Product Tutorials

No, NOVA.16 is capable of standalone operation with only periodic connection to PC for downloading programming changes and to upload transaction history.

No expansion boards are required – just daisy-chain more readers at the end of the existing power and data cables until you reach 16 readers.

Yes, but you must install a separate copy of RK-LINK for each site on your Laptop. Put each copy in a separate directory (or folder) and change the name on the desktop icon to correspond with each site.

Yes, if they have a standard Wiegand Output, and are connected via an SK-WIO-1 Wiegand Interface. Cards must have a 16-bit ID field, and a maximum bit length of 40 bits.

Yes. NOVA.16 uses the same programming conventions as the 2-door panels. Time Zones, Access Levels, Locations, Readers, Inputs and Outputs all work the same. You will need to re-route RS-485 communications so that the NOVA.16 (or an SK-ACPE) is the first panel connected to the PC (the Gateway panel)- this allows new message types to be recognized and passed through the network. New NOVA.16 message types will be rejected by an older SK-ACP if it is the Gateway panel for a particular Location.

Yes, if the remote location has internet access with a fixed IP address, or a dedicated phone line with a properly configured modem (SK-MDM), and SK-NET-MLD (Multi-location) software is used.

No. CAT 5 and CAT6 wire gauges are too small to carry power. Due to the wire resistance, the 12VDC won’t get very far.

Software House DCPs use similar smart readers on an RS-485 bus, and CASI Micro 5 panels used similar readers on an F2F Current Loop bus. Door King 1835 uses a similar architecture over RS-484, but requires an interface (tracker) board plus a reader at each door.

No, the Ethernet adapter is built-into the controller PCBA.

Several options are available:

• Directly through the customer’s Local Area Network over Ethernet (TCP/IP)
• Via RS-485, using a serial-to-RS485 converter at the PC
• Via RS-232, using a USB-to-Serial converter at the PC
• Via dial-up modem, using a modem at the PC and a properly configured modem (SK-MDM) at the control panel
• Via WiFi, using a wireless router at the PC and an 802.11 module at the control panel (SK-WLSE-MOD)

A smart reader only needs a data and power connection from the control panel. Twisted pair is required for the RS485 data (you can use CAT 5 or CAT6), and 18/2 is required for 12VDC power. You can run data up to 4000 feet from the panel, or data and power up to 2000 feet from the panel. Wiegand readers use a 6-conductor shielded non-twisted cable, which includes 2 wires for Wiegand Data, 2 for DC Reader power, and 2 for controlling the LEDs (or more conductors if you need separate beeper or data hold control). Wiegand data cable distance is limited to 250 feet from the control panel using 22 AWG wire, or 500 feet using 18AWG wire.

16 doors with IN readers; 8 doors with both IN and OUT readers

Yes, because the RK600 will not store transactions unless the RKAT is installed, and because the RKAT’s real-time clock is required to “time and date stamp” transactions as they occur at each reader.

Secura Key’s SK-SR-1 Smart Relay can be attached to the output of the Reader’s Solid-State relay. When configured for Smart Relay operation, the solid-state relay output becomes a data connection to the SK-SR-1, which is installed on the secure side of the opening, near the strike or maglock. When the Smart Reader receives a grant access command from NOVA.16, it transmits its own serial number to the SK-SR1, which stores that number and verifies it before activating its own access relay. Since the Smart Reader’s relay output no longer directly unlocks the door, the reader cannot be hotwired to gain entry.

NOVA.16 does not have any Wiegand Reader Inputs, but a Wiegand Interface Unit, SK-WIO-1 allows the connection of any Wiegand Output device to the NOVA 16 RS-485 peripheral bus.

Secura Key SK-NET, Version 5.1 or newer.

NOVA.16 will run on 16-24VAC (a common 40VA transformer will do) or 24VDC. An input for a 12VDC backup battery is provided – the panel will keep the battery charged and the panel will automatically switch to the battery if AC power fails.

