About STid QR code readers

Various STid QR code readers showing a reader with keypad, a reader with tap, and a reader with touch screen.

Note: The image shown here illustrates STid readers that you might have in your organization. For a list of the Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) readers that ClearID supports, see Supported devices.

Why choose the OSDP protocol over the Wiegand protocol?

WIEGAND Protocol

In Wiegand the reader always sends a fixed-length wiegand format, regardless of the credential length. The custom card format called by Genetec™ Operation desktop is always the same. The manufacturer has confirmed this Wiegand readers (SY-ARCS-R31-AQBT1-XX1) limitation.

Consequence: An Unknown credential message is displayed in Genetec Operation desktop when the credential doesn’t match the length required by the protocol. The message is displayed even if the QR code credential is already enrolled in the Security Center Synergis™ database.

Workaround: To make sure that all types of credentials work simultaneously with Wiegand protocol readers and Synergis, all other credentials (RFiD or QR code from another source such as Axis) should match the ClearID QR code credential length (40 bits). This approach ensures that Synergis always receives the same custom card format from ClearID and correctly interprets all types of payloads that the reader sends.

OSDP Protocol

In Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) the reader dynamically adapts the format length regarding the credential length.

Best Practice: Use OSDP with STid QR code readers to ensure that the QR code credential is accepted and understood.

The following table shows example reads from the same reader.


Credential code	Card format
4AE6CD6464E	QR code (HEX)	ClearID QR code
E01EC72022429729	64 bits	DESFire 64 bits private ID credentials

The examples show that the custom card format called by Genetec Operation desktop is different for each read.

Consequence: The OSDP reader is more flexible and correctly interprets the credential.

Planning your QR code reader deployment

Depending on your needs, you can use the latest STid Architect® Blue QR code readers. Alternatively, you can add interchangeable QR code modules if you want to reuse existing STid readers.

Various STid QR code readers showing different modules including vandal proof card reader, different keypad options, and interchangeable QR code reader and fingerprint modules.

Consider the following when planning your STid QR code reader implementation:

Best Practice: If you’re planning a new STid QR code reader implementation, consider using the latest QR code readers with the latest firmware. For example, model: ARCS-AQ/BT. Only use STid readers that support the OSDP protocol and have upgraded to firmware version 10.
If you already have numerous STid readers deployed in your organization, consider adding the interchangeable QR code reader module and updating your firmware.
Tip: Using the interchangeable module upgrades can result in significant savings on a large project.
If you’re re-using existing readers, refer to STid documentation about how to upgrade your reader to firmware version 10 or later.

Programming your STid QR code readers

The STid QR code readers can be programmed using the STid SECard - High security programming kit.

Best Practice: Use STid SECard software version 3.5 or later to configure your STid QR code readers.

Administrator page of the SECard software tool including SECard settings, reader configuration, user card management, and tools.

The KIT-SECARD-BT-V3.X includes the following:

STid Architect® ARC-G desktop reader, enroller, encoder
USB key containing the STid SECard software

Important: Genetec Inc. does not provide support for the STid SECard solution. Customers must use the stand-alone STid SECard software to configure the OSDP readers to work with the ClearID ACS panel solution.