Product Overview
For installations requiring secure, networked access control at entry points, the 2N Access Unit 2.0 is a wall-mounted IP terminal that combines encrypted RFID card reading with PoE-powered connectivity and a robust zinc-cast enclosure rated IP54 and IK08. Equipped with 2N PICard technology, it supports MIFARE DESFire EV2 and EV3 credentials secured with 128-bit AES and 1024-bit RSA encryption, and also reads HID SE Seos, iClass, MIFARE SE, and PACS ID cards, giving installers flexibility across mixed-credential environments. Featuring a built-in microphone and 0.8 W speaker alongside a 97 dBA buzzer, it provides audio feedback and communication at the door. It also integrates a tamper switch, passive relay output, and active switch output for locking hardware. This model supports all extension modules from the 2N IP Verso intercom platform, including keypad, fingerprint reader, I/O module, and Wiegand, making it well suited to multi-tenant commercial buildings, secure office environments, and controlled industrial access points.
Key Capabilities
Encrypted MIFARE DESFire with 2N PICard
Reads MIFARE DESFire EV2 and EV3 credentials secured via 2N PICard technology using 128-bit AES and 1024-bit RSA encryption. This protects against card cloning and eavesdropping, making it appropriate for facilities where credential security is a compliance or liability requirement.
Broad Card Technology Compatibility
Supports HID SE Seos, iClass, MIFARE SE, and PACS ID (HID iClass cards with SIO object) alongside DESFire credentials. Sites with existing mixed-credential infrastructure can integrate this reader without replacing all card stock, reducing rollout costs.
IP Verso Extension Module Compatibility
Accepts the full range of 2N IP Verso intercom extension modules, including keypad, fingerprint reader, Wiegand interface, and I/O module. This makes it straightforward to build a layered authentication setup at a single access point without additional infrastructure.
IK08 Vandal Resistance and IP54 Sealing
The zinc-cast body carries IK08 impact resistance and IP54 dust and moisture protection, supporting installation in semi-exposed lobbies, covered outdoor entry points, car park access columns, and other locations where the unit may face physical contact or occasional weather exposure.
PoE-Powered with Wide Temperature Range
Powered via PoE 802.3af over Cat-5e or better cabling, eliminating the need for a separate power supply at each access point. An operating range of -40 to 60°C extends suitability to cold-store environments, unheated car parks, and outdoor-adjacent installations in Australian climates.
Integrated Audio and Tamper Detection
A built-in microphone, 0.8 W speaker, and 97 dBA buzzer provide audible door feedback and door-side audio communication. An inbuilt tamper switch generates an alert if the unit is opened or forcibly removed, adding a physical security layer at the reader itself.
Best For
- Secure Commercial Entry Points: The IK08-rated zinc enclosure and encrypted DESFire credential support make this suited to office lobbies, data centre entries, and commercial building access doors where both physical durability and credential security matter.
- Mixed-Credential Sites: Broad compatibility with HID Seos, iClass, MIFARE SE, PACS ID, and DESFire allows this reader to operate across existing card populations, which is practical for staged rollouts or multi-tenant buildings with legacy credentials already in use.
- Covered Outdoor and Semi-Exposed Mounting: IP54 and IK08 ratings, combined with an operating temperature range of -40 to 60°C, support installation at covered external entry points such as car park barriers, undercover loading dock doors, and building perimeter gates.
- Expandable Multi-Factor Access Points: Sites requiring two-factor or multi-factor authentication benefit from the IP Verso module compatibility, which allows a keypad PIN, fingerprint reader, or Wiegand device to be added to the same wall unit without separate enclosures.
Why Choose the 2N Access Unit 2.0
The 2N Access Unit 2.0 (02142-001) is positioned above basic RFID proximity readers by combining high-security encrypted credential support with a modular, IP-networked architecture. Where a standard 125 kHz or basic MIFARE Classic reader can be cloned with consumer hardware, the DESFire EV2/EV3 implementation using 2N PICard technology, 128-bit AES, and 1024-bit RSA encryption raises the bar significantly for credential security. The zinc-cast body with IK08 and IP54 ratings provides physical durability that plastic-bodied readers cannot match in publicly accessible mounting positions. PoE 802.3af delivery over Cat-5e simplifies installation by reducing the number of cable runs required per door. The compatibility with IP Verso extension modules means the reader can grow with the access control design rather than requiring a full replacement if requirements change. Available at Security Wholesalers, the Access Unit 2.0 is backed by a 3-year warranty and manufactured in the Czech Republic under 2N (Axis Communications) quality standards.