A Smart Reader not only reads cards, but it also monitors inputs and controls outputs at the door. It uses RS-485 communications to send card data and input status to the control panel, and receives and executes commands from the control panel to grant or deny access, unlock the door and activate auxiliary outputs. A Wiegand Output reader only sends card data up to the control panel. It has control lines for its LED and Beeper which are operated by grounding those inputs at the control panel (not by sending commands).

RS-485 allows a total cable distance of 4000 feet, so the furthest reader could be up to 4000 feet from the panel. At that distance, a local reader power source would be required. Since reader power is also be provided by the panel, we calculate that up to 8 evenly spaced readers could be adequately powered up to 2000 feet away from the panel using 18AWG wire, and since NOVA.16 has two separate power outputs, a total of 16 readers could be located up to 2000 feet in either direction from the panel.

You connect all the field devices directly to each Smart Reader. This eliminates most of the home runs cabling to the control panel, except for data and reader power.

Yes, the tags are ultrasonically welded and sealed.

Not likely. After 5 unsuccessful PIN attempts, the unit temporarily shuts down and sounds a piercing alarm for 30 seconds.

Yes, but not simultaneously. RK-LINK is designed to connect to and program a single RK-600. However, you may run communication lines from multiple RK600s to an “A-B Data Switch” and connect the PC to each RK600 one at a time, or you could install an RJ-11 wall jack at each reader, and use a laptop PC and a CBLSA cable kit to go to each reader and program or upload information.

RK-LINK software allows you to program Key Tags or PIN Codes, Names and Data, remotely lock or unlock the door, configure the reader, upload history, and print reports. This software is free of charge and requires the RKAT Audit Trail Module to be installed.

Yes. One RK-HHP may be used with any number of RK600e units and any RK-HHP may be used with any RK600e. All programming functions begin with a numeric password.

Yes, the RK600 runs on any DC voltage between 9 – 14 VDC.

Yes. A slight decrease in reading distance will occur. DYNASCAN ® technology tunes the unit to even metal mounting surfaces.

The keypad is sealed and a mounting gasket kit is supplied but the RK600 should not be installed in direct exposure to rain, snow or water spray.

Yes. Any user can be assigned either a Key Tag or a PIN Code. The keypad is also used for programming (adding/deleting cards, setting operating parameters).

Yes. The RK 600 (or RKAR) can be mounted on the inside of a glass window, for the ultimate protection against vandalism and weather. The RK600 keypad can face inward, and the Key Tags can be read through the back of the reader. The RK-GM Glass Mount Kit is available for easy installation to glass surfaces.

No. Metal absorbs the radiated RF energy and prevents it from reaching the key tag. We recommend that you use a non-metallic enclosure (fiberglass, ABS) in installations where the RK600 needs to be mounted outside and protected from attack.

Yes. The RK600 or RKAR can be concealed behind any non-metallic architectural surface that is less than 4″ thick. It is recommended that you test the reading distance before putting holes in any architectural material.

No; the RKAR is optional; the RK600 has a built-in reader and can be used alone for most applications.

No. Each Key Tag is assigned to a User Number (1-600). Once a Key Tag is deleted, the User Number is available for re-assignment of another Key Tag.

Yes, when the optional RKAT Audit Trail Module is installed. You can connect a PC or Serial Printer to add Audit Trail Capability.

The module is supplied with a cable assembly with a pre-wired DB-25 Female connector. The cable can be cut and spliced to the desired length. The pre-wired connector can be installed in a 25-Pin PC COM Port, or a commercially available 25-to-9-Pin adapter can be used if the computer has a 9-Pin COM Port. To connect a serial printer, install a commercially available Gender Changer to match the RKAT’s pre-wired connector to the printer’s DB-25 Female connector.

The Reader RK600 (or RKAR) continuously generates low-power radio frequency energy. When a Key Tag enters the field, it receives enough energy to power a microchip inside the tag, which transmits the Key Tag ID number back to the reader. The reader then checks its internal memory to verify that the tag number is programmed, and if so, activates a relay which operates the door locking device.

