Smart Card Readers
– Smart card readers can be found in keyboards with built-in card readers.
– External devices and internal drive bay card reader devices are used for personal computers (PC).
– Laptop models may contain a built-in smart card reader or use flash upgradeable firmware.
– External devices connected to a keyboard, known as card readers with PIN pad, can read a Personal identification number (PIN) or other information.
– Smart cards can use different communication protocols such as T=0, T=1, T=2, T=3, or contactless transmission via ISO/IEC 14443.
Memory Card Readers
– Memory card readers typically have a USB interface.
– They can access data on memory cards such as CompactFlash (CF), Secure Digital (SD), or MultiMediaCard (MMC).
– Most card readers offer write capability, allowing them to function as a pen drive.
– USB card readers usually implement the USB mass storage device class.
– Memory card readers are commonly used for data transfer and storage.
Access Control Card Readers
– Access control card readers are used in physical security systems.
– They read credentials that allow access through locked doors.
– Different types of access control readers include magnetic stripe readers, bar code readers, proximity readers, smart card readers, and biometric readers.
– Access control readers are classified by their functions and identification technology.
– They enhance security by eliminating problems like lost or stolen ID cards and forgotten PINs.
Barcode Readers
– Barcode readers use alternating dark and light stripes that are read by an optical scanner.
– The lines’ organization and width are determined by the selected barcode protocol.
– Some barcode readers also print the digits represented by the bars for human readability.
– Barcode technology is affordable and easy to generate, but it is susceptible to fraud.
– Measures like printing barcodes with carbon-based ink and using infrared scanners can reduce fraud.
Biometric Readers
– Biometric readers employ various forms of biometric identification, such as fingerprint, hand geometry, iris, voice recognition, and facial recognition.
– They significantly increase the security level of access control systems.
– Biometric readers compare the stored template to the live scan obtained during identification.
– The control panel determines access based on the compatibility of the template and scan.
– Biometric templates can be stored in reader memory, smart cards, or a central server PC.Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Card_reader
