Access Control ACR1281U-C8 Contactless RFID Card Reader Writer is a “gadget” for reading and writing NFC tags. It is as simple and easy to use as a USB mouse or keyboard that we usually plug into our computers. It can help companies, schools, hospitals and other places to control who can enter and exit a room or area more safely and conveniently.
How does this device work?
NFC, the full name of “near field communication”, is actually a short-range wireless technology. In simple terms, two devices can “talk” and exchange information when they are close to each other (about 5 cm or less). For example, if you put the card close to the access control reader, it can know who you are and whether it can open the door.
ACR1281U-C8 is a small machine that can read NFC cards. You plug it into the computer and it starts working. No need to touch, as long as the card is close, it can read the information.
What’s special about this reader?
1. Fast and accurate
The card reading speed is very fast: up to 848kbps per second.
The card does not need to be very close, as long as it is within 5 cm, it can read it (but the distance may vary slightly for different card types).
2. Support multiple cards
It can recognize many types of contactless cards, such as the MIFARE® series.
Support ISO 14443 Class A and Class B cards.
3. Only recognize one card to prevent confusion
Built-in “anti-collision” function: even if you have several cards, it will only read the closest one, so there will be no confusion.
4. Plug and play USB interface
It can be used by plugging it into the computer without additional power supply.
Uses USB 2.0 interface (standard computer interface), fast speed and strong compatibility.
The USB cable is 2 meters long, which is convenient to put anywhere.
5. Support multiple operating systems
Support Windows, Linux, Mac OS and Android systems. Just download the corresponding driver and you can use it.
Some systems (such as Android) can even directly identify it as a keyboard-type device without installing drivers.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Interface Type | USB 2.0 Full Speed (12 Mbps) |
| Device Class | USB HID Keyboard Class (plug-and-play, no external power required) |
| Connector Type | Standard USB Type-A |
| Power Source | Powered via USB port |
| USB Cable Length | 2.0 meters, fixed |
| Supported Card Types | ISO 14443 Type A and B MIFARE® series (e.g., MIFARE Classic) |
| Communication Protocols | ISO 14443-4 T=CL |
| Read/Write Speed | Up to 848 kbps |
| Reading Distance | Up to 50 mm (depending on tag type) |
| Anti-Collision Feature | Supported (only one tag accessed at a time) |
| Firmware Upgrade | USB firmware upgradable |
| LED Indicators | 2 single-color LEDs (Red and Green) |
| Buzzer | Monotone buzzer |
| Dimensions | 120.5 mm (L) × 72.0 mm (W) × 20.4 mm (H) |
| Weight | 140 grams |
| OS Compatibility | Windows®, Linux®, Mac OS®, Android™ |
| Certifications/Compliance | ISO 14443, CE, FCC, RoHS, USB HID |
FAQ
Q: What types of NFC cards does it support?
A: It supports MIFARE® cards and all contactless cards that comply with the ISO 14443 A/B standard.
Q: Can it be connected to a mobile phone for use?
A: Yes! It supports Android and iOS, and is also compatible with iPhone 7 and later models (using a supported app).
Q: Does it support Linux systems?
A: Of course, including Windows, Mac, Linux and Android.
To sum up:
If you need a small, stable and secure NFC card reader to achieve access control, card payment or event check-in, ACR1281U-C8 will be a very good choice. Plug in the USB, swipe the card, and easily control access.

