The RK600e functions exactly like the RK600 except that it does not have a keypad. This makes the RK600e more weather and vandal-resistant than the RK600. Programming is accomplished by using the RK-HHP hand-held programmer. Because the RK600e has no keypad, there is no PIN code capability.

30 cable feet away without significant loss of reading distance. This can be increased to 40 feet with a slight decrease in reading distance.

The RK600 stores the last 150 transactions with time, date, key tag number, and transaction type.

600 Users.

There are actually two cables: one non-twisted, non-shielded cable for the antenna, and one four-conductor shielded cable for the LED and Buzzer.

You need the following:

• RK600
• DC Power Supply for RK600, 12VDC 500mA (such as RK-PS – requires 120VAC input)
• RKKT-01 Keytags (available in bags of 10 / 25 / 50)
• Door locking device (strike / magnetic lock / gate controller)
• Power supply for the door locking device.
• 2-conductor, 16 – 18AWG wire for power, strike circuits.

Indefinite. There is no battery to wear out, and the circuit and antenna are protected by a hard plastic case.

About 6″ (5″ when used with the RKAR Auxiliary Reader)

Maintain at least a two (2) foot distance from computers. Do not mount the RK600 or RKAR adjacent to a radio transmitter. When running cable from the RK600 to the RKAR, route cabling away from RF / EMI sources. Do not mount the RKAR directly opposite the RK600 on the same wall; offset them by at least 6″. Do not mount an RK600 within 2 feet of another RK600, and use separate power supplies for each unit.

No. The RK-PS power supply is rated to power the access unit and Auxiliary Reader only. Electric locking devices should always be connected to a separate power supply to avoid introducing spikes and surges commonly produced by those devices back into the reader electronics.

Use it for areas where vandalism or extreme weather are present. The RKAR is an epoxy-sealed waterproof unit. Entry cannot be obtained by tampering with the RKAR.

Yes, the RK65K can be reconfigured as a Wiegand output reader and it can be connected to the SK-ACPE-LE as a system reader, and it can also be connected to the NOVA.16 control panel by using the SK-WIO-1 Wiegand Interlace. The Keytags used with the RK65K are compatible with SK-NET, since they are sequentially-numbered with a 16-bit ID field, and have a facility code.

Yes, it can store up to 10 facility codes. While this makes it convenient to buy small quantities of cards or tags from distributor stock, using multiple facility codes can cause problems, and it is best practice to purchase all tags with the same facility code. The RK65K does not differentiate between tags with the same ID numbers and different facility codes. Therefore if you have cards with IDs 1-10 and FC 25, and then you also have cards with IDs 1-10 and FC55, when you delete tags IDs 1-10, all 20 tags will stop working.

Yes, it has Timed Anti-Passback, which when enabled prevents cards from being reused in the same reader for a user programmable time period up to 30 minutes long.

No, RK65K is a very simple, basic product – no time zones, no transaction history records, no connection to a PC or software, and no networking capability.

Programming is done with the RK-HHP hand-held programmer – it is an RF-powered keypad, which you hold next to the reader, while entering programming commands using the numbers and symbol keys on the unit – A small self-stick ‘cheat sheet” with basic commands can be applied to the back of the unit. Complete configuration and programming commands are included in the user manual.

Secura Key’s SK-SR-1 Smart Relay can be attached to the output of the Reader’s Solid-State relay. When configured for Smart Relay operation, the solid-state relay output becomes a data connection to the SK-SR-1, which is installed on the secure side of the opening, near the strike or maglock. When the RK65K grants access to a card or tag, it transmits its own serial number to the SK-SR1, which stores that number and verifies it before activating its own access relay. Since the RK65K’s relay output no longer directly unlocks the door, the reader cannot be hotwired to gain entry.

Yes. While connecting the Wiegand port to an access control panel, you can still use the solid state relay to control a device, such as lighting or HVAC.

