Abstract: The card reader circuit integrated with the reader head structure includes at least one card compatibility network adapted to determine, at the reader head itself, whether or not the card is compatible with the reader head based upon compatibility indicia carried by the card. The circuit also includes a digit readout network cooperable with fixed and movable contacts to read identifying indicia on the card and provide identifying signals at the readout terminal, providing the card is coded such that same is compatible with the reader head.

Abstract: A card reader head that includes a plurality of spring biased sensing fingers adapted to sense the code on an embossed card. The code sensing fingers are slidable in a path parallel to the entry path of the embossed card between a rest or home position defined by limit stops and an active position defined by the embossments on the card in response to insertion thereof. The sensing fingers are also pivotable into and out of the card insertion path. A spring biased card sensing carriage provides a pair of rotatable wheels adapted to sense the presence of a card within the passageway, the wheels being positioned within the passageway rearward of the home position of the sensing fingers. A finger restrainer bar is fixed to the carriage, and same cooperates with the sensing fingers to pivot the fingers out of the passageway when the carriage is at the rest position.