Abstract: A fast data transfer collection system using message authentication and contactless RF proximity card technology in non-contact storage and retrieval applications. The system is generally comprised of Host computers (application computer systems), Target radio frequency (RF) terminals, and a plurality of portable Tags (“smart” or “proximity” cards). A Host provides specific application functionality to a Tag holder, with a high degree of protection from fraudulent use. A Target provides control of the RF antenna and resolves collisions between multiple Tags in the RF field. A Tag provides reliable, high speed, and well authenticated secure exchanges of data/information with the Host resulting from the use of a custom ASIC design incorporating unique analog and digital circuits, nonvolatile memory, and state logic. Each Tag engages in a transaction with the Target in which a sequence of message exchanges allow data to be read(written) from(to) the Tag.

Abstract: A secure communication link is established between a smart card and a remote central computer system through a network by using security functions at the smart card and the central computer system. A smart card communication device facilitates the exchange of data between the smart card and a local processor by modulating data signals sent from the local processor and demodulating signal transmitted from the smart card. The local processor couples the data signals to the network while maintaining the secure data in its secure state. The secure link can be used to perform a smart card transaction.

Abstract: An access control system securely transfers identification and transaction information between an access reader and a contactless smart card over a contactless radio frequency link via an RF modem. The access reader contains a programmable microcontroller, DC/DC converter, regulator, Opto-Isolators and LEDS, and an RF modem. The smart cards contain identification or transaction data as well as reader programming and de-programming software, which is protected by appropriate security keys. An access reader having the appropriate security keys performs a one to one verification of data stored in the smart card to data from an identification device coupled to the access reader. Upon verification of the validity of the smart card, the access reader transfers identification and transaction information over a data link to any external processor or controller which controls access to a secured area.

Abstract: A fast data transfer collection system using message authentication and contactless RF proximity card technology in non-contact storage and retrieval applications. The system is generally comprised of Host computers (application computer systems), Target radio frequency (RF) terminals, and a plurality of portable Tags (“smart” or “proximity” cards). A Host provides specific application functionality to a Tag holder, with a high degree of protection from fraudulent use. A Target provides control of the RF antenna and resolves collisions between multiple Tags in the RF field. A Tag provides reliable, high speed, and well authenticated secure exchanges of data/information with the Host resulting from the use of a custom ASIC design incorporating unique analog and digital circuits, nonvolatile memory, and state logic. Each Tag engages in a transaction with the Target in which a sequence of message exchanges allow data to be read(written) from(to) the Tag.

Abstract: A transceiver assembly is designed to receive a controller module or to be inserted into a controller module to form a portable smart card communication device. The transceiver assembly includes a transceiver and a connector to electrically connect the controller module to the transceiver. The controller module establishes a communication link between itself and a smart card by sending and receiving signals and data through the connector. Information is read from the smart card and forwarded to the controller module. Information is transmitted through the transceiver assembly and stored on the smart card. The controller module can easily be disconnected from the transceiver assembly for use with other transceiver assemblies.

Abstract: A fast data transfer collection system using message authentication and contactless RF proximity card technology in non-contact storage and retrieval applications. The system is generally comprised of Host computers (application computer systems), Target radio frequency (RF) terminals, and a plurality of portable Tags (“smart” or “proximity” cards). A Host provides specific application functionality to a Tag holder, with a high degree of protection from fraudulent use. A Target provides control of the RF antenna and resolves collisions between multiple Tags in the RF field. A Tag provides reliable, high speed, and well authenticated secure exchanges of data/information with the Host resulting from the use of a custom ASIC design incorporating unique analog and digital circuits, nonvolatile memory, and state logic. Each Tag engages in a transaction with the Target in which a sequence of message exchanges allow data to be read(written) from(to) the Tag.

Abstract: A fast data transfer collection system using message authentication and contactless RF proximity card technology in non-contact storage and retrieval applications. The system is generally comprised of Host computers (application computer systems), Target radio frequency (RF) terminals, and a plurality of portable Tags (“smart” or “proximity” cards). A Host provides specific application functionality to a Tag holder, with a high degree of protection from fraudulent use. A Target provides control of the RF antenna and resolves collisions between multiple Tags in the RF field. A Tag provides reliable, high speed, and well authenticated secure exchanges of data/information with the Host resulting from the use of a custom ASIC design incorporating unique analog and digital circuits, nonvolatile memory, and state logic. Each Tag engages in a transaction with the Target in which a sequence of message exchanges allow data to be read(written) from(to) the Tag.

