The current Openpath Jira and Confluence instances will be migrated to the MSI On-Premise solution from August 9th-11th, the current platform will be set to read-only and all future usage will be in the Avigilon Instance. Please ensure access to MSI Jira & MSI Confluence, both are accessible through OKTA. For additional information and details please refer to the Atlassian migration page

Avigilon Embedded USB Reader FAQ

Owned by Chad Fay
Last updated: Sept 16, 2024
2 min read

When connected to an Avigilon ACU, the Embedded USB Reader will function like all other Avigilon smart readers. It reads Mobile Credentials, High-Frequency, and Low-Frequency cards.

It can also be used as an enrollment device.

Installation as a Reader

The wiring for the Embedded reader is identical to that of Avigilon Alta readers. The Embedded reader features a non-removable terminal block on its back, allowing it to be configured as a Pass-Through using Wiegand wiring.

When set up in Wiegand Pass-Through mode, the reader will transmit card numbers for both prox and Mifare/DESfire cards to a third-party system.

Prox Cards:

  • The reader transmits the card number in decimal format to the third-party system. Note that this number differs from the one stored in Alta Access because Avigilon Alta applies a bit shift to prox card numbers.

Mifare/DESFire Cards:

  • The reader transmits the card number in HEX format to the third-party system. This number is identical to the one displayed in Alta Access.

 

To wire as an Avigilon reader you would use PINs 5,6, 9, and 10.

 

Connecting via USB to a Third-Party Device

When you connect the embedded USB reader to your computer via USB, the system will prompt you to set up the device, as it requires a driver installation. The exact prompts may vary depending on your operating system and version. For example, on macOS, you might see a pop-up window like the one shown below. This process is also compatible with Windows.

 

Reader Status Indicators When Connected via USB

a. White Dot - The reader is in the ready-to-scan state.

b. Flashing Red Center Dot - The reader is not recognized by the third-party device. Try using a different USB port or a different micro USB to USB-A cable.

c. Card Scan - When a card is scanned, you will hear a single buzzer indicating the scan, but no LED activity will occur.

Using the Embedded USB Reader as an enrollment device

Note: The Embedded USB Reader cannot be used as an enrollment device AND Reader simultaneously.

Currently, enrollment is only supported for Mifare/DESfire cards. Admins can scan these cards directly into Alta Access using a USB connection to their computer. With the card number cell selected, simply scan the card. The number will be automatically entered, and the "enter" key will be pressed, completing the credential assignment.

It is recommended to set the time/date limits, lockdown, and override assignments before scanning the card to avoid needing immediate edits after scanning.

Here is an example of a DESFire card being scanned and entered into the user credential.

 

Scanning Cards into a CSV File

To quickly add each user's Mifare/DESfire card number, you can scan the cards directly into a .csv file. When a card is scanned, the printed number will be entered into the selected cell, followed by an automatic "enter" key press to move to the cell directly below it. It is recommended to fill out the other cells first.

Here is an example of cards being scanned and entered into the Card Number cell of a .csv file.