eSSL KR500M – 13.56MHz Mifare Card Reader for Access Control Systems
The eSSL KR500M Mifare card reader is a high‑performance 13.56MHz proximity card reader designed for modern access control systems, employee ID card validation, and door entry management. Built to serve as a reliable input device for eSSL access controllers and third‑party panels, it reads standard Mifare cards, key fobs, and tags with a reading time of ≤200ms and a read range of up to 5 cm (approximately 2 inches). With Wiegand 26/34‑bit communication, IP65 weather‑proof housing, and dual‑colour LED feedback, the KR500M is the perfect upgrade path for businesses that require contactless, secure, and fast card authentication at doors, turnstiles, parking gates, and industrial checkpoints.
📌 What is the eSSL KR500M?
The eSSL KR500M (a variant of the KR500 series) is a dedicated 13.56MHz Mifare card reader that forms the core of a professional proximity‑based access control system. It operates as a slave reader: when a Mifare card or key fob is brought close to the reader (up to 5 cm), the device captures the card's unique identifier (UID) and forwards it to an access control panel via the industry‑standard Wiegand interface. The attached controller then checks the card UID against its internal database and either unlocks the door or rejects access. Because it exclusively reads Mifare cards (13.56 MHz), the KR500M is perfectly suited for organisations that already use or plan to deploy high‑security Mifare smart cards.
The unit is constructed with an ABS+PC polycarbonate blend, solid epoxy‑potted internal electronics, and an IP65 weatherproof enclosure. This makes the KR500M equally reliable on dusty factory floors, at outdoor parking gates, or inside temperature‑controlled office lobbies. The inclusion of two‑colour LED indicators and a built‑in buzzer provides clear visual and audible feedback to users, confirming when a card has been successfully read or when the access decision has been transmitted to the panel.
As part of the comprehensive eSSL ecosystem, the KR500M can be paired with any eSSL access controller (e.g., C3‑100, C3‑200, C3‑400 series) as well as with third‑party panels that accept Wiegand 26‑bit or 34‑bit input. This flexibility allows you to integrate the reader into new or existing security infrastructures without complex reconfiguration.
📊 Technical Specifications – eSSL KR500M
| Product Model | eSSL KR500M (13.56 MHz variant) |
|---|---|
| Product Type | 13.56 MHz Mifare Proximity Card Reader |
| Frequency | 13.56 MHz (Mifare standard – ISO/IEC 14443 Type A) |
| Read Range | Up to 5 cm (depends on card type and environmental conditions) |
| Reading Time (Card) | ≤200 ms |
| Output Format | Wiegand 26‑bit (default) / 34‑bit (default) – configurable |
| Communication Interface | Wiegand (26/34 bit) |
| Power Supply | DC 6‑14 V (typical 12 V) |
| Operating Current | ≤ 70 mA (max) |
| LED Indicators | 2‑colour LED (Red and Green) – status indication |
| Beeper | Yes (audible feedback on card read) |
| Input Ports | 2ea (External LED Control) |
| Ingress Protection (IP) Rating | IP65 (dust‑tight, water‑jet resistant) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +65°C |
| Operating Humidity | 10% to 90% relative humidity (non‑condensing) |
| Dimensions (W × H × T) | 116 mm × 75 mm × 17.3 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 50 g |
| Body Material | ABS+PC (high‑strength polymer) |
| Compatibility | All eSSL access control panels (C3 series) and third‑party Wiegand‑based controllers |
Specifications derived from eSSL Security technical documentation, official product data, and industry standards.
🔑 Key Features – Why Choose the eSSL KR500M?
Optimised for Mifare S50 (1KB), S70 (4KB) cards, key fobs, and tags – the de facto standard for modern contactless IDs. Unlike 125 kHz readers, 13.56 MHz offers enhanced data security and the ability to store additional information on the card.
A card tap is recognised in under 200 ms, providing instant access. The 5 cm read range ensures reliable contact with the reader without accidental reads from a distance.
Plug‑and‑play compatibility with any access control panel that accepts Wiegand 26‑bit or 34‑bit input. Works with all eSSL controllers and most third‑party panels.
The reader is sealed to IP65 standards against dust and water jets. Install it confidently at parking gates, external door frames, industrial yards, and other locations exposed to rain, humidity, or dust.
Red/Green two‑colour LEDs and a built‑in buzzer provide clear confirmation to the user that a card has been read and the access decision has been transmitted. External LED control ports (2ea) allow connection to slave‑LED indicators (optional).
Solid epoxy potting inside the ABS+PC housing protects the internal electronics from shock and vibration, making it resilient in high‑traffic areas.
🏢 Where to Deploy the eSSL KR500M Mifare Reader
Secure main entrances, turnstiles, and employee doors using employee ID cards. The KR500M integrates directly with eSSL access control panels to manage hundreds of cardholders.
The IP65 rating makes the KR500M perfect for outdoor parking entry points, where it can be exposed to rain, dust, and temperature extremes.
Manage access to production floors, warehouses, and secure storage areas. The rugged construction withstands dusty industrial environments.
Manage access to university campuses, school buildings, laboratories, libraries, and administrative blocks with cost‑effective Mifare card readers.
Secure perimeters and internal doors at courthouses, municipal offices, embassies, and other government facilities where high‑security Mifare credentials are standard.
Install at staff entrances, security checkpoints, airport cargo handling areas, and baggage handling zones where reliable card reading is critical.
🌟 Why Choose eSSL for Your Mifare Card Reader Requirements?
eSSL (formerly part of the ZKTeco ecosystem) has decades of expertise in biometrics and RFID security. All readers are built on proven technology used in major access control installations worldwide.
The KR500M‘s 26/34‑bit Wiegand output ensures seamless integration with any eSSL or third‑party access control panel, biometric terminal, or door controller – whether you are upgrading an existing system or designing a new one.
With solid epoxy potting and IP65‑rated housing, the KR500M reliably operates outdoors, in dusty manufacturing zones, and in high‑humidity areas where other readers would fail.
Low power consumption (≤70 mA) and durable components reduce long‑term operating costs. Optional annual maintenance contracts (AMC) offer ongoing support and peace of mind.
🔌 Seamless Integration with Access Controllers & ERP Platforms
The eSSL KR500M Mifare reader is designed to work out‑of‑the‑box with the complete eSSL access control ecosystem, including the C3‑100, C3‑200, C3‑400, and InBio series of controllers. When connected to an eSSL panel, card events are logged centrally using eTimeTrackLite or Bio‑CV Security software. Access records can be exported to leading HRMS, ERP, and payroll platforms such as Spine, GreytHR, HROne, Zoho CRM, Candle, Saral, and Oracle. Our technical integration experts ensure that card access events flow seamlessly into your existing business systems – from attendance tracking to visitor logs.