What are the electrical specifications for a fixed badge reader on an outdoor post at a muster point?
Electrical Specs
From the badge scanner spec sheet (SerialIO idChamp NF4x).
Power source: USB (cabled/kiosk) or battery (wireless)
For a fixed outdoor post (kiosk / no-battery version):
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 5 V DC (USB) |
| Current | Not specified; USB 2.0 allows up to 500 mA; plan for ≥500 mA (0.5 A) |
| Interface | USB (Micro USB for charging; standard USB for cabled/kiosk) |
Environment:
- Operating temp: -25 °C to +70 °C (-13 °F to +158 °F)
- Humidity: 10–90% RH
Suggested wiring for an outdoor post
-
120 V AC to post → weatherproof outlet or junction box → USB power adapter (5 V, 1 A or 2 A) → idChamp
- Use a UL-listed, outdoor-rated adapter or enclosure.
-
Low-voltage DC (e.g. 12 V or 24 V) → weatherproof enclosure → 5 V DC converter (or USB adapter) → idChamp
- Common for outdoor/low-voltage systems.
-
PoE (if network is at the post) → PoE-to-USB adapter → idChamp
- Simplifies wiring when Ethernet is already run.
Practical recommendation: Run 120 V AC to the post in a weatherproof box, then use a 5 V / 1 A (or 2 A) USB adapter to power the reader. That gives margin and supports future devices.
Case options for outdoor use
- Durable case – for harsher environments
- Kiosk case – for fixed installations, no battery, USB-powered
SerialIO does not publish NEMA or IP ratings for these cases.