Openpass

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OpenPass is a standard for recording and sharing access data on RFID cards used in integrated access-control systems from different providers. It is released under the GPL license.

The system uses an XML-based interchange format to let different access-control systems talk to each other. Access credentials are stored on the smart card and organized with XML markers. The XML data representations are published by the OpenPass server.

With one RFID card, a user can access all sites in the system. Each company can issue tickets, and the card is recognized across the whole network.

OpenPass uses a distributed network of data centers connected to the central server. Data centers send information about sales and gate entries using XML, which is also the format used between centers and the server. The OpenPass server stores everything in a centralized SQL database, linking each item to a UID and the customer’s details.

OpenPass is used for ski-lift access control in Europe. In Italy and France, there are several examples:
- Skipass Lombardia: the first European open standard for integrated access with mixed software, linking 310 lifts and 46 companies in 30 ski areas in Lombardy.
- Nordic Pass Rhône-Alpes: a project providing integrated access to 5,000 km of ski runs across 83 stations in Rhône-Alpes, France.
- SkiArea VCO (Neveazzurra): integrated access across Neveazzurra’s stations in the Piedmont Alps, including Alpe Devero, Antrona Cheggio, Ceppo Morelli, Domobianca, Druogno, Formazza, Macugnaga, Mottarone, Piana di Vigezio, Pian di Sole, and San Domenico.