A solid-state relay is a single packaged device consisting of two power transistors and an optically-isolated input. It completes a circuit by providing a path to ground, and it can control loads of up to 1 Amp at up to 60 volts AC or DC, more than adequate for most door locking devices. Normally it gives a contact closure for a valid access, but for use with a maglock, The RK65K can be reconfigured to provide an open circuit for a valid access.

It is a mullion-sized single-door standalone access control unit. It runs on 5-14VDC, it has a solid-state relay to control a door or gate, and it has a REX (request to exit) input for remote unlocking. It controls up to 65535 cards (or 65K cards, which is where the product name comes from).

That is the switchplate-sized version of the RK65K – The extra “S” indicates Switchplate – the only differences being the size, and slightly better read distance due to the larger antenna.

It is the “dual-technology” version of the RK65K/S – it can read both Secura Key 26-bit or 32-bit Prox Cards and HID 26-bit Proximity Cards. The –M model is Mullion sized and the –S model is Switchplate sized.

Yes, there are three:

• SK-NET-DM – Basic, Single-User, Single Location, includes HIKVision integration, Lockdown and Real-Time Door Status Features, allows one TCP-IP connection
• SK-NET-MLD – Single-User, Multiple Location, includes all SK-NET-DM features, also includes ID Badge Printing and Design feature, allows multiple TCP-IP connections, allows unlimited remote Locations via Internet or dial-up modem. Each Location can have its own 65535- cardholder database and unique time zones)
• SK-NET-MLD-C/Sx – Multiple User, Multiple Location, includes all SK-NET-MLD features, plus multiple client workstations – ADS Database installs on Windows Server, and client software installs on Windows XP, 7, 8. X = 2, 5, 10 or 15 Users.

No

Not on the basic software, but there is a small version upgrade charge on SK-NET-MLD. There are also chargeable version upgrades for the Sybase database software for Client/Server systems

SK-NET allows you to create 15 different time zones and to create unlimited access groups by associating those time zones with different groups of doors and groups of cardholders.

No, but Secura Key cards can be used with many third-party time and attendance systems that have a standard Wiegand reader data input.

Yes, and there are several variations: Timed Antipassback prevents cards from being re-used at an entrance for a user-definable time period; Real Anti-passback defines IN and OUT readers and requires that card cannot be reused at an IN reader unless it has subsequently been used at an OUT reader; Hard Antipassback denies access to those who use IN and OUT readers out of sequence; and Soft Antipassback allows access to those who use In and OUT readers out of sequence, but it logs an anti-passback violation in the history report.

Yes and you can print transaction history reports or save and export them as PDFs or Excel Files.

No, but this feature is currently scheduled for development in 2015. A workaround solution can be implemented by paralleling a single reader input into multiple 2-door control panels and programming those panels to control input contacts on the elevator control unit.

To connect biometrics to Secura Key panels, you need a unit which has a Wiegand input and Wiegand output. Connect a reader to the input, and connect the output to the panel (or the SK-WIO-1 for NOVA.16 panels). You will do a separate enrollment process in the biometric reader where you enter card numbers and fingerprints into the unit’s memory (using their software). Once everyone is enrolled, present a card to the unit and place your finger on the reader. The unit stores the card data temporarily while the fingerprint is being checked. When the unit verifies the fingerprint against the card number, it passes the card number as Wiegand data to the control panel.

No, but this feature is scheduled for development in 2015. Meanwhile, a workaround solution is available: Install a Wiegand-Output reader and a Wiegand-Output keypad (such as Secura Key’s SK-KPM or SK-KPS) at the desired entrance, and connect them both to the control panel. Connect the strike relay outputs for both the reader and keypad in series, such that when the control panel grants access to a valid card AND a valid keypad entry, that the circuit to the door locking device will be completed. It is suggested that a high card number range be used to program 5-digit card numbers for the valid PIN codes. Since a valid PIN+Card entry at that door will result in two history transactions, you could modify the cardholder’s name in the PIN Card record (e.g. John Smith for the card reader and John-PIN Smith for the keypad.) If you want to schedule the PIN requirement for after-hours only, you could assign a Time Zone to an AUX relay which could be used to shunt the relay associated with the PIN reader during the day.