Abstract: A fast data transfer collection system using message authentication and contactless RF proximity card technology in non-contact storage and retrieval applications. The system is generally comprised of Host computers (application computer systems), Target radio frequency (RF) termninals, and a plurality of portable Tags (“smart” or “proximity” cards). A Host provides specific application functionality to a Tag holder, with a high degree of protection from fraudulent use. A Target provides control of the RF antenna and resolves collisions between multiple Tags in the RF field. A Tag provides reliable, high speed, and well authenticated secure exchanges of data/information with the Host resulting from the use of a custom ASIC design incorporating unique analog and digital circuits, nonvolatile memory, and state logic. Each Tag engages in a transaction with the Target in which a sequence of message exchanges allow data to be read(written) from(to) the Tag.

Abstract: A collision resolution system and method for enhanced non-contact automated data collection. The data collection system generally includes a plurality of portable fare tags or token (“smart”) cards and a stationary target terminal. Each tag exchanges a series of messages with the target terminal to establish a communication link for the transfer of financial or other data. Concurrently, each tag and the target terminal process the messages to provide collision resolution, thereby ensuring that only one tag, at any instance, establishes the communication link with the target.

Abstract: An access control system securely transfers identification and transaction information between an access reader and a contactless smart card over a contactless radio frequency link via an RF modem. The access reader contains a programmable microcontroller, DC/DC converter, regulator, Opto-Isolators and LEDS, and an RF modem. The smart cards contain identification or transaction data as well as reader programming and de-programming software, which is protected by appropriate security keys. An access reader having the appropriate security keys performs a one to one verification of data stored in the smart card to data from an identification device coupled to the access reader. Upon verification of the validity of the smart card, the access reader transfers identification and transaction information over a data link to any external processor or controller which controls access to a secured area.

Abstract: A fast data transfer collection system using message authentication and contactless RF proximity card technology in non-contact storage and retrieval applications. The system is generally comprised of Host computers (application computer systems), Target radio frequency (RF) terminals, and a plurality of portable Tags (“smart” or “proximity” cards). A Host provides specific application functionality to a Tag holder, with a high degree of protection from fraudulent use. A Target provides control of the RF antenna and resolves collisions between multiple Tags in the RF field. A Tag provides reliable, high speed, and well authenticated secure exchanges of data/information with the Host resulting from the use of a custom ASIC design incorporating unique analog and digital circuits, nonvolatile memory, and state logic. Each Tag engages in a transaction with the Target in which a sequence of message exchanges allow data to be read(written) from(to) the Tag.

Abstract: A collision resolution system and method for enhanced non-contact automated data collection. The data collection system generally includes a plurality of portable fare tags or token (“smart”) cards and a stationary target terminal. Each tag exchanges a series of messages with the target terminal to establish a communication link for the transfer of financial or other data. Concurrently, each tag and the target terminal process the messages to provide collision resolution, thereby ensuring that only one tag, at any instance, establishes the communication link with the target.

Abstract: A controller module is releasably received in a cradle portion of a transceiver assembly to form a portable smart card communication device. The transceiver assembly includes a transceiver and a connector to electrically connect the controller module to the transceiver. The controller module establishes a communication link between itself and a smart card by sending and receiving signals and data through the connector. Information is read from the smart card and forwarded to the controller module. Information is transmitted through the transceiver assembly and stored on the smart card. The controller module can easily be removed and used with other transceiver assemblies.

Abstract: A fast data transfer collection system using message authentication and contactless RF proximity card technology in non-contact storage and retrieval applications. The system is generally comprised of Host computers (application computer systems), Target radio frequency (RF) terminals, and a plurality of portable Tags ("smart" or "proximity" cards). A Host provides specific application functionality to a Tag holder, with a high degree of protection from fraudulent use. A Target provides control of the RF antenna and resolves collisions between multiple Tags in the RF field. A Tag provides reliable, high speed, and well authenticated secure exchanges of data/information with the Host resulting from the use of a custom ASIC design incorporating unique analog and digital circuits, nonvolatile memory, and state logic. Each Tag engages in a transaction with the Target in which a sequence of message exchanges allow data to be read(written) from(to) the Tag.

