A smart card system centers around the smart card, which is defined as a plastic card that contains a microprocessor and a memory chip or just a memory chip. This card serves as a secure, portable data carrier or processing unit, forming the essential component that interacts with other parts of the system (like readers and software) to perform various functions.
Understanding the Smart Card
At its core, a smart card is more than just a piece of plastic; it's an integrated circuit embedded within the card body. According to the reference, smart cards come in two main types based on their embedded chip:
1. Microprocessor Cards
- These cards contain both a microprocessor and a memory chip.
- The key feature is the microprocessor, which gives the card processing power.
- Capabilities: These cards have the ability to add, delete and manipulate information on the card. This makes them suitable for applications requiring complex transactions, security logic, or data management directly on the card.
- Examples: Credit/debit cards with chips (EMV), SIM cards in mobile phones, identification cards, transit cards.
2. Memory-Chip Cards
- These cards contain just a memory chip.
- They lack a microprocessor for complex processing.
- Capabilities: Unlike microprocessor cards, a memory-chip card, such as a phone card, can only add information. They are primarily used for storing data that is written sequentially or in predefined blocks.
- Examples: Older phone cards, simple loyalty cards, some gift cards.
The Smart Card within the System
While the reference specifically defines the smart card itself, understanding "What is a smart card system?" involves recognizing that this card is the central element. A smart card system comprises:
- The Smart Card: As described above, containing the chip for data storage or processing.
- A Smart Card Reader: A device that connects to a computer or terminal and physically interfaces with the smart card to power the chip and communicate with it.
- Host System/Software: The application or network that interacts with the smart card via the reader to perform tasks such as authentication, data retrieval, transaction processing, or application execution.
The interaction between these components allows a smart card system to provide secure and flexible solutions for identity management, financial transactions, access control, and data storage. The intelligence and capabilities of the system are heavily reliant on the type of smart card used, particularly whether it contains a microprocessor for active data manipulation or just memory for storage.
