Third Millennium Unveils Readers That Do It All: Cards & QR Codes in One

HID’s Third Millennium Unveils RXQR Readers: A Unified Approach to Access Control

Third Millennium, an HID company specializing in access control solutions, has just launched its innovative RXQR and RXQRK readers. These multi-technology devices seamlessly blend high-security RFID card and QR code credentials into one sleek unit, promising a streamlined approach to access management.

The RXQR range is designed to simplify the often-complex world of visitor and contractor management. It supports both established and modern communication protocols, making it a cost-effective and future-proof solution for today’s evolving security landscape. The RXQR combines RFID card reading with QR code scanning, while the RXQRK adds a keypad for those requiring an extra layer of security with PIN verification.

“QR codes have exploded in popularity for access control since the COVID-19 pandemic,” explains Steve Greenaway, Third Millennium’s Business Development Manager. “With many organizations reducing or eliminating reception areas, QR codes provide a practical, contactless, and economical way to manage entry.”

One Device, Two Functions: Lowering Installation Costs

Traditionally, organizations needed separate readers for staff RFID cards and visitor QR codes, leading to duplicated installation costs, cabling, and maintenance. The RXQR range eliminates this redundancy. A single reader handles both card and QR scanning, transmitting data through the same door controller ports. Both models support Clock and Data, Wiegand, and OSDP (Open Supervised Device Protocol) connectivity.

“It’s a simple idea with huge efficiency and financial benefits,” Greenaway says. “You’re halving the number of devices, installation work, and simplifying ongoing maintenance. And of course, saving money because you no longer need two readers at every door.”

In addition to QR code functionality, the RXQR readers support a wide range of high-frequency card technologies, including MIFARE Classic, MIFARE DESFire, and LEGIC. This ensures interoperability with modern access control systems that use open-standard smartcards. DESFire and LEGIC technologies offer advanced cryptographic security comparable to proprietary systems.

“Third Millennium has always championed openness and interoperability,” Greenaway adds. “By supporting MIFARE and LEGIC technologies, along with Clock and Data, Wiegand, and OSDP, the RXQR readers allow customers to work within their existing infrastructure without costly door controller replacements.”

Smart Design, Smart Security

Beyond performance, the RXQR range reflects Third Millennium’s commitment to elegant design, featuring blue LED lights on each unit.

The RXQRK model incorporates a keypad for two-factor authentication (card + PIN). During normal hours, users can simply present a card or QR code. Outside those hours, or in high-security areas, a PIN is required for additional verification, preventing misuse of lost or stolen cards. This makes the RXQRK ideal for multi-tenanted buildings, data centers, and facilities with layered security policies.

“While mobile credentials are gaining ground, QR codes remain the simplest and most cost-effective option for contractors and visitors,” Greenaway explains. “Unlike app-based credentials with licensing costs, QR codes can be easily generated and managed by many enterprise access control systems. They offer temporary access, are virtually free to issue, disposable, and don’t require visitors or contractors to download an app or create an account.”