📚Koha Solutions Provider

Self-Check Kiosk (SIP2) Integration Guide

Last updated July 15, 2026

Introduction to SIP2

MyOPAC features a native SIP2 (3M Standard Interchange Protocol v2.00) protocol server. This enables self-check kiosks, security gates, and RFID hardware from any standard vendor (e.g., Bibliotheca/3M, Nedap, FE Technologies, D-Tech, Envisionware) to perform checkouts, returns, and renewals directly over the network.

How to Enable the RFID Module

RFID / Self-Check is disabled by default for privacy and security. A Super Admin must enable it:

  1. Go to the Superadmin portal at /superadmin/libraries.
  2. Select your library and click Edit Library Info.
  3. Check the box for RFID / Self-Check Integration and save.
  4. In the branches table, toggle RFID support for specific branches as needed.

Configuring SIP2 Accounts

Once enabled, librarians can configure the integration under the administration panel:

  • Navigate to /librarian/admin/sip2.
  • Institutions: Define your Institution ID (AO) which acts as the namespace for all transactions.
  • Accounts: Create a SIP2 login and password for each physical self-check kiosk. Specify delimiters, terminators, and attach a staff user account for audit tracking.
  • Overrides: Customize checkout rules, debarments, or item-status restrictions for SIP2 terminals.

Network & Security Best Practices

The standard SIP2 protocol transmits all credentials and transaction messages in cleartext. For security:

  • Deploy the self-check kiosks on a secure private VLAN or VPN.
  • Configure your firewall to allow traffic on port 6001 (default SIP2 port) only from authorized kiosk IP addresses.
  • Set the SIP2_PORT environment variable to change the default port if needed.