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This Quick Start Guide is intended for experienced installing technicians. It is a basic reference to ensure all connections are properly made. 

Models include MCR-30, MCR-50, and MCR-64. For additional information please reference Farpointe Data’s website, www.farpointedata.com.

1.0 Introduction

A key component of a physical security electronic access control 

system, a proximity card reader is based on RFID technology. In 

operation it is capable of reading data stored on a proximity credential 

via radio frequency and without physical contact, and then passing the 

data obtained to the physical access control system. Access control 

systems typically manage and record the movement of individuals 

through a protected area, such as a locked door.

2.0 Mounting Provisions

Each reader may be installed either indoors or outdoors. Mounting 

options shown in the table below. Use supplied #6 mounting screws, 

or equivalent security screws, for installation.

Model

Mullion Mount

Single-Gang Wall Mount*

MCR-30

MCR-50

MCR-64

*

Plastic or metal.

3.0 Reader Wiring

Wiegand

Magstripe

Conductor

Function

Conductor

Function

Red

DC (5-16 VDC)

Red

DC (5-16 VDC)

Black

Ground

Black

Ground

Green

Data 0

Green

Clock

White

Data 1

White

Data

Brown

Red LED

 

a

Brown

Red LED

Orange

Green LED

 

b

Orange

Green LED

Yellow

Card Present

Yellow

Card Present

Blue

Beeper

Blue

Beeper

Violet

fleaPower

Violet

fleaPower

Drain

Shield Ground

Drain

Shield Ground

WIRING NOTES:

a

Single Line LED:

 This is the standard operating mode and does not make use of the 

Orange conductor. The LED is Red when the reader is idle and flashes when a card is 
presented. The LED turns Green when the Brown Conductor is pulled low by the access 
control panel.

b

Dual Line LED:

 This mode makes use of both the Brown and Orange conductors. The 

Brown conductor controls the Red LED and the Orange conductor controls the Green 
LED. LED states are determined by the access control system option and capability.

Unused conductors should be trimmed, isolated and taped back to prevent unintended 
current flows. Apply positive voltage only to the Red DC Conductor.

4.0 Cable Requirements

24 AWG minimum, multi-conductor stranded with an overall foil shield, 

for example Belden 9535 or similar, supporting the five conductors 

comprising the physical layer of the Wiegand interface (power, ground, 

data 0, data 1, and/or beeper and LED). Alternatively, Belden 9539 or 

similar, for all reader functions. Contact your access control system 

manufacturer for their specific requirements. Per the SIA’s Wiegand 

specification, maximum cable length is 500 feet (152 m).

5.0 Output Formats

Wiegand (industry standard 26-bit Wiegand and  

custom Wiegand formats).

6.0 Grounding

Shield (drain) continuity must run from the reader to the access panel. 

Shield (drain) and reader ground must be tied together at the access 

panel and connect to an earth ground at one point.

7.0 Power

Reader may be powered by the access panel. A linear power supply is 

recommended for best operation.

 

8.0 Voltage and Current

5 to 16 VDC. 12 VDC at the reader is recommended for best operation.

Model

Current Draw

MCR-30

70 to 85 mA

MCR-50

70 to 85 mA

MCR-64

85 to 125 mA

9.0 fleaPower™ Control Line

To reduce the average current required by the reader,  

pull the purple conductor low.

10.0 Connection

Connection must be done in accordance with NFPA 70. Do not 

connect to a receptacle controlled by a switch. Connect to a power 

limited DC voltage source.

11.0 Troubleshooting

1.  When the reader is first powered on it will beep 4-times,  

and the LED will shine red.

2.  Presenting a supported access credential will result in the  

reader beeping and the LED flashing once.

NOTE: The access panel controls LED functionality,  

such as switching the LED to green.

QUICK START GUIDE

125-kHz MCR PROXIMITY CARD READERS

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