|
I/O
Controller – This manages the flow of data between the
Card Acceptance Device (CAD) and the processor.
Read Only Memory (ROM) – This is where instructions are
burned into memory during manufacturing. Manufacturers
typically embed security features into this section. These
instructions are then used by the Chip Operating System (COS).
Its storage capability is about 16K.
Random Access Memory (RAM) – its purpose is to hold
temporary information during processing by the CPU. Its
storage capability is about 512 bytes. Its contents are lost
when the card is not in use.
Electronic Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM)
– Referred to as Application Memory. This data can be
electronically erased and be rewritten. It used for permanent
storage of information of about 16 – 128 K.
Chip Operating System (COS) – Or sometimes called the
Mask. These take instructions from the ROM and execute
routines based upon the application. There are two types of
COS; the general purpose, which has a generic command set in
which it will work with most applications and the dedicated
which has specific commands, designed to work with a specific
application.
IC – Memory Cards:
These types of cards have no CPU on board and require the card
reader to process information. They are suitable for fixed
operations. These are typically pre-paid phone cards and
represent the bulk of smart card sales. They offer better
security alternatives to magnetic stripe cards. The typical
storage capacity in between 100 – 16,000 bits of data.
Optical Memory Cards:
These look like smart cards but have no microprocessor on
them. They have an integrated Compact Disc (CD) installed and
can store up to 4 MB of data on them. Once data is written
this data cannot be modified or moved. These types of cards
are used for record keeping applications such as medical
files, and driving records. These offer little in terms of
security but are better suited in this type of environment
than magnetic stripe cards. Although comparable in price to
smart cards, these type of card uses a non-standard protocol
for its card readers and are expensive.
Chip
Comparisons:
| |
Maximum
Data
Capacity
|
Processing
Power |
Cost of
Card |
Cost of
Reader
and Connection |
|
Maeticgn
Stripe Cards |
140 bytes
|
None
|
$0.20 - $0.75
|
$750
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
Integrated
Circuit Memory Cards |
1 Kbytes
|
None
|
|
