Answers, without the hunt.

Yes, a Wiegand system may be retrofitted to use OSDP. A common strategy is to first identify high-security access points to install OSDP readers, and install converters that enable the OSDP reader to interface with the Wiegand panel. A best practice is planning one-to-one reader replacements when using existing cable. An OSDP controller, cabling, and additional OSDP readers can be added in later phases.Cypress offers the OSM-2400 or the OSM-CPI OSDP-Wiegand converters to securely connect the OSDP reader and Wiegand panel. The OTT-2100-2 OSDP Cable Test Tool is useful to ensure existing cable will support OSDP. The OTT-KIT1 Test Tool Kit includes the cable testing tool along with a trace tool, hub, and Data Wedge. The SPX-5631 can be used to wirelessly connect OSDP or Wiegand readers.

Yes. Share the idea, specifications, and desired schedule with sales@cypressintegration.com. Cypress will confirm feasibility and timing, then develop the firmware, circuit boards, and enclosure to the approved requirements.

Yes. A Cypress Wiegand Standardizer (OPTW-200) standardizes the interface and supports one reader with two panels or two readers with one panel. This is useful for high/low vehicle-gate readers and in/out building readers.

Yes. The Cypress Wireless Handheld Reader (HHR-4000) scans credentials without a local power or data connection because it communicates wirelessly with a base unit wired to the access control panel.

Yes. A Cypress CVX-1300 Data Converter or Barcode Scanner Kit translates RS-232 or barcode data into a standard Wiegand string for the access control system.

Yes. A Cypress Multi-Format Data Converter (CVX-1300) can translate formats such as Wiegand to Wiegand, RS-232 serial to Wiegand, and Wiegand to RS-232 serial. Custom conversions are also available.

Yes. Contact Cypress at 810-245-2300 with the application details. After approval and a completed trial form, Cypress can provide a new product for a 45-day evaluation; it can then be purchased through distribution or returned.

Yes. International distributors are listed on the Cypress Where to Buy page.

Yes. Cypress Wiegand and OSDP Data Splitters can connect one reader to two panels, or to an access-control system plus a non-access system such as an alarm, key cabinet, elevator, or time-and-attendance system.

Yes. A Cypress Wiegand Splitter (OPTW-100) can send the reader signal to an access control system and another system such as an alarm, key cabinet, elevator dispatch, or time-and-attendance system while electrically isolating the outputs.

Yes. A Cypress OSM-RCI or OSM-2400 can connect a Wiegand reader to an OSDP panel. An OSDP reader is preferred when available, but conversion is useful for specialty readers that do not have an OSDP model.

Yes. A Cypress Fiber Optic Reader Extender (SPX-7400) can connect readers to a panel over existing compatible fiber in multi-mode or single-mode configurations.

Yes. A Cypress OSDP Splitter such as the ODM-2015 can connect one OSDP reader to both an OSDP system and a Wiegand system.

Yes. A Cypress OSM-2400 or OSM-CPI converts credential data from an OSDP reader to Wiegand for the panel and converts the controller signal I/O into OSDP messages for the reader. The field-side credential connection remains encrypted with OSDP Secure Channel.

Yes. A Cypress OSDP Splitter can connect an OSDP reader to an access control system and another system such as an alarm, key cabinet, elevator dispatch, or time-and-attendance system.

Yes. Most Cypress Suprex Reader Extenders support up to seven additional Wiegand readers when used with one EXP-2000 Expansion Pair for each additional reader. Confirm model compatibility before installation.

Yes. A custom Cypress Intelligent Splitter can route selected credential data from one reader to two panels without sending the same data to both.

Yes. A Cypress Wiegand Splitter (OPTW-100) connects two Wiegand readers through one panel port.

Yes. A Cypress custom converter or splitter usually ships within two weeks after requirements are confirmed. Contact sales@cypressintegration.com to begin.

Yes. Cypress Suprex Reader Extenders require only the selected transport medium between the Central and Remote units: RS-485 twisted pair, TCP/IP, fiber optic, or wireless. Choose the Suprex model that matches the available connection.

Yes. A Cypress Fiber Optic Reader Extender (SPX-7400) is recommended where lightning, saltwater intrusion, chemical contaminants, or industrial corrosion are concerns. Fiber provides inherent electrical isolation and corrosion resistance.

Yes. A Cypress RS-485 Reader Extender (SPX-7500) carries Wiegand reader communication over RS-485 twisted pair, which is well suited to electrically noisy environments and severe signal degradation.

Yes. A Cypress TCP/IP Reader Extender (SPX-7200) can connect a reader through a network switch or router across the available IP network. A pair can also connect directly with crossover cable at distances up to 328 feet.

Yes. A Cypress Wireless Reader Extender (SPX-5631) can bypass parking lots, streets, courts, pools, buildings, railroad tracks, and similar obstacles. A 2.4 GHz wireless connection can eliminate trenching, conduit, cable pulling, asphalt cutting, backfill, and repair.

