RFID reader port settings

Question

I'm using an RFID reader connected to my computer over RS232 to usb port. It is using COM3 port with default settings (9600, 1 stopbit, no parity etc). After scanning a test card it gives me a nonesensical response, something like ··½w»··{íë

I think I tried almost all combinatios of baud rate, parity etc and I'm not getting a "normal" UID reponse. What could be a problem here? I don't know much about RFID and I can only assume that the test cards are ok. How can I find the correct settings? I contacted the supplier but I'm still waiting for a response.

Thanks :)

Device should have documentation, which defines both serial port parameters and communication protocol. Did you read it? — Alex F
Unfortunately I didn't get anything... Only 1 paper with connection pins descriptions for power supply, rx and tx. I'm using Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port (rs232 to usb). I searched all over the internet for this info and cant find it. — Mrky
Then you need to use an oscilloscope to verify the serial port parameters. Start by measuring the TxD voltage range. Then find the shortest intervals between transitions; the inverse of that time is the approximate baudrate. "it gives me a nonesensical response..." -- Maybe you need to examine the response in binary/hex representation instead of ASCII? IOW the response from the reader is not likely to be text. The response format could also depend on which of the 5 types of card reader you have. At this point you don't have a programming question. Vote to close. — sawdust