Access Control Systems | Commercial Door Access & Credentials

Q: What's the difference between fail-safe and fail-secure locks?

Fail-safe locks (also called "power-to-lock") unlock on power loss — required for egress routes by most fire and life-safety codes. Fail-secure locks ("power-to-unlock") stay locked on power loss — typically used on office, storage, and supply doors where security trumps egress. Always confirm lock selection with the local AHJ; see our fail-safe vs fail-secure guide.

Q: Is OSDP required for new access control installations?

Not legally required in most jurisdictions — but strongly recommended and effectively mandatory for federal deployments. OSDP with Secure Channel provides AES-128 encryption between reader and controller, bidirectional supervision, and future-proof support for mobile credentials. Legacy Wiegand is unencrypted and easily cloned. New deployments should be OSDP-capable from day one; legacy systems should plan a migration path.

Q: Are HID card readers NDAA compliant?

Yes. HID Global is headquartered in Austin, TX, manufactures in multiple allied countries, and is fully NDAA Section 889 compliant. HID Signo, multiCLASS SE, iCLASS SE, and pivCLASS reader families are all eligible for federal, state government, and critical-infrastructure procurement. Credential cards are manufactured to the same compliance standard.

Q: How do I size an access control power supply?

Add up holding current for all locks + reader standby current + controller standby current, then add 25% headroom for inrush and aging. Battery backup should provide code-required standby runtime (typically 4 hours for fire-alarm tie-ins; 15 min for access-only). Altronix UL 294 power supplies post clear spec sheets for total and per-output current — match to your actual load, don't guess.

Q: Can mobile credentials replace physical access cards?

In most modern deployments, yes — but the reader has to support it. Readers need NFC and/or BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) plus a partnership with the mobile credential platform (HID Mobile Access, Openpath, Kastle, etc.). Older proximity-only readers cannot read mobile credentials. Mobile adoption is usually mixed with physical cards during a multi-year transition — plan for both.

Q: What's the difference between iCLASS SE and Seos credentials?

iCLASS SE was HID's previous-generation secure credential (AES-128, 2013-era). Seos is the current generation (2016+) — same AES-128 security, but multi-application, mobile-wallet capable, and future-proof. Seos credentials work on Seos-capable readers and on older iCLASS SE readers. iCLASS SE credentials do not work on legacy (pre-SE) iCLASS readers. See our HID Global catalog for current Seos SKUs.

Plan Your Deployment

Door count and expansion requirements
Reader type (card, keypad, biometric) and credential format
Fail-safe vs fail-secure hardware design
Power, cabling, and network connectivity planning
Multi-site governance and consistent standards

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HID

SKU: 920NWNNEKE00BM

HID 920NWNNEKE00BM R40 Multiclass Wall Reader

Dual-frequency wall reader for iCLASS SE and LF credential migration
- Reads iCLASS SE, HF SEOS/MIGR, and LF protocols with factory migration profile loaded
- Wiegand 26-bit output integrates directly with existing access control panels
- Black wall-mount design with LED status and buzzer feedback for credential events
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HID

SKU: 920PHRNEK00004

HID 920PHRNEK00004 RP40 Multiclass SE Reader

Single reader for Prox, iCLASS, and MIFARE cards with encrypted link
- Reads three card formats simultaneously, eliminating parallel readers
- SIO encryption protects card data; reader-to-panel link encrypted end-to-end
- IP65 rated, standard panel integration, compact 7.1 x 4.9 x 1.6 in form factor
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HID

SKU: 920PHRNEK00203

HID 920PHRNEK00203 RP40 Multiclass SE Reader

Multiclass reader supporting Prox, iCLASS, and MIFARE with encryption
- Reads three card technologies—Prox, iCLASS, MIFARE—in one compact unit
- Secure Identity Object encryption protects against card cloning and fraud
- IP65-rated black housing with pigtail wired config for flexible mounting
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HID

SKU: 921NHRNEK00062

HID 921NHRNEK00062 RK40 iClass Keypad Reader

PIVCLASS smart card reader with RS-485 and Wiegand for access control
- High-frequency HF with SIO and SEOS capability for PIV credential support
- RS-485 full-duplex + Wiegand output with 8-bit message format compatibility
- FIPS 200-bit encryption for secure reader-to-controller transmission
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HID

SKU: 921NHRTEK0013W

HID 921NHRTEK0013W RK40 iClass Keypad Reader

PIVCLASS proximity reader with FIPS 140-2 encryption and dual LF/HF support
- FIPS 140-2 Level 2 with 75-bit encryption for government and enterprise access control
- RS-485 Full Duplex and Wiegand interface for seamless legacy system integration
- Flush or surface-mount RK40-H form factor with ADA door compliance and tamper detection
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HID

