Adder AS-4CR – Secure 4-Port Smart Card Reader

Product Overview

The Adder AS-4CR is a secure 4-port smart card reader that lets a single user smart card authenticate simultaneously with up to four isolated computers — so operators on CAC-designated networks stay logged in while switching between systems on a secure KVM switch. For agencies and contractors sourcing a CAC card reader for secure KVM switching, a multi-computer smart card reader, or an NIAP Protection Profile 4.0 designed authentication accessory, the AS-4CR removes the re-authentication delay that slows time-critical multi-network operations.

Product Description

In secure multi-domain environments, every channel switch on a KVM normally forces the operator to re-present credentials — a costly interruption in time-critical situations. The AS-4CR solves this by coupling one ISO7816-compliant smart card with up to four isolated source computers at once via four USB 2.0 HID-emulated connections. When used alongside a secure KVM switch, the user switches channels freely with no re-authentication at the point of switching.

Security is engineered into every layer. No card or user data is accessible to the reader itself, and no data can pass between connected computers — each source PC is unaware of its peers and works with the smart card as if it were directly attached. Remove the card and the unit immediately disassociates from all coupled computers. The sealed plastic enclosure carries anti-tamper sensors and holographic tamper-evident labels that provide visual indication of any intrusion attempt.

Operation is transparent to the host systems: the reader uses standard smartcard reader chips from Identive (formerly SCM) and standard USB CCID drivers, so Windows, Linux, and macOS systems recognize it without custom software. An LED display indicates association status for each of the four computers at a glance. The unit ships with its external power supply and quick start guide, and follows the NIAP Protection Profile 4.0 design used across Adder's secure switching range. Pair it with ADDERView Secure switches from the Adder Technology collection at Creation Networks.

Key Features

• Simultaneous 4-Computer Authentication — One user smart card authenticates with up to four isolated computers at the same time.
• No Switching Re-Authentication — Used with a KVM switch, the operator changes channels without re-presenting credentials.
• Auto-Disassociation — Removing the card immediately disassociates the reader from all coupled computers.
• Data Isolation — No card or user data is accessible to the reader, and no data can pass between connected computers.
• NIAP PP 4.0 Design — Follows the NIAP Protection Profile 4.0 design recognized for secure peripheral sharing devices.
• Tamper-Evident Construction — Sealed enclosure with anti-tamper sensors and holographic labels reveals intrusion attempts.
• ISO7816 and USB CCID Compliant — Works with compatible smart cards and authentication applications using standard Identive reader chips and CCID drivers.
• Per-Channel Status LEDs — The display indicates association status for each connected computer.
• Cross-Platform — Compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS hosts.

Typical Applications

• Government space — CAC/PIV-authenticated operator positions spanning multiple isolated networks
• Commercial meeting space — secure facilities where staff access several classified or segregated systems from one desk

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the AS-4CR work with CAC cards?
Yes. The reader is ISO7816 compliant and designed for CAC-designated network workflows, allowing the user to stay logged in while switching between networks.

Do I need special drivers on each computer?
No. The reader uses standard USB CCID drivers and Identive reader chips, so Windows, Linux, and macOS recognize it as a standard smart card reader.

Which KVM switches does it pair with?
It is designed to operate alongside Adder's secure KVM switch range, such as the ADDERView Secure AVS series, providing channel switching without re-authentication. Contact Creation Networks to confirm pairing for your specific switch model.

What happens when the card is removed?
The reader immediately disassociates from all coupled computers, ending the authenticated sessions at the reader level.

Can data leak between the four connected computers?
No. By design, no data can pass between connected computers and no card or user data is accessible to the reader itself; each source PC is unaware of its peers.

How do I know which computers are associated?
An LED display on the unit indicates the association status for each of the four computer connections.