Abstract: A collision resolution system and method for enhanced non-contact automated data collection. The data collection system generally includes a plurality of portable fare tags or token ("smart") cards and a stationary target terminal. Each tag exchanges a series of messages with the target terminal to establish a communication link for the transfer of financial or other data. Concurrently, each tag and the target terminal process the messages to provide collision resolution, thereby ensuring that only one tag, at any instance, establishes the communication link with the target.

Abstract: A transmitter circuit and a receiver circuit couple inductively to allow data communication between a mass transit vehicle farebox and an external computer. Data communication may be performed simultaneously with removal of coins from the farebox via a vacuum hose. Two mating connectors each carry a wire coil; one coil is connected to the transmitter circuit and the other is connected to the receiver circuit. Furthermore, the same connectors that carry the coils may be used to form the vacuum hose connection. A modulated signal representing encoded binary data is applied to the transmitter coil to cause corresponding flux changes. When placed in close proximity to one another, the magnetic flux changes across the gap induce a corresponding modulated signal in the receiver coil. The induced signal in the receiver coil is then decoded to recover the original binary data. The coils thus function as halves of a transformer.

Abstract: A transmitter circuit and a receiver circuit couple inductively to allow data communication between a mass transit vehicle farebox and an external computer. Data communication may be performed simultaneously with removal of coins from the farebox via a vacuum hose. Two mating connectors each carry a wire coil; one coil is connected to the transmitter circuit and the other is connected to the receiver circuit. Furthermore, the same connectors that carry the coils may be used to form the vacuum hose connection. A modulated signal representing encoded binary data is applied to the transmitter coil to cause corresponding flux changes. When placed in close proximity to one another, the magnetic flux changes across the gap induce a corresponding modulated signal in the receiver coil. The induced signal in the receiver coil is then decoded to recover the original binary data. The coils thus function as halves of a transformer.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled currency note validator includes a transport for propelling an inserted note longitudinally past an optical scanning station. Infrared and visible color reflectance readings and opacity readings are taken along several longitudinally extending tracks on the note. The microprocessor normalizes the reflectance readings to accommodate for variations in soiling and compares the normalized reflectance readings and the opacity readings against stored acceptance band data, correcting for pattern registration variations if necessary. The length of the note is also checked and a validation signal is provided if the note passes the optical tests and the length test. During the idle cycle, the microprocessor automatically adjusts the optical circuitry to compensate for component drift and dirt buildup. The microprocessor also provides a visual display of any detected malfunctions.

Abstract: A ticket handling system for use in a ticket preparation system that includes a signal processor for providing print signals to indicate information to be printed on the tickets and write signals to indicate information to be encoded on the tickets; a printer for printing information on ticket stock in response to the print signals; and a transducer for encoding information on the ticket stock in response to the write signals. The ticket handling system includes a feeder module including a feed system for feeding a strip of ticket stock; a cutter module; a cutting device for cutting ticket blanks of a given length from the fed end of the strip; a printer module including the printer for printing ticket information on the ticket blanks in response to the print signals; and a transport module including the transducer for encoding ticket information on the ticket blanks in response to the write signals.

Abstract: An automated system for vending airline tickets to credit card purchasers based upon reservation data stored in a central host computer, without the intervention of any ticket agents. A plurality of remote ticket terminals each include a credit card reader, video monitor, ticket printer, local computer, and an interface for permitting communication with the host computer. The local computer of each terminal reads data from an inserted credit card and causes the video monitor to display alphanumeric and graphic inquiries to the purchaser regarding the passenger's reservation. The CRT of the video monitor is provided with touch input mechanisms for enabling the passenger to respond to the inquiries by placing a finger on a visual response target. The local computer interrogates the host computer to determine the purchaser's reservation data and displays the reservation data on the CRT for confirmation by the purchaser.