> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.seam.co/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# The Encoder Object

> Learn how the acs_encoder object represents a hardware device that encodes credential data onto physical key cards within an access control system.

## The acs\_encoder Object

Represents a hardware device that encodes [credential](/low-level-apis/access-systems/managing-credentials) data onto physical cards within an [access control system](/low-level-apis/access-systems).

Some access control systems require credentials to be encoded onto plastic key cards using a card encoder. This process involves the following two key steps:

1. Credential creation
   Configure the access parameters for the credential.
2. Card encoding
   Write the credential data onto the card using a compatible card encoder.

Separately, the Seam API also supports card scanning, which enables you to scan and read the encoded data on a card. You can use this action to confirm consistency with access control system records or diagnose discrepancies if needed.

See [Working with Card Encoders and Scanners](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners).

To verify if your access control system requires a card encoder, see the corresponding [system integration guide](/device-and-system-integration-guides#access-control-systems).

<ResponseExample>
  ```json ACS Encoder theme={null}
  {
    "acs_encoder_id": "681da2d6-4ac6-4b33-8c03-86281b761325",
    "acs_system_id": "c85406d2-214f-4e11-8000-a2e5b5a362a4",
    "connected_account_id": "1b9a3e0d-443f-4063-b619-4ca7e2a97750",
    "created_at": "2025-06-16T16:54:17.946527Z",
    "display_name": "Encoder 1",
    "errors": [],
    "workspace_id": "f863ac85-2c4e-49ae-8679-3ec2417f1d62"
  }
  ```
</ResponseExample>

***

## Properties

<ResponseField name="acs_encoder_id" type="String (UUID)">
  ID of the [encoder](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners).
</ResponseField>

<ResponseField name="acs_system_id" type="String (UUID)">
  ID of the [access control system](/low-level-apis/access-systems) that contains the [encoder](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners).
</ResponseField>

<ResponseField name="connected_account_id" type="String (UUID)">
  ID of the connected account that contains the [encoder](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners).
</ResponseField>

<ResponseField name="created_at" type="String (ISO 8601)">
  Date and time at which the [encoder](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners) was created.
</ResponseField>

<ResponseField name="display_name" type="String">
  Display name for the [encoder](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners).
</ResponseField>

<ResponseField name="errors" type="Array">
  Errors associated with the [encoder](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners).

  <Expandable title="properties">
    <ResponseField name="created_at" type="String (ISO 8601)">
      Date and time at which Seam created the error.
    </ResponseField>

    <ResponseField name="error_code" type="Enum (String)">
      Unique identifier of the type of error. Enables quick recognition and categorization of the issue.
    </ResponseField>

    <ResponseField name="message" type="String">
      Detailed description of the error. Provides insights into the issue and potentially how to rectify it.
    </ResponseField>
  </Expandable>
</ResponseField>

<ResponseField name="workspace_id" type="String (UUID)">
  ID of the workspace that contains the [encoder](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners).
</ResponseField>