What it is
The ShillehTek RC522 RFID Reader Writer Module 13.56MHz SPI Kit for Arduino is a compact contactless RFID reader/writer module for prototyping access control and identification projects. The kit includes the RC522 board plus a standard S50 white card and a keychain tag for immediate testing with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, and other microcontroller boards using common libraries.
Pins
Pin names can vary slightly by RC522 module revision. Refer to the silkscreen labels on the board/module and the listing photos for exact pin names, and match them to your library’s SPI wiring (SPI clock, data in/out, chip select, reset, plus power and ground) for your Arduino or Raspberry Pi pinout.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Product type | RFID reader/writer module kit (RC522 board + test tags) |
| RFID frequency | 13.56MHz |
| Interface | SPI (for Arduino / Raspberry Pi / ESP32 integration) |
| Included in the kit | RC522 module, standard S50 white card, keychain tag |
| Library support | Works with commonly available RFID/RC522 libraries |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I connect the RC522 RFID module to an Arduino?
Use the SPI interface: match the module’s SPI pins (clock, MOSI, MISO, chip select) plus power, ground, and reset to your Arduino’s SPI pins. Always follow the silkscreen labels on your specific board revision and the wiring shown in the listing photos.
Does the ShillehTek RC522 kit work with Raspberry Pi or ESP32?
Yes. The module uses standard SPI, so it’s commonly used with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, and similar development boards with readily available RC522 libraries.
What RFID cards and key fobs can I test with this RC522 reader/writer?
The kit includes a standard S50 white card and a keychain tag for immediate testing at 13.56MHz. For other tag types, check that they are compatible with the RC522 and your chosen library.
Can the RC522 module read and write RFID tags?
This kit is designed as a contactless reader/writer module. Read/write behavior depends on the tag type and your code/library functions.
Where can I find the RC522 pinout, tutorial, or datasheet details?
Start with the silkscreen pin labels on the module and the listing photos to confirm your exact pinout, then use a well-known RC522 library example as a wiring and code tutorial. If you need deeper electrical details, consult the RC522 documentation used by your library.