Yes. A Cypress Multi-Format Data Converter (CVX-1300) translates between common interfaces and formats, including Wiegand-to-Wiegand, RS-232 serial to Wiegand, and Wiegand to RS-232 serial.

Yes. The Cypress OSDP Cable Test Tool (OTT-2100-2) sends OSDP traffic over existing cable at different baud rates and measures packet loss.

Yes. The passive Cypress OSDP Connection Hub (OSM-HUB) provides seven powered connection points and replaces temporary wire nuts or terminal blocks during testing and installation.

Yes. A Cypress OSDP Cable Test Tool (OTT-2100-2) can set addresses and baud rates for most manufacturers’ OSDP readers before or during installation.

Yes. Customers normally reach Cypress immediately by phone or receive an email response within the same business day at support@cypressintegration.com.

Yes. Each Cypress custom converter or splitter receives a unique part number that can be used for future orders.

Yes. A Cypress OSM-2400 or OSM-CPI can connect an OSDP reader to a Wiegand panel, preserving an encrypted OSDP reader connection while allowing the existing controller to remain in service.

It depends. With new OSDP systems and sites with longer cable runs or multi-drop (daisy-chain) topology, the best practice is to use new cable suitable for OSDP. With retrofits where readers will be replaced on a 1-to-1 basis, cable can be tested to ensure it supports OSDP using the Cypress OTT-2100-2 OSDP Cable Test Tool.

A Cypress Data Wedge (WDG-6112) sends reader output to a spreadsheet or other computer application. This is useful for enrollment, field troubleshooting, database setup, and site takeovers.

Call Cypress Technical Support. Because Cypress products interoperate with many manufacturers’ readers and panels, the team can help isolate the source of an installation or compatibility issue.

The Security Industry Association implemented the OSDP Verified program to ensure devices are tested and meet criteria for the standard and listed profiles. For manufacturers internally testing products with other OSDP devices, as well as integrators and security professionals lab-testing OSDP systems, Cypress offers the OTT-KIT1 OSDP Test Tool Kit to streamline the process. The kit includes a Hub to simplify plugging and unplugging devices, a trace tool, cable test tool, and Data Wedge.

OSDP allows readers and other peripheral devices to be installed up to 4,000 ft. from the controller, a big improvement over the 500 ft. distance at which Wiegand generally drops off. OSDP also supports multi-drop installations.The best practice for longer cable runs and daisy chaining is to install new cable suitable for OSDP. One length of 2-conductor cable can be daisy-chained to accommodate many readers connected to a single controller. With Wiegand, cable is run between each reader and the controller.

The general maximum distance between a Wiegand reader and controller is 500 feet, according to the Security Industry Association. Actual installations should follow the reader, controller, cable, and project specifications.

While a secure reader protects data exchanged between the credential and reader, the reader cannot protect data when it sends the data to the access controller.Securely transmitting access control data is a two-step process. The first step is ensuring data is securely transmitted between the credential and the reader. The second step is equally critical: ensuring the data remains secure as it moves from the reader to the controller.OSDP's encryption, authentication and supervision protects the data between the reader and the controller.

Yes. A Cypress Wireless Suprex Extender (SPX-5631) can bypass damaged conduit and long cable runs by establishing the reader-to-panel connection wirelessly.

Yes. A Cypress OSDP I/O Extender (SPX-1400) supports a door strike, Request to Exit, and Door Position Sensor while the physical I/O is handled between the Central unit at the panel and Remote unit at the reader.

OSDP v2 with Secure Channel currently has an AES-128 encryption and authentication scheme with initialization messages and keys, to ensure communication takes place strictly between intended parties and to hide the data exchanged between the reader and the controller. Wiegand, the previous de facto access control standard, is an interface without encryption, authentication or supervision.

Yes, OSDP is much more secure than Wiegand. OSDP with Secure Channel communication currently uses AES-128 encryption and authentication to prevent “eavesdropping” on the data connection. With OSDP Secure Channel, data is encrypted and is never transmitted the same way twice, making it virtually impossible to listen in on the connection.Wiegand sends data from the reader to the controller without encrypting the data, and cannot ensure that communication happens strictly between the intended parties. In addition, Wiegand does not detect reader malfunctions or vandalism, since it lacks 2-way communication and supervision.

Yes. A Cypress Data Wedge (WDG-6112) can act as a simple controller while testing access control readers.

Yes. Install the reader in the elevator cab over the traveler cable with a Cypress RS-485 Suprex Reader Extender (SPX-1300). RS-485 over twisted-pair cable resists electromagnetic interference. When no cable is available, a Cypress Wireless Suprex Reader Extender (SPX-5631) can connect the reader wirelessly.

Yes. A Cypress Single-Mode Fiber Optic Reader Extender (SPX-7410) can span up to 24 miles. A TCP/IP Reader Extender (SPX-7200) can also communicate across the reach of the available IP network.

Yes. Cypress Reader Extenders place one unit at the panel and another at the reader, then carry communication over a more robust medium such as RS-485 twisted pair, fiber optic cable, TCP/IP, or wireless. Moving the system to OSDP is another option.