Buyer Decision Tips
Card Technology Compatibility: Before specifying the Access Unit 2.0, confirm which RFID credential standard your site uses or plans to use. This unit reads MIFARE DESFire EV2/EV3 (with 2N PICard), HID SE Seos, iClass with SIO (PACS ID), and MIFARE SE. It does not natively read standard 125 kHz EM or HID Prox cards. If your site uses older low-frequency credentials, factor in a credential migration or add a Wiegand extension module connected to a compatible 125 kHz reader ahead of the access control software integration.
Access Control Software and Controller: The Access Unit 2.0 is a reader terminal, not a standalone controller. It requires integration with a compatible access control management system or IP-based door controller. Plan your software licensing, server or cloud hosting, and door controller hardware before purchasing. The unit supports HTTP, HTTPS, SMTP, TFTP, and Syslog, so integration with 2N-compatible platforms and third-party systems is well documented, but verify compatibility with your chosen management platform during the design phase.
Key Features & Technical Specifications
| Product Type |
IP access control terminal with RFID reader, wall-mount / flush-mount |
| RFID Card Standards |
MIFARE DESFire EV2 / EV3, HID SE Seos, HID iClass (PACS ID / SIO), MIFARE SE |
| PICard Technology |
Yes – secured MIFARE DESFire credentials via 2N PICard |
| Encryption |
128-bit AES, 1024-bit RSA |
| IP Rating |
IP54 |
| IK Rating |
IK08 (IEC 62262) |
| Power Supply |
PoE 802.3af (Class 0, max 12.95 W) or external 12 V DC ±15% / 1 A |
| Network Interface |
10/100BASE-TX, Auto-MDIX, RJ-45; recommended cabling Cat-5e or better |
| Supported Protocols |
DHCP, HTTP, HTTPS, SMTP, TFTP, Syslog |
| Audio |
Built-in speaker 0.8 W / 8 Ohm; built-in microphone; 97 dBA buzzer |
| Relay Output |
Passive switch NO/NC contacts, 30 V, 1 A AC/DC |
| Active Switch Output |
8-12 V DC, max 600 mA |
| Tamper Switch |
Built-in |
| Extension Module Support |
All 2N IP Verso extension modules (keypad, fingerprint, I/O, Wiegand) |
| Operating Temperature |
-40 to 60°C |
| Storage Temperature |
-40 to 70°C |
| Operating Humidity |
10-95% (non-condensing) |
| Dimensions |
130 mm (H) x 107 mm (W) x 28 mm (D) |
| Weight |
Approx. 800 g |
| Body Material |
Zinc casting |
| Country of Origin |
Czech Republic |
| Warranty |
3 years |
Ideal Use Cases
Corporate Office Entry Control
Wall-mounted in office lobby or lift lobby entry points, the IK08 zinc enclosure and IP54 rating handle the demands of high-traffic, publicly accessible areas. DESFire EV2/EV3 with 2N PICard encryption protects staff credentials from cloning attempts.
Data Centre and Server Room Access
Where credential security is a compliance requirement, the 128-bit AES and 1024-bit RSA encryption, combined with support for DESFire EV3 and HID SE Seos cards, provides a defensible access control layer at the perimeter of high-value IT infrastructure.
Covered Outdoor and Car Park Entry
The -40 to 60°C operating range and IP54 weatherproofing allow installation at covered outdoor positions such as car park boom gate pedestals and undercover building entry columns without requiring an additional protective housing.
Multi-Tenant Commercial Buildings
Broad card technology support spanning MIFARE DESFire, HID Seos, iClass, and MIFARE SE means a single reader model can serve tenants across a building that runs mixed credential populations, reducing the number of different reader types needed on site.
Education and Healthcare Secure Zones
The IP Verso extension module compatibility allows a fingerprint reader or PIN keypad to be added for two-factor authentication at pharmacy dispensaries, laboratory entrances, records rooms, or other restricted areas without replacing the entire reader unit.
