Nortech — People & Vehicle Access Solutions
Vandal Resistant Reader

Vandal Resistant Reader

VP1 Series

'Rugged Stainless Steel Housing'


Housed in marine grade stainless steel, weatherproof and vandal resistant. These robust readers can be located either indoors or outdoors and are quick and easy to install.

Product features & benefits

The VP1 125kHz reads a wide range of 125kHz type proximity cards and tokens. These may be from Nortech’s own extensive range of electronic credentials, existing third party cards and tokens, or a combination of both depending upon the application. Each reader model can support one or more card technologies together with a selection of output formats. VP1 includes several dual technology models for simultaneously supporting two independent card technologies.

An ideal companion to Nortech’s range of access controllers, the VP1 reader series offers the perfect choice of reader for new installations, while the wide choice of supported technologies and interfaces makes it an ideal cost-effective option for extending existing third party installations and for supporting the use of existing credentials in new access control applications.

Benefits

  • Reader selection is simplified by combining the flexibility of the reader series with the backup of Nortech’s access control and proximity reader know-how
  • Easy installation and an elegant design enables installers to add a professional finish to any access control project
  • Compatibility with most controllers reduces the cost of upgrades and extensions
  • Offers cost savings by enabling existing cards and tokens to be re-used on new installations
  • Combined with Nortech’s access control systems, a flexible, robust and cost-effective solution can be configured to meet most small to medium access control applications

Specifications

electrical

Supply Voltage 5VDC to 16VDC
Current Requirement 70 mA maximum

physical

Dimensions (mm) 105 x 105 x 23 (H x W x D)
Material Marine grade stainless steel - 316
Rating IP66 - suitable for outdoor and indoor use

environmental

Operating Temperature -30°C to 50°C Ambient

connection (standard version)

Pigtail Cable Length 300mm
Cable Gauge 7/0.2, 0.22mm stranded
Conductors 8 core screened

operational (standard version)

Reading Range Up to 50mm depending upon technology and the type of token or card
Visual indication Dual colour LED (red/green)

Normally red - blinks green when token or card is read.

Green when signal received from host controller on the LED line (active low)

Related documents

Datasheets, manuals and guides for the Vandal Resistant Reader. Every file is a PDF and opens in a new tab.

Heavy-Duty Access Control for Harsh Environments and High-Security Perimeters

The VP1 vandal resistant reader sets the standard for physical durability in access control, featuring a marine-grade 316 stainless steel housing that withstands impacts, attempted prying, and environmental extremes.

Industrial facilities, utility substations, transport infrastructure, and public car parks rely on this reader where equipment faces deliberate abuse, accidental vehicle contact, or corrosive atmospheres.

The IP66 weatherproofing handles coastal salt spray, industrial wash-downs, and complete dust exclusion for decades of service life.Beyond perimeter security, the VP1 excels in any application demanding long-term reliability with minimal maintenance. Loading bays, external plant rooms, waste compound gates, and remote unstaffed facilities benefit from a reader that won't degrade from weather exposure or succumb to opportunistic vandalism.

While the 50mm reading range requires closer credential presentation than plastic alternatives, this trade-off delivers uncompromising physical security for critical infrastructure and high-risk installations.

Frequently asked questions

What type of stainless steel is used?

The VP1 housing is manufactured from marine-grade 316 stainless steel, offering superior corrosion resistance compared to standard 304 stainless. This grade is specifically selected for coastal, chemical, and industrial environments.

Is the VP1 suitable for car park installation?

Absolutely. The IP66 rating, marine-grade steel construction, and -30°C to 50°C operating range make the VP1 ideal for multi-storey car parks, external gates, and parking facilities subject to weather exposure and potential vehicle impact.

Why is the reading range shorter than other readers?

The VP1's 50mm reading range is a direct result of its metal housing construction. The stainless steel enclosure affects antenna performance, trading some read distance for exceptional physical protection—an appropriate compromise for high-security applications.

What output formats are available?

The VP1 outputs reader-selectable 26-bit Wiegand or 10-digit Clock & Data, plus RS232 serial data. The DualProx model additionally supports 44-bit Wiegand and PAC-compatible serial formats.

Can I use existing credentials with the VP1?

Yes, the VP1-EM1 reads Nortech cards plus open-standard EM proximity credentials used by most manufacturers, including Paxton. The VP1-DP1 DualProx model adds PAC fob and card compatibility for mixed credential estates.

Case studies

Vandal Resistant Reader in use

Harbour Master At The Helm at Exmouth Marina

The client Exmouth Marina is located close to Exeter in the beautiful county of Devon. It offers a range of marine...

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NanoQuest Providing Effective Access Control for Hampshire School

The client Orchard Junior School in the village of Dibden Purlieu, Hampshire, where the staff pride themselves on their...

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Box-it ID Cards Now Control Access As Well As T&A

The client Box-it UK is one of Europe’s largest and most successful document storage and records management businesses....

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