FAQ: Keypad Reader: Wiegand Data vs PIN Data (Old vs New Readers) – ProdataKey, Inc.

If a Keypad Reader is sending Wiegand data instead of PIN data, this indicates that it is an older Keypad Reader (2017 and older) and it can't be switched. This can be determined to be Wiegand data if a PIN number is entered under Live Events or in Reports and it shows that a card number has been entered instead of a PIN, just like a rugged reader in virtual card mode.

PIN data is sent as a 4-bit-per-keypress burst (rugged readers allow 8-bit burst also), whereas Wiegand data is sent as a 26-bit string of data.

NOTE: If the reader doesn't beep/react when presenting a card format, it's not compatible with the reader.

NOTE: Using a leading zero at the start of a PIN will drop that 0 digit when it is used in PDK. A PIN with a leading zero shouldn't be used. As an example, if a PIN of 0123 is created and entered into the reader, the system will see it as 123. Zero is a non-significant digit and is dropped at the start of a number. The system will not recognize a PIN number with a leading zero as a valid PIN and will not allow it.