> ## 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. # Working with Card Encoders and Scanners > Learn how to encode plastic cards and then scan these cards.

Some access control systems require credentials to be [encoded onto plastic key cards](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners/creating-and-encoding-card-based-credentials) using a card encoder. This process involves the following two key steps: 1. Credential or access method creation Configure the access parameters for the credential or access method. Note that to create a card access method, you create an Access Grant that includes a request for a card access method. The resulting Access Grant includes the card access method. 2. Card encoding Write the credential or access method data onto the card using a compatible card encoder. Separately, the Seam API also supports [card scanning](/low-level-apis/access-systems/working-with-card-encoders-and-scanners/scanning-encoded-cards), which enables you to scan and read the encoded data on a card. You can use this action to confirm consistency with ACS records or diagnose discrepancies if needed. To verify if your ACS requires a card encoder, see the [system integration guide](/low-level-apis/access-systems/index) for your ACS. ***