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Configure the RFID interface for Autoread

The RFID interface defines which data is read from the project card and how it is converted. To make the reader scan and read cards autonomously, you need to add an Autoread component to your configuration, available for many supported card types.

To pick the right component and make the required settings, you need certain project information.

I don't know the card type yet

In this case, configure the RFID interface to autoread All UIDs for now. If you omit the RFID interface configuration completely, the reader won't detect any card.

Add an Autoread component

  1. Open BALTECH ConfigEditor.
    If you haven't installed it yet, you can download it here as part of BALTECH ToolSuite.

  2. Open the BALCFG file of your existing configuration.
    If you don't have a configuration file yet, create a new one.

  3. Click Add > RFID interface and navigate to the card type you want to add.

  4. Select the required Autoread component and fill it out as described below.

    Screenshot: Example menu path to configure the RFID interface for a specific card type in BALTECH ConfigEditor

Overview of Autoread components & conversion options

Depending on your card type, 1 or several forms are available. Below, you get an overview of the components and options to convert the number read from the card. For more help, see the hints within the components.

If you have trouble setting up the component, you can also order a configuration from us.

Autoread component Description Settings
Autoread UID Read and convert the UID (serial number) of the card. If the UID matches the expected number, save the component without making changes. Otherwise, use the conversion options. In addition, you can change the output format in many host interface components.
Autoread UID with Authentication Read the UID of a card that returns a random ID by default. To decrypt the UID, specify any PICC Master Key or application key. If the UID matches the expected number, save the component without making changes. Otherwise, use the conversion options. In addition, you can change the output format in many host interface components.
Autoread All UIDs Read and convert the UIDs of all card types supported by the reader. This component is meant for testing. To improve performance and security for productive use, we recommend you replace it with a card-type-specific Autoread component before you release the configuration. For more details, please see the instructions in the component. To add this component, click Add > RFID interface > Show More > All Card Types. The component doesn't contain any additional settings.
Autoread Number in File/Sector/Segment etc. Read and convert a programmed card number (PCN) stored in a file, sector, or segment of the card. Most components contain the following settings:
  • PCN Address: Specify the location of the PCN in the card's memory.
  • Authentication: If the memory location is encrypted, specify the encryption algorithm and key.
  • PCN Encoding: Specify the encoding, i.e. data format of the PCN (learn more about encoding).

More complex scenarios

In most cases, you'll need to add 1 Autoread component to your configuration as described above. In more complex scenarios you may need multiple RFID interface components, e.g. when dealing with multiple card types or exchanging a project key.

Tests

You can test your RFID interface component right on your computer with BALTECH ID-engine Explorer.

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