Product Overview
For access control installations that need flexible reader-to-controller communication, the DS-K1108AM from Hikvision’s Pro Series delivers M1/Mifare card reading at 13.56MHz with support for RS-485, Wiegand W26/W34, and OSDP protocols in a single compact unit. This wall-mounted reader suits controlled entry points across offices, apartments, schools, warehouses, and commercial buildings where card-only authentication is the preferred credential method. Featuring a tamper-proof function and an IP65-rated housing, the DS-K1108AM handles both indoor installations and appropriate outdoor door positions where dust and rain exposure are a daily factor. The built-in buzzer provides audible feedback at the point of card presentation, and online upgrade support keeps the reader maintainable through compatible Hikvision access control infrastructure. With dimensions of 123 x 88 x 21mm and power consumption of 2W or less, it is well suited to standard access control power designs where a clean, low-profile reader profile is required.
Key Capabilities
M1/Mifare Card Reading at 13.56MHz
The DS-K1108AM reads ISO 14443-A compliant M1/Mifare cards at up to 50mm range, making it directly compatible with the card credentials used across many commercial and residential access control deployments.
Triple Protocol Support: RS-485, Wiegand and OSDP
Support for RS-485, Wiegand W26/W34, and OSDP over RS-485 gives installers the ability to match this reader to a wide range of compatible access controllers, from current Hikvision platforms to legacy Wiegand-based systems.
Tamper-Proof Function
The built-in tamper detection alerts the access control system if the reader is interfered with or removed from the wall, improving physical security at controlled entry points, particularly those accessible to the public.
IP65 Weatherproof Housing
The IP65 rating protects the reader from dust ingress and direct water exposure, supporting installation at exterior door frames, covered outdoor entries, and other exposed positions when correctly mounted and sealed.
Built-In Buzzer and Status Indicators
A built-in beeper combined with a power indicator and status LED gives users immediate audible and visual confirmation of card read events, reducing confusion at busy entry points during peak access periods.
Best For
- Multi-Protocol Access Control Projects: The combination of RS-485, Wiegand W26/W34, and OSDP support makes the DS-K1108AM suitable for installers working across different controller brands and generations without needing separate reader models for each protocol.
- Outdoor and Semi-Exposed Entry Points: The IP65-rated housing allows the reader to be installed at exterior door frames, building entry columns, and covered outdoor access points where indoor-only readers would be unsuitable.
- Card-Only Access Control Doors: Without a keypad, the DS-K1108AM is straightforward to deploy at doors where card-only credential policy is enforced, removing the risk of PIN sharing at shared or high-traffic entry points.
- Secure Commercial and Industrial Entrances: The tamper-proof function makes this reader practical for external or publicly accessible entry points in offices, warehouses, and commercial buildings where reader interference is a practical concern.
Why Choose the DS-K1108AM
The DS-K1108AM stands out from basic card readers through its simultaneous support for RS-485, Wiegand W26/W34, and OSDP, which means a single stocked reader model can be deployed across different controller types without substitution. A simpler or lower-tier reader may lock installers into a single communication protocol, creating compatibility issues when controllers vary across a multi-site project. The tamper-proof function, IP65 housing, and operating temperature range of -20 degrees Celsius to 65 degrees Celsius add durability that basic readers without weatherproofing cannot match in outdoor or industrial positions. The DIP switch configuration for protocol selection keeps setup straightforward, and online upgrade support helps keep firmware current without physical replacement. Available through Security Wholesalers, the DS-K1108AM is a practical choice for commercial access control projects that need a protocol-flexible, weatherproof M1 card reader with a clean wall-mount profile.
Buyer Decision Tips
Protocol Compatibility Check: Before specifying the DS-K1108AM, confirm which communication protocol your access controller uses: RS-485 native, Wiegand W26/W34, or OSDP over RS-485. The protocol is selected via DIP switch on the reader, so this setting must be confirmed before installation. For Hikvision controllers, RS-485 is typically the preferred interface, while third-party controllers may require Wiegand. OSDP is the recommended option where encrypted reader-to-controller communication is a project requirement.
Card-Only vs. PIN+Card Deployments: The DS-K1108AM does not include a keypad. If the installation requires card-plus-PIN dual-factor authentication at any door, a different reader model with an integrated keypad will be required for those positions. Use the DS-K1108AM only at doors where card-only access is the confirmed access method for that entry point.
Key Features & Technical Specifications
| Model |
DS-K1108AM |
| Product Type |
Pro Series M1 Card Reader |
| Card Type |
M1 / Mifare card |
| Card Frequency |
13.56MHz |
| Card Standard |
ISO 14443-A |
| Card Reading Distance |
Up to 50mm |
| Communication Protocols |
RS-485, Wiegand W26/W34, OSDP over RS-485 |
| RS-485 Interface |
1 x RS-485 |
| Wiegand Formats |
W26 and W34 |
| OSDP Support |
Supported over RS-485 |
| ID Settings |
Via DIP switch |
| Keypad |
Not included |
| Indicators |
Power indicator LED and status LED |
| Buzzer |
Built-in beeper |
| Tamper-Proof Function |
Supported |
| Online Upgrade |
Supported |
| Power Supply |
12VDC |
| Power Consumption |
2W or less |
| Protective Level |
IP65 |
| Working Temperature |
-20 degrees Celsius to 65 degrees Celsius |
| Working Humidity |
10% to 90%, non-condensing |
| Installation |
Wall mounting |
| Dimensions |
123 x 88 x 21mm |
| Net Weight |
Approx. 0.14kg |
| Gross Weight |
Approx. 0.37kg |
Ideal Use Cases
Office Staff Entrances and Internal Doors
Card-only M1 credential control suits staff entrances, server rooms, and restricted office areas. The slim 21mm profile mounts cleanly to standard door frame positions without obstructing adjacent fixtures.