The user interface and basic features are the same. The only difference is that the Multi-Location, Badge Printing, and Multiple TCP/IP connection capabilities are enabled in “MLD” and disabled in “DM.”

A 65,535 sequentially numbered cards per Location

200 readers per Location

No, it is a Windows application

No, but the basic single-user software and the user manual are available as a free download from the SECURA KEY website.

A Mobile Application is currently under development, and Phase 1 is scheduled for release in Q2 of 2015.

No

Sagem Morpho Bioscrypt 4G V-Flex. Get the Base model, not the one with a built in card reader. This unit has a Wiegand input and a Wiegand output. You will need to discuss with Sagem Morpho tech support how to set up the unit to work with an access control panel. It’s not very clear from the installation manual. There is also an optional software program from Bioscrypt/Sagem Morpho called “SecureAdmin” required to set up the biometric unit (which can be connected to your client’s network). This unit is available with several different types of fingerprint readers – Lumidigm is probably the best.

It works with Windows XP, 7, Vista and 8.

Because the card database record does not have a separate field for PIN code, and because that reader would only be associated with a single strike relay. If valid PINs and Cards were stored in the system, the controller would open the door for whichever was entered first – either the valid PIN or the Valid Card – it would not wait for both to be entered, so it would not provide dual-factor authentication.

Any ANSI Compatible terminal software can be used to program a unit, but reports cannot be obtained, and programming cannot be saved.

Yes (one of Secura Key’s biggest selling points). The units have no slot, and no openings on the top, front or sides, and are frequently mounted on building exteriors or posts in parking lots with no protection. Proper installation is required — the reader mounting plate needs to be properly sealed to the mounting surface (Dow Corning RTV Silicone Sealant is recommended). SA Series products are also capable of withstanding extreme temperatures — from -40 to +70 C (-40 to 158F). The Lexan® Surface Mount enclosure is best for exterior use. The Metal Housing and Flush Mount Housings are also suitable for exterior use, but we do not recommend them for direct exposure to heavy rainfall.

No PC interface is required; connect the reader to your PC’s Serial Port (RS-232). All you need is:

• 5-conductor shielded cable
• DB-25S (Female) or DB-9S (Female) connector (depending on your PC).

No printer interface is required. All you need is:

• 5-conductor shielded cable (earth-ground shield at one end only)
• DB-25P (Male) connector
• Serial Printer (RS-232)

Yes, we offer EZID Kits 1, 2 and 3 which include software, a web cam and a dye-sublimation printer by Ultra Electronics.

Touch Cards can be ordered with a Dual-Bond Photo Flap, a Photo Pouch, or with a Polished Surface (Video-Imaging Ready).

Using SK-NET Software, up to 128 access units can be connected to a PC at a single location. With the Multi-Location / Dialup option, SK-NET software can be used to communicate with unlimited additional 128-reader locations via modem.

No, each gate must have its own 28SA-Plus. All SA Units are single-door units.

Casual contact between a Touch Card and magnetic stripe cards is usually not a problem. If you keep a Touch Card in your wallet or purse, keep it separate from credit cards.

No; but you can use any Macintosh terminal software which is ANSI -compatible with the 28SA-Plus. (Consult your Macintosh dealer.)

SK-NET Database / Communications software is compatible with Windows XP and Windows Vista 7.

No, it is a magnetic technology; the card must be placed flat on the touch plate.

They both read SKC-06 cards, basic functions can be programmed with a PD-26 program deck, all have the same external dimensions and similar housings, and all can operate on the same voltage range (12-24V AC or DC).

Besides the unit itself, you will need a:

• Power supply or transformer (12-24V AC or DC)
• Strike or other door locking device
• Power supply for the locking device
• 2-conductor cable to power and strike
• PD-26 Programming Deck
• SKC-06 Access Cards (min order, 50 cards)

*Note that many Distributors stock kits of matching program decks and cards in fixed quantities : PDC-50; PDC-100; PDC-250; PDC-500; PDC-1000.

