A turnstile is only as smart as the credential it reads. The two dominant reader types are RFID (cards and fobs) and biometrics (fingerprint or facial).

RFID integration

Most tripod and flap turnstiles accept 125 kHz or 13.56 MHz RFID via Wiegand. RFID is cheap, fast, and easy to issue, but cards can be shared or lost.

Biometric integration

Fingerprint and facial readers bind access to a person, eliminating shared credentials. They add a second at the lane but improve audit accuracy.

Wiring & protocol

Readers connect to the turnstile controller over Wiegand (simple) or RS485/OSDP (encrypted, two-way). OSDP is preferred for new installs because it supports secure, tamper-resistant communication.

Choosing a reader

Use RFID for high-throughput, low-risk staff gates. Add biometrics where accountability matters (datacenters, labs, border staff entrances). Our turnstile guide covers reader placement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between RFID and biometric turnstiles?

RFID reads a card or fob and is fast and cheap but shareable; biometrics bind access to a person via fingerprint or face for stronger accountability.

What wiring protocol should I use?

Use Wiegand for simple installs and OSDP (RS485, encrypted) for new, security-sensitive deployments.

Are biometric turnstiles slower?

They add about a second per user but improve audit accuracy where accountability matters.

Related Products

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