Physical assembly of CardMaster CM-VIC            Layout of the CM-MLS-K2 /K4 splitter assembly

CardMaster is offered with a variety of communications options. These modules are all available for retro fit applications.

CM-VIC CardMaster's most recent innovation is our "Internet/Cellular" modem.  With this service the CardMaster is accessed directly from a PC (office, home, hotel room, etc) through an internet link.  Access can be on any or all of the PC's in the office if desired, at no added cost.  The internet link connects to our remote secure server, which in turn transparently accesses the CardMaster cellular modem. 

With the optional CM-MLS-K2/4 splitter you can have 2,3, or 4 ports and serve added CardMasters or other serial devices, using a single modem and a single annual service fee.  In addition to the great conveniences cost savings can be considerable compared with installing a business line, paying monthly business line charges, often with long distance charges at business rates.

CM-VICR CardMaster Internet/Cellular is available for easy retro fit to existing CardMaster sites. 

Laptop The least expensive communications is to take a laptop computer to the island and connect it to the RS232 db9f port on the front of the CardMaster.  The port faces down adjacent to the card swipe, to avoid rain into the port. USB to db9 serial cables are available from CardMaster.  Most laptops today have only USB serial ports.  The option is less popular where snow or rain, extreme cold or hot weather, can be a problem.

RS485 CardMaster is offered with RS-485 serial communications where it is required to run data wires to a building. RS-485 Serial data wires must be installed in dedicated conduits. Belden 89418 shielded cable with 4 conductor twisted pairs is strongly recommended for the communications cabling. 

CM-IM CardMaster can be supplied with an internal telephone modem for locations with land line telephone service available.  In cases where CardMaster will be sharing a normal voice line we offer the CM-TLS (telephone line sharing device). CM-IM is shipped installed in the CardMaster, or loose as a kit for retro fit applications.

CM-LAN CardMaster can be supplied with an internal Local Area Network module with Ethernet RJ45 capability.  Normally LAN modules are limited to 350' of cabling between modules or "nodes".

CM-RF To avoid trenching and conduits for serial communications we offer the popular alternative of RF (radio frequency) communications.  The "sending" RF module is installed in the CardMaster.  The "receiving" module mounts on the wall of the building.  A serial cable is run from the "receiving" module to the PC.  This option remains popular, saving the outdoor cost and disruption of digging trenches, running conduits, and pulling cables.  You may want to compare this with the CM-VIC above, also "wireless".