You will need:

• 5-conductor Shielded Cable (from 28SA-Plus to Modem)
• (Earth-ground the shield at one end only)
• DB25 Male Connector (for connection to Modem)
• Modem: Hayes-compatible external dial-up type (e.g. US Robotics Sportster).
• Waterproof enclosure or indoor location for modem
• Dedicated telephone line

For a permanent connection, use the following:

• 5-conductor Shielded cable, 18 – 24 AWG (300 feet, maximum)
• (Earth-ground the shield at one end only)
• DB-9 or DB25 Female Connector (depends on your computer)
• Secura Key Software (or terminal emulation software)

For a temporary connection, use:

• Secura Key Model CBLSA Cable Kit
• Secura Key Software (or terminal emulation software)

For a permanent connection, use the following:

• 5-conductor Shielded cable, 18 – 24 AWG (300 feet, maximum)
• (Earth-ground the shield at one end only)
• DB25 Male Connector

For a temporary connection, use:

• Secura Key Model CBLSA Cable Kit

You will need:

• One SK-NM485 Network Module per reader
• Single Twisted-Pair, Shielded Cable, 4000′ max. dist.
• Crimp-type connectors to splice network modules to network cable (3/module)
• NET-CONV-P, RS-232/485 Converter w/Power Supply, connects modem to network

Or

• 5-conductor shielded cable w/DB25 Male connector, connects modem to network
• Modem: Hayes-compatible external dial-up type (e.g. US Robotics Sportster).
• Waterproof enclosure or indoor location for Modem
• Dedicated telephone line.

You will need:

• One SK-NM485 Network Module per reader
• Single Twisted-Pair, Shielded Cable, 4000′ max. dist.
• Crimp-type connectors to splice network modules to network cable (3/module)
• SK-NET Software (requires a PC running Windows XP or Vista 7 with 100 MB HD Avail)
• One NET-CONV-P, RS-232/RS485 Converter w/Power Supply, connects PC to network
• DB25 Male to DB9 Female adapter, if your PC serial port is DB9 Male

You will need:

• One SK-NM485 Network Module per reader
• Single Twisted-Pair, Shielded Cable, 4000′ max. dist.
• Crimp-type connectors to splice network modules to network cable (3/module)
• 5-conductor shielded cable w/DB25 Male connector, connects printer to network

Or

• One NET-CONV-P, RS-232/RS485 Converter w/Power Supply, connects Printer to network, also requires Male/Male Gender Converter.

Dual Bond uses a cold adhesive process which allows you to take a photographic print, stick it to the adhesive surface and press down a clear cover sheet over the photo. If Polaroid® film is used, the photo will bond to the plastic over time.

A photo pouch is a clear vinyl pouch laminated to the card, having one open end for insertion of a photo. The photo can be removed.

It is an optional high-gloss finish card, as opposed to the standard matte finish card. It is available at a slight extra cost, and can be ordered on one side or both sides

Photo Imaging systems use a video camera, a PC with card imaging software, and a thermal dye sublimation printer, which can print employee photographs, company logos and other information directly on to the polished surface of a PVC access card. The standard matte finish is not acceptable for direct printing.

It is a special set of 15 program cards which are used for adding or voiding access cards, and programming other parameters in the SA Units. The cards are the same size as access cards, except that they are labeled with large numbers and functions. To use the program deck, the cards are placed on the touch plate in sequence to transmit programming commands to the reader.

The 26SA has 65000 card capacity and timed anti-passback, and is programmed with a program deck (a special set of programming cards).

The 28SA-Plus has the features of 26SA and it also stores a time-stamped record of up to 5000 transactions and can be programmed with a program deck or a PC. The 28SA-Plus has a communications input which allows the connection of a PC, Serial Printer, ANSI-compatible terminal, or a Hayes Compatible Modem. The 28SA-Plus also has three PC-programmable inputs (define as remote-open, door monitor, arming loop, remote inactive, or bell). 28SA also has a remote reader input, allowing a second reader to control the same door from another location.

