What is a Smart Card?
From improved security to more streamlined operations and safer workplaces, locations the world over enjoy the impressive benefits of the small yet impactful smart card. Used for a multitude of different functions including ID cards, security keys and access cards, smart card technologies can be found in many different moments and components of day-to-day modern life. Keep reading to discover all the smart card functions, uses and types of smart cards available on the market today.
What is a Smart Card?
A smart card is a compact plastic card that contains a memory chip and RFID technology to permit access to a correlating reader. These cards are most commonly pocket-sized and made for easy carrying, they are embedded with integrated circuits or chips which can process and store data quickly. This technology enables financial transactions, identification and data storage with advanced security and maximum convenience. Smart cards can either operate with a contact chip or they can be contactless.
What are Smart Cards used for?
Smart cards can be used in a wide range of settings, for a wide range of uses. In their most simple form, they’re made for translating who the carrier is and whether they have permission to access the gate, door or security-protected machine or area that they are trying to enter through. The access destination can be found in many different forms, from bank accounts to doors, bus payment systems, Wi-Fi access and apartment buildings.
The most popularly recognised smart card applications include:
- ATM cards
- ID cards
- Passport
- SIM Cards
- Bus Passes
- Access Badges
- Electric Wallets
Most smart cards are used to permit access into restricted areas, providing a physical means of authentication for the carrier to pass through their desired door or location. They are a safe and convenient form of authentication and access control, seamlessly slipping into a wallet or attaching to a lanyard or card reel, with the option to store in a plastic card reader for an added layer of protection and ease of use. Smart cards are also an incredible technology for multi-factor authentication, with a dual layer of protection that protects companies, staff and carriers against the risk of theft or scams.
There are many uses for smart cards and Identity People is a leading provider of security solutions for all kinds of safety-controlled companies and environments. From busy office buildings to airports, shopping centres, boutique offices and residential locations, a wide and varied spectrum of companies and entities will benefit from the powerful security benefits of an integrated smart card system. With a range of compatible readers, high-quality printer solutions and in-office equipment including software, we cater to all professional needs when it comes to enhancing your security and identification operations. Smart cards from Identity People can serve as a convenient dual-purpose system, with the option to print photographic and text identification onto your plastic smart cards so that you have an effortless means of signalling who is who in your company environment, whilst also bolstering the security standards and introducing an easy way to control access systems throughout your building, office or business.
Types of Smart Cards
Discover your options for different types of smart cards before you invest:
Contact Smart Cards
These smart cards are made with an integrated chip which is embedded into the card. Contact smart cards require direct physical contact with their reader to function. You will find these types of smart cards in areas like personal banking, most commonly seen in credit and debit card transactions. They are also popularly used in high-security access control environments.
Their features include required contact for a data exchange, security data storage and processing and easy application in a wide variety of locations and fields. They are a secure and reliable choice for a safety system.
Contactless Smart Cards
Contactless smart cards used Radio Frequency Identification or RFID technology, which means that they can communicate with a reader without the need for tapping, inserting or any other kind of physical contact.
Identity People stocks a wide variety of smart cards, with one of the leading brands being the curation of MIFARE cards. These are used across a range of different sectors and settings, including transport, finance, access control and educational institutions like universities for identification purposes. They are able to quickly and seamlessly process the secure transfer of data makes them a preferred choice in any environment looking to uplift safety or identity standards.
RFID cards use an embedded microchip which stores and transmits data to RFID readers using radio frequencies. These are only activated when the contactless card is in proximity with the correlating reader, sending information through radio waves to signal whether the carrier has permission to pass through the prohibited area. Due to their contactless nature, these cards are ideal for the fast and safe processing of information. They can be used for a variety of different functions including payment, identification and even loyalty programs including membership systems.
To discuss your options for your own custom smart card system or to secure all the equipment you need to produce your own high-quality identity smart cards, contact the friendly team at Identity People. We can assist with all your identity and security requirements to create the secure, seamless operation you are working towards in your business.
