Smart card classification

Smart cards are divided into encrypted memory cards, CPU cards, super smart cards, contact IC cards, contactless IC cards, parallel IC cards, and others

Now, let me introduce the different features of these cards in detail
1: Encrypted memory card
Encrypted memory cards have embedded chips outside the storage area with added control logic. Before accessing the storage area, a password must be verified; only if the password is correct can access operations be performed. This type of information is more confidential and is similar to using a regular memory card.

2: CPU card
The CPU card embedded chip is essentially a special type of microcontroller. In addition to the controller, memory, and timing control logic, it also includes an algorithm unit and operating system. Because the CPU card has large storage capacity, strong processing power, and secure information storage, Therefore, it is widely used in situations with particularly high information security requirements.

3: Super smart card
The card is equipped with an MPU and memory, as well as a disc, LCD display, and power supply; some cards also have fingerprint recognition devices.

4: Contact IC cards
Data reading and writing occur when the contacts of the read/write device touch the contacts on the card; The international standard ISO7816 series specifies this type of IC card.

5: Contactless IC cards
There is no circuit contact with the read/write device; smart card manufacturing uses contactless reading and writing technologies (such as optical or radio technology). Its embedded chip is not only the storage unit. In addition to control logic, an RF transceiver circuit was added. These cards are generally used in situations where frequent access and reliability requirements are particularly high.

6: Serial IC card
When the smart card exchanges data with the external world, the data flow inputs and outputs in a serial manner. Most IC cards in current applications belong to the serial IC card category. Serial IC cards have simple interfaces and are easy to use, and the International Organization for Standardization has specially developed relevant standards for them.

7: Parallel IC card
Unlike serial IC cards, parallel IC cards exchange data in parallel, which brings two benefits: first, increased data exchange speed; second, significantly increased storage capacity under existing technical conditions. Manufacturers have explored further aspects and put products into use, but since no corresponding international standards have been established, there are still some issues with large-scale application.