Smart Cards are credit-card sized devices with an embedded microprocessor and/or memory chip in it. The chip stores electronic data and programs that are protected by advanced security features providing data portability, security and convenience.
The possible uses for Smart Cards are virtually endless:

• Drivers license
• security pass
• storage of personal health information,
• student ID
• Pay Per View (or Pay Per Download)

all of these are  few of the applications that come possible using Smart Cards.

The smart card looks like a normal credit card, instead of the magnetic strip we used to see on the back of the card. The information is stored on a chip inside the card, the connection with an outside reader is made using flat connections located on top of the chip on the side of the card.

There are two kinds of Smart cards: memory cards and microprocessor cards. Memory cards simply store data like other removable medias; the addition you get with a Smart Card is optional security.

A microprocessor card, on the other hand, can add, delete and manipulate information in its memory on the card like a computer. A microprocessor card has an input/output port operating system with built-in security features.

Smart cards must be inserted into a smart card reader to access the memory or the CPU.
They have a small gold plate about ½" (about 10mm square) in diameter on the front, instead of the a magnetic strip on the back like a credit card. When the card is inserted into a smart card reader, it makes contact with electrical connectors that transfer data to and from the chip.

As an access-control device, smart card makes personal and business data available only to the appropriate users. Another application provides users with the ability to make a purchase or exchange value.
Smart cards, unlike magnetic stripe cards, can carry all necessary functions and information on the card. Therefore, they do not require access to remote databases at the time of the transaction.

Sm@rtChip Technology

The real advantage Sm@rtchip offers lays in the advanced encryption technology the company embeds in the readers and software it manufactures. Sm@rtchip's readers and the Trusty O/S enable a secured method to authenticate its users, using high security digital signatures and advanced encryption technology.
This smart technology makes the difference between true security to a deception. Sm@rtchip's technology makes it possible to conduct online transactions, e-commerce, secured data access and the use of e-cash.

All credit card companies have Smart Card initiatives, and most of them are in the process of replacing the simple magnetic stripe card with a Smart Card. American Express is leading the way, issuing millions units of Smart Card and readers for secure online financial transactions, online shopping, etc.

Trusty Features

• Managing secured communication between the Smart Card & the Internet.
  
• Managing secured authentication and Pin Code between the Smart Card, the user and the computer.
  (The information on the Card is Untouchable when you work on the net, when Sm@rtchip & Trusty
  are installed).
  
• Managing encrypted communication between the Smart Card and the application, mainly in RSA
  encryption algorithms with digital certificate.
  
• Managing security passwords with the Smart Card.
  
• Managing an Electronic signature and encrypted communication over the Internet.
  
• Managing secure library information in the Smart Card and securing the information with different
  levels of access, including private & public key encryption and digital certificate.
  
• Managing Login for computers including private net - Remote Access, VPN, Database, Web access,
  Internet Service Provider (ISP) and cooperated network.
  
• Managing software licensing and software upgrades by a secure Smart Card.
• Managing system files for SmartDisk by USB conection.

Trusty works with all kind of Smart Cards. The system is based on the MS-Windows,
which combines hardware of Sm@rtchip for secured Readers & Smart Cards.

Sm@rtChip Smart Cards & Card Readers specifications