Choosing the Right Model
- Choose this model if: Your site requires encrypted MIFARE DESFire EV2/EV3 or HID SE Seos credential support, needs a vandal-resistant IP54/IK08 zinc-bodied reader, benefits from PoE 802.3af delivery over Cat-5e cabling, and may require future expansion via 2N IP Verso extension modules such as a fingerprint reader or keypad.
- Choose a different model if: Your site exclusively uses legacy 125 kHz EM or HID Prox credentials with no plans to migrate, as this reader does not natively support low-frequency proximity cards. A reader with 125 kHz support or a Wiegand-interfaced legacy reader would be more appropriate in that scenario.
- Choose a different model if: You need a fully standalone door controller with onboard user database and door schedule management independent of a network-connected management system. The Access Unit 2.0 functions as a reader terminal and requires a compatible access control platform to manage users and permissions.
FAQs
- What RFID card standards does the 2N Access Unit 2.0 support?
The Access Unit 2.0 reads MIFARE DESFire EV2 and EV3 (secured via 2N PICard technology), HID SE Seos, HID iClass cards with SIO object (PACS ID), and MIFARE SE. It does not natively read standard 125 kHz EM proximity or HID Prox cards. If your site runs those legacy credentials, plan for a card migration or add a Wiegand extension module connected to a suitable low-frequency reader.
- What does 2N PICard technology do and why does it matter?
2N PICard is 2N’s proprietary method for securing MIFARE DESFire credentials using 128-bit AES and 1024-bit RSA encryption. It prevents the card cloning attacks that affect older MIFARE Classic credentials by ensuring the card data is encrypted and application-specific. For sites where credential security is a compliance or insurance requirement, this significantly raises the threshold for a physical access breach.
- Can the Access Unit 2.0 be used outdoors?
It carries an IP54 rating for dust and moisture resistance and an IK08 impact resistance rating per IEC 62262, with a zinc-cast body and an operating temperature range of -40 to 60°C. This makes it suitable for covered outdoor mounting positions, such as undercover car park access columns or protected building entry canopies. It is not rated for direct, unprotected rain exposure, so a mounting position with overhead cover is recommended.
- How is the Access Unit 2.0 powered?
It is powered via PoE 802.3af (Class 0, up to 12.95 W) over a standard Cat-5e or better Ethernet cable, which carries both network data and power in a single run. An alternative external 12 V DC supply at ±15% / 1 A is also supported if a PoE switch or injector is not available at the installation location.
- Which 2N IP Verso extension modules are compatible with this unit?
The Access Unit 2.0 supports all extension modules from the 2N IP Verso intercom platform. Confirmed compatible module types include keypad, fingerprint reader, I/O module, and Wiegand interface. This allows installers to add PIN entry, biometric authentication, or third-party reader integration at the same wall unit without additional enclosures or wiring infrastructure.
- Does the Access Unit 2.0 include audio communication at the door?
Yes. The unit has a built-in microphone and a built-in 0.8 W / 8 Ohm speaker, enabling door-side audio communication with a reception station or management console, depending on the access control software configuration. A 97 dBA buzzer also provides audible access-granted and access-denied feedback at the reader. Security Wholesalers can confirm software integration options for your platform if needed.
- What locking hardware outputs does the Access Unit 2.0 provide?
The unit has a passive relay switch output with NO/NC contacts rated at 30 V / 1 A AC/DC, suitable for triggering electromagnetic locks, electric strikes, or magnetic locks. It also has an active switch output providing 8-12 V DC at up to 600 mA, which can power low-current door release devices directly. An inbuilt tamper switch generates an alert if the reader body is forcibly opened or removed from the wall.
Cabling Considerations
- Cable Type: Cat-5e or better (Cat-6 recommended for new installations) terminated to RJ-45 for both PoE power delivery and network data.
- Maximum PoE Cable Run: Up to 100 m from the PoE switch or PoE injector to the Access Unit 2.0, in line with 802.3af specifications over Cat-5e or Cat-6.
- Lock Wiring: The passive relay output (NO/NC, 30 V / 1 A AC/DC) connects to the door strike or electromagnetic lock using appropriately rated cable for the lock current draw. For 12 V DC locks, the active switch output (max 600 mA) can power the lock directly from the unit.
- Wiring Tips: Run a separate 2-core cable for the door contact (door position sensor) if used, and label all cores at both ends during rough-in. If using an I/O extension module, factor in the additional wiring for that module’s connections during the initial cable pull to avoid remedial work after the wall is closed.
