Contactless cards 

Contactless cards are smart cards that communicate by means of radio frequency (RF); there is no visible module and no need for physical contact between the card and the reader.

The demand for contactless technology is increasing as consumers and service providers require improved transaction speed, convenience and security. Gemplus contactless cards are used globally in mass transit, access control, payment, loyalty and identity applications.

At a distance of up to 10cm, the contactless card carries out read/write operations with a smart card coupler. Chip power supply and data are carried by the RF signal. When there is more than one card in the antenna field, the contactless card's anti-collision mechanism ensures that communication occurs with the right card.

Where are contactless cards used? Gemplus contact cards are used in taxis, subway stations, bus and toll collection applications to increase the speed at which customers can pay for their travel. They are also used for identification purposes for work places, and in retail for loyalty programs and even for quick payment in places such as fast food restaurants and gas stations. Contactless technology is even being utilized for e-passports as a secure way to store, protect and manage identity credentials. Gemplus is also active in investigating how a mobile phone can be used as a contactless card. Gemplus is mainly focussed on NFC technology. The main inter-industry body addressing this topic is the NFC forum .

An expert in contactless technology, Gemplus provides reliable, secure and easy to use contactless cards in varied applications.