The VIVOTEK Wiegand Converter (AO-20W, 900061700G) is a crucial component designed to bridge traditional access control systems with modern IP-based surveillance and ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) solutions. Its primary function is to convert Ethernet signals into Wiegand output signals (Data 0, Data 1), enabling seamless integration with existing access control infrastructure that typically relies on Wiegand protocol for badge-based access. This converter allows VIVOTEK's LPR (License Plate Recognition) cameras, equipped with onboard ANPR software, to match license plate numbers to specific Wiegand ID numbers, thereby facilitating access control based on vehicle identification.
Function Description:
The core function of the VIVOTEK Wiegand Converter is to act as an intermediary between an ANPR system and a Wiegand-based access control system. When a VIVOTEK LPR camera identifies a license plate, the ANPR software processes this information. If the license plate is recognized and authorized, the ANPR service sends a corresponding Wiegand ID number (derived from a pre-configured mapping list) over Ethernet to the VIVOTEK Wiegand Converter. The converter then translates this Ethernet signal into the Wiegand Data 0 and Data 1 signals, which are then transmitted to the access control system. This allows the access control system to interpret the license plate recognition as a valid Wiegand badge swipe, granting or denying access accordingly.
The device supports two-channel operation, indicated by "CH1-TxRx" and "CH2-TxRx" on the physical unit, suggesting it can handle communication for multiple Wiegand readers or access points, or perhaps different communication modes. It also features RS-232 and RS-485 interfaces, expanding its connectivity options for various industrial and control applications. The presence of "D-7/D6/DO-3," "D-6/DI-4/DO-2," "D-3/D-2/DO-1," and "D-1/D-0/Relay" indicates a range of digital input/output capabilities, including relay control, which is essential for triggering gates, barriers, or other access mechanisms directly.
Important Technical Specifications:
While specific detailed technical specifications like power consumption, operating temperature, or exact dimensions are not explicitly listed in the provided pages, several key technical aspects can be inferred from the manual:
- Connectivity: Ethernet (RJ-45), RS-232, RS-485, Wiegand (Data 0, Data 1), Digital Inputs/Outputs (DI/DO), and Relay outputs.
- Power Input: Indicated by "GND V12" and "Power" connections, suggesting a 12V DC power input.
- Wiegand Output: Supports Data 0 and Data 1 signals, compatible with standard Wiegand access control systems.
- Output Bit Length: Configurable for 24 bits or 32 bits, allowing compatibility with different Wiegand formats.
- Output Format: Supports "Bypass data bits," "Even/Odd parity bits," and "Odd/Even parity bits," offering flexibility in data encoding to match various access control system requirements.
- Network Configuration: Default IP address 192.168.1.127, configurable via a web-based interface for LAN IP Address, Net Mask, and Default Gateway.
- TCP I/O Control Port: Default 1601, indicating a specific port for communication with the ANPR service.
Usage Features:
The VIVOTEK Wiegand Converter is designed for ease of use and flexible deployment within an access control ecosystem:
- ANPR Integration: Seamlessly integrates with VIVOTEK's LPR cameras and ANPR software, allowing license plate recognition to trigger Wiegand access events.
- Mapping List Configuration: The ANPR software provides a user-friendly interface to configure mapping lists, linking specific license plate numbers to corresponding Wiegand ID numbers. This allows for granular control over who (or which vehicle) gets access.
- Customizable Access Rules: Users can create different lists (e.g., BLACKLIST, WHITELIST) and define specific actions for each list, enabling tailored access policies.
- Flexible Wiegand ID Entry: When configuring the mapping list, Wiegand ID numbers can be entered either as "Facility Code.Card Number" (e.g., 087.16340) or as a "Full Card Number" (e.g., 0005717972), accommodating different Wiegand card formats.
- Validity Period Configuration: Each entry in the mapping list can have a defined "Start validity date" and "End validity date," allowing for temporary access permissions.
- Action Types: The ANPR software supports various action types, with "Wiegand Vivotek" being the specific action to trigger the converter.
- Converter Settings in ANPR: The ANPR service allows configuration of the converter's host IP, port, output format, and output bit length, ensuring proper communication and data interpretation.
- Web-based Management: The converter itself has a web-based management tool accessible via its IP address, allowing for network settings configuration and password management. This provides a convenient way to set up and maintain the device without specialized software.
- Direct Control IO: The presence of "Direct Control IO 0~3" and "Direct Control IO 4~7" in the web interface suggests the ability to directly control or monitor external devices through the converter's digital I/O ports, potentially for advanced automation scenarios.
Maintenance Features:
The manual highlights several features pertinent to the maintenance and security of the device:
- Network Setting Configuration: The web interface allows administrators to change the device's IP address, subnet mask, and gateway, which is essential for integrating it into different network environments and resolving IP conflicts.
- User Password Management: The ability to change the default "SuperAdm" password (721568) is a critical security feature, preventing unauthorized access to the converter's settings.
- Firmware Version Display: The web console displays the "F/W" (firmware) version, which is useful for troubleshooting and ensuring the device is running the latest software for optimal performance and security updates.
- Restart Functionality: The note about the device restarting after an IP address change indicates a robust mechanism for applying network configurations.
- Error Reporting: The "userset.htm" report mentioned during login suggests a mechanism for reporting configuration or status information, which can be helpful for diagnostics.
In summary, the VIVOTEK Wiegand Converter (AO-20W) is a versatile and essential device for modernizing access control systems by integrating them with advanced ANPR technology. Its robust connectivity options, flexible configuration, and user-friendly management tools make it suitable for a wide range of security and access management applications.