Lock Compatibility · SALTO Systems
SALTO-Compatible Hotel Key Cards
SALTO’s data-on-card SVN platform is powerful — and particular about credentials. We supply Classic and DESFire cards matched to your exact site configuration.
SALTO Systems is a favorite in boutique hotels, aparthotels and co-living — anywhere flexible access rules matter. Its SVN (SALTO Virtual Network) writes access data onto the card itself, which makes chip selection stricter than with simple UID-based systems.
SALTO sites run on MIFARE Classic® 1K/4K or, increasingly, MIFARE® DESFire® EV1/EV2/EV3 for higher security. The right choice depends on how your SVN is configured and how much data it writes. Tell us your platform details — or let your installer talk to our engineers directly — and we confirm with samples.
Which chip does SALTO read?
Commonly used pairings by generation. Individual properties can differ — the final chip is always confirmed with free test samples in your own doors before production.
| Lock generation | Card / chip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| XS4 / SVN sites (standard) | MIFARE Classic® 1K | Common for standard SVN data-on-card configurations |
| SVN sites with larger data profiles | MIFARE Classic® 4K | Extra memory for richer access data |
| Security-focused / newer deployments | MIFARE® DESFire® EV1/EV2/EV3 | AES-encrypted; SALTO’s recommended direction |
| JustIN Mobile sites | DESFire® or Classic® cards alongside mobile keys | Cards remain the fallback and guest default |
What we supply for SALTO properties
- MIFARE Classic® 1K/4K and DESFire® EV2/EV3 cards, PVC or eco materials
- Wooden and bamboo SALTO-compatible cards for design-led properties
- Silicone wristbands on SALTO-compatible chips for spas and gyms
- Staff credentials and fobs encoded-ready for your zones
How verification works
- 1
Identify your lock
Find the brand and model on the lock’s inside plate or battery cover, ask your installer, or simply photograph a working key card (both sides) and the lock.
- 2
We match the chip
Send the details to sales@cardotel.com or through the form. We identify the chip your generation reads and assemble free test samples with the matching candidates.
- 3
Your doors decide
Encode the samples on site exactly as you do today. Only after your locks confirm the reads do we print the full run — zero compatibility gambles.
SALTO key card questions
Do SALTO locks need special cards?
SALTO’s SVN writes data onto the card, so the chip must match your site configuration — typically MIFARE Classic® 1K/4K or DESFire® EV1/EV2/EV3. We verify with test samples encoded on your own system before production.
Classic or DESFire for our SALTO site — which should we order?
If your system was configured for Classic, Classic 1K keeps costs down; DESFire adds AES encryption and is where SALTO is heading for new deployments. Your SALTO configuration decides — we supply both and can advise with your installer.
Can boutique properties get wooden SALTO-compatible cards?
Yes — wood and bamboo bodies carry the same Classic or DESFire inlays. SALTO sites are among the most frequent buyers of our wooden cards.
Do you preprogram SALTO access data?
No — access data is written by your own SALTO system on site (that is how SVN security is designed). We deliver chip-verified, print-finished cards ready for your encoder.
Start your order
Need key cards that just work at check-in?
Send your lock brand and quantity — you will get a factory-direct quote and a free sample pack to test in your own locks before you commit.