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Product Features
Technical Overview
This magnetic stripe reader utilizes triple-track technology to read data from all three standard magnetic stripe tracks simultaneously. The serial interface ensures stable data transmission to connected systems, with the included DB9 cable providing reliable connectivity. The compact design measures just 1.23 inches in height, 1.28 inches in width, and 3.94 inches in length, making it one of the smallest readers in its class.
The reader's construction prioritizes durability with a weight of 167.3 grams that provides stability during swipe operations. The dual-color LED offers immediate visual confirmation of successful reads, with different colors indicating various operational states. This combination of technical features delivers consistent performance for card authentication and data capture tasks.
Key Product Advantages
The MagTek Mini Swipe Reader combines essential magnetic stripe reading capabilities with practical design features that benefit both system integrators and end-users. Its triple-track support ensures compatibility with virtually any magnetic stripe card format, while the serial interface maintains connectivity with established point-of-sale and access control systems.
Universal Card Compatibility
Reads all three magnetic stripe tracks (Track 1, Track 2, Track 3) for maximum compatibility with credit cards, ID badges, membership cards, and other magnetic stripe media.
- Supports ISO/IEC 7811 standards
- Handles high-coercivity and low-coercivity cards
- Works with various encoding formats
Reliable Connectivity
Serial interface with included 6ft DB9 cable ensures stable data transmission to legacy systems without requiring additional adapters or converters.
- Direct serial connection
- 6-foot cable reach
- Standard DB9 connector
Compact Installation Ready
Small footprint and lightweight design allow flexible placement on countertops, kiosks, or integrated into existing hardware setups with minimal space requirements.
- Minimal desk space needed
- Easy to mount or position
- Discreet black finish
Deployment / Use Cases
This magnetic stripe reader is ideal for retail point-of-sale systems where space is at a premium but reliable card reading is essential. Its compact size makes it perfect for integration into existing checkout counters, kiosks, or self-service terminals without disrupting workflow or requiring significant hardware modifications.
Beyond retail environments, the reader serves access control applications in office buildings, parking facilities, and secure areas. The triple-track capability allows it to read employee ID badges, membership cards, and other authentication media. Educational institutions can deploy these readers for library systems, meal plan verification, or campus access points where multiple card types need processing.
Physical Profile
Measuring just 1.23" × 1.28" × 3.94" (31.24 × 32.51 × 100.08 mm), the Mini Swipe Reader lives up to its name with an exceptionally compact form factor. The black finish provides a professional appearance that blends with most office or retail environments. At 167.3 grams, the reader has sufficient weight to remain stable during swipe operations without requiring additional mounting in most applications.
- Width
- 1.28" (32.51 mm)
- Height
- 1.23" (31.24 mm)
- Weight
- 167.3 g
- Length
- 3.94" (100.08 mm)
Highlights
- Triple-track magnetic stripe reader (Tracks 1, 2, 3)
- Serial interface with included 6ft DB9 cable
- Compact dimensions: 1.23" H × 1.28" W × 3.94" L
- Black finish for professional appearance
- Dual-color LED for operational feedback
- Lightweight design at 167.3 grams
- Compatible with standard magnetic stripe cards
- Ideal for point-of-sale and access control applications
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | MagTek, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 21040082 |
| Brand Name | MagTek |
| Product Name | Mini Swipe Reader |
| Product Type | Magnetic Stripe Reader |
| Technical Information | |
| Magnetic Stripe Track Configuration | Triple Track |
| Magnetic Stripe Track Number | Track 1,Track 2,Track 3 |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Serial | Yes |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Product Color | Black |
| Height | 1.23" (31.24 mm) |
| Width | 1.28" (32.51 mm) |
| Length | 3.94" (100.08 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 167.3 g |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Additional Information | 6FT DB9 Cable with 6ft length Dual color LED |
FAQ
What magnetic stripe tracks does this reader support?
The MagTek Mini Swipe Reader supports all three standard magnetic stripe tracks: Track 1, Track 2, and Track 3. This triple-track capability ensures compatibility with various card types including credit cards, debit cards, ID badges, and loyalty cards that may use different track configurations for data storage.
What type of connection does this magnetic stripe reader use?
This reader uses a serial interface and comes with a 6-foot DB9 cable included. The serial connection provides reliable data transmission to compatible point-of-sale systems, access control panels, and other legacy hardware that utilizes serial ports for peripheral connectivity.
How compact is the Mini Swipe Reader?
The reader measures 1.23 inches in height, 1.28 inches in width, and 3.94 inches in length (31.24 × 32.51 × 100.08 mm), making it exceptionally compact for countertop installations. Its small footprint allows placement in tight spaces while the 167.3 gram weight provides stability during card swipes.
What visual feedback does the reader provide during operation?
The Mini Swipe Reader features a dual-color LED that provides clear visual feedback during swipe operations. The LED indicates different operational states, helping users confirm successful card reads and identify any issues immediately without needing to check connected system displays.
Is this reader suitable for retail point-of-sale systems?
Yes, this magnetic stripe reader is ideal for retail point-of-sale applications where space is limited but reliable card reading is essential. Its compact size, triple-track capability, and serial interface make it compatible with various POS systems, particularly those maintaining legacy hardware configurations.
Can this reader be used for access control applications?
Absolutely. The triple-track support allows the Mini Swipe Reader to process employee ID badges, membership cards, and other authentication media commonly used in access control systems. Its compact design enables integration into entry points, parking facilities, and secure areas without requiring significant space.