Abstract: A system and method for processing promotions in connection with digital purchasing. Data associated with a digital purchase request made by a consumer (the data comprising a token, an amount associated with the transaction, a promotional code for each item included in the digital purchase request associated with a promotion, a default transaction amount, and a single default promotional code) is received from a merchant server. The single default promotional code is assigned to all items included in the digital purchase request that are associated with promotions. Using the token, account information associated with the consumer is retrieved from a database. For each promotional code received, promotional information is retrieved. The retrieved promotional information is displayed. The digital purchase request is submitted for processing using the single default promotional code.

Abstract: A card reader includes a card lock mechanism preventing pulling-out of a card jammed in a card conveyance passage, and an operation part for manually releasing lock of the card caused by the card lock mechanism. The card lock mechanism includes a motor, and a lock member which is provided with a blocking pawl for preventing pulling-out of the card and is moved between a contact position where the blocking pawl contacts the card and a retreated position where the blocking pawl is retreated from the card conveyance passage. The operation part includes a rotation member in a tube shape having an inner circumference wall surrounding an output shaft of the motor, and an engaging member provided on the inner circumference wall and extended along a circumferential direction of the output shaft and engageable with an outer peripheral face of the output shaft. The engaging member is elastically deformable.

Abstract: A transaction card is provided for communicating with a computing device. The transaction card may comprise a computer interface device, at least one memory, at least one processor, and a card reader module. The card reader module configured to receive, from the computing device through the computer interface device, a first data packet comprising a request associated with a transaction, the first data packet being compatible with an interface protocol. The card reader module may process the first data packet to generate a second data packet compatible with the payment authentication protocol; provide the second data packet to the processor; receive, from the processor, a third data packet comprising a response to the request; process the third data packet to generate a fourth data packet based on the response, the fourth data packet compatible with the interface protocol; and transmit, to the computer interface device, the fourth data packet.

Abstract: An electronic device includes a card interface and a processing module. The card interface is electrically connected to the processing module, and a SIM card or a memory card may be inserted into the card interface. The card interface includes N springs, where N>1; when a memory card is inserted into the card interface, the memory card is electrically connected to the processing module; and when a SIM card is inserted into the card interface, the SIM card is electrically connected to the processing module, and one metal pin of the SIM card is electrically connected to a first spring in the N springs and one spring adjacent to the first spring. The processing module is configured to determine, based on at least a level of the first spring, whether an inserted card is a SIM card or a memory card.

Abstract: A two part dual layer transaction device comprising a computerized master unit powered by rechargeable battery, the master unit capable of connecting wirelessly to a data network and accessing at least one network server, the master unit having a length, a width, and an internal volume, and a transaction card element having a form factor acceptable for use as a debit or credit card, wherein the transaction card element may be docked or otherwise coupled to the master unit in an idle state and may be uncoupled by the user for the purpose using or cleaning the card element.

Abstract: A system and method for processing promotions in connection with digital purchasing. Data associated with a digital purchase request made by a consumer (the data comprising a token, an amount associated with the transaction, a promotional code for each item included in the digital purchase request associated with a promotion, a default transaction amount, and a single default promotional code) is received from a merchant server. The single default promotional code is assigned to all items included in the digital purchase request that are associated with promotions. Using the token, account information associated with the consumer is retrieved from a database. For each promotional code received, promotional information is retrieved. The retrieved promotional information is displayed. The digital purchase request is submitted for processing using the single default promotional code.

Abstract: A traffic manager is shared amongst two or more egress blocks of a network device, thereby allowing traffic management resources to be shared between the egress blocks. Schedulers within a traffic manager may generate and queue read instructions for reading buffered portions of data units that are ready to be sent to the egress blocks. The traffic manager may be configured to select a read instruction for a given buffer bank from the read instruction queues based on a scoring mechanism or other selection logic. To avoid sending too much data to an egress block during a given time slot, once a data unit portion has been read from the buffer, it may be temporarily stored in a shallow read data cache. Alternatively, a single, non-bank specific controller may determine all of the read instructions and write operations that should be executed in a given time slot.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a nonvolatile semiconductor memory device storing identification information and first setting information on an output signal, a memory holding identification information of nonvolatile semiconductor memory devices, the identification information including the identification information of the nonvolatile semiconductor memory device, and setting information on an output signal associated with the identification information of the nonvolatile semiconductor memory devices, the setting information including at least second setting information on the output signal, and a processor acquiring the identification information of the nonvolatile semiconductor memory.

