajax system users who want a balance of high security and cost-effective, easy-to-deploy credentials rather than full enterprise feature sets.
Customer feedback and installer perspectives
Official product reviews and installer feedback typically highlight three recurring strengths: simplicity of use, solid security credentials, and compatibility with Ajax KeyPad devices. Installers appreciate the ability to assign meaningful user names and track events in the Ajax app, which simplifies troubleshooting and user administration.
Commonly reported positives include:
- Faster entry at busy sites compared with PIN-only workflows.
- Perceived increase in security vs generic unencrypted fobs.
- Convenience for non-technical users or those who prefer a physical token.
On the improvement side, some integrators remind customers to confirm the listed thickness (the datasheet contains what appears to be a typographical error showing 0.6 mm) when exact mechanical tolerances are needed for specific enclosures or badgeholders. Also, buyers should confirm compatibility with a specific KeyPad model (KeyPad Plus, KeyPad S Plus, KeyPad TouchScreen) in their setup.
Conclusion: Why the Ajax Tag pack of 3 is a great choice
Ajax Tag (pack of 3) delivers a practical, security-conscious way to manage everyday access to Ajax alarm systems. It combines industry-standard DESFire technology and hardware encryption with a simple user experience: present the Tag to a compatible KeyPad and the system responds—no PIN entry required. Features such as assignable user names, event logging and the ability to bind a Tag to multiple hubs add administrative flexibility for homeowners, small businesses and integrators alike.
Offered at a competitive suggested retail price of $19.99 per pack (SKU 38228.90.BL) and supplied in a convenient three-pack, the Tags provide a cost-effective upgrade over unencrypted alternatives while remaining straightforward to deploy and manage within the Ajax ecosystem. For full technical details and compatibility confirmation, refer to the official product documentation: https://ajax.systems/products/tag/
Whether you need reliable day-to-day convenience, improved access control for staff, or a simple credential for service personnel, the Ajax Tag pack of 3 is a practical, secure choice that complements Ajax KeyPad devices and modern security workflows.