28SA-Plus has up to 15 programmable Time Zones, 32 holidays and automatic DST, allowing specific access schedules to be assigned to cards, and has a Door Zone, allowing a door-open schedule to be assigned to the reader. 28SA-Plus has up to 4000 Limited Use cards (assign up to 500 uses, days or weeks to a card).

Either 26SA or 28SA can accomplish this.

The 28SA-Plus can accomplish this with a feature called Card Time Zones.

The 28SA-Plus can accomplish this with a feature called a Door Zone.

The the 28SA-Plus allow the connection of a remote reader for two-way access at a single gate. (Remote reader Model SK-029W, FMT34)

The 28SA-Plus can store a history of card usage and events, and the information can be sent to a printer or a PC.

Ease of duplication is often cited as a reason not to buy a particular technology; most frequently mentioned regarding Mag Stripe and Bar Code. Here we should correct a common fallacy in the Access Control industry. The ability to copy a card will not guarantee access to a secured facility, because lost or stolen cards are quickly voided by the conscientious security manager. The intruder must try to make another card with a valid number for the same facility. Most card technologies, including modern Barium Ferrite are (or can be) encrypted, making it virtually impossible to create another valid card.

Barium Ferrite card technology, with the Secura Key TOUCH CARD™ readers and access control systems, remains viable and competitive. TOUCH CARD™ can also be used in dual-technology environments; Magnetic Stripe and Bar Code can easily be applied to the back of a Barium Ferrite card for non-security applications such as debit card systems, college libraries, time and attendance, etc. Selection of Barium Ferrite cards and TOUCH CARD™ technology for a new access control system is still a wise decision, particularly if perimeter readers are exposed to harsh weather or hostile environments.

The key advantages of Bar Code are cost, and ease of encoding. Basic Bar Code cards can be easily copied on a photocopy machine. In most Access Control applications, infrared blockers are laminated over the bar code for protection. Because Bar Code readers read the cards photo-optically, they must be cleaned frequently; otherwise, dirt, lint or foreign matter can collect in the reader and prevent the card from being read. Additionally, the presence of any black mark (grease, dirt, felt pen, etc.) on the barcode will render the card unreadable. Swipe-type Bar Code readers require some skill to use; the card will misread if it is not swiped in a straight trajectory. Insert-type Bar Code readers reduce misreads, but are subject to the typical drawbacks of insert readers. TOUCH CARD™ technology requires specialized process equipment and knowledge to duplicate. Dirt falls off of the TOUCH CARD™ Plate; no regular maintenance is required. While customers cannot encode and laminate their own cards, Secura Key offers an economical card, with a fast turnaround time, and much better security.

The key advantages of Magnetic Stripe are low cost cards and readers, and ease of encoding. The Magnetic Stripe is located on the card surface, and the read head must be exposed to guarantee direct contact with the stripe. Therefore, cards and read heads are subject to wear through normal use. Wear is accelerated by dirt or grit if the readers are installed outdoors. The encoded data on Magnetic Stripe cards is also subject to accidental erasure. Magnetic Stripe readers are available in insert versions, which are prone to vandalism by jamming the slot with foreign objects, and swipe versions, where the slot tends to ice up in colder regions. Magnetic Stripe cards are easily duplicated, which results in reduced security. Advanced Magnetic Stripe cards are more secure and difficult to duplicate, but the readers and cards are proprietary, eliminating the low-cost advantage of magnetic stripe, without overcoming the basic drawbacks of the technology.

With TOUCH CARD™ technology there is no wear to the card or reader during normal use. The magnetic material is laminated inside the card, fully protected from physical damage, and is almost impossible to accidentally demagnetize. The TOUCH CARD™ reader has no slot, uses rust-proof stainless steel for the TOUCH CARD™ reader plate. TOUCH CARD™ has industrial grade components for a wide temperature range. Conformal coated circuit boards to resist corrosion and a neoprene mounting gasket to keep water out of the housing. Cards are encrypted, and the card encoders are not commercially available, making the cards very difficult to copy.