SKU: 921NWNTEKE00BN

HID 921NWNTEKE00BN RK40 iClass SE Multiclass Reader

iCLASS SE reader with Wiegand output for multi-credential access control
- Reads iCLASS, SE, and legacy credentials with HF migration support
- Wiegand 100µs pulse output integrates with standard access panels
- Door completion signaling for electromagnetic lock control integration
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$913.62 $477.99 Save $435.63

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HID

SKU: 921NWNTEKE050K

HID 921NWNTEKE050K RK40 iClass Wall Reader

Wall-mount iCLASS reader with Wiegand output for mixed-credential access
- Reads iCLASS SE, iCLASS, Mifare, and legacy proximity in single unit
- Wiegand protocol output with 8-bit messaging for direct panel integration
- Red LED and audible buzzer feedback; single-key programming for field setup
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HID

SKU: 921NWPNEK0047M

HID 921NWPNEK0047M RK40 iClass SE HF Reader

iCLASS SE HF reader with secure element encryption for cloning protection
- Secure Element Encryption (SE E) with advanced anti-counterfeiting credential protection
- High Frequency Standard operation with backward compatibility for existing systems
- IP65-rated design for reliable performance in high-traffic access environments
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HID

SKU: 921NWPTEK00482

HID 921NWPTEK00482 RK40 iClass SE LF Reader

Dual-tech iCLASS SE + LF reader with Wiegand output for mixed-credential sites
- Reads both iCLASS SE (HF) and low-frequency cards in single unit for migrations
- Wiegand + RS-485 half-duplex output integrates directly with existing panels
- LED and buzzer feedback with field-upgradeable firmware for on-site adjustments
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HID

SKU: 921PHRNEK0002D

HID 921PHRNEK0002D RPK40 Multiclass SE Keypad Reader

Dual-tech keypad + proximity reader consolidates card and PIN auth
- Reads iCLASS and proximity cards with integrated alphanumeric keypad
- Single wall-mount unit replaces two readers, cutting installation labor
- Supports card-only, PIN-only, or card+PIN sequence authentication modes
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HID

SKU: 921PHRNEK0015D

HID 921PHRNEK0015D RPK40 Multiclass SE Keypad Reader

PIVCLASS SE multi-credential reader with FIPS 75-bit encryption
- Reads LF, HF, SIO, SEOS, FIPS, and CAK credentials in single module
- RS-485 full-duplex communication with programmable 4-bit output format
- Optional tamper detection circuitry for unauthorized access alerts
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HID

SKU: 921PWNNEK00324

HID 921PWNNEK00324 RPK40 Multiclass SE LF HF Reader

Multiclass LF/HF reader with Wiegand and PIU output for mixed credential environments
- Reads LF standard and HF standard, SIO, SEOS card types from single RPK40 module
- Wiegand and PIU outputs integrate with existing access control systems
- EVP00000 encryption supports secure migration between credential formats
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$976.18 $510.99 Save $465.19

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HID

SKU: 922NTNNEK0014G

HID 922NTNNEK0014G RM40 Iclass SE HF Reader

Multi-technology reader for iCLASS SE, proximity, and magnetic stripe
- Reads iCLASS SE, low-frequency proximity, and magnetic stripe in one RM40
- Wiegand 26-bit output with 32-bit CSN encoding for legacy and modern systems
- Red LED with green flash and audible buzzer feedback on card read
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$729.93 $452.99 Save $276.94

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HID

SKU: 925PTNTEK00425

HID 925PTNTEK00425 RMPK40 Multiclass SE Magstripe Reader

Multiclass reader for EM, HF, and magnetic stripe credentials in one device
- Reads EM, HF, magnetic stripe, and Wiegand credentials simultaneously
- Wiegand and SIO/SEOS/MAG protocol output for legacy and modern systems
- LED and buzzer status indicators with tamper detection included
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HID

SKU: 940NTNTEKE0000

HID 940NTNTEKE0000 R90 iClass SE SEOS SIO Reader

HF iCLASS SE R90 reader with Wiegand, RS-232, and SIO/SEOS output
- iCLASS SE E credentials with field-programmable Elite key encryption
- Multiple protocols (Wiegand, RS-232 terminal, SIO/SEOS) for legacy and new systems
- 32-bit MSB card serial number capture with red LED and piezo confirmation
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HID

SKU: 94600

HID 94600 HDP6600 Single -Sided Printer

Single-sided ID card printer with 600 dpi and 230 cards/hour output
- 100-card hopper handles CR-80 credentials in .030"–.040" thickness
- 16.7 million color dye-sublimation and thermal transfer in one pass
- USB 2.0 and Ethernet connectivity with SmartScreen OLED control panel
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$6,237.00 $3,305.99 Save $2,931.01

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What to Look For When Buying

The six decisions that matter most before you spec.

