RFID based PC locking system

Published on 15 Apr 2022. Written by Nidhi Tiwari

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. RFID is a widely used technology for storing digital information and share them between objects. The sharing of data in RFID takes place through electromagnetic fields and radio waves.

In this RFID project, we will use RFID to make a lock for your PC. With this lock, you will be saved from the annoying task of typing passwords every time you start your PC. As a matter of fact, RFID is quite a cheap technology to use and is reliable as well.

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SLNOTE
Project Implementation:

1. Requirements:

The things that you will require to prepare an RFID based lock system for your PC are listed below:

• Arduino Pro Micro/Arduino Leonardo.
• MFRC-522 RFID module with RFID card.
• Male and female headers.
• Prototype PCB board.
• 10k ohm resistors - 3
• Soldering kit.
• Glue gun.
• Wire cutters, etc.

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2. Once you have all the requirements of the project, you have to proceed towards preparing the prototype of your product. This prototype will help you mark out the errors and mistakes that you might possibly make in the original design.

The things that you need to know for preparing the prototype are as follows:

• The pins 14, 15, and 16 in the Arduino are not changeable.
• RST and SDA are user-specified.
• The optimum voltage for the RC-522 is 3.3 volts. Higher value of applied voltage may damage the module. Thus, make sure that the supply voltage is 3.3 volts and connect it to the VCC of the RFID module.
• The RST should be connected to pin 5 of the Arduino.
• The GND pin has to be connected to the ground.
• IRQ pin needs no connection.
• Connect the MISO, MOSI, SCK, and SDA to pins 14, 16, 15, and 10 respectively.

3. The next step is the code needed for this device. You can download the code and library files from various sources available on the net.

Once you have the code with you, you need to connect your prototype to your PC, launch the Arduino IDE and open the code.

Then go to the Tools option in the Toolbar and then so to board and select Arduino Leonardo. Now make sure that the COM port is selected and upload the code to the Arduino.

After uploading the code, open the serial monitor and scan your card.

Note down the first line of the shown output.

Now, go back to the code and make the necessary changes and upload the modified code. Now as you have uploaded the final code, scan your card to check the prototype.

4. You can solder this circuit to a prototyping PCB board as it will be much time-saving. Make sure to use headers for connecting to the Arduino and RFID module. Solder all the connections and finally connect the Arduino and RFID module to the PCB board. Do test the device for loose connections or malfunctions.

5. Now you have to make an enclosure for the device and you can use all your creativity to make an impressive case.

6. Now, you have to assure the usability of your RFID tag. You can simply use the card or can also make a wearable RFID tag like a ring of a bracelet or anything. This depends completely on you.

Conclusion:

After completing this project, you can now easily use your device to lock unlock your PC without having to make the effort of entering your password again and again.

SLDYK
Kit required to develop RFID based PC locking system:

• RFID
• Arduino

Technologies you will learn by working on RFID based PC locking system:

• RFID
• Electronic

Any Questions?