21.5" 3-TRACK MSR

The MicroTouch MSR-215-A1 is a 21.5-inch three-track magnetic stripe reader built around USB connectivity and direct mounting to the DT-215P-A1. It reads cards in either swipe direction and supports track densities of 210 bpi on Tracks 1 and 3, with 75/210 bpi support on Track 2. Its black housing, supplied mounting screws, and defined Windows 10 and Android compatibility establish clear integration requirements.

Ideal Use Cases

This model suits installations that need magnetic-stripe reading alongside a DT-215P-A1 and rely on USB as the host interface. Its supported formats include ISO 7811, CA old DMV, AAMVA, and Tradeshow Card. It can read high- or low-coercivity magnetic stripes from 300 to 4000oe. These capabilities address workflows using one or more of the listed card formats and requiring access to all three magnetic tracks.

Why Choose This Model

The primary selection points are bi-directional swiping, defined three-track support, and two available emulation modes. The MSR-215-A1 supports Keyboard Emulation Mode and Uniform Defined HID Device Mode (HID MSR), allowing it to meet either of those stated interface-mode requirements. Track support is equally specific: Tracks 1 and 3 use 210 bpi, while Track 2 supports 75/210 bpi. The USB interface and +5VDC power requirement, with a +/-5% tolerance, further define its connection and power profile.

Installation and Integration

Installation is specified as direct mounting to the DT-215P-A1. The package contains the MSR and two screws, aligning the included hardware with that mounting method. Supported operating systems are Windows 10 and Android, and the host interface is USB. Before installation, confirm that the intended host uses one of the listed operating systems, provides the required USB connection, and can supply +5VDC within the specified +/-5% range. Listed dimensions are 245 x 300 x 385 mm (H x W x D). Gross weight is 2.086 kg, while the listed net-weight value is 0.078.

Performance Highlights

Swipe operation is bi-directional, enabling cards to be read when swiped in either direction. The specified swipe-speed figures are 5-55 for an ISO standard card, 5-50 for jitter, and 5-50 for low amplitude; no measurement unit is provided for these values. Typical power consumption is listed at 50 mA maximum. Card size is listed as 3.375 x 2.125 inches. The reader supports both high- and low-coercivity magnetic stripes across the stated 300-4000oe range, complemented by separate density specifications for each track.

What Makes It Different

The MSR-215-A1 combines three-track reading with a mounting arrangement specifically identified for the DT-215P-A1. It offers both keyboard and HID MSR emulation rather than listing only one operating mode. Its compatibility information also extends beyond ISO 7811 to include CA old DMV, AAMVA, and Tradeshow Card formats. Bi-directional reading, USB connectivity, Windows 10 and Android support, and a black housing complete the stated feature set.

Final Assessment

The MicroTouch MSR-215-A1 is a clearly specified option for installations requiring a USB three-track magnetic stripe reader mounted directly to the DT-215P-A1. It covers Tracks 1, 2, and 3, supports multiple card formats and coercivity levels, and provides keyboard or HID MSR emulation. The included MSR and two screws supply the listed components needed for its defined mounting configuration.