Abstract: The present application provides an adaptor, the adaptor includes a plug, a signal extension cord and an adaptor body; the signal extension cord is in an L shape, and one end of the signal extension cord is connected to a sidewall of a tail end of the plug, the other end of the signal extension cord is connected to the adaptor body, such that the plug, the signal extension cord and the adaptor body are integrally formed a U-shaped structure, and when the adaptor is configured to be plugged into a communication interface of an electronic device, the adaptor body is configured to be located on a back side of the electronic device. The present application provides an adaptor, which has a function of curved structure, and improves the user experience when holding the electronic device.

Abstract: Metal layers of a smartcard may be provided with slits overlapping at least a portion of a module antenna in an associated transponder chip module disposed in the smartcard so that the metal layer functions as a coupling frame. One or more metal layers may be pre-laminated with plastic layers to form a metal core or clad subassembly for a smartcard, and outer printed and/or overlay plastic layers may be laminated to the front and/or back of the metal core. Front and back overlays may be provided. Pre-laminated metal layers having an array of card sites, with each position having a defined area prepared for the later implanting of a transponder chip module characterized by different sized perforations and gaps around this defined area adjacent to the RFID slit(s), to facilitate the quick removal of the metal in creating a pocket to accept a transponder chip module.

Abstract: Detachable payment devices capable of performing payment transactions associated with a mobile wallet of a mobile device are described. The payment device may be implemented in a variety of shapes and sizes such as, the shape of a typical payment card or a stylus/electronic pen. In order to communicate with the mobile device, the mobile wallet of the mobile device, and a POS terminal, the detachable payment device may use short range contactless transmissions. While in a docked mode, the payment device may receive payment card data from a mobile wallet of the mobile device. Additionally, while docked, the payment device may transmit payment card data to a POS terminal's receiver, thereby acting as an integrated mobile payment unit with the mobile device. When in an undocked mode, the payment device may complete contactless payment transactions without assistance from the mobile device.

Abstract: A payment terminal evaluator includes a contact structure and a card structure. The contact structure intersects a rectangular space such that part of the contact structure is within the rectangular space and part of the contact structure is outside of the rectangular space. The card structure extends from the contact structure and is positioned entirely within the rectangular space. The card structure includes a top surface, a bottom surface, a first side surface between the top surface and the bottom surface, a second side surface between the top surface and the bottom surface, a first tab defined in part by the top surface, the bottom surface and the first side surface, a second tab defined in part by the top surface, the bottom surface and the second side surface, and an opening between the first tab and the second tab.

Abstract: A subscriber identity module (SIM) card includes a housing, a printed circuit board contained within the housing, and a plurality of metallic contact pads on a surface of the printed circuit board. At least one contact pad of the plurality of metallic contact pads comprises an enclosed, interior portion. The SIM card further includes a corrosive chemical agent contained within the interior portion. The corrosive chemical agent reacts chemically with the at least one metallic contact pad, in the presence of oxygen, to cause the at least one metallic contact pad to corrode over a period of time.

Abstract: A memory card includes a memory card body dimensioned to house at least one integrated circuit die package. The memory card body, in certain embodiments, includes a first surface spaced apart from a second surface and a plurality of side surfaces connecting the first surface to the second surface. The memory card also includes a contact pad disposed on at least one side surface of the plurality of side surfaces. The contact pad includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer, and an insulating layer disposed between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for exchanging value using a smart card in a financial transaction is disclosed. The system includes a smart card having a contact interface and a contactless interface interactive with a closed purse application and an open purse application controlled by a microprocessor. The closed purse application contains application-specific value, while the open purse contains general value. The application-specific value and general value are each compatible within the system of the invention to perform and settle the financial transaction. The financial transaction may include the smart card communicating with a load terminal or a transaction terminal to add or change the amount of value on the smart card. Further, the present invention include auto-load functionality for adding an amount of value to the smart card. Finally, applications such as a transportation application and a loyalty application are described.

Abstract: A method includes utilizing a charging and communication interface and a sensor system to gather downhole measurements. The method further includes charging and activating the sensor system using the charging and communication interface, installing the sensor system into a nozzle of a drill bit, running the drill bit into a wellbore, conducting measurements using the sensor system, pulling the drill bit out of the wellbore, and contacting the charging and communication interface with the sensor system to retrieve the measurements from the sensor system.

