MS Reader Troubleshooting

MS Reader Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting the MS Reader Installation


Problem
Probable Cause
Corrective Action

The reader does not recognize a card/tag
(no beep, no LED flash)


  1. One or more of the reader's wiring connections are incorrect.
  2. The reader is not receiving proper power from the controller.
  3. The reader is mounted too close to a device that radiates electromagnetic interference.
  4. A jumper is not set correctly on the controller (or on the reader interface module).
  5. You are using an incorrect type of card.
  6. The reader is unable to read the card.
  7. The NXT-MSC controller may be in a reset state.

  1. Power down the controller and verify the wiring connections are correct for the reader/ controller combination per the instructions provided in the Connections section on pages 2 and 3.
  2. Verify the voltage supplied to the reader is between 5 and 14 VDC.
  3. Devices such as computer monitors radiate electromagnetic interference that affects read range. When possible, relocate either the reader or the device to provide a greater distance between the two.
  4. For a PXL-500W controller verify the JP5 reader voltage jumper is correctly set. Most Wiegand readers operate at 12-14VDC but some use 5VDC. When using an NXT reader interface module, the voltage selection jumper is labelled J3.
  5. Make sure you are using an access card that is compatible with the reader.
  6. Verify there is nothing that can interfere between the reader and the access card.
  7. In the Doors.NET software, verify that the controller is online. If it is online, right-click the controller and perform a memory reset - this will also immediately send an update to the controller.

The reader has a short read range


  1. The reader's controller is not properly grounded.
  2. The shield wire for the reader's cable has opened somewhere between the reader and the controller.
  3. The reader is mounted too close to a device that radiates electromagnetic interference.
  4. The controller is mounted too close to a device that radiates electromagnetic interference.
  5. The reader is powered by a switching power supply.

  1. Ensure there is a quality earth ground connection made to the controller. Refer to the controller's documentation for specific information regarding the earth ground connection.
  2. Verify the shield line from the controller to the reader is one continuous, connected line. Refer to the controller's installation documentation and verify the shield line is correctly connected to the controller.
  3. Devices such as computer monitors radiate electromagnetic interference that affects read range. When possible, relocate either the reader or the device to provide a greater distance between the two.
  4. Devices such as computer monitors radiate electromagnetic interference that affects the performance of the receiver board on the controller. When possible, relocate either the controller or the device to provide a greater distance between the two.
  5. Switching power supplies are EMI sources. Change to a linear, regulated power supply

Important Notes:
  1. Only the MS-3000X is designed to be mounted directly onto a metal surface. Other MS Series readers, such as the MS-5000X and the MS-7000X will provide optimum performance when mounted at least one inch away from metal surfaces; read range is reduced if the reader is mounted on or near metal surfaces.
  2. Keri does NOT recommend the use of CAT5/CAT6 or reader cable. Although the cable AWG is suitable this cable is typically more brittle and therefore more prone to being damaged.