System owners and dealers swear by TOUCH CARD™ technology once they discover its reliability and ease of use. There may not be a “best” card technology for everyone. The selection of card technology should be based on the requirements of the individual customer, and on factors such as cost, reliability, ease of use, and environment. TOUCH CARD™ technology is a superior card technology for new systems, which should be considered on an equal basis with other card technologies. The following paragraphs compare TOUCH CARD™ technology with other card technologies.

The key advantages of Wiegand technology are its weather-resistance and card durability. Wiegand readers are waterproof, sealed units, and the Wiegand code module is also fully protected by being laminated inside the card. Wiegand readers , however, share the disadvantages of all slotted readers, being susceptible to vandalism and ice forming in the card slot — this is why you will see many Wiegand readers installed upside-down. Wiegand cards are difficult to manufacture, and the special Wiegand wire is available from two or three sources in the world, making Wiegand relatively expensive as compared to other card technologies. Because the Wiegand module must be pre-assembled with the correct encoding prior to card lamination, all Wiegand cards must be made to order, resulting in longer delivery times. Wiegand cards must be swiped through the reader with some precision to be read correctly.

TOUCH CARD™ technology readers are slotless, and the cards are inexpensive and easy to manufacture. Barium Ferrite is not an exotic material; it is similar to the material used for magnetic signs (as well as the appliques found on millions of refrigerators). Barium Ferrite cards can be fully assembled prior to encoding and hot-stamping, allowing for rapid turnaround times. TOUCH CARD™ technology is easy to use, because the card is stationery when read. There is no problem with swiping too slowly or quickly. Beveled edges on the reader faceplate guide the card onto the TOUCH CARD™ plate. This self-locating feature makes TOUCH CARD™ ideal for handicap applications.

Secura Key manufactures the unique patented TOUCH CARD™ technology reader. The reader technology provides extraordinary protection against weather and vandalism. Simply place the card on the stainless steel plate and the card is read instantly. Since there is virtually no wear, the cards last almost indefinitely.

The original readers used for Barium Ferrite cards were both magnetic and mechanical, and had many moving parts. Problems developed as the readers got older and began to wear out. They needed frequent calibration and maintenance. The internal parts would often stick. Cold or wet weather conditions, corrosion and dirt prevented proper mechanical operation of the reader.

Secura Key decided to solve these problems and develop a new reader technology to bring out the best in Barium Ferrite. In 1986, Secura Key patented TOUCH CARD™ reader. This reader has an array of Hall-effect sensors, which can read the polarity and intensity of magnetized spots in Barium Ferrite cards. These readers are entirely solid state, microprocessor controlled, and self-calibrating, which eliminates the constant maintenance headache of the early electromechanical readers. Since there is no card slot, dirt, dust, and moisture are no longer a problem.

Secura Key sold these readers to large OEM System Manufacturers, such as Russco and Cardkey Systems, to replace their existing Barium Ferrite readers. They were used at large facilities such as Ford Motor Company, and FedEx. The reliability of TOUCH CARD technology combined with the rugged, simplistic design of two standalone reader products, 26SA and the 28SA+, made Secura Key a well-known supplier to the gate control and telephone entry system market.

With TOUCH CARD™ technology there is no wear to the card or reader during normal use. The magnetic material is laminated inside the card, fully protected from physical damage, and is almost impossible to accidentally demagnetize. The TOUCH CARD™ reader has no slot, uses rust-proof stainless steel for the TOUCH CARD™ reader plate. TOUCH CARD™ has industrial grade components for a wide temperature range. Conformal coated circuit boards to resist corrosion and a neoprene mounting gasket to keep water out of the housing. Cards are encrypted, and the card encoders are not commercially available, making the cards very difficult to copy.