Summary
- What is a magnetic stripe card reader?
- How does a magnetic stripe card reader work?
- Components of a Magnetic Card Reader
- Uses of Magnetic Strip Card Readers
- Two types of Magnetic Strip Card readers
- Advantages of Magnetic card reader
- Disadvantage of Magnetic card reader
- Security Considerations
- Usage Tips
- Conclusion
What is a magnetic stripe card reader?
A magnetic stripe card reader is a hardware device useful for reading the information coded in the magnetic stripe of a card. This hardware device helps to read certain information about an individual. These devices provide more safety and convenience. Forrest Parry was the first one to use magnetic media, and since then, technology has evolved, and we are benefiting from it.
Here, you will get a basic overview of how magnetic card readers work, their uses, and their advantages and disadvantages.
How does a magstripe card reader work?
A magstripe card reader has a device called a solenoid. This device controls and identifies the
magnetized particles in a card’s stripe. A solenoid is nothing but a coil wound into a tightly packed helix. The coil winds around a metallic core that produces strong magnetic fields when current passes through it.
When a magnetic stripe card is moved over this surface, voltage is induced in the device’s coils. The voltage is then amplified to be recorded electronically and read by a processor installed inside a reader to access information.
Components of a Magnetic Card Swiper
Whenever you swipe a card in any market or shopping mall, the magstripe reader comes into action and decodes the hidden information on the back of your card. This machine makes the whole process easy; imagine if you don’t have cash in your hand and want to buy any product, and the Magnetic card reader does not work?! It’s like a tiny detector, and we will discuss its parts here.
- Reading head
- Card slot
- Signal booster
- Code translator
- Talk time
- Power up
- Brainpower
Here let us tell you what does what;
Reading head
It reads the code on the back of your card by feeling changes in magnetism.
Card slot
It ensures the card gets swiped in the perfect spot; in other words, it holds the card perfectly for detection.
Signal booster
Sometimes, the code gets faint. The signal booster helps the code be loud and clear so that the computer understands it easily and correctly.
Code translator
As the name shows, it translates the code into a language computers can speak.
After the identification of this code.
Power up
This component empowers the whole process of decoding your specific information on the code and tells you if the swipe worked or if something needs attention.
Brainpower
It ensures the identification process goes smoothly, and their job is to optimize the process.
Uses of Magnetic Stripe Card Reader
- ID Cards
ID cards in schools, offices, and hospitals are given to personnel to track their attendance.
- Access Control
The magnetic swipe card reader detects and identifies unwanted entries.
- Payments
Mainly debit or credit cards are swiped through this device, and people withdraw many trillion dollars around the globe through this Mag Stripe Reader
Two types of Mag Swipe Readers
There are two ways to use a magnetic swipe reader
Swiping
It is very easy to slide the card with the magnetic stripe, as you have seen in the movies.
Inserting
The other method of decoding specific information on your card is inserting it into a machine, and then you perform functions according to your will.
Advantage of Mag Stripe Card Reader
Here’s a breakdown of why Strip readers are getting more popular.
Simple to use
Magnetic Stripe Readers are very easy to use even our grandparents can use it. just swipe and go, you are ready to perform.
Budget-friendly
Mag readers are very affordable and cost-effective, and all kinds of businesses can easily buy magstripe card readers.
Security Advantage
Swipe Reader can keep unwanted visitor at bay and keep security at next level, without making much efforts.
Disadvantage of Magnetic Reader
Easy to erupt
Small scratches or even a magnets can lower its efficiency and it acts like
sensitive barcode that can easily be deform or dysfunctional.
No Long-Distance Tricks
A person should be physical there to swipe the card, there is no facility to long distance tricks now!
Security Considerations of Magstripe Card Reader
Magstripe is very convenient but not the most secure option. for stronger security, we need to explore new technologies. For high-security applications, explore options like chip cards or contactless payments.
Limited use
Magstripe card reader gives the temporary access.
Encryption
For payments, We should ensure that it encrypts the data after proper reading.
Regular updates
We should keep the software updated regularly to address security challenges..
Physical security
We can prevent tampering and secure magstripe readers.
Usage Tips
Magnetic stripe cards are not that much secure. They are sensitive and have few limitations. Here are a few tips to get the most out of these Magstripe Readers.