Apartment and Residential Building Access Points
The DS-K1108AM is suitable for common area entry doors, lift lobby access, and basement car park entries in residential buildings where M1 fob or card credentials are issued to residents.
Warehouse and Industrial External Doors
The IP65 housing and operating range down to -20 degrees Celsius make this reader practical for loading dock entries, plant room doors, and external staff access gates in industrial environments.
Schools and Education Facility Controlled Zones
The tamper-proof function and card-only design make the DS-K1108AM suitable for administration doors, staff-only areas, and equipment rooms in schools where PIN-sharing is a concern.
Retail Back-of-House and Storeroom Access
Retail environments with multiple controlled doors benefit from the DS-K1108AM’s Wiegand compatibility, allowing the reader to be integrated into existing controller infrastructure without replacing the controller hardware.
Choosing the Right Model
- Choose this model if: Your installation requires a card-only M1 reader with support for RS-485, Wiegand W26/W34, or OSDP, and the door position is either indoors or an outdoor location where IP65 protection is sufficient for the environmental conditions.
- Choose a different model if: The access control policy at one or more doors requires card-plus-PIN dual-factor authentication. The DS-K1108AM does not include a keypad, so a reader model with an integrated keypad would be required for those specific door positions.
- Choose a different model if: The installation environment requires a card reader with a higher vandal resistance rating beyond IP65 weatherproofing alone, such as an IK-rated reader designed for high-impact or heavily exposed public access locations.
FAQs
- What communication protocols does the DS-K1108AM support?
The DS-K1108AM supports RS-485, Wiegand W26/W34, and OSDP over RS-485. The active protocol is selected using the DIP switch on the reader. Installers should confirm which protocol the access controller requires before configuring the DIP switch and completing the cable run.
- Does the DS-K1108AM include a keypad?
No. The DS-K1108AM is a card-only reader and does not include an integrated keypad. It authenticates users through M1/Mifare card credentials only. Doors requiring card-plus-PIN dual-factor authentication will need a different reader model with a built-in keypad.
- Can the DS-K1108AM be installed outdoors?
Yes. The IP65 rating protects the reader from dust ingress and water spray, making it suitable for exterior door frame mounting and covered outdoor access points. For best results, correct sealing of the cable entry point and protection from direct prolonged water exposure should be confirmed during installation.
- What is the card reading distance of the DS-K1108AM?
The DS-K1108AM reads M1/Mifare cards at a maximum distance of 50mm. This is a standard contactless read range for ISO 14443-A proximity cards and suits most door-frame and wall-plate mounting positions where users present cards close to the reader face.
- How does the tamper-proof function work on this reader?
The tamper-proof function detects if the reader body is removed or interfered with at the mounting surface. When triggered, it sends a tamper alert through the access control system. This is particularly useful at public-facing or external entry points where unauthorised reader removal is a risk.
- What power supply does the DS-K1108AM require?
The reader operates on a 12VDC supply and consumes 2W or less. This low draw makes it compatible with standard access control power supplies, including those powering door locks and controllers on the same circuit. Confirm the total current draw across all connected devices before specifying the power supply capacity.
- Where can I find the datasheet and technical documentation for the DS-K1108AM?
The datasheet for the DS-K1108AM is available through the Additional Information section of this product listing at Security Wholesalers. The datasheet covers specifications, wiring diagrams, DIP switch configuration, and installation guidance relevant to compatible Hikvision access control deployments.
Cabling Considerations
- Cable Type: Use screened multi-core cable appropriate for RS-485 or Wiegand reader wiring. A minimum of 4-core screened cable is typically used for RS-485 connections, while Wiegand installations generally require 6-core screened cable to carry the required data and power lines.
- RS-485 Cable Run: RS-485 supports longer cable runs than Wiegand, with typical maximum distances of up to 1200 metres depending on cable quality and baud rate. Wiegand cable runs are generally limited to 150 metres or less depending on the controller specification.
- Power Wiring: The DS-K1108AM requires a 12VDC supply. Factor in voltage drop over the cable run, particularly for longer distances, and ensure the power supply at the controller end delivers sufficient regulated voltage at the reader.
- Wiring Tips: Confirm DIP switch protocol selection before sealing the reader to the wall. Run cable through conduit at outdoor positions to protect against moisture ingress at the entry point. Seal all cable penetrations at the mounting surface to maintain the IP65 rating of the installed assembly. Terminate the RS-485 bus correctly at both ends if multiple readers are daisy-chained on the same RS-485 line.
Additional Information