Fail-Safe vs Fail-Secure

Fail-safe locks (power-to-lock) unlock on power loss — required for egress routes by most fire codes. Fail-secure (power-to-unlock) stays locked on power loss — used on office and storage doors where security trumps egress. Life-safety code interpretation varies by jurisdiction; consult your AHJ before specifying. See our fail-safe vs fail-secure guide.

OSDP vs Wiegand

Wiegand is the legacy reader-to-controller protocol (unencrypted, one-way, limited to 26-bit formats). OSDP (Open Supervised Device Protocol) is the modern replacement — bidirectional, encrypted, supervised, and future-proof for Seos/mobile credentials. New deployments should be OSDP; plan a Wiegand-to-OSDP migration path in legacy systems before adding mobile credential support.

Credential Technology

125 kHz proximity (HID Prox, EM) is the legacy standard — cheap, cloneable, no security. 13.56 MHz smart cards (iCLASS SE, MIFARE DESFire EV3, Seos) use AES encryption and are the commercial standard. Mobile credentials via NFC/BLE increasingly replace physical cards — but only on OSDP-capable readers. Specify multi-technology readers for migration flexibility.

Cloud vs On-Prem Management

Traditional server-based access platforms (Lenel, Genetec, C-Cure) require IT infrastructure and maintenance contracts. Cloud-native platforms (Brivo, Openpath/Avigilon Alta, Genea) eliminate servers but add per-door monthly fees. Mid-size deployments increasingly choose cloud; enterprise + critical infrastructure still favor on-prem. Hardware choice determines which platforms you can run.

Power Supply Sizing

Every lock + reader + controller has an inrush current and a holding current — and they differ. Maglocks hold at 300-500 mA but pull 800 mA on release. UL 294 power supplies rated for total simultaneous holding + 25% headroom, with battery backup sized to code-required runtime. Undersized power supplies are the #1 cause of access-control nuisance failures.

Code Compliance (Egress)

IBC, NFPA 101, and ADA all mandate unimpeded egress. A magnetically-locked door requires a fire-alarm tie-in, a bond-sensor, and a request-to-exit device — omit any and the door is a code violation. Delayed-egress maglocks require 15-second delay + sounder per NFPA. Always confirm lock spec with the AHJ before ordering.

Technology Stack

The specs and acronyms that actually affect outdoor performance.

OSDP v2 + Secure Channel

Open Supervised Device Protocol v2 with Secure Channel Protocol (SCP) delivers AES-128 encryption between reader and controller over RS-485. Replaces unencrypted Wiegand. Required for new federal deployments and FIPS 140-2 applications. All modern HID, ASSA ABLOY, and STid readers support OSDP + SCP.

Seos + iCLASS SE Credentials

HID Seos is the current-generation credential platform: AES-128 encrypted, multi-application, supports mobile wallets, backward-compatible with iCLASS SE. Seos credentials work on Seos readers + older iCLASS SE readers — iCLASS SE credentials do not work on legacy iCLASS (non-SE) readers. Plan migrations carefully.

FIPS 201 / PIV + PIV-I

Federal Identity Verification standard — the credential format used for federal employee and contractor badges. PIV-I (Interoperable) is the commercial variant for hospitals, utilities, and critical-infrastructure contractors. Specify PIV/PIV-I-capable readers (HID pivCLASS, multiCLASS SE) for any facility that hosts government visitors.

UL 294 Listing

Underwriters Laboratories listing for access control system units — power supplies, controllers, and locks. UL 294 6th edition covers security, durability, and overcurrent/overvoltage protection. Insurance and code requirements increasingly specify UL 294 listing. Altronix access-control power supplies are UL 294 listed across the catalog.

Wiegand Protocol

Legacy reader-to-controller protocol — one-way, unencrypted, variable bit-length format. Easily cloned with <$50 hardware. Still widespread because of low cost and universal compatibility. Acceptable for low-security interior doors; should be replaced with OSDP on any external or sensitive-area door.

Request-to-Exit (REX)

Motion- or push-button-activated device that signals the access controller to unlock the door from the secure side without generating an alarm. Required for maglock-equipped egress doors per code. PIR REX sensors must be properly aimed — nuisance alarms and held-door violations trace back to bad REX placement more than any other cause.

