Hardware, Barcode and RFID Integration in PowerWolf Software

Barcode readers can capture a code in a few moments and use it to search for a card, a profile, a book or another item identified in the database.

Many USB readers operate in keyboard-emulation mode: the device sends the code to the computer as though it had been typed. It is generally sufficient to connect the device, configure the code type and verify operation in Windows.

RS232 serial readers can also be supported. They are useful when the code must be captured without using the keyboard buffer or without keeping a specific window active.

RFID and NFC technologies can identify a card when it is placed near the reader, without visually aligning a barcode.

Devices can operate in keyboard-emulation mode or through the PC/SC standard. In supported configurations, PC/SC can read cards without using the keyboard and even while the software is running in the background.

The technology, frequency and card type must be compatible with the reader being used. Standards and communication methods should therefore be verified before purchase.

Integration reduces repetitive operations and helps limit typing errors. A unique code can be used to:

✓ quickly find a record;

✓ record an entry or operation;

✓ verify a card or authorization;

✓ retrieve a record without typing a name or code;

✓ control a device when the required conditions are met.

PowerCLUB and PowerFIT can associate a barcode, RFID or NFC code with a member's card or profile.

When the code is read, the software can quickly retrieve the member profile, display relevant information and verify the status of the card, membership or other configured requirements.

The same technology also speeds up initial code entry and routine searches performed at reception.

When access is authorized, the software can send a command to a relay board connected through USB, a serial port or an Ethernet network.

The relay contact can be used to unlock a door, access gate, electromagnet or the control input of a compatible turnstile.

The electrical installation must be carried out or checked by qualified personnel in accordance with voltage and current limits, manufacturer documentation and applicable safety requirements.

PowerCLUB and PowerFIT can be used with relay-controlled doors and turnstiles and can also directly control some compatible PERCO turnstiles.

The currently referenced devices include some models in the KT02, KT05 and KT08 series. Compatibility must be confirmed before purchase according to the model, control electronics and available connection.

A typical workflow includes card reading, requirement verification, access recording and opening of the access gate.

• ▸ USB barcode readers in keyboard-emulation mode;
• ▸ barcode and QR Code readers with RS232 connection;
• ▸ 125 kHz RFID readers, subject to compatible standards and cards;
• ▸ NFC and smart-card readers with a PC/SC interface;
• ▸ badges using barcode, RFID, NFC or another compatible technology.

The reader must be compatible with Windows and with the operating mode required by the relevant software function.

Access-control configurations can use USB or Ethernet relay boards. Devices documented on the PowerWolf components page include, for reference, models such as USB-RLY02, ETH484 and ETH002.

The device must be installed with any required manufacturer drivers, configured correctly and tested before final connection to the opening system.

The choice between USB and Ethernet depends on distance, available network infrastructure and the position of the computer relative to the access point.

The dedicated page provides information about usable hardware components, device examples, manufacturer links and details for requesting a quotation.

Before purchasing a reader, relay or turnstile, it is advisable to provide PowerWolf with the exact model and describe the required function.

🛒 View the additional hardware components page

In PowerBK, the barcode is particularly useful because it can quickly capture the ISBN printed on a book.

The code can be used by the software's online search functions to download available bibliographic data from supported internet sources, such as title, author, publisher and other information.

This can make the cataloging of many books significantly faster than entering each field manually.

The presence of a USB port or a specific standard does not by itself guarantee full compatibility.

At least the following must be checked:

✓ model and manufacturer;

✓ connection type;

✓ card frequency and standard;

✓ available Windows drivers;

✓ relay or turnstile control protocol.

Simple readers can be installed directly by the user. Systems that control doors, power supplies, electromagnets, relays or turnstiles require an appropriate technical assessment.

PowerWolf provides support for configuring the software and compatible devices, but electrical and mechanical installation must comply with manufacturer instructions and applicable regulations.