- Swipe the card smoothly and ensure the proper detection and identification of the card information.
- You must be attentive and vigilant whenever you use cards in public readers because many suspicious attachments can steal the data and disfunction it.
- The device software should be updated for optimal security and functionality.
- Chip cards or contactless payments are also good options for high-value transactions or sensitive access control.
Conclusion
A magstripe card reader is a intelligent device that is designed to read data encoded on the back of your card. It is getting popular and has become the need of all sizes of businesses. It identifies the specific information on the card and convert it into electrical signals.
In this article, we discuss its types, how it works and benefits it provides to us. Magstripe reader is the integral part of many applications in our daily life, because it is reliable and very helpful.
To know more about the magnetic card reader, you can book an appointment to our expert, and get notified about the prices, types , and new versions of magnetic stripe reader as soon as possible.
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FAQS
What is a Magnetic Stripe Reader?
A Magnetic Stripe Reader (MSR) is a device that reads the information encoded in the magnetic stripe located on the back of cards, such as credit cards, ID cards, and membership cards. It interprets the data stored in the magnetic stripe by detecting the changes in the magnetic field caused by the stripe’s magnetic particles.
How does a Magnetic Stripe Reader work?
MSRs work by moving the card through a slot or swiping it through a reader. The magnetic stripe on the card passes over a read head, which detects the magnetic fields and converts them into electrical signals. The reader then processes these signals to extract the encoded data.
What types of data can be stored on a magnetic stripe?
A magnetic stripe can store various types of data, including:
- Personal identification numbers (PINs)
- Account numbers
- Cardholder names
- Expiration dates
- Security codes
Are there different types of Magnetic Stripe Readers?
Yes, there are three primary types of Magnetic Stripe Readers:
- Insertion Readers: Require the card to be inserted into the reader slot.
- Swipe Readers: Require the card to be swiped through the reader.
- Motorized Readers: Automatically pull the card in and read it without manual swiping.
What are the main components of a Magnetic Stripe Reader?
The main components of an MSR include:
- Read Head: Detects the magnetic field changes from the stripe.
- Decoder: Converts the read head’s signals into digital data.
- Interface: Connects the reader to a computer or POS (Point of Sale) system.
How do you maintain a Magnetic Stripe Reader?
Proper maintenance includes:
- Regular cleaning of the read head using a cleaning card.
- Avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures and moisture.
- Ensuring that cards are swiped correctly to avoid damaging the read head.
What are the common issues with Magnetic Stripe Readers?
Common issues include:
- Dirty or damaged read heads leading to read errors.
- Worn-out magnetic stripes on cards.
- Improper swiping technique by users.
- Loose connections or faulty hardware.
How secure is the data on a magnetic stripe?
Data on magnetic stripes is relatively easy to read and write, making it susceptible to skimming and cloning. For enhanced security, many systems now use EMV (chip) technology, which is more secure than magnetic stripes.
Can Magnetic Stripe Readers read other types of cards?
Magnetic Stripe Readers are specifically designed to read magnetic stripes. They cannot read chip-based (EMV) cards, contactless (NFC) cards, or barcode cards unless they are hybrid readers designed to handle multiple card types.
How do I choose the right Magnetic Stripe Reader for my needs?
Consider the following factors:
- Compatibility: Ensure it works with your existing POS system or software.
- Durability: Look for a reader that can withstand frequent use.
- Type of Reader: Decide between swipe, insertion, or motorized based on your operational needs.
- Security Features: Consider readers with encryption capabilities to enhance security.
Are there any industry standards for Magnetic Stripe Readers?
Yes, magnetic stripe data encoding and reader functionality are standardized by ISO/IEC 7810/7811. These standards specify the physical characteristics, data formats, and encoding techniques used in magnetic stripes and readers.
What is the difference between high-coercivity (HiCo) and low-coercivity (LoCo) magnetic stripes?
- HiCo magnetic stripes are more durable and resistant to magnetic fields. They are typically black and used for credit cards, ID cards, and other long-term applications.
- LoCo magnetic stripes are less durable and more susceptible to magnetic interference. They are usually brown and used for short-term applications like hotel key cards.