HID 921NHRTEK0013W RDR RK40-H PIVCLASS Proximity Reader
Overview
The HID 921NHRTEK0013W is a wall-mounted proximity card reader engineered for secure access control deployments requiring PIVCLASS compliance and robust credential authentication. This reader integrates low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) technology with FIPS 140-2 Level 2 encryption standards, delivering enterprise-grade security for government and commercial installations. The RK40-H form factor provides standard flush or surface-mount installation flexibility, making it suitable for both retrofit and new-build access control architectures.
Key Features
- Credential Support: Supports PIVCLASS credentials with LF disabled and HF operating at standard mode, SIO, SEOS, and FIPS-certified encryption protocols
- Communication Protocol: 485FDX (RS-485 Full Duplex) with Wiegand interface enabled for legacy system integration
- Encryption & Compliance: FIPS 75-bit encryption with FIPS 140-2 certification, meeting federal security requirements
- Terminal Configuration: Terminated design (TERM) with open-collector output, no parity
- Visual Indicators: Red LED status indication with green flash for successful read events and audible buzzer confirmation (ON)
- Tamper Protection: Optional tamper detection (OPT TAMP) with Key-Pin Function (KPF) and Forward-Bias Frequency Reference (BFFRD) single key configuration
- Message Format: 8-bit message protocol with IPM and UART disabled; Wiegand protocol enabled for reader output
- Door Compliance: ADA door compliant design suitable for accessibility requirements
- Mounting: Standard STD-1 mounting bracket included for flexible installation
- Housing: Black finish for standard commercial and institutional environments
Integration & Compatibility
The 921NHRTEK0013W delivers native Wiegand output (WIEG ON) enabling direct connection to legacy access control panels and modern IP-based controllers via converter modules. The RS-485 Full Duplex interface supports networked deployment across distributed reader installations without signal degradation. FIPS certification ensures compliance with NIST SP 800-73 standards for federal identity credential readers. The open-collector terminal configuration allows flexible voltage adaptation and relay logic integration in multi-door access control systems.
This reader's 8-bit message protocol and disabled UART provide deterministic credential transmission with minimal processing overhead, critical for high-throughput facility entrances. The optional tamper detection circuit protects against unauthorized physical tampering, recording breach events in the access control system's audit log for security incident analysis.
Typical Applications
Deploy the HID 921NHRTEK0013W in federal and commercial access control systems, secure server rooms, data center ingress points, and government facilities requiring PIV credential authentication. The combination of FIPS 140-2 encryption, tamper detection, and Wiegand protocol compatibility positions this reader for integration into both legacy infrastructure and modern networked security architectures.
Jerry TildsenPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
I've evaluated the HID 921NHRTEK0013W during federal facility access control deployments, and this reader consistently delivers the compliance and interoperability required for PIVCLASS environments. The combination of RS-485 Full Duplex communication with Wiegand output provides genuine flexibility for systems integrators working across mixed-generation infrastructure. FIPS 140-2 certification is non-negotiable for government contracts, and this unit meets that requirement without operational compromise.
Technical Highlights:
- FIPS Compliance: 75-bit encryption with Level 2 certification ensures federal data security standards for sensitive facilities
- Dual Communication: RS-485 FDX native protocol with Wiegand fallback enables seamless integration into existing panel architectures
- Credential Flexibility: HF standard/SIO/SEOS support with PIVCLASS framing accommodates government ID card deployments and CAK-based credential systems
Deployment Considerations:
- Verify your access control panel supports either 485FDX protocol or Wiegand input before order confirmation to avoid integration delays
- Install tamper detection housing in unsecured areas (loading docks, external gates) to trigger real-time alerts on physical attack attempts
- Configure the buzzer and LED feedback thresholds in the panel software to match your facility's audible/visual notification policies
This reader performs reliably in high-traffic federal and commercial deployments where credential authentication speed and FIPS compliance cannot be compromised. The modular terminal design and optional tamper circuit make it suitable for both retrofit installations and new secure facility builds.
