Hardware lock to disable USB mass storage device

You can lock the VTAP reader so that its firmware and configuration cannot be changed. You can either do this in software, or simply disable the mass storage device in hardware. If you have a boxed VTAP or VTAP100‑PAC‑W or VTAP100‑PAC‑485 it is strongly recommended that you use the software lock option.

A Software lock to prevent firmware or configuration change prevents changes but leaves the file system readable. A hardware lock means that the VTAP reader will no longer be detected as a USB mass storage device. (It will still behave as an HID keyboard device and, if enabled, the virtual COM port will behave as a composite USB device consisting of HID keyboard and USB virtual COM port.)

You can use a hardware lock provided the jumper labelled LOCK (close to the MicroUSB connector) remains accessible on a VTAP reader OEM module.

Note: On VTAP50 OEM modules, although the contact is present, connector pins and jumpers will need to be supplied.

Users of a VTAP50 and VTAP100 will need to open the case to locate the jumper labelled LOCK (close to the MicroUSB connector) on the PCB.

If you have a compact (CC) case you need to remove the screw from the case (which may be either a security screw or Phillips head screw).

Connect a jumper across LOCK on the PCB to lock the device, preventing firmware or configuration changes via the mass storage device. (You may still update firmware or configuration via command interfaces, virtual COM port or serial ports, if they are enabled.)

Jumper positions on VTAP100 PCB v4a or v5 hardware

Jumper positions on VTAP50 PCB v1 or v2 hardware

Note: If you have a VTAP100 PCB version 3a or earlier the connections will be different, please contact us for manuals specific to your hardware. (If you are not sure which version PCB you have, just follow the instructions in Find your hardware version.)

If your VTAP reader board has a daughter board on top, as is the case for a VTAP50 and VTAP100, you will need to lift the daughter board off, to reach these jumpers.

When you start the VTAP reader, the presence of this jumper means the connected PC will not detect a USB mass storage device, only a keyboard (or keyboard and virtual COM port).

When you remove the jumper across LOCK and restart the VTAP reader, it will be detected as a USB mass storage device and you can make firmware or configuration changes again.