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Keypads & Readers

Keypads and readers sit beside the door and pass a credential to the access control system: a PIN, a card or fob, a phone or a QR code. This page holds MIFARE and DESFire card readers, 125 kHz proximity readers, keypad-and-reader combinations, slim mullion readers, keypad and card modules for Hikvision intercoms, USB enrolment readers and outdoor access control terminals. A self-contained keypad door entry unit, the ESP EZTAG3, completes the page.

Choosing Keypads & Readers

Start with the credential in use, then the controller input, then the mounting position.

125 kHz or 13.56 MHz

Proximity readers such as the CDVI STAR-PB read 125 kHz cards and tags, and the Vanderbilt EM1040e reads ACT 125 kHz credentials and many HID-compatible tokens. MIFARE readers work at 13.56 MHz: the DS-K1108AM reads MIFARE cards to ISO 14443-A, and the DS-K1108AD adds DESFire and Felica cards. The CDVI K2 reads MIFARE Classic and DESFire EV1 and EV2, with built-in Bluetooth and NFC for smartphone credentials.

Output to the controller

The DS-K1107AM supports RS-485, Wiegand (W26/W34) and OSDP, the MOONARWB flush reader gives a Wiegand 26, 30 or 44 bit output, and the MF1050e has a selectable Clock & Data or Wiegand output for ACTpro and third-party panels.

PIN and card entry

The EM1050e runs prox-only, PIN-only or combined PIN and prox, the CDVI K4 adds a touch keypad for a 4 to 8 digit PIN, and the DS-K1109DKFB-QR accepts card, password, fingerprint and QR code. The ESP EZTAG3 works on its own, with self-contained programming, up to 1,010 key tag holders or PIN numbers and 2 relay outputs.

Mullion, flush and exposed doors

Slim mullion readers such as the EM1030e and MF1030E suit narrow frames, and the MOONARWB mounts flush with black and white cover plates supplied. On exposed doors, the DS-K1104M has a PC and zinc-alloy shell rated IK10, and the MF1030PM panel-mount reader is IP67 rated for indoor and outdoor use.

Intercom modules, enrolment and terminals

The Hikvision DS-KD-KP keypad module unlocks by password or calls a resident by room number, and the DS-KD-M module unlocks by card swipe. The DS-K1T502DBWX-CQR terminal pairs a 2 MP camera and SIP intercom with card, PIN and QR code entry.

Hikvision makes the most readers and keypads on this page.

ModelCredentialOutput
CDVI STAR-PB125 kHz proximityWiegand 26/30/44
Vanderbilt EM1040e125 kHz multiformatWiegand or Clock & Data
DS-K1107AMKMIFARE, 12-key keypadRS-485, Wiegand, OSDP
CDVI K4MIFARE, DESFire, PIN, BluetoothOSDP-2 compatible
MF1050eMIFARE and PINClock & Data or Wiegand
ESP EZTAG3Proximity tag or PIN2 relay outputs

Related categories

Readers report to the controllers in smart access control and release the maglocks and strikes in door locks. Cards and fobs are in proximity cards and keyfobs, and entry with video is in door entry and intercom systems.

Brands we stock in Keypads & Readers

ACTpro, CDVI, ESP, Hikvision and Vanderbilt.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a MIFARE reader and a 125 kHz proximity reader?

They read different card technologies, so the reader has to match the cards and fobs already in use. Proximity readers such as the CDVI STAR-PB read 125 kHz cards and tags, while MIFARE readers such as the Hikvision DS-K1108AM work at 13.56 MHz to ISO 14443-A. The CDVI K2 goes further, supporting CDVI KRYPTO diversified key authentication with end-to-end encryption when used with compatible CDVI controllers.

Should I choose a Wiegand, RS-485 or OSDP reader?

Choose the output your access controller accepts, because the reader hands the credential to it. The Hikvision DS-K1107AM supports RS-485, Wiegand and OSDP, the CDVI STAR-PB gives Wiegand 26, 30 or 44 bit outputs, and the Vanderbilt EM1050e switches between Clock & Data and 26-bit Wiegand. The CDVI K2 uses an RS-485 interface with OSDP compatibility for CDVI ATRIUM controllers.

Which readers can be fitted outside?

Pick one with a stated weather and impact rating. The ACTpro MF1030PM is IP67 rated for indoor and outdoor use, the Vanderbilt EM1040e is rated IP65 and IK10 with an operating range of −40 °C to +70 °C, and the CDVI K4 keypad reader combines IP65 with IK10 vandal resistance. The CDVI STAR-PB mullion reader has a lower IP53 rating with IK10, so weigh that against the door’s exposure.

Can staff use a phone instead of a card?

Yes, with a reader that takes mobile credentials. The CDVI K2 and K4 support Bluetooth smartphone credentials through CDVI Mobile-PASS, and the K2 has built-in NFC as well. The Hikvision DS-K1109DKB-QR has a Bluetooth module and accepts QR codes, and the DS-K1T805MBWX outdoor terminal supports card, PIN and Bluetooth, with setup through a PC web page or the Hik-Connect app.

How do I add new cards to the system?

Use a USB enrolment reader at the computer that manages the system. The ACTpro ACT-USB is a plug-and-play USB reader made for ACT Enterprise software and reads ACT RFID, HID, MIFARE Classic and DESFire EV1. The Hikvision DS-K1F100-D8E is a plug-and-play USB card enrolment station with no-driver technology, non-touch IC card enrolment and 2 PSAM card cassettes.

Is there a keypad that works without a separate controller?

Yes, the ESP EZTAG3 proximity and keypad door entry unit has simple self-contained programming. It holds up to 1,010 key tag holders or PIN numbers in 2 separate user groups and has 2 relay outputs. The EZTAG3 is silver and the EZTAG3B black, and extra tags for it come in the EZT3ST10 pack of 10.

  • Established 1975
  • Birmingham trade counter
  • UK-only supply

Written by the West Midlands Electrics technical team

Updated

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