Smart Card Reader ACS ACR1281U-C2 USB 1.1 Black 2m Cable

The ACS ACR1281U-C2 USB 1.1 Smart Card Reader is a contactless card UID reader designed to quickly and reliably obtain the unique identifier (UID) from ISO 14443 Parts 1–4 Type A and B cards. With a 2 m integrated cable and a lightweight 140 g body in black finish, the reader returns the card UID directly to the connected PC and can output the value into any active editor window such as Notepad, MS Excel or MS Word. The device supports anti-collision to ensure only a single card is accessed when multiple cards are presented, and it complies with the Human Interface Device (HID) standard for simplified integration with common operating systems including Microsoft® Windows, Linux and many embedded systems.

Advantages

The ACR1281U-C2 offers straightforward plug-and-play operation via USB 1.1 and HID compliance to minimise driver issues during deployment. Its contactless reading capability rapidly captures card UIDs and delivers them directly to applications without intermediate steps. The 2 m cable and compact, lightweight housing provide flexible placement and easy portability for desktop or kiosk installations.

Suitable for

• Identity verification and single-factor authentication workflows
• Time and attendance recording systems
• Access control and entry logging
• Data capture into office applications and databases
• Embedded systems and kiosks requiring HID-compatible UID input

Key specifications

• Interface: USB 1.1
• Contactless standard: ISO 14443 Parts 1–4 Type A and B
• Cable length: 2 metres (integrated)
• Weight: 0.14 kg
• Product colour: Black
• Anti-collision support for multiple card presentation
• HID class compliance for direct keyboard-like UID output

How to use

Connect the ACR1281U-C2 to an available USB port on the host computer and position the reader within reach of presented contactless cards. Present a compatible ISO 14443 Type A or B card close to the device surface; the reader will automatically detect the card, extract the UID and transmit it to the host as HID keyboard input. The UID will appear in the active application window where the cursor is placed. No special card-handling steps are required beyond presenting the card within the reader field.

Usage recommendations

For reliable results, place the reader on a stable surface and ensure cards are presented within the specified read range for ISO 14443 devices. Use the HID output method to integrate UID capture into spreadsheets, databases or access-control software that accepts keyboard input. For environments with multiple cards, allow brief pauses between presentations to avoid unintended reads despite anti-collision support. Keep the unit dry and avoid exposure to strong electromagnetic interference to maintain read accuracy.