The HP Card Reader Configuration Utility is a specialized Windows-based tool used by administrators to manage and configure HP proximity and smart card readers installed across a fleet of HP printers and Multi-Function Printers (MFPs). Core Purpose and Features
The utility allows for both local management of a single reader and remote deployment of settings to an entire fleet.
Card-Type Customization: Configure readers with specific card-type settings (e.g., MIFARE, HID iCLASS, DESFire) to match organizational requirements.
Fleet Management: Remotely "push" configuration or encryption files (like .hwg or .ini files) to multiple readers across the network.
Secure Key Deployment: Manage encrypted MIFARE Secure Keys and maintain a secure chain of custody for encryption credentials.
Firmware Management: View device information and perform firmware upgrades on the readers.
Device Feedback Control: Adjust LED settings, volume control, and beeper behaviors for specific work environments (e.g., quiet zones). Step-by-Step Configuration Guide 1. Connecting to a Local Card Reader
To configure a reader directly, connect it to a Windows PC via USB.
Open the utility and navigate to the Connection Settings tab. In the Device Connection Type menu, select Local (USB). hp card reader configuration utility
Choose Card Reader Device from the Devices menu (use Refresh if it doesn't appear).
Click Connect. A beep or LED change usually indicates a successful connection. 2. Configuring Global Settings
Once connected, you can define how the reader interacts with physical cards.
System Configuration: Located under the Card Read Global Settings tab, this allows you to specify which card technologies are active (e.g., NFC, BLE, or specific ISO standards).
Data Format: Set whether the reader transmits data as keystrokes or via a specific protocol like HP MFP24.
Saving Changes: After making adjustments, you must select Save to FLASH to write the configuration permanently to the device's memory. 3. Remote Deployment (Fleet Management)
For administrators managing many devices, the utility acts as a deployment engine.
Create Configuration Files: Use third-party tools (like the RFIDEAS PCprox tool) to generate .hwg or .ini files containing your desired settings. The HP Card Reader Configuration Utility is a
Import to HP Utility: Import these files into the HP Card Reader Configuration Utility (v2.8 or later recommended).
Push to Fleet: Use the utility's deployment features to send these settings to all network-connected HP printers equipped with compatible readers. Supported Hardware
The utility is primarily designed for readers installed in the HP Hardware Integration Pocket (HIP) or connected via external USB ports on Enterprise-class printers. HP Card Reader ConfigUtility-V2.3.4 | PDF - Scribd
This feature allows you to specify an executable (e.g., C:\Program Files\ActivIdentity\ActivClient\acsagent.exe) that launches automatically when a card is inserted. This is essential for triggering certificate enrollment or VPN authentication.
The HP Card Reader Configuration Utility is a Windows application used to configure and manage HP smart card readers and related middleware, including driver installation, certificate enrollment settings, PIN policies, and reader diagnostics. It’s typically used in enterprise environments for smart card authentication, secure logon, and digital signing.
The HP Card Reader Configuration Utility is a proprietary software tool designed specifically for HP business PCs equipped with an integrated or external HP smart card reader. Unlike the generic driver controls provided by Windows, this utility gives administrators and advanced users granular control over the reader’s power management, plug-and-play behavior, and protocol negotiation.
At its core, the utility bridges the gap between the hardware reader and software applications (like ActivClient or middleware from Gemalto, Idemia, or Thales). It allows you to:
HP Card Reader Configuration Utility v1.2.3.0
[Status] [Settings] [Power] [Logs] This feature allows you to specify an executable (e
Settings:
[x] Enable Smart Card Reader
[ ] Enable SD/MMC Reader
Smart Card Middleware: [Microsoft CCID ▼]
[x] Auto-lock workstation on card removal
Power:
[ ] Disable power saving on card reader (fix sleep issues)
Logs:
[Enable logging] [View Log...]
This is the most important section. You will typically see two options:
It is important to understand that this utility works alongside, not instead of, Windows’ native smart card services.
If you are deploying smart cards in a virtual desktop environment (VDI) or using Remote Desktop, you will need to configure both. The HP utility should be installed on the local client machine, not the virtual session.
Some versions support silent configuration via registry or command line:
HPCardReaderCfg.exe /enable_smartcard
HPCardReaderCfg.exe /disable_sd
HPCardReaderCfg.exe /set_middleware "Microsoft"
HPCardReaderCfg.exe /status
Check HPCardReaderCfg.exe /? on your system.