ACR1251U 13.56mhz RFID NFC Smart Card Reader
NFC Reader for Contactless Smart Card Transactions
The ACR1251U is a compact NFC reader that supports the ISO 14443A protocol. It is designed to read and write NFC tags, smart cards, and RFID cards with superior efficiency. From NTAG to MIFARE® DESFire®, this reader ensures compatibility across diverse applications such as public transport, schools, and mobile payment systems.
With a reading distance of 3-5cm, it allows users to simply tap and go, making it ideal for high-throughput environments. Whether you’re using an iPhone 7, an Android phone, or a smartphone with NFC functionality, the ACR1251U seamlessly connects via USB and starts working instantly.
Compact USB NFC Tool for Businesses On-the-Go
The device’s USB 2.0 Full Speed interface ensures it connects easily to PCs, tablets, and terminals. Thanks to its plug-and-play functionality, there’s no need for additional drivers on most operating systems. It’s compatible with Windows 10, macOS, Linux, and Android — a perfect match for cross-platform NFC projects or access control systems.
Small enough to fit into any workspace, its lightweight build (70g) and compact design (98mm x 65mm) make it portable and unobtrusive, suitable for pop-up stores or mobile POS setups. It’s no wonder businesses looking for a square reader for contactless and chip systems are making the switch.
Secure and Versatile Contactless Reader
ACR1251U features CCID-compliance and PC/SC-compliance, which assures developers and system integrators that the reader supports secure communication protocols. Its built-in SAM (Secure Access Module) slot enhances cryptographic performance, making it a trusted choice for identity verification, ticketing, and cashless payment systems.
This NFC tool also supports firmware upgrades via USB, which allows IT teams to maintain system security and stay updated with the latest standards from the NFC Forum.
NFC Tag Compatibility and SDK Support
One of the major strengths of ACR1251U is its wide tag compatibility. It supports:
NFC tags
MIFARE Classic, Ultralight, and NTAG
Contactless smart cards
RFID cards under the ISO 14443A standard
For developers, it provides a rich SDK (Software Development Kit) that includes sample codes and libraries. With this, you can easily create applications for UID reading, smart card authentication, and payment tokenization. Whether you’re building a contactless card check-in system or an NFC-enabled app, the ACR1251U offers complete control.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Dimensions | 98.0 mm (L) × 65.0 mm (W) × 12.8 mm (H) |
| Weight | 81 g |
| Color | Matte Black |
| USB Host Interface | |
| Protocol | USB CCID |
| Connector Type | Standard USB Type-A |
| Power Source | From USB port |
| Speed | USB Full Speed (12 Mbps) |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V |
| Supply Current | Max. 200 mA |
| Cable Length | 1 meter, fixed |
| Contactless Smart Card Interface | |
| Supported Standards | ISO/IEC 18092 (NFC), ISO 14443 Type A & B, MIFARE®, FeliCa |
| Protocols | T=CL for ISO 14443-4 cards T=CL Emulation for MIFARE Classic, NFC Tags, FeliCa |
| Frequency | 13.56 MHz |
| Operating Distance | Up to 50 mm (depending on tag type) |
| Read/Write Speeds | 106 / 212 / 424 Kbps |
| Antenna Size | 50 mm × 40 mm |
| SAM Card Interface | |
| Slot | 1 standard SIM-sized slot |
| Supported Standards | ISO 7816 Class A, B, C (5V, 3V, 1.8V) |
| Protocols | T=0, T=1 |
| Speed | 9.6 – 420 Kbps |
| Built-in Peripherals | |
| LED | 1 bi-color (Red and Green) |
| Buzzer | Monotone |
| Other Features | |
| Firmware Upgrade | Supported |
| NFC Modes | Card Reader/Writer, Peer-to-Peer |
| API Support | |
| PC/SC | Yes |
| CT-API | Supported via PC/SC wrapper |
| Operating Conditions | |
| Temperature | 0°C – 60°C |
| Humidity | Up to 90% (non-condensing) |
| MTBF | 500,000 hours |
| Certifications & Compliance | |
| Standards | ISO 14443, ISO 7816, ISO 18092 |
| Certifications | CE, FCC, RoHS, REACH, VCCI, MIC (Japan), KC (Korea), WHQL |
| Operating System Support | |
| Windows | CE 5.0/6.0, Embedded Compact 7, XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, Server 2003–2016 |
| Linux / Mac OS / Solaris | Supported |
| Android | 3.1 and later (via ACS library) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can it read and write NFC tags on smartphones?
Yes! It supports reading UID and full read/write capabilities on NFC tags, including those used with smartphones and tablets.
Q: Is it compatible with iOS devices?
Yes, using the proper SDK and hardware bridge, it’s compatible with iOS devices like the iPhone 7 and newer.
Q: What types of cards are supported?
It supports most 13.56MHz contactless cards like MIFARE, NTAG, and compliant RFID cards.
Q: Can I use it for a school or access control project?
Absolutely. It’s a popular solution for contactless access control in educational and corporate settings.
