What are Smart Card Readers?

There are so many variants of cards, readers, tags and systems out there, it can become very confusing as to which is which. Read on to fully discover all there is to know about Smart Card Readers: 

Smart Cards and Smart Card Readers 

First things first, smart cards. These are rigid plastic cards which have a built in chip, this is used to store and communicate identification, authentication, access control and other more everyday functions such as card payments. The role of the smart card reader is to obtain the information that is stored in a smart card’s chip, enabling a sale or access etc. 

What are the Different Types of Smart Card Readers? 

You can find smart card readers that are able to communicate with contactless, contact or contact and contactless cards. Your reader may need to have a card inserted, simply presented in front or a bit of both. A great example of a multifunctional reader is a card machine, where a bank card can be tapped or inserted for a payment to go through. 

A contact smart card reader is often used in high security situations and settings. It is considered to be more secure because a card actually has to be inserted and authenticated inside the machine, avoiding any system breaches. You’ll find contact smart card readers in locations such Government offices, airports, ATMs and on University campuses, just to name a few. 

A contactless smart card, one that uses RDFI, requires a contactless smart card reader. The radio frequency is transmitted when the card is presented close to the appropriate reader, note that cards don’t have to touch the reader in any way, so this is a good option if you need cards that are kept in sleeves or wallets. The card and the reader will communicate with one another upon presentation. These are very fast and are popular for workplace security systems, travel cards and electronic passports. 

What Smart Card Should I Buy? 

The reader that you opt for should be compatible for the cards that you have. If you are choosing both card and reader at the same time, you have the luxury of choice. Be sure to consult the levels of security that your building, business or system needs and make an informed decision from there. 

 Here are a few elements to consider when you’re shopping around for a new smart card reader: 

Frequency 

Decide the range you need your reader to reach. You don’t want it to be too large if your reader will be outside in the public, but also it needs to be able to pick up the card’s signals sufficiently and quickly. 

Location 

Decide whether your reader is inside, outside or both and decide on the wiring that you need to accommodate this. If you’re operating on a smaller scale, you can find usb card readers for your laptop, desktop or store system that will be compact, minimal and most of all functional. 

Card System 

Make sure that you know the ins-and-outs of your smart card. Being fully informed on the frequency and levels of contact needed will avoid any mistake purchases or regrets.