Abstract: RFID tags are provided for incorporation into the packaging of a microwavable food item, with the RFID tag being configured to be safely microwaved. The RFID tag includes an antenna defining a gap and configured to operate at a first frequency. An RFID chip is electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap. A shielding structure is electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap and overlays the RFID chip. The shielding structure includes a shield conductor and a shield dielectric at least partially positioned between the shield conductor and the RFID chip. The shielding structure is configured to limit the voltage across the gap when the antenna is exposed to a second frequency that is greater than first frequency. In additional embodiments, RFID tags are provided for incorporation into the packaging of a microwavable food item, with the RFID tag being configured to be safely microwaved. The RFID tag includes an RFID chip and an antenna electrically coupled to the RFID chip.

Abstract: Systems and apparatus are provided for a removable non-volatile storage device. An exemplary embodiment may provide an apparatus that may comprise a package that may have a first and a second sets of contact pins. The package may have a dimension and the first set of contact pins may be arranged according to a specification of a first type of storage device. The second set of contact pins may be configured to conduct a subset of electrical signals for a second type of storage device. The package may further comprise a controller inside the package and configured to function as the first type of storage device when the first set of contact pins are electrically connected to a host and as the second type of storage device when both the first set and the second set of contact pins are electrically connected to the host.

Abstract: Configurable smart object systems with grid or frame-based connectors are provided. Example systems implement machine learning based on neural networks that draw low power for use in smart phones, watches, drones, automobiles, and medical devices, for example. Example assemblies can be configured from pluggable, interchangeable modules that have compatible ports with magnetic electrical contacts for interconnecting and integrating functionally dissimilar sensor systems. An example system has a clip attachable to a substrate for securing a smart object module to the substrate, and a housing of the clip with a geometry for aligning electrical contacts of the smart object module with electrical contacts of the substrate. The clip may have a compliant layer to provide spring, resilience, or pressure to securing the smart object module to the substrate. The clip may also integrate features of a secure digital (SD) port and a universal serial bus (USB) port.

Abstract: A tray inserted in an electronic device, and housing a card removable from the electronic device, the tray includes: a first interior wall partially defining a housing space housing the card; a second interior wall facing the first interior wall, and partially defining the housing space; and an elastic member provided to the second interior wall, wherein the elastic member is formed of rubber, and configured to change in shape in conformity with a shape of the card while the card is housed in the tray, and to apply to the card elastic force toward the first interior wall.

Abstract: A sonar transducer assembly is provided including a transducer configured to transmit one or more sonar beams into an underwater environment, a housing that holds the transducer, at least one electrical cable that enables electrical signals to be transmitted between the transducer and a computing device, and a conductive enclosure disposed around at least a portion of the transducer and electrically connected to a ground line of the electrical cable to create a shielded volume. The conductive enclosure reduces an electromagnetic field within the shielded volume.

Abstract: A power conversion device such that heat dissipation of an electromagnetic induction instrument can be increased, and inductance value durability and vibration resistance of the electromagnetic induction instrument is high, is provided. Also, a power conversion device reduced in size and weight is provided. A power conversion device includes an electromagnetic induction instrument wherein an upper core and a lower core having magnetism are electromagnetically coupled across a coil body, a frame body on which the electromagnetic induction instrument is mounted, a potting resin member with which a space between the frame body and the electromagnetic induction instrument is filled, and a fixing member, disposed above the electromagnetic induction instrument so as to cover the upper core, of which an end portion is attached to the frame body, wherein the electromagnetic induction instrument is fixed to the frame body by the fixing member.

Abstract: A slide structure and an electronic device can affect a relative sliding movement between a first structure and a second structure of the electronic device. The slide structure includes a first cover and a second cover; a fixed member fixed to the second cover on a surface facing the first cover, where first receiving spaces are formed between the fixed member and the surface of the second cover and extend along a relative sliding direction of the electronic device; a fitting member including cover portions extending along the relative sliding direction, one part of the cover portions extending into the first receiving spaces and the other part fixed to the first cover on a surface facing the second cover, so that the fixed member is slidable along the second receiving spaces formed between the cover portions and the surface of the first cover.

Abstract: A micro-component comprises a component substrate having a first side and an opposing second side. Fenders project from the first and second sides of the component substrate and include first-side fenders extending from the first side and a second-side fender extending from the second side of the component substrate. At least two of the first-side fenders have a non-conductive surface and are disposed closer to a corner of the component substrate than to a center of the component substrate.

