ACS ACR1581U DualBoost III – Dual-Interface Smart Card Reader
1️⃣ Product Overview
The ACR1581U DualBoost Dual Chip Smart Card Reader Writer is a dual-interface smart card reader designed to address enterprise challenges such as secure authentication, system interoperability, and versatile deployment. Without a reliable reader like the ACR1581U, organizations risk inconsistent card recognition, limited NFC capabilities, and integration challenges across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS systems.
2️⃣ Core Features & Supported Standards
The ACR1581U supports both contact and contactless smart cards, delivering reliable performance for enterprise applications.
Standards & Protocols
- Contactless: ISO/IEC 14443 Type A & B, ISO 15693, FeliCa, MIFARE®, NFC Tags (SRI/SRIX, CTS, Innovatron, Picopass, Topaz)
- Contact: ISO 7816 Class A, B, C (5V, 3V, 1.8V), CAC, PIV cards, microprocessor T=0 / T=1, memory cards
- SAM slot: ISO 7816 Class A, T=0 / T=1
- NFC Forum compliance
- PC/SC & USB CCID compliance
NFC Features
- Reader / Writer mode
- Card Emulation mode
- Keyboard Emulation mode
Performance
- Contactless read/write speed: up to 848 kbps (ISO 14443 A/B)
- Contact MCU card speed: up to 1,250 kbps
- Contactless read range: up to 70 mm (tag dependent)
- Supports extended APDU (max. 64 kB)
3️⃣ Security & Enterprise-Level Capabilities
- AES-encrypted communication for secure transactions
- ISO 7816-compliant SAM slot for secure key storage and enhanced authentication
- Automatic command processing between PC and smart cards
- Enterprise-ready for finance, healthcare, government, and e-Government applications
4️⃣ Interfaces & System Compatibility
Connectivity
- USB 2.0 Full Speed (Type-A or Type-C)
- Dual-interface for contact and contactless smart cards
Operating Systems
- Windows®, macOS, Linux
- Android™ 4.3+
- iOS 12.0+ / iPadOS 16.0+
Development Support
- ACS SDK
- PC/SC compliant API / driver availability
- Firmware upgradable via USB
5️⃣ Typical Applications
- Contactless payment security
- Smart card authentication systems
- NFC-based access control
- Mobile credential & secure login
- Enterprise / e-Government ID systems
6️⃣ Authoritativeness & Conclusion
- ACS 20+ years experience in smart card reader design and manufacturing
- Global deployment in 100+ countries
- Compliant with CE, FCC, UKCA, VCCI, RoHS, REACH, IEC/EN 62368
- Long-term availability, enterprise-grade lifecycle & technical support
7️⃣ Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Interface | USB 2.0 Full Speed (Type-A or Type-C) |
| Standards | ISO 14443 A/B, ISO 15693, FeliCa, MIFARE®, NFC Tags, ISO 7816 (SAM Slot) |
| NFC Modes | Reader/Writer, Card Emulation, Keyboard Emulation |
| Security | AES encryption, ISO 7816-compliant SAM slot |
| Contact Card Support | ISO 7816 Class A/B/C, CAC, PIV, microprocessor T=0/T=1, memory cards |
| Contactless Card Support | ISO 14443 A/B, ISO 15693, MIFARE®, FeliCa, NFC tags |
| OS Support | Windows®, macOS, Linux, Android™, iOS/iPadOS |
| Peripherals | 2 LEDs (Blue, Green), 1 Monotone Buzzer |
| Certifications | CE, FCC, UKCA, VCCI, RoHS, REACH, IEC/EN 62368, WEEE |
| Firmware Upgrade | Supported |
| Dimensions (mm) | 120.5 × 72.0 × 20.4 |
| Weight (g) | 143 |
| Cable | 2 m, Non-detachable |
8️⃣ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can the ACR1581U read both contact and contactless cards simultaneously?
A1: Yes, the DualBoost III supports both interfaces, but operates on one card at a time as per PC/SC command protocol.
Q2: Which NFC tags are supported?
A2: ISO 14443 A/B, ISO 15693, MIFARE®, FeliCa, and additional tags including SRI/SRIX, CTS, Innovatron, Picopass, Topaz.
Q3: Is it compatible with mobile devices?
A3: Yes, via USB on PCs or Android/iOS devices; supports BLE HID and standard USB CCID connections.
