Your hotel's lock system is the foundation of your guest access infrastructure. Understanding what system you have — and what RFID technology it requires — is essential for ordering compatible key cards, wristbands, and key fobs. Here's a comprehensive guide to the major hotel lock brands found in South African properties.
Dormakaba (formerly Kaba)
Dormakaba is one of the most widely installed hotel lock systems in South Africa. Their product range includes the SAFLOK and Ilco brands, which you'll find in properties ranging from mid-range hotels in Gauteng to resort complexes on the KZN coast.
- Common models — SAFLOK RT, SAFLOK Quantum, Ilco 790
- RFID technology — Primarily MIFARE Classic 1K, some newer installations use DESFire
- Magnetic stripe — Older SAFLOK models may still use HiCo magnetic stripe
- Key card type — Standard CR-80, compatible with all our card and wristband products
SALTO Systems
SALTO has gained significant market share in South Africa, particularly in newer hotel installations and retrofits. Their systems are popular for their flexibility and integration capabilities.
- Common models — XS4, SALTO Space, SALTO KS
- RFID technology — MIFARE Classic or DESFire, depending on configuration
- Distinctive feature — SVN (SALTO Virtual Network) technology for wireless lock management
- Popular with — Boutique hotels, serviced apartments, and mixed-use developments
Assa Abloy
Assa Abloy, through their VingCard brand, is the world's largest hotel lock manufacturer. In South Africa, VingCard installations are common in international chain hotels and high-end properties.
- Common models — VingCard Essence, VingCard Classic, VingCard Allure
- RFID technology — DESFire EV1/EV2 for current systems, MIFARE for legacy
- Mobile access — Vostio platform supports mobile key alongside physical cards
- Popular with — Marriott, Hilton, IHG properties in South Africa
Onity (Allegion)
Onity locks are found in many older South African hotel installations. While newer Onity models support RFID, some legacy systems still use magnetic stripe technology.
- Common models — Onity HT24, HT28, DirectKey
- RFID technology — MIFARE Classic for RFID models; magnetic stripe for legacy
- Note — Magnetic stripe cards require specific encoding equipment
Ensuring Compatibility
The most common ordering mistake is specifying the wrong RFID technology. A MIFARE Classic card won't work in a DESFire lock, and vice versa. If you're unsure about your system's requirements:
- Check your lock manufacturer's documentation
- Contact your lock system installer
- Send us a working sample card — we'll identify the exact chip specification at no charge
Guest Lock Solutions maintains stock across all major RFID configurations and can advise on the correct specification for any lock system installed in South Africa. Contact us for guidance.
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