Wave ID readers from rf IDEAS combine proximity (125/132 kHz) and contactless (13.56 MHz) card technologies so you can use the same employee ID badges you already use for building access to authenticate at Brother printers and all‑in‑ones. Integration is straightforward: - **Connection**: The Wave ID reader connects directly to the printer’s rear USB port for a plug‑and‑play style setup. - **Form factor**: The WAVE ID SP and WAVE ID SP Plus models have a small, thin design that fits into recessed compartments on select Brother devices or can be mounted externally. - **Card configurations**: There are **4 ID card configurations** available; **2 are pre‑set** and **all 4 are user‑definable**, so IT can align the reader behavior with existing card formats and policies. Once connected and configured, users simply tap their existing company card on the reader to authenticate and access printer functions, helping bring card-based security into everyday document workflows without replacing badges or overhauling the access system.

Using card readers with Brother printers helps you reimagine how users access print, scan, and copy functions by tying everything to an existing ID badge. Key benefits include: 1. **User authentication at the device** - Employees authenticate with their ID card before using the device. - This supports secure print release and helps prevent documents from sitting unattended on output trays. 2. **Secure print management and document workflow** - Card-based login can be integrated into secure print management and document workflow solutions, so jobs are released only when the authorized user is at the device. - This can support compliance initiatives and internal security policies. 3. **Built-in NFC badge authentication** - Many Brother devices include **built‑in NFC**, so NFC badges can be used directly for authentication. - NFC badge login works with **Secure Function Lock** to control who can print, copy, scan, or fax. - It can also integrate with the customer’s **Active Directory/LDAP** environment, which means you can often avoid additional third‑party authentication servers or software. 4. **Cost control and accountability** - By tying activity to a specific user card, organizations can track **meter reads** and support **cost recovery** initiatives (for example, chargeback by department or project). - This visibility can help shape print policies and reduce unnecessary output. Overall, card readers help reshape device access from “open to anyone” to “tied to a verified user,” while fitting into existing ID card ecosystems.

Yes, many organizations can extend their existing card ecosystem to Brother devices. **Standard third‑party HID reader support** - Select Brother printer and all‑in‑one models support **optional external HID card readers**. - This allows you to integrate printers into your current HID card authentication environment instead of rolling out a separate badge system. **Mounting and accessories** - A **Card Reader Holder** accessory is available to attach a third‑party card reader to the side of the device, keeping the reader accessible and secure. - Wave ID SP and SP Plus readers are designed with a **small, thin form factor**, which supports both recessed integration and external mounting options. **Developer options** - **Software Development Kits (SDKs)** are available so independent developers can build custom solutions that leverage employee ID card data—for example, tailored workflows, reporting, or integrations with existing business systems. Note: Wave ID is a third‑party product. Brother International Corporation does not make representations or warranties regarding third‑party products, and specifications are subject to change without notice.