How does the touch io reader and credentials work? 

The touch io reader has three antennas: the first is capacitive touch. When the reader is touched or a hand is placed in close proximity to the reader, it senses that user. The reader then turns off the capacitive touch and turns on two credential antennas: Bluetooth Low Energy and 125 kHz. The user should then present the credential (hand, phone, or prox card). 

NOTE: Depending on several factors, such as the Bluetooth Low Energy range settings of the reader, and make/model of the phone, the signal strength may allow the touch io reader to read the credential without having to present the phone to the reader. All smartphones will have varying BLE performance, depending on the model and manufacturer; some may have to be presented to the reader, while others can remain in a pocket or purse while simply touching or bringing a hand close to the reader. 

NOTE: Card numbers will not be accurate if the touch reader is not paired.