Abstract: A mobile device housing defines a battery compartment with a wall extending from an open rear to a closed front. A first latch stop extends from the wall between the rear and the front. A second latch stop extends from the wall between the first stop and the rear. A battery receivable in the compartment includes a latch that: extends to engage the first stop and maintain the battery fully inserted, and to engage the second stop and prevent ejection of the battery from an intermediate position; and retracts to disengage from the first stop, unlocking the battery for travel to the intermediate position, and to disengage from the second stop for ejection of the battery from the intermediate position.

Abstract: The present disclosure discloses an SRAM cell circuit and an SRAM array circuit. The cell circuit includes a data storage module, a write operation module, and a read operation module. The data storage module consists of the component with the current-voltage hysteresis characteristic and is configured to store data with the current-voltage hysteresis characteristic. The data storage module includes a write operation port and a read operation port, and the data information stored in the data storage module may change without external energy input. The write operation module is coupled to the write operation port and is configured to perform write operation on the stored information. The write operation module ensures the stored information unchanged by continuously controlling the write operation port while not changing the stored information. The read operation module is coupled to the read operation port and configured to perform read operation on the stored information.

Abstract: Various embodiments are generally directed to techniques to provide an orientationless transaction card. Embodiments include a transaction card having a substrate comprising one or more laminated layers and a chip comprising processing circuitry, and memory, the chip embedded within the substrate. The transaction card may also include a first contact pad coupled with the chip, the first contact pad embedded on a first side of the substrate at a first location and a second contact pad embedded on the first side of the substrate at a second location. Further, the transaction card includes an antenna embedded within the substrate, the antenna to couple the chip with the second contact pad.

Abstract: A security device and a security system are provided. The security system includes the security device. The security device includes a first I/O module and a processing unit. The first I/O module is configured to detect an identification within a detection coverage. The processing unit is configured to: determine that the identification is registered with the security device; set the security device as an unalarmed mode when the identification is enabled within the detection coverage of the first I/O module; and set the security device as an alarmed mode when the identification is disabled within the detection coverage of the first I/O module.

Abstract: At least one example embodiment is directed to a device including a first section having a connector that enables communication according to a first protocol. The device may further include a second section engageable with the first section. The second section may include a cavity that houses the connector when the second section is engaged with the first section, and an antenna that enables wireless communication according to a second protocol when the second section is engaged with the first section.

Abstract: A voice interaction architecture has a hands-free, electronic voice controlled assistant that permits users to verbally request information from cloud services. Since the assistant relies primarily, if not exclusively, on voice interactions, configuring the assistant for the first time may pose a challenge, particularly to a novice user who is unfamiliar with network settings (such as wife access keys). The architecture supports several approaches to configuring the voice controlled assistant that may be accomplished without much or any user input, thereby promoting a positive out-of-box experience for the user. More particularly, these approaches involve use of audible or optical signals to configure the voice controlled assistant.

Abstract: A system for manufacturing an antenna includes a first stamping station, a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) alignment station, a bonding station, a second stamping station, and a ferrite shield station. The first stamping station receives a sheet of metallic material and stamps the sheet to form an antenna including traces, contacts, a carrier connected to the traces, and a tie-bar connected between the traces. The PSA alignment station receives the stamped antenna and aligns a PSA area of a pad with the traces, the PSA area being substantially the same shape as the traces. The bonding station bonds the PSA area to the traces after it has been aligned with the traces. The second stamping station performs a second stamping of the antenna and the PSA area to remove the carrier and the tie-bar. The ferrite shield station bonds a ferrite shield to the antenna stamped for a second time.

Abstract: A communication device includes a first processing unit that sends a first command to start an activation processing. The communication device also includes a second processing unit that receives the first command from the first processing unit. In addition, the communication device includes an interface between the first processing unit and the second processing unit. The first processing unit activates the interface at a predetermined interface level from among a plurality of interface levels. The second processing unit starts an application in accordance with the activated interface level. The first processing unit and the second processing unit exchange data by the activated application. The first processing unit and the second processing unit perform a deactivation processing of the activated interface.

Abstract: Apparatuses for securing a memory card. One example apparatus can include a slot coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB), wherein the slot is configured to receive a memory card to provide electrical connection between the PCB and the memory card and a cover coupled to the PCB and configured to enclose the memory card when in a closed position and maintain electrical connection between the memory card and the PCB when in the closed position.

