Abstract: A reader for a chip card, whose main surface comprises a set of contact pads and visual indications, includes a housing that defines a slot for introducing the card into a functional position in relation to the housing. The reader also has at least one connector for connecting the card and at least one other electronic component. The electric connector and the electronic component are part of a block of components which is located substantially above the set of contacts. The parts of the housing which extend above the main surface of the card are made of a transparent material.

Abstract: Method and device for changing the operating mode of a chip card reader according to the standard of the card inserted into the reader. The sequence is (a) set the reader to one standard, (b) initialize the card, to obtain a response, (c) analyze the response to determine conformity with the standard, (d) if conformity, engage the card (e) if no conformity, deactivate the card and set the reader to another standard, (f) repeat (b)-(e) with the new standard. The device includes at least one two-position switching-circuit connectable to a modules of different standards, a circuit for detecting the presence of a card in the reader, and at least one logic-unit for determining the position of the switching-circuit according to the presence or absence of the card in the reader and the response of the card as to conformity with the standard engaged.

Abstract: A personal computer emulates the functionality of a smart card reader that conforms with the PCSC standard, to enable the computer to communicate with a reader that complies with the EMV standard for financial transactions. An interface in the personal computer checks commands being sent to the reader, to determine if they represent a case in which data is to be received in a response from the reader. If so, the interface emulates the return of a state word which identifies the amount of data in the response. In reply, the interface receives a new command, to which it then responds with data received from the reader.