Typical Deployment Scenarios

Multi-Tenant Office Building

Lobby turnstiles with multi-tech readers, tenant suite doors with HID Signo + Seos, parking garage with long-range readers, elevator control for floor-by-floor access. Cloud platform (Brivo, Openpath) with mobile credentials replaces physical card issuance. Integration with SIP video intercoms for visitor management.

K-12 School Secure Vestibule

Front entry vestibule with fail-secure electric strike, interior Aiphone video intercom for visitor buzz-in, badge readers for staff, lockdown button integrated with mass notification. Back-of-house doors fail-safe per code. Full VMS integration for event overlay.

Hospital & Healthcare

Unit doors with HID multiCLASS SE + PIV-I compatibility, medication rooms with dual-authentication (card + biometric), ER ambulance bays with ruggedized readers, delayed-egress on behavioral health wards. Lenel or Genetec server-based platform with HIPAA-compliant audit logging. High-cycle-count electric strikes required.

Data Center & Critical Infrastructure

Biometric readers at server-room entries, mantrap doors with anti-tailgating sensors, cage-level access with OSDP + SCP, 7x24 audit logging. FIPS 201 / PIV-I credentials. Integration with IP cameras for tailgating review and infrastructure monitoring for physical-layer security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between fail-safe and fail-secure locks?

Fail-safe locks (also called "power-to-lock") unlock on power loss — required for egress routes by most fire and life-safety codes. Fail-secure locks ("power-to-unlock") stay locked on power loss — typically used on office, storage, and supply doors where security trumps egress. Always confirm lock selection with the local AHJ; see our fail-safe vs fail-secure guide.

Is OSDP required for new access control installations?

Not legally required in most jurisdictions — but strongly recommended and effectively mandatory for federal deployments. OSDP with Secure Channel provides AES-128 encryption between reader and controller, bidirectional supervision, and future-proof support for mobile credentials. Legacy Wiegand is unencrypted and easily cloned. New deployments should be OSDP-capable from day one; legacy systems should plan a migration path.

Are HID card readers NDAA compliant?

Yes. HID Global is headquartered in Austin, TX, manufactures in multiple allied countries, and is fully NDAA Section 889 compliant. HID Signo, multiCLASS SE, iCLASS SE, and pivCLASS reader families are all eligible for federal, state government, and critical-infrastructure procurement. Credential cards are manufactured to the same compliance standard.

How do I size an access control power supply?

Add up holding current for all locks + reader standby current + controller standby current, then add 25% headroom for inrush and aging. Battery backup should provide code-required standby runtime (typically 4 hours for fire-alarm tie-ins; 15 min for access-only). Altronix UL 294 power supplies post clear spec sheets for total and per-output current — match to your actual load, don't guess.

Can mobile credentials replace physical access cards?

In most modern deployments, yes — but the reader has to support it. Readers need NFC and/or BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) plus a partnership with the mobile credential platform (HID Mobile Access, Openpath, Kastle, etc.). Older proximity-only readers cannot read mobile credentials. Mobile adoption is usually mixed with physical cards during a multi-year transition — plan for both.

What's the difference between iCLASS SE and Seos credentials?

iCLASS SE was HID's previous-generation secure credential (AES-128, 2013-era). Seos is the current generation (2016+) — same AES-128 security, but multi-application, mobile-wallet capable, and future-proof. Seos credentials work on Seos-capable readers and on older iCLASS SE readers. iCLASS SE credentials do not work on legacy (pre-SE) iCLASS readers. See our HID Global catalog for current Seos SKUs.

Access Control

Plan Your Deployment

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Showing Results for Access Control

HID 920NWNNEKE00BM R40 Multiclass Wall Reader

HID 920PHRNEK00004 RP40 Multiclass SE Reader

HID 920PHRNEK00203 RP40 Multiclass SE Reader

HID 921NHRNEK00062 RK40 iClass Keypad Reader

HID 921NHRTEK0013W RK40 iClass Keypad Reader

HID 921NWNTEKE00BN RK40 iClass SE Multiclass Reader

HID 921NWNTEKE050K RK40 iClass Wall Reader

HID 921NWPNEK0047M RK40 iClass SE HF Reader

HID 921NWPTEK00482 RK40 iClass SE LF Reader

HID 921PHRNEK0002D RPK40 Multiclass SE Keypad Reader

HID 921PHRNEK0015D RPK40 Multiclass SE Keypad Reader

HID 921PWNNEK00324 RPK40 Multiclass SE LF HF Reader

HID 922NTNNEK0014G RM40 Iclass SE HF Reader

HID 925PTNTEK00425 RMPK40 Multiclass SE Magstripe Reader

HID 940NTNTEKE0000 R90 iClass SE SEOS SIO Reader

HID 94600 HDP6600 Single -Sided Printer

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