Creating a Proper RFID Security System Using RDM6300, Wireless Unlock & Door Bell

DIY RFID security systems are common nowadays but most of them do not show how to create this system that can be implemented in your daily life. In this project, I will show how to create a custom RFID security system that has been running for over 2 years in my house. It can be programmed easily to add/remove new RFID cards/tags.

NB: You may ignore the wireless unlock part since it is not encrypted, however since it has a short range, I found it quite useful!

Order your components

Ø 1 x LM2596 buck regulator

Ø 1 x Arduino Nano (old bootloader)

Ø 1 x RDM6300 125KHz RFID module

Ø 1 x 315MHz 4-channel RC receiver

Ø 1 x Door-bell circuit (transmitter, receiver)

Ø 1 x 12V 5A SMPS power supply

Ø 1 x 12V Heavy-duty lock

Ø 1 x long led

Ø 1 x 12V relay

Ø 1 x IN4007 diode

Ø 1 x BC547 transistor

Ø 1 x 5V buzzer

Ø 2 x 10k resistor

Ø 1 x 5 pin jack

Ø carbon wrap

Ø Hot glue gun

Arduino nano: This is the heart of this project, it receives data from the RFID module, matches the data with a pre-defined value then powers the led, buzzer, and relay.

Buck converter: The LM2596 is an efficient buck converter that converter the input 12V from SMPS power supply to constant 5V output, the maximum current output is 3A which is more than enough for the circuit.

RDM6300 module: This is the RFID module that generates an emf on its coil, when a card is nearby the coil powers the card and receives the digital information encoded in the chip. All this is done from a distance of a max of 3-4cm. This is more convenient than the usual RC522 RFID module since it only uses 1 wire to receive data.

RC receiver: A 4-channel remote control receiver is used to unlock the lock at a distance. However only one of the channels is used, you may use the other channels to control other electronics.

Doorbell circuit: I have used a common door alarm and connected the remote to our PCB. The remote is directly connected to the 12V of power supply. The range is quite good and simplifies our project.

Electromagnetic lock: This very heavy-duty lock uses springs to unlock. When 12V is applied the solenoid pulls the lever opening the door. The lock also has a button that is used to unlock the door from the inside.

Follow this exact diagram to replicate the project, you can easily modify the circuit and make your own customized version!

As shown on the schematic you can build the circuit on a Vero board. I have used Sketchup to make this model, the dimensions are exactly accurate, this way I was able to make it very compact.

After building the circuit Connect the Arduino nano to your computer and upload the following code. The code has sufficient comments to clarify how it works.

After uploading the code keep your Arduino connected and open your serial monitor, then approximate your card to the coil. You will see a unique id number on the screen, copy this number and substitute it on the code. You can add many cards and share them with your family. You can also remove any card number by this method if any card it lost.

THE CODE:

I have used Sketchup and built a 3D model to get the dimensions. It helped to get an accurate estimation. This was crucial since the project is intended to run for a long time.

I have used a 3mm PVC board to create the enclosure. Initially, I had plans to 3D print it, but it was quite expensive at the local stores. Used an anti-cutter to cut the board precisely and glued them together using a hot glue gun. I have used enough to make it water-resistant.

I have used carbon wrapping paper to give it a nice finish and also ensure that no water can leak inside during heavy rain. I kept a hole in the back where I can connect a USB cable with the Arduino nano to reprogram the ID pass.

Watch the following video to see the project in action: