The Serial Port-Powered Universal Magnetic Swipe Reader can read any combination of up to three tracks of magnetic stripe information with a single swipe in either direction. An audible tone and a visual LED signal indicate a successful read. The Universal Magnetic Swipe Reader accepts both high and low coercivity magnetic cards, and can read all ISO 7811, AAMVA and California Driver\'s license, and custom data formats. Programmability options allow the user to select different languages and output data format, including divide, rearrange, edit, and validate fields of magnetic card data. This low power MAgnetic stripe reader derives its power directly from the Serial RS232 port eliminating the need for a seperate power supply.