Overview
In addition to its built-in card reader, Swiftreader X can work with a third-party key card reader connected to its Wiegand input. This is useful when a property wants to keep an existing reader, mount the reader in a separate location, or use a specific reader model.
Swiftreader X's two Wiegand input ports accept inputs of up to 26 bits from an external reader. With this setup, residents and staff can badge in with a physical card or fob while still using every other access method Swiftreader X offers, including Face Unlock, PIN Unlock, and Mobile Unlock.
This article explains which components you need and how to wire the external reader to Swiftreader X.
Before you begin
You need the following components:
Swiftreader X, installed and connected to your network
A key card reader with Wiegand output that supports standard 26-bit key cards and fobs
A 12V DC power supply for the card reader (or whatever voltage the reader's label specifies)
Low-voltage wire for the D0, D1, ground, and power connections
Swiftreader X accepts Wiegand inputs of up to 26 bits. Readers configured for higher bit formats, such as 34-bit or 37-bit, are not supported in this setup.
Important: power and grounding
Power the card reader from its own external supply, and connect its ground to Swiftreader X's ground.
Check the reader's maximum voltage first. Look at the label or instructions on your card reader. Most card readers run on 12V, but the AC-DC adapter shipped with Swiftreader X supplies 24V. Do not power the card reader from the Swiftreader X adapter, as this can damage it.
Use an external power source that matches the voltage in the card reader's documentation.
Share a common ground. Swiftreader X and the card reader must share a common ground connection. Without it, Swiftreader X cannot read the Wiegand signal reliably.
Wiring the card reader
Make four connections: D0 and D1 between the reader and Swiftreader X, a shared ground, and 12V power to the reader. The connections are made at the interface section on the back of Swiftreader X.
Connection | From | To | Purpose |
D0 | Swiftreader X D0 | Card reader D0 | Carries the Wiegand "Data 0" signal from the reader to Swiftreader X |
D1 | Swiftreader X D1 | Card reader D1 | Carries the Wiegand "Data 1" signal from the reader to Swiftreader X |
Ground (GND) | 12V power supply GND | Swiftreader X GND and card reader GND | Common ground shared by Swiftreader X and the card reader |
Power (12V DC) | 12V power supply +12V | Card reader 12V | Powers the card reader |
Follow these steps:
Disconnect power from Swiftreader X and the external power supply before wiring.
Connect Swiftreader X D0 to the card reader D0.
Connect Swiftreader X D1 to the card reader D1.
Connect the power supply GND to both Swiftreader X GND and the card reader GND.
Connect the power supply +12V to the card reader 12V input.
Leave the Swiftreader X Ethernet connection to your network switch in place.
Double-check every connection, then restore power to Swiftreader X and the card reader.
Testing and troubleshooting
After wiring, present a 26-bit key card or fob that is assigned to a user and confirm the door unlocks.
Symptom | What to check |
Card reader has no lights or beep | Confirm the power supply is on and its +12V and GND are wired to the reader's 12V and GND. Verify the supply voltage matches the reader's label. |
Reader beeps but Swiftreader X does not respond | Check that the reader's ground is tied to Swiftreader X GND. Confirm D0 and D1 are firmly seated in the Swiftreader X interface section. |
Card is read but access is denied or the wrong card number appears | D0 and D1 may be swapped; swap the two wires and test again. Confirm the card is a standard 26-bit format and is assigned to the user. |
Some cards work and others do not | The cards that fail may use a format above 26 bits, which Swiftreader X does not accept. |