Linear BLE Mobile / 125 kHz / 13.56 MHz Access Control Readers — Quick Start Guide

Quick start installation guide for Linear's BLE Mobile / 125 kHz / 13.56 MHz Access Control Readers (HAF Reader family — models NBT125, BT125, BT135).

Overview

The Linear Access Control reader combines RFID and Bluetooth technology, reading data from physical and/or mobile credentials via radio frequency and passing it to a physical access control system for managing and recording movement through a protected area (e.g., a locked door). This guide is intended for experienced installing technicians and covers wiring, cable requirements, and troubleshooting. For more information, see Linear's website (www.linear-solutions.com).

Mounting

Each reader can be installed indoors or outdoors, mullion-mount or single-gang mount. Installation and wiring must comply with National Electrical Code (ANSI/NFPA 70). Use the supplied #6 mounting screws or equivalent security screws.

Wiegand Wiring

Single-line LED mode (standard, does not use the Orange conductor): idle LED is Red on NBT125, Blue on BT125/BT135; flashes when a card is presented. On all models, the LED turns green when the Brown conductor is pulled low by the access control panel.

Sector vs. CSN mode (BT135 only): standard operation outputs only Sector data (Purple/Violet conductor unused). Pulling the Violet conductor low (grounded) switches the reader to output the smart card's CSN data instead.

Unused conductors should be trimmed, isolated, and taped back to prevent unintended current flow. Apply positive voltage only to the Red DC conductor.

Cable Requirements

• Runs under 300 ft: 24 AWG minimum, multi-conductor stranded with overall foil shield (e.g. Belden 9535 or equivalent; Belden 9539 or higher for all reader functions).
• Runs 300–500 ft: 22 AWG minimum, multi-conductor stranded with overall foil shield (e.g. Belden 8445 or equivalent; Belden 83559 or higher for all reader functions).
• Per the SIA Wiegand specification, maximum cable length is 500 ft (152 m). Contact your access control panel manufacturer for their specific requirements.

Output Formats

Wiegand (industry-standard 26-bit and custom Wiegand formats): NBT125-W, BT125-W, BT135-W.

Grounding

Shield (drain) continuity must run from the reader to the access panel. Shield/drain and reader ground must be tied together at the access panel and connected to earth ground at one single point.

Power & Voltage

The reader may be powered by the access panel; a Linear power supply is recommended for best operation. Connection must comply with NFPA 70 — do not connect to a switch-controlled receptacle; use a power-limited DC voltage source.

Troubleshooting

On power-up, the reader beeps 4 times and the LED shines red or blue. Presenting a supported credential makes the reader beep and flash the LED once (the access panel controls further LED behavior, such as switching to green).

If corrective actions don't help, disconnect the reader from the access panel and power it separately (a separate supply or 9V battery) to isolate variables, then re-test. If the problem persists, contact Linear directly.

Regulatory

Complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and applicable Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada license-exempt RSS standards. Tested and found to comply with Class A digital device limits per FCC Part 15 for commercial environments — operation in a residential area may cause interference that the user must correct at their own expense.

Certifications include Destructive Level I, Line Security Level I, Endurance Level IV, Standby Power Level I. Operating temperature: -31°F to +150°F (-35°C to +66°C). Operating humidity: 0–90% RH. IP Rating: IP67.

Equivalent models: P-3500, CSB-3500, PB-3500.