A system and method for reading a credential for an access system is provided. The system may include a plurality of readers, link coupling assemblies and a read head housing a plurality of credential pickup coils of the link coupling assemblies. When a user places a credential, the plurality of readers, via link coupling, determines whether the credential utilizes the same modulation technology, and the reader which utilizes the same modulation technology reads the credential, thereafter determining whether or not to grant the user access.