No

• PS/2-style keyboard connector^{1, 2}

• DOS / Win 3.x

• Windows 9x and newer

Yes, direct to port

(See Note³ )

• RS232 serial interface with compatible (DB9 or DB25) connector

• DOS / Win 3.x

No

• Windows 9x and newer

Redirect Using Windows Accessibility Options⁴

No

• USB interface

• Later versions of Windows 95 with USB support

• Windows 98 and newer

Yes⁵

A DGA Houston Tip Sheet (msrwtips.pdf) further describes installation of magnetic stripe readers with keyboard wedge interface.

Some notebook computers REQUIRE that an external keyboard be connected to reader jack in order for the reader and/or internal keyboard to work properly - not specific to a particular manufacturer or model of notebook computer.

Readers specified as "Port-Powered" obtain power from the host RS232 interface connector. These readers require DTR from host (DB9 pin 4) to provide 5-15VDC. A DGA Houston Tip Sheet (msrstips.pdf) further describes installation of port-powered RS232 readers. Readers not specified as "Port-Powered" require external power supply.

Verify that Windows SerialKey device support has been enabled and SerialKey settings match the properties of your specific RS232 magnetic stripe reader. For additional information, start Windows Help and search on "Accessibility Options."

Most USB readers are designed to present their connection to Windows 9x and newer operating systems as an alternate keyboard device. When connected to the PC, the Windows USB utility automatically recognizes the connection and directs the scanned data from the USB reader to the keyboard port.