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A smartcard can be compared in size to a credit card. The common credit card differs in one important way - it has a magnetic strip. The smartcard is more sophisticated, instead of a magnetic strip to store the owner information it has an integrated circuit (known also as an IC or chip). This gives the smartcard a number of advantages as an integrated circuit can store much more information and it is more secure. Magnetic strip cards can be manufactured relatively easily given simple equipment. On the other hand smartcards require much more sophisticated equipment to produce. |
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THE PARTS OF A SMARTCARD |
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An interesting use of smartcard technology is seen in control technology. The smartcard can be programmed and then used to react to sensors and control devices such as motors, lights and buzzers. When the smartcard has been programmed it can be stored until needed or transported easily to a location anywhere in the world and then used. The programming and use of smartcards is covered in the following sections. The most important part of the smartcard is the integrated circuit which stores the program. |
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| A MAGNETIC STRIP CARD | A TYPICAL SMART CARD |
| How could you use a
smartcard for a control technology project ?
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| Typical uses of smartcards are seen in -
A. Hotels for use instead of keys. B. Modern, secure credit cards and cash point cards. C. Programming cards for production lines. |
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