What is the difference between an 81/82 or 31/32 series reader?

Understanding the Difference Between 31/32 and 81/82 Series Readers

Examples:

• RDR-6081AKU vs RDR-6082AKU
• RDR-80581AKU vs RDR-80582AKU
• RDR-80531BKU vs RDR-80532BKU

31/81 Series Readers (Enroll Readers)

• These readers are designed to output card data directly.
• When you scan a card, the reader sends the data using its communication method:
• USB keystrokes
• Serial
• Ethernet
  (depending on the specific model)

32/82 Series Readers (SDK Readers)

• These readers do not output data on their own.
• They are intended for use with:
• RF IDeas SDK
• Custom applications
  The application connects to the reader and polls it for card data.

Key Differences

• 31/81 Series:
• Outputs data immediately (like a keyboard).
• Can be switched to SDK mode using the SDK tab in the utility.
• 32/82 Series:
• Cannot behave like 31/81 series.
• Integrates with software/hardware via the RF IDeas Universal SDK.
• Uses callable DLLs or direct integration methods instead of keystroking.
• Provides card ID in a format recognized by applications, enabling flexible integration for identification and authentication

Please see this chart for comparison: