rfIDEAS

An rfIDEAS USB card reader plugs into a computer and reads the number held on an ID card or fob, so you can enrol new credentials or let staff log in at a workstation with their badge. The reader passes that card number straight through, so your access control, time and attendance or single sign-on software picks it up without extra middleware.

Which reader you need comes down to the cards you already carry. The pcProx Enrol 14443A/15693 CSN (RDR-7581AKU) reads 13.56 MHz credentials using the card serial number, covering MIFARE and other ISO 14443A and ISO 15693 cards. At £178.35 it is the lowest priced reader on this page. The pcProx Plus Enrol (RDR-80581AKU) adds 125 kHz low-frequency proximity cards on top of that 13.56 MHz coverage, so it copes with mixed estates where older prox cards still sit alongside newer contactless ones. The WAVE ID Plus Mini V3 (RDR-80531BKU) spans both frequencies as well in a smaller housing. It also works as a keystroke reader, typing the card number as if it came from the keyboard so it drops straight into a login field.

The single-frequency Enrol reader is the straightforward pick if your organisation has standardised on 13.56 MHz cards. The Plus readers earn their place where 125 kHz cards are still in circulation or where you want desktop login as well as enrolment. If you are not certain which frequency your site runs, our team will confirm compatibility before you buy.