In this article you learn how to configure the Roger PRT66MF or PRT64MF reader using the manufacturer tool RARC and prepare it for use in the software.
Contents
- Device overview
- Accepted identification
- Hardware features
- Connection and wiring
- Configure the reader with the RARC tool
- Connection type for the software
- Add the reader in the software
Fast lane
- Connect the reader to the computer (RS232 directly or via a USB-to-RS232 adapter).
- Open the RARC tool and select the matching model under Options > Reader type.
- Set the COM port under Options > Port, then Connection > Connect.
- Set Operating mode to [040]: Online mode, RS232, EPSO protocol.
- Under EPSO protocol options, set Card/PIN buffer timeout to 1s.
- Note the address, then click Upload to reader.
- Add the reader in the software with the address and connection type.
Device overview
The PRTxxMF readers are designed for access control. They identify members via MIFARE cards and — depending on the model — via PIN entry. In online mode they act as a slave and forward the read card and PIN data to the upstream access controller. Both models are approved for indoor and outdoor use.
Available models:
- PRT66MF: reader without PIN pad, for card identification only.
- PRT64MF: reader with PIN pad, additionally supports PIN entry.
Both models can read and write MIFARE cards, for example to program SSN and MSN card numbers.
Accepted identification
| Model | Cards and tokens | QR / barcode | Other |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRT66MF | MIFARE Classic (1K/4K), ISO/IEC 14443A | no | no PIN pad |
| PRT64MF | MIFARE Classic (1K/4K), ISO/IEC 14443A | no | PIN entry via pad |
Hardware features
| Function | Description | Supported |
|---|---|---|
| Read and write locker segments | Reads and writes locker segments on MIFARE cards. | yes |
| Relay output | Two transistor outputs to control a door or turnstile. | yes |
| Remote relay control | Relay can be triggered remotely, for example for an open-door command. | yes |
| Buzzer | Acoustic feedback. | yes |
| Signal LED | Visual feedback. | yes |
| Two NO/NC inputs | Normally Open: the circuit is open at rest, a signal closes it. Normally Closed: the circuit is closed at rest, a signal opens it. | yes |
| PoE (Power over Ethernet) | Power supplied over the Ethernet cable. | no |
Connection and wiring
The reader is connected through two interfaces:
- RS232 (standard, used on the PRT66MF)
- Terminal block (for power supply and relay/input wiring)
If your computer has no physical COM port, connect the reader via a USB-to-RS232 adapter. In most cases drivers for a CP210x USB to UART Bridge are already installed via Device Manager.
Configure the reader with the RARC tool
Use the Roger tool RARC to set the operating mode, address, and read behavior of the reader. If the tool is not yet installed, you can download it from the manufacturer.
- Connect the reader and open RARC. Under Options > Reader type, select the reader type.
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Under Options > Port, select the COM port and confirm with OK.
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Open the connection to the reader via Connection > Connect….
If the connection cannot be established, disconnect the reader's power supply and reconnect it while the Initializing serial communication mode... window is shown in RARC.
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If a login dialog appears, leave the fields empty and click Login. No password is required.
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Set the following values:
- Operating mode: [040]: Online mode, RS232, EPSO protocol
- Address: note the displayed value. You will need it later for the software configuration.
- Card number reading sequence: review and adjust if needed.
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Click EPSO protocol options and change Card/PIN buffer timeout from Unlimited to 1s. Confirm with OK.
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If you want to change the reader address, click Change address and assign a new address.
Note: the address is only relevant for readers connected via the RS485 bus. Still, write it down for the software configuration.
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Click Upload to reader to permanently save the settings on the reader.
Connection type for the software
For the connection to the software, choose one of the following connection types depending on your wiring. Enter the corresponding fields in the reader configuration area of the software.
| Connection type | Description | Fields |
|---|---|---|
| USB (virtual COM port) | Virtual COM port over USB. | COM-Port, PID, VID |
| COM port | Physical or virtual COM port. | COM-Port |
| LAN (virtual COM port via network adapter) | Virtual COM port via TCP web sockets. | IP, Port |
The following reader settings can be stored in the software:
- Address: BUS address of the reader (see RARC configuration).
- Buzzer (ShouldBeep): enable or disable acoustic feedback.
- Relay time: relay switching time in milliseconds.
Add the reader in the software
Add the reader as a device in the software:
- Open Settings > Access control > Device Manager.
- Select the Device Manager that operates the reader and open Add device from the three-dot menu.
- Fill in the following fields:
- Device model: PRT66MF or PRT64MF, depending on the installed reader.
- Task: matching use case (for example check-in).
- Connection type: matching the wiring (USB (virtual COM port), COM port, or LAN (virtual COM port via network adapter)).
- Configuration: the fields belonging to the connection type, that is COM-Port or PID/VID or IP/Port.
- Also enter the reader settings: Address (see RARC configuration), Buzzer (ShouldBeep), and Relay time.
- Save the device.