The contactless cards are primarily used for short distance identification, such as prepaid card, ski passes, access management cards (for premises, offices, garage or similar entries control). They are all equipped with a microprocessor chip and an antenna, thus no physical contact is required for communication with the card-reader. They are suitable for usage in variety of RFID/NFC applications. Hybrid cards are also available, combining several technologies. This type of cards can thus be fitted with a contact and contactless chips, which are mutually interconnected.
Dual-interface cards have only one smart chip built-in, which allows access either through contact chip or using contactless antenna.