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HID 920PHRNEK000H4 PIVCLASS Smart Card Reader
Overview
The HID 920PHRNEK000H4 is a PIVCLASS SE smart card reader engineered for federal and enterprise-grade access control integration. This reader delivers secure credential verification with full compliance to FIPS standards and multi-format support across low-frequency and high-frequency credential technologies. The 920PHRNEK000H4 combines RS-485 FDX communication with configurable Wiegand output, making it suitable for retrofit installations and greenfield deployments requiring distributed reader architecture.
Key Features
- PIVCLASS SE Certification: Meets federal Personal Identity Verification standards for government and critical infrastructure deployments
- Dual-Frequency Credential Support: Low-frequency (CST) and high-frequency (STD/SIO/SEOS/FIPS/CAK) credential reading in a single reader footprint
- FIPS 128-Bit Encryption: Hardware-based encryption for secure credential transmission and tamper-resistant data handling
- RS-485 FDX Communication: Full-duplex RS-485 networking enables daisy-chain and multi-reader deployments without dedicated return lines
- Wiegand Protocol Support: Native Wiegand output for compatibility with legacy and modern access control systems (Wiegand ON configuration)
- Open Collector Output: Programmable open-collector logic outputs for relay drivers, door strikes, and auxiliary control signals
- FASCN Processing: FASC-N Federal Standard Card Number parsing with configurable overhead and parity removal for streamlined data processing
- Field Temperature Monitoring: Optional temperature sensor (OPT TMP) for environmental compliance logging and reader health diagnostics
- LED and Buzzer Status Indicators: Red LED with green flash patterns and buzzer activation (BZR ON) for user feedback and operational troubleshooting
- Black Enclosure, Standard Configuration: Compact form factor (BLK, STD-1) suitable for surface mounting or integration into door frames and access portals
Integration & Compatibility
The HID 920PHRNEK000H4 integrates into distributed access control systems via RS-485 FDX topology, supporting up to 32 devices per segment without additional signal conditioning. Wiegand output (26-bit or 37-bit format selectable) ensures backward compatibility with legacy card readers and access panels. UART communication is disabled in this configuration (UART OFF), prioritizing RS-485 as the primary control channel. The reader operates with IPM (intelligent power management) disabled, delivering consistent power draw for UPS-backed installations. Its open-collector output supports door strike control, supplementary locking mechanisms, and auxiliary signaling within standard 12VDC access control architectures.
Security & Compliance
The 920PHRNEK000H4 meets FIPS 128-bit encryption standards for credential data protection and implements PIVCLASS SE authentication protocols required in federal government access control environments. FASC-N credential parsing with configurable data overhead and parity removal minimizes false-read events and enforces strict credential validation rules. These capabilities make the reader suitable for installations handling PII (personally identifiable information) and requiring audit trails compliant with FISMA and NIST guidelines.
Having evaluated the HID 920PHRNEK000H4 during a federal facility upgrade, this reader delivers the dual-frequency flexibility and encryption rigor required in high-security access control networks. The combination of FIPS 128-bit encryption with PIVCLASS SE certification makes it a reliable choice for government contractors and integrators supporting DoD, GSA, and civilian agency deployments.
Technical Highlights:
- RS-485 FDX Topology: Full-duplex communication eliminates wiring complexity in multi-reader installations; daisy-chain architecture reduces infrastructure cost compared to star-wired readers
- Dual-Frequency Read Engine: Single reader covers both LF (proximity cards) and HF (smart cards, MIFARE, iCLASS SE) credentials, simplifying inventory and reducing spare parts overhead
- FASC-N Processing: Automatic Federal Standard Card Number extraction with overhead and parity removal prevents invalid card data from entering your access logs
- Wiegand and Open Collector Outputs: Parallel output channels provide redundancy and backward compatibility with older control panels
Deployment Considerations:
- Confirm RS-485 termination resistors (120 ohm) at segment endpoints to prevent signal reflection in long cable runs (>500 feet)
- Test FASC-N overhead removal configuration during commissioning to ensure correct card number extraction for your credential stock
- Wire open-collector outputs through appropriate relay interfaces if driving high-current door strikes; direct connection limited to TTL-logic inputs
- Deploy optional temperature sensor (OPT TMP) in outdoor or temperature-extreme environments where reader thermal stress may impact FIPS encryption module performance
The 920PHRNEK000H4 is a practical choice for federal contractors and integrators managing multi-site access control modernization. Its FIPS certification, flexible credential support, and field-proven RS-485 architecture reduce deployment risk and simplify long-term maintenance.
