The S610 card readers mark a new hardware platform within the CEM S600 range of intelligent readers. The readers feature a new contemporary, IP65-rated enclosure and support a range of on-board card technologies including 125 KHz proximity, 13.56 MHz MiFare, and Inside PicoPass. Available in versions supporting serial connectivity (S610s) or on-board Ethernet connectivity (S610e), the new reader is also available as a multi-technology version that simultaneously reads both proximity and MiFare smart cards to allow customers to easily migrate from traditional proximity to smart card technology.

"The S610 series of multi-technology card readers reinforces the position of the CEM S600 range as the industry's most advanced card readers," commented Andrew Fulton, business development director of Tyco International's CEM products. "The S610 reader features a new enclosure developed to complement the architectural design of modern office buildings and is available with a dual technology option to read both proximity and Mifare smart cards."

These new features complement the already powerful S600 card readers which include:

· Offline card validation - The S610 readers have a large internal database which stores up to 250,000 cards when offline. This offers customers the comfort of knowing that access control is still provided at the door even if communication is lost from the host system server.

· LCD graphical display screen - Cardholders receive messages of card swipe responses on a graphical display screen which notifies cardholders why they have or have not gained access at the door (e.g. access denied, wrong zone, card about to expire, etc.). Reader messages are user-configurable and can also be translated into local languages.

· Selection of door modes - The S610 readers have a number of pre-configured door modes (e.g. door, control post, turnstile, and equipment enable modes with specific door open times and alarm parameters) that offer clients the flexibility of determining how the reader can most effectively work in their building/environment. Using the 'equipment enable' mode the S610 reader can control third party equipment such as escalators, heating, and fixed electrical equipment. This mode supports energy conservation by ensuring equipment is only used when required.

· Complete door control and ease of installation - In addition to multi-technology capability, the S610 readers feature four onboard inputs and two outputs to control and monitor door equipment including magnetic locks, door holders, Request-to-Exit buttons, sounders, etc. These inputs simplify installation and eradicate the need for additional security hardware.