Transact MRD5 ID Reader: Setup and Usage
The MRD5 is an easy-to-use devices for collecting LINs (Lehigh ID Numbers) from Lehigh community member’s ID cards or devices. Collecting this information can be very useful in numerous situations:
Attendance Tracking:
Tracking attendance for lectures, labs, or mandatory training sessions.
Checking in participants for workshops or events.
Recording staff/volunteer participation at a specific location.
Event Management:
Quickly checking in attendees at large-scale events, job fairs, or registration desks.
Tracking participation in student life activities for eligibility/reward programs.
Service Delivery:
Confirming user identity before dispensing specific services (e.g., printing credits, subsidized resources).
Checking users into a queue or waiting list for advising or support.
This document outlines the steps for setting up and using the Transact MRD5 ID Reader for collecting Lehigh ID Numbers (LINs).
Initial Connection
Power on the Device: Press and hold the power button until you hear the startup chime and the green light illuminates (approximately 3 seconds).
Connect the Device: Plug the Transact MRD5 device into a USB port on your computer.
Configuration
Macs:
If prompted, click Allow to enable the device connection.
If the Keyboard Setup Assistant appears, click Quit.
Windows Devices:
The device should be automatically recognized. No action is typically required. If prompted, grant permission for the device to connect.
Collecting LINs (Lehigh ID Numbers)
Prepare the Input Field: Open an empty, editable document on your computer (e.g., Google Doc, Word Document, Notes, or any text field).
Activate Cursor: Click in the document or entry field you wish to populate to ensure your cursor is actively focused within this field and ready to receive input.
The LIN will not show up unless your cursor is focused and active in an empty field on your computer. If the cursor moves or you click elsewhere, the device won't input the ID.
Your device is now ready to collect LINs!
Scan IDs: To ensure a successful read, swipe the magnetic strip directly across the reader with the strip facing the device, OR tap the card flat against the reader surface. You will hear an audible beep confirming that the LIN was successfully captured.
Important Note: Swiping a tap-enabled ID card may result in the LIN being captured twice (duplicate entries).
Each collected LIN will automatically populate on a new line in your document.
Mass LIN Lookup
To quickly process a collected list of LINs (e.g., remove duplicates and look up associated user information), use the Mass LIN Lookup tool:
Access the Tool: Navigate to: go.lehigh.edu/masslinlookup. For off-campus use, please make sure you are connected to the VPN.
Log In: Use your standard Lehigh credentials.
Process Data: Copy and paste the collected LINs into the left-hand column and click Submit.
Note: The tool automatically removes duplicate LINs during this process. The original order of the entered LINs is not retained in the output list.
Export: The resulting list can be exported as a CSV file.
For immediate help, contact the LTS Help Desk (Hours)
EWFM Library | Call: 610-758-4357 (8-HELP) | Text: 610-616-5910 | Chat | helpdesk@lehigh.edu
Submit a help request (login required)