A magnetic card stores any form of digital data that can accumulate more than one hundred bytes of information. It is a rectangular plastic object with a magnetic object embedded to the card, which looks very similar to that of a credit card.
A magnetic card reader therefore serves as a microcontroller-based device programmed to read and interpret the card in a simpler data format. It is used in scanning cards that have magnetic data strips with it. It functions by reading and processing the stored information from the moment the card is swiped through a slot in the reading device. Another way for a magnetic card reader to work is simply by holding the card near the reader.
A magnetic card reader is very useful especially for companies and businesses. As the card is swiped through a reader, the code is then programmed enabling the user to access the code easily. Like for instance, magnetic card readers are commonly seen in department stores, shops and the like. The reader processes the data as the card is swiped through it, whenever the customer makes a purchase. The time of the employee, as well as the customer becomes valuable as magnetic card readers help make transactions efficient. Another important usage of magnetic card readers is to secure private data. A personnel can only have access to data once the reader is able to verify the information provided by the card.
There are numerous card readers available like that of the memory card reader and smart card reader, each having their specialized functions. The magnetic card reader is more affordable and easier to program as compared to other devices. However, there are also disadvantages in using such device. The device is very susceptible to errors and malfunctioning like that of the reader misreading the card, card wear and the data being corrupted. Such faults will also endanger the company’s record of data and even lead to the miscounting of inventory.
Sources:
http://www.work.com/magnetic-stripe-card-readers-basics-22773/
http://www.tech-faq.com/magnetic-card-reader.shtml
http://www.tech-faq.com/smart-card.shtml
http://www.allmemorycards.com/
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