Universal Readers: The Future of Access Control

Universal RFID Readers for Embedded Systems

The access control landscape is evolving rapidly, with multiple transponder technologies, diverse security protocols, and emerging security threats and cybersecurity standards. There is a growing need for universal readers that provide maximal flexibility and enable seamless integration into industrial and IoT environments. The TWN4 MultiTech family of universal RFID readers from ELATEC is a game changer—offering a single, scalable solution for all access needs. Universal readers provide significant benefits for OEMs, integrators, and organizations:
 
  • Interoperability Across Applications: Universal readers seamlessly integrate with existing systems, supporting multiple credential technologies (including traditional RFID and mobile credentials using BLE/NFC) and host interfaces. This ensures broad compatibility with end-user requirements and smooth operation across industrial, commercial, and IoT environments.
  • Future-Proofing for Evolving Standards: Security requirements and credentialing standards are constantly evolving. With software-configurable readers, businesses can update and customize firmware without replacing hardware—saving costs and ensuring long-term adaptability.
  • Enhanced Security & Compliance: Advanced authentication methods, encrypted credential communication, and compatibility with OSDP (Open Supervised Device Protocol) ensure that systems remain secure and compliant with industry standards.
  • Simplified System Design & Integration: For OEMs and system integrators, using a single universal reader eliminates the need for multiple device variations. This simplifies product development, reduces inventory complexity, and accelerates time-to-market for embedded solutions.

The ELATEC TWN4 MultiTech: Universal Design in Action

Universal design covers many layers, from basic hardware connections to advanced software integration. ELATEC TWN4 multi-technology readers are built using key elements of universal design, including:
 
  • Technology Agnostic: With an agnostic, multi-technology design built on open standards, universal readers support a wide range of existing and future physical and mobile credentials, including LF/HF RFID and mobile BLE/NFC credentials.
  • Universal Substructure: Built on a flexible foundation that accommodates diverse credentials and communication standards (Wiegand, OSDP, RS485, USB, UART), ensuring broad compatibility with embedded control systems.
  • Multi-Level Interfaces: Equipped with multiple connection types—including radio frequencies (e.g., LF, HF, BLE) and cable interfaces— enabling easy deployment in industrial machinery, digital devices, and physical access control systems.
  • Open Standards: Adheres to industry-wide standards (such as ISO/IEC 14443A/B, 15693, 18092), enabling seamless integration with existing systems and future technologies.
 
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In addition, ELATEC’s universal readers have a robust software development kit to enable easy configuration for a variety of applications and remote update capabilities to support easy re-configuration and security patches. With these capabilities, a universal RFID reader eliminates the need for multiple reader models, reducing inventory costs, complexity, and development time while ensuring long-term adaptability for industrial and embedded applications.

Meet Us at Embedded World 2025

Want to see how ELATEC’s universal RFID readers can simplify access control for embedded systems? Visit us at Embedded World 2025! Our experts will be on-site to discuss how our access solutions can support your next project. Find us at Hall 3, Booth 3-121, Nürnberg Messe, to talk to a technical expert and explore our latest innovations.