What is the Kantech XSF ioProx Format?

What is the Kantech XSF ioProx Format?

by Mike Boehm on October 19, 2022

The Kantech XSF (eXtended Secure Format) is a proprietary 26-bit credential format developed by Kantech for its ioProx line of proximity cards, key fobs, tags and readers. This format offers enhanced security and compatibility compared to standard 26-bit Wiegand credentials, and is widely used in commercial access control systems.

Why Kantech XSF Matters

  • The XSF format supports over 4 billion unique codes (thanks to the combined Family Code + Facility Code + Card Number structure). 

  • Because ioProx readers support both 26-bit Wiegand and XSF simultaneously, you get compatibility with legacy cards while migrating to enhanced security. 

  • Kantech lists multiple reader and credential part numbers designed specifically for XSF compatibility (see below).

Free samples to test are available: Contact us to request a free sample


Key Part Numbers: Credentials & Readers

Here’s a detailed table of Kantech’s ioProx XSF-format credentials and readers, plus compatible alternatives:

Type Kantech Part Number Description
Card (Clamshell) P10SHL ioProx XSF / 26-bit standard clamshell card. 
Card (Printable ISO) P20DYE ioProx XSF / 26-bit thin printable card. 
Card (Printable + Magstripe) P30DMG ioProx XSF / 26-bit card with high coercivity mag-stripe capability.
Key Fob / Tag P40KEY (also KW-P40KEY) ioProx XSF / 26-bit keytag. 
Self-Adhesive Tag P50TAG ioProx XSF / 26-bit adhesive tag for mobile or wallet use.
Reader (Mullion Mount) P225XSF ioProx XSF compatible mullion-mount reader. 
Reader (Mullion + Keypad) P225KPXSF ioProx XSF with keypad version.
Reader (Single-Gang) P325XSF ioProx XSF single gang box mount. 
Reader (Single-Gang + Keypad) P325KPXSF ioProx XSF with keypad. 
Reader (Long-Range) P600 ioProx XSF / 26-bit long-range reader (selectable). 

Compatible / Alternative Part Numbers

  • HID ProxCard II (when encoded for Kantech XSF)

  • Identiv 4000-series cards (4001, 4002, 4003) configured for XSF format

  • Other third-party 125 kHz prox cards keyed to the same Family/Facility code structure as the ioProx system


How to Decode Family Code & Facility Code

If you’re ordering new credentials but don’t yet know your Family Code or Facility Code in the EntraPass system, you can locate them on an existing card: the inscription will read something like:


XSF (FamilyCode) FacilityCode : CardNumber

For example: XSF (23) 1234 : 56789
This tells you the Family Code = 23, Facility Code = 1234, Card Number = 56789. 

Kantech XSF ioProx card with numbers explained

Reader Compatibility & Deployment Tips

  • All ioProx XSF readers accept dual encoded cards (26-bit Wiegand + XSF) so you can phase in new cards while still supporting older ones. 

  • When installing readers, verify read range, wiring, and compatibility (some long-range readers may operate at up to ~29″/73 cm). 

  • Choosing correct reader model for your mounting style (mullion vs single gang box) ensures neat installation and compliance.


Use Cases & Migration Strategy

  • For new installations using Kantech controllers + EntraPass software, deploying XSF credentials from day one simplifies administration and future-proofs your system.

  • For upgrades from legacy 26-bit Wiegand systems, using ioProx XSF dual-format cards lets you maintain reader hardware while shifting credential space.

  • Multi-site campuses or enterprise environments benefit from the wide address space of XSF (4 + billion codes) to avoid duplication.

  • Large deployments (schools, multi-tenant properties, corporate campuses) can benefit from cost savings when using compatible non-proprietary XSF-encoded credentials at scale.


Why Choose AuthorizID for Your Kantech XSF Credentials?

At AuthorizID we supply a full range of XSF-compatible credentials and work with professional installers such as Secure It Controls in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Longmont, Boulder, Brighton and Denver. Our product offering includes all the credential and tag types above, accuracy in Family/Facility encoding, and fast shipping to ensure your access control roll-out stays on schedule.

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