ZK WAN/LAN TCP IP C4 Series RFID Card Reader Access Control Panel

In this review of the ZK WAN/LAN TCP/IP C4 Series Professional RFID Card Reader Access Control Panel C4-100 the bottom line is clear: this unit is built for administrators who need a robust, networked one-door access controller that handles both EM and IC cards plus PIN entry. The reviewer found it straightforward to integrate with LAN environments, reports reliable card handling, and appreciates the support for server-side control and uploads. It is best for small to medium installations that need a high card capacity and standard relay outputs rather than for installers who require biometric or multi-door native control.

Key Features

• WAN/LAN TCP/IP connectivity: Allows centralized management and remote control through servers for convenient access logging and door operations.
• Multiple credential support: Accepts EM cards, IC cards and password verification so sites can mix credential types for flexibility.
• High card capacity: Stores up to 30,000 cards on the front-end and up to 100,000 in controller memory for large user bases.
• Integrated access logic: Front-end reader collection and back-end controller comparison reduce network traffic and keep verification responsive.
• Basic I O for door control: Includes exit button support, one auxiliary input and one auxiliary output plus an electric lock relay for common door hardware.
• Embedded Linux and software support: Runs an embedded Linux system and works with ZKAccess3.5 and E-ZKEco Pro LAN software for management and reporting.

Who It's For

The C4-100 is aimed at installers and site administrators managing single-door access in offices, retail backrooms or small campus buildings who need a compact networked controller with large card capacity and reliable TCP/IP communication. It is a practical choice where EM or IC card systems and PINs are the primary credentials and server-side control is preferred.

It is less appropriate for projects that require native support for multiple doors from one controller, built-in biometric reading, or integrated PoE power. Buyers who need multi-door native controllers or advanced local analytics should evaluate other models first.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid TCP/IP support enables centralized management and remote operation of door locks and gates.
• Large card capacity supports growing user bases without immediate hardware upgrades.
• Flexible credential handling with EM, IC and password verification covers common access scenarios.
• Includes standard I O like exit button and relay output for typical door hardware integration.

Cons

• No native multi-door control in a single unit, so larger deployments need additional controllers.
• Power is 12V DC requiring an appropriate supply; PoE is not supported.

Specifications

Model	C4-100
Voltage	12V DC (20%)
Current	3A
Identification methods	EM card, IC card, Password
Operating system	Embedded Linux system
Storage	256MB Flash
Card capacity	30,000 front-end / 100,000 controller
Access control	One-door; 2 card readers connected
Aux I O	1 auxiliary input, 1 auxiliary output, 1 exit button
Communication	TCP/IP

Our Verdict

The ZK C4-100 is a pragmatic, value-oriented single-door networked controller that suits small and medium sites needing high card capacity and reliable TCP/IP management. It is recommended for administrators who want straightforward EM/IC/PIN support and server-side control, but installers should note the lack of PoE and multi-door native capability when planning larger systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this unit be managed over a LAN?
Yes, it supports TCP/IP WAN/LAN connectivity and integrates with ZKAccess3.5 and E-ZKEco Pro LAN software for remote management.

How many cards can it store?
It supports 30,000 cards for front-end reader collection and up to 100,000 in controller storage.

Does it support biometric readers or PoE?
No, it handles EM and IC cards plus passwords and requires 12V DC power; biometric or PoE support is not provided.