Yes. The Cypress OSDP Trace Tool (OTT-1100) visualizes OSDP messages between the controller and reader to support troubleshooting.

OSDP v2 with Secure Channel currently has an AES-128 encryption and authentication scheme with initialization messages and keys, to ensure communication takes place strictly between intended parties and to hide the data exchanged between the reader and the controller. The keys are 128 bits (or 16 bytes) as dictated by AES-128 encryption.

OSDP stands for Open Supervised Device Protocol. OSDP is a 2-way command-response protocol for use between a credential reader and access controller. The protocol is designed to run over RS-485. SIA's OSDP Technical Subcommittee also plans to deploy OSDP over IP in the future.

Contact Cypress Technical Support at 800-807-2977, extension 201, to troubleshoot the issue. If a return is necessary, support will issue an RMA number. Products purchased through a distributor must be returned to that distributor with the RMA number.

OSDP v1 refers to the initial OSDP protocol, which was privately developed before rights to the specification were transferred to SIA. All OSDP iterations starting with v2 were developed under SIA's guidance by the OSDP Technical Subcommittee, and include Secure Channel encryption plus features such as support for biometric readers.

Cypress normally ships within one week or less, and standard products often ship within one to three business days after the distributor order is received. Peak demand and custom-engineered products may require more time. Call 810-245-2300 to confirm an urgent schedule.

The Wiegand interface is known to be vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks. The vulnerability is due to the lack of encryption and authentication in the Wiegand specification, which was developed in the 1970s, before hacking technology became smaller, cheaper, easily available, and prior to an era when information was readily available online.With the Wiegand interface, data sent from the reader to the controller is transmitted “in the clear” without any way to conceal the data from threat actors. An attack can be quickly launched at the reader, allowing credential data to be skimmed to spoof the system, open access doors or gates, and deny access to legitimate credential holders.The entire attack can be carried out without the Wiegand reader ever going offline and without the control panel receiving any notification, since Wiegand also lacks supervision.OSDP is not subject to the Wiegand vulnerability, thanks to its encryption, authentication, and supervision, although it is critical to use Secure Channel. In 2023, the Security Industry Association issued recommendations for using OSDP Verified devices and ensuring that OSDP is properly installed, including the use of Secure Channel. The recommendations were issued following an in-depth review of Bishop Fox findings on possible implementation vulnerabilities.

Use the Buy Now link on each Cypress product page to choose a distributor such as ADI, Controlled Products, JMAC, PSA, IML, SDS, or Wesco. Selected products are also stocked in some distributor stores.

The Cypress HHR Series Wireless Handheld Reader is a portable reader that does not retain credential data. It communicates with the panel database through an encrypted wireless link to its paired base unit and supports mustering, gates, construction sites, overflow entrances, shuttles, attendance, and rapid deployment.

Yes, there is a minimal learning curve with OSDP, as with any new technology. While installing OSDP is different than installing Wiegand, top integrators have found it worthwhile to ensure their companies are well versed in OSDP.It is important to consider system capabilities, setting baud rates and device addresses, as well as enabling Secure Channel, as discussed here.SIA offers OSDP Boot Camps, which are instructor-led, hands-on training in OSDP design, configuration and implementation. ASIS CPE credits may now be earned by attending an OSDP Boot Camp.

Cypress can create a Custom Data Converter for conversions that are not already included in the standard Multi-Format Data Converter.

The Security Industry Association (SIA) owns OSDP; no individual company owns it. OSDP v2 was developed by SIA and the OSDP Working Group, now known as the OSDP Technical Subcommittee.The OSDP Technical Subcommittee, which continues to advance OSDP, is part of the larger SIA Standards Access Control & Identity Subcommittee. The group includes engineers, product developers, specifiers, and other security professionals.

Cypress pioneered wireless reader extenders. The Wireless Suprex supports OSDP and Wiegand readers, is made in the USA, can be paired in the field, supports expansion pairs and connection supervision, carries a lifetime warranty, and is available for qualified product trials.

Cypress is committed to OSDP due to the longtime need for a capable Wiegand replacement. Cypress Founder Tony Diodato spent years developing solutions to address the many shortcomings of Wiegand, including lack of supervision, distance limitations, installation requirements, and overall lack of features. Wiegand brought order to the early “Wild West” days of access control, but a more advanced standard was required to keep up with industry needs.Tony's firsthand insights led him to become a proponent of the OSDP protocol and a contributor to the OSDP Working Group (later renamed the OSDP Technical Subcommittee). In 2019, Tony served as co-chair of the group; today Cypress CEO Jon Uren serves as the OSDP Technical Subcommittee's vice chair.Cypress OSDP-Wiegand Converters were the first on the market in 2015. Since then, Cypress has developed OSDP solutions such as the OSDP Cable Test Tool, OSDP Splitters, a Wireless Reader Extender for OSDP and Wiegand readers, an OSDP Tool Kit, and other problem-solving OSDP accessories.