Smart Card Readers | Legic & Mifare Sector

Smart Card Readers: Advanced Security with 13.56MHz Technology

Smart card readers utilize 13.56MHz RFID technology to read encrypted data from contactless smart cards, offering enhanced security over standard proximity systems. Nortech's smart card reader range supports multiple ISO standards including ISO15693 and ISO14443A, reading technologies such as LEGIC Prime, LEGIC Advant, Mifare, iCLASS, ICODE, and Tag-it 2. Available in mullion-mount (MP1) and wall switch (WP1) form factors, these readers provide flexible installation options for various architectural requirements.

Smart card models can read serial numbers from unsecured cards or access encrypted data from secure sectors and segments, enabling high-security applications. All readers feature robust ABS polycarbonate construction with IP65 rating for indoor and outdoor use, operating from -20°C to 50°C. Output options include 32-bit and 34-bit Wiegand, Clock & Data, and RS232 formats, ensuring compatibility with most access control systems.

Reading ranges reach up to 100mm depending on card type, with connection options including pigtail cables and terminal blocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between proximity cards and smart cards?

Proximity cards operate at 125kHz and typically store only a unique ID number, offering basic access control. Smart cards use 13.56MHz technology and contain microchips capable of storing encrypted data in secure sectors or segments. This enables advanced applications like multi-application cards (combining access control with cashless vending or time attendance), secure data storage, and enhanced encryption. Smart cards also support mutual authentication between card and reader, significantly improving security. Nortech's smart card readers support ISO15693 and ISO14443A standards including LEGIC, Mifare, and iCLASS technologies, with both serial number reading and secure sector access capabilities.

Can smart card readers read both smart cards and proximity cards?

Yes, Nortech offers dual-technology readers that simultaneously support both 125kHz proximity and 13.56MHz smart card technologies. The MP1 and WP1 series include models supporting EM proximity cards alongside Multi-ISO smart cards, or DualProx with various 13.56MHz formats. This dual capability enables phased migration from proximity to smart card systems without replacing reader hardware or immediately reissuing all credentials. Users can gradually transition to smart cards while maintaining compatibility with existing proximity cards, protecting infrastructure investment and minimizing operational disruption during technology upgrades.

What smart card technologies do Nortech readers support?

Nortech smart card readers support ISO15693 and ISO14443A standard technologies including LEGIC Advant, LEGIC Prime, Mifare (Classic, DESFire, Plus), iCLASS, ICODE (SLI, SLIX), and Tag-it 2. Models are available for reading serial numbers from these cards or accessing customer-specific encrypted data from secure sectors (Mifare) or secure segments (LEGIC). Output formats include 32-bit Wiegand, 34-bit Wiegand, Clock & Data, and RS232, with custom configurations available for proprietary card formats. This comprehensive technology support ensures compatibility with most smart card credential programs globally.

Which applications benefit most from smart card technology?

Smart cards excel in high-security environments requiring strong authentication, including government facilities, healthcare institutions, financial services, and corporate headquarters. They're ideal for multi-application scenarios where one card handles access control plus additional services like cashless payments, secure printing, or logical access to IT systems. Organizations managing sensitive data or requiring audit trails benefit from smart cards' encrypted storage and transaction logging capabilities. Educational campuses use smart cards for building access, library services, meal plans, and student ID. Healthcare facilities deploy them for staff access, patient record security, and secure medication dispensing.

How do I migrate from proximity cards to smart card technology?

Nortech's dual-technology readers enable seamless migration by supporting both proximity and smart card credentials simultaneously. Start by installing dual-technology readers (MP1 or WP1 series with both 125kHz and 13.56MHz support) while retaining existing proximity credentials. Gradually issue smart cards to users during normal card replacement cycles or department-by-department rollouts. The readers automatically recognize both card types, allowing mixed credential populations during transition. Once migration completes, reconfigure readers to smart-card-only mode if desired. This phased approach minimizes disruption, spreads costs over time, and avoids the operational challenges of immediate wholesale credential replacement.

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Comparison Table

Reader Type	Installation	Best For	Read Range	Smart Card Technologies	Key Features
MP1-ISO Mullion	Surface mount on mullions/architraves	Narrow frames, glass doors, discreet installations	Up to 100mm	Multi-ISO: LEGIC Advant, Mifare, iCLASS, ICODE, Tag-it 2	Slender profile (111×49mm), serial number reading, terminal block connection, IP65
MP1-LEG Mullion	Surface mount on mullions/architraves	High-security narrow frame applications	Up to 100mm	Multi-ISO plus LEGIC Prime	All ISO technologies plus LEGIC Prime, 34-bit Wiegand, secure segment access, IP65
MP1-MIF Mullion	Surface mount on mullions/architraves	Secure Mifare applications	Up to 100mm	Mifare secure sector reading	Custom secure data extraction, customer-specific configuration, terminal block, IP65
MP1-LEG-Custom Mullion	Surface mount on mullions/architraves	Custom LEGIC secure applications	Up to 100mm	LEGIC Prime/Advant secure segments	Customer-specific segment reading, custom configuration, secure data access, IP65
WP1-ISO Wall Switch	Fits standard UK back boxes	Office doors, building entrances	Up to 100mm	Multi-ISO: LEGIC Advant, Mifare, iCLASS, ICODE, Tag-it 2	Elegant 90×90mm design, serial number reading, terminal block, custom branding, IP65
WP1-LEG Wall Switch	Fits standard UK back boxes	High-security office installations	Up to 100mm	Multi-ISO plus LEGIC Prime	All ISO technologies plus LEGIC Prime, 34-bit Wiegand, secure segment access, IP65
WP1-MIF Wall Switch	Fits standard UK back boxes	Secure Mifare deployments	Up to 100mm	Mifare secure sector reading	Custom secure data extraction, customer-specific configuration, terminal block, IP65
WP1-LEG-Custom Wall Switch	Fits standard UK back boxes	Custom LEGIC secure applications	Up to 100mm	LEGIC Prime/Advant secure segments	Customer-specific segment reading, custom configuration, secure data access, IP65

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