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for improvements in point of sale terminals and payment processing at remote event spaces. The system and apparatuses disclosed herein facilitate the transaction processing of credit cards and other payment vehicles in often remote locations where network connections may be intermittent and suffer from frequent disconnects or interruptions of service. The embodiments disclosed are hardened against the elements that occur in remote environments along with adaptations to improve functionality accordingly. The system and apparatuses are further equipped to facilitate the event environment and are adapted to execute instructions to facilitate the financial transactions.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic circuit for interconnecting a smartcard chip with a peripheral device, comprising: —a dedicated communication interface adapted to communicate with a smartcard chip; —a configurable communication interface adapted to communicate with a peripheral device; —a configuration module adapted to receive on said dedicated communication interface a request for configuring the configurable communication interface, adapted to configure the communication protocol of the configurable communication interface with the peripheral device based on the received request; —a bridging module adapted for converting data exchanged between the peripheral device and the smartcard chip through the dedicated communication interface and the configurable communication interface.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a substrate, a first conductive pad and a second conductive pad, both disposed on the substrate, an electrically conductive trace, and a fusible alloy layer. The electrically conductive trace is laid out between the first and second pads, and is configured to conduct electrical current between the first and second pads, and has a serpentine pattern having multiple bends. The fusible alloy layer is disposed on the first pad and over a portion of the trace including no more than a predefined number of the bends.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making an antenna for a radio-frequency identification device uses a forming device that rotates around an axis and includes shaping elements movable in a direction parallel to the rotation axis. A guiding device including a guiding element is movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis relative to the shaping elements of the forming device go guide a flexible wire or braided wires around the shaping elements to shape the wire in the form of an antenna. At least one gripper on the forming device immobilizes a free end of the wire. The antenna is laid on and connected with the upper surface of a substrate.

Abstract: A mobile terminal further comprises: a case having an opening formed therethrough so as to communicate with the inside thereof; and a card tray inserted in the opening, wherein the card tray further comprises a cover part for covering the opening; a support part positioned inside the opening and comprising a seating part on which a card is stably placed; and a flexible part connecting the support part and the cover part and fitted/coupled to the circumference of the opening. The mobile terminal wherein the relative position of the cover part to the support part changes with morphological changing of the flexible part allows the positions of the cover part and the support part in the card tray to be flexibly variable. Therefore, even when positions of the opening and a card socket are mismatched, a card can be mounted in the mobile terminal, thus reducing an initial detective rate and an operationally detective rate.

Abstract: A shim detection device is selectively interfaced to a portion of a chip card reader that is integrated into a terminal. The shim detection device is configured to detect when a shimmer is inserted into the chip card reader during a card transaction at the terminal and take an automated action in response thereto.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to electronically dispense a plurality of Electronic Instant Tickets (EITs) from a gaming microprocessor that is electronically programmed by a game service provider with a set of predetermined EITs. An Instant Ticket Vending Machine (ITVM) communicates with the gaming microprocessor to receive the EITs and display the results dictated by the EITs. The EITs allow the ITVM to operate independently of network communications with the game service provider and without providing predetermined outcomes embodied in a paper medium. Paper embodiments of the EITs associated with the gaming session and which are displayed on the display during the gaming session are printed. The dispensed printed paper embodiments of the EITs did not exist prior to the gaming session and are only printed upon game play of an EIT.

Abstract: A card reader may include a card passage where a card passed; a contact block including IC contact springs; a card insertion detection mechanism; a lock member; a lock member drive mechanism that moves the lock member between a pulling-out prevention position and a pulling-out feasible position; a lock member detection mechanism; and a control unit structured to control the card reader. The lock member may include a pulling-out prevention part. A distance between the front end of the IC card and the pulling-out prevention part may be shorter than a length of the IC card in the moving direction of the IC card. The control unit detects that insertion of the IC card has been completed the IC card has been inserted to the contact position and the lock member is located at the pulling-out prevention position.

Abstract: A data card enclosure method and system comprising data card connectors and host interface connectors on a data card housed in the data card enclosure. The data card enclosure method and system provided for connecting the data card connectors and host interface connectors to external communications ports.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for decoding matrixed bar codes, such as Quick Response (“QR”) codes. In one implementation, system for decoding an intrinsic matrixed bar code may include an image-receiving device; at least one processor configured to execute instructions; and at least one memory storing the instructions. The instructions may be to perform operations including receiving an image using the image-receiving device; determining a grid for the image, the grid having a plurality of cells; selecting at least one cell of the grid as a candidate cell for containing an intrinsic matrixed bar code; extracting at least one intrinsic matrixed bar code located within the candidate cell; determining that the at least one extracted matrixed bar code is degraded; and repairing the at least one extracted matrixed bar code.

