Access Control Panel and Host Controller Integration
The ZKTeco KR600 Series card reader operates as an external slave unit engineered for integration with central access control panels, multi-door controllers, and standalone access terminals. The reader transmits credential data through an industry-standard Wiegand interface, allowing direct connection to ZKTeco C3 Series access controllers (such as C3-100, C3-200, and C3-400), ZKTeco inBio Series biometric and card controllers, as well as third-party host access control panels that accept standard Wiegand inputs.
Because the unit functions strictly as a slave reader, credential evaluation, user database storage, schedule verification, and relay switching are executed on the host controller. The KR600 communicates verification attempts instantaneously, delivering raw credential bitstreams with a read-and-transmit response time of 300 milliseconds or less.
Credential and RFID Technology Support
The KR600 platform is segmented into distinct model variants based on internal radio frequency (RFID) transponder circuitry. Specifiers and system installers must match the appropriate reader variant to the credential format deployed across the facility:
- KR600E (125 kHz Proximity): Interoperates with standard 125 kHz EM proximity RFID cards, ISO cards, keyfobs, and tags. It delivers credential data formatted as standard 26-bit Wiegand. The read range for 125 kHz EM proximity credentials extends up to 10 cm in clean RF environments.
- KR600M (13.56 MHz High-Frequency IC): Interoperates with 13.56 MHz contactless smart cards, specifically Mifare Classic (including S50 and S70 standards). It transmits card serial identifiers via standard 34-bit Wiegand output. The read range for 13.56 MHz Mifare credentials extends up to 5 cm.
| Hardware Model |
Operating Frequency |
Compatible Credential Formats |
Wiegand Output |
Nominal Read Range |
| KR600E |
125 kHz |
EM proximity cards, tags, fobs |
26-bit Wiegand |
Up to 10 cm |
| KR600M |
13.56 MHz |
Mifare IC (S50 / S70) |
34-bit Wiegand |
Up to 5 cm |
Wiegand Transmission and Wiring Interface Compatibility
The unit relies on multi-conductor pigtail wiring for connection to field terminals on the host board. Data communication utilizes two dedicated digital lines: Wiegand Data 0 (WD0) and Wiegand Data 1 (WD1). Correct pin termination is critical; crossing the Data 0 and Data 1 lines prevents the controller from interpreting card numbers correctly, leading to credential read errors or unrecognized access events.
In addition to data transmission conductors, the reader provides two dedicated digital input ports designed for external peripheral management by the host controller:
- External LED Control Line: Enables the access controller to trigger the dual-color status indicators (red and green LEDs) to provide visual authorization confirmation or rejection to the user.
- External Buzzer Control Line: Allows host controllers to drive the internal audible beeper for audible access granted, denied, or tamper feedback.
Electrical and Physical Mounting Compatibility
The KR600 requires an operating DC voltage supply between 6V and 14V DC, with a maximum current draw of 70mA. It can be powered directly from the auxiliary 12V DC power output terminals of compatible access controllers or an external regulated DC linear or switch-mode power supply. Built-in reverse polarity protection safeguards internal electronics against inadvertent wire reversal during field installation.
Featuring an ABS and PC composite housing with physical dimensions of 11.6 cm (height) by 7.5 cm (width) by 1.6 cm (depth), the unit can be surface-mounted directly onto standard flat interior walls, outdoor surfaces, metal door frames, and mullions. Its IP65-rated ingress protection ensures environmental compatibility across both indoor and outdoor access points, including turnstile pedestals, automated speed gates, and perimeter barrier gates operating within temperature bounds of -10°C to +65°C and 10% to 90% non-condensing relative humidity.