Dual-interface Smart Cards
Product Information
A dual-interface smart card is a versatile piece of technology that combines both contact and contactless transaction capabilities. These cards integrate two different interfaces on a single card, allowing them to interact with various systems and devices. dual-interface smart cards offer flexibility, security, and seamless interaction across various systems. Whether you’re tapping your card at a turnstile or inserting it into a reader, these cards play a crucial role in our modern connected world.
Contact Interface
- A contact smart card requires direct physical contact with a smart card reader.
- It features a conductive contact plate (usually gold-plated) on its surface.
- Commands, data, and card status are transmitted through these physical contact points.
- Examples of contact smart cards include credit cards with embedded chips that you insert into EMV readers.
Contactless Interface
- A contactless smart card operates without physical contact.
- It communicates with a reader using radio frequencies (RF) over a short-range contactless link.
- Both the card and the reader have antennae for this purpose.
- The range is typically one-half to three inches, making it ideal for applications like building entry and quick payment.
- Most contactless cards derive power for their internal chip from the electromagnetic signal.
Dual-Interface Cards
- Dual-interface cards combine both contact and contactless interfaces in a single chip.
- They offer the best of both worlds: the security of contact-based transactions and the convenience of contactless interactions.
- With dual-interface cards, you can access the same chip using either interface, ensuring a high level of security.
- These cards find applications in various domains, including finance, transportation, and access control.
Chips Used in Dual-Interface Cards
– Microcontroller Chips : These chips function like miniature computers.
- They can store large amounts of data.
- Perform on-card functions such as encryption and digital signatures.
- Interact intelligently with smart card readers.
-Memory Chips : Similar to small floppy disks with optional security.
- Less expensive than microcontrollers.
- Ideal for situations requiring low or medium security.
- Depend on the security of the card reader for processing.
Standard Features
Chip options:
- Low frequency: EM4200, EM4102, TK100, EM4450, EM4305, ATA5577, ATA5567, T5557, HITAG 1, HITAG 2, HITAG S256, etc.
- High frequency: MIFARE S50(1K), MIFARE S70(4K), MIFARE Ultralight, MIFARE DESFire EV1 2K/4K/8K, I CODE SLI, I CODE SLI-L, I CODE SLI-S, MIFARE 1K compatible, LEGIC MIM256, TI208, etc.
- Ultra high frequency: ALI9662, AD824, AD803, H3, etc.
- Contact IC chips: SLE4442/5542, SLE4428/5528, BL7442, BL7428, AT24C01, AT24C02, AT24C16, AT24C56, AT88SC102, etc.
- Materials: PVC, PET, ABS, PETG, etc.
- Surface Options: Gloss, Matte
- Dimensions: CR80 85.5 x 54mm
- Thickness: 0.84 ~ 0.86mm
- Data Storage Time: Up to 10 years
Personalization Process
Printing
- Logo/Text/Photo
- Serial Number
- Embossing
- Barcode Printing
- Glossy Lamination
- Signature Strip
- Personalized Signature
- Personalized Photo
Magnetic Stripe
- Low Coercivity (LoCo) 300oe, 650oe
- High Coercivity (HiCo) 2750oe, 4000oe
- Magnetic Encoding
Other Crafts
- Laser Engraving
- Anti-counterfeiting Printing
- Chip Encoding
Applications
- Payment Systems: These cards find widespread use in banking cards, credit cards, and prepaid cards. Users can make payments by either inserting the card or performing a close-range contactless transaction.
- Transportation Systems: Dual-interface smart cards are essential for public transportation, including subways, buses, and trains. Commuters can easily tap their cards to enter or exit stations.
- Identity Verification: These cards serve as employee badges, student IDs, and health insurance cards, providing secure identity verification.