Abstract: New techniques for establishing communications connections for computer systems are provided. In some aspects, a new technique for rapidly establishing a uniform, secure wireless peripheral device network is provided. In some embodiments of the invention, the secure peripheral device network is activated by physical docking and/or interlocking, without any use of a wired network connection, based on precise proximity and location information. In other embodiments, a secure, encrypted peripheral device network is established by a system in response to terminating a wired network connection, easing the transition from wired to wireless connection status, and easing the creation of wireless networks. The resulting wireless networks may also be more secure than other forms of wireless networks, using a new form of physically-isolated negotiation for encryption keys, based on physical features and limits of a peripheral device interface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a switch spring arrangement in a card reader, comprising a contact carrier which is integrated into the card reader and includes a plurality of pockets, open on one side, for accommodating holding elements of a spring contact element, and a spring contact element that has two mounting arms to be secured in the contact carrier as well as a spring arm which can be actuated by a card and is placed between the mounting arms.

Abstract: A card reader may include a card holder and a card ejection mechanism for moving the card holder. The card ejection mechanism includes a connection arm connecting the main body frame with the card holder, a solenoid for bending the connection arm, and an arm urging member urging the connection arm. When the solenoid is switched to a non-energized state, the solenoid pushes the connection arm and the connection arm is changed from an extended posture to a bent posture. The connection arm in the extended posture is restricted from bending to an opposite side to the bent posture side and, in a state that the connection arm is in the extended posture, the arm urging member applies an urging force to the connection arm so that the connection arm is bent to an opposite side to the side of the bent posture.

Abstract: Embodiments provide apparatuses, methods and a computer programs for a base station transceiver and a mobile transceiver. An apparatus for a base station transceiver of a communication system comprises a transceiver module operable to communicate radio signals with a plurality of mobile transceivers using a plurality of radio resources. The apparatus further comprises a control module operable to control the transceiver module, and operable to receive access messages from a first subgroup of one or more mobile transceivers from the plurality of mobile transceivers using a first subgroup of the plurality of radio resources. The control module is further operable to receive access messages from a second subgroup of one or more mobile transceivers from the plurality of mobile transceivers using a second subgroup of the plurality of radio resources. An apparatus for a mobile transceiver of a communication system is also provided as well as methods associated therewith.

Abstract: A metallurgical vessel (2) having an outer surface (2a) and an identification tag (1, 1?, 1?) on the outer surface (2a). The tag has a carrier matrix (11) formed of an electrically and thermally insulating material. At least two passive transponders (3, 3a, 3b) are embedded in the carrier matrix (11). Within a metallurgical plant, a reading station (4) for tracking the path of the metallurgical vessel (2) is arranged at a tracking position. An antenna (5) of the reading station (4) initiates activation of the passive transponders (3, 3a, 3b), provided that the metallurgical vessel (2) is in a sensing range of the reading station (4). A reading unit (6) of the reading station (4) reads out the activated passive transponders (3, 3a, 3b) and transmits the result to an evaluating unit (7) of the reading station (4). The evaluating unit (7) determines which and/or how many of the passive transponders (3, 3a, 3b) were actually activated.

Abstract: Various embodiments relate to a circuit, including: a first secure circuit configured to receive an input and to produce a first output; a first delay circuit configured to receive the first output and to produce a first delayed output delayed by a time N; a second delay circuit configured to receive the input and to produce a delayed input delayed by a time N; a second secure circuit configured to receive the delayed input and to produce a second delayed output; and a comparator configured to compare the first delayed output to the second delayed output and to produce a result, wherein the result is one of the first delayed output or second delayed output when the first delayed output matches the second delayed output and the result is an error value when the first delayed output does not match the second delayed output.

Abstract: A regulated charge pump circuit and method of operation are described. A charge pump is configured to supply an output voltage to a load, and includes at least one charge pump stage, a charge pump driver arranged to drive the charge pump stages and a controllable current source connected between a supply voltage and the charge pump driver. An analog regulation loop includes a measurement circuit arranged to output an analog regulation signal indicative of a difference between a current value of the output voltage and a target value of the output voltage. A signal path is connected to the charge pump to supply the analog regulation signal to the controllable current source to operate the controllable current source to modulate the supply voltage that can be provided to the charge pump driver to regulate the output voltage.