What is a card reader?
Today we will know in detail what is Card Reader? How many types of card readers are there? And what is the importance of a card reader?
What is a card reader?
You must have used or seen barcodes and biometrics used at some point in your life. A barcode is used to uniquely identify the product and a biometric is used to identify the user.
To read data through barcodes and biometrics, it contains a card called a card reader.
A card reader is a type of input device whose main function is to read memory cards, SD cards, microchips or any data stored inside a computer and provide access to it to other devices.
A memory card reader is used to read the data present in a memory card or smart card. And a magnetic card reader is used to read magnetic cards (such as credit cards and debit cards).
A card reader is a small device in which you can insert any type of SD card and after inserting it, you can use it with your computer, laptop or any multimedia player.
History of Card Reader
Card readers have been in use since ancient times, but at that time there were no such card readers. At that time there were punch cards which stored data and also helped in transferring them.
The punch card was first created by Joseph Marie Jacquard in 1803. Punch cards were used in Joseph Marie Jacquard fabric weaving machines.
In 1837, the punch card was recreated by giving it a new pattern and was used in Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine computer in which it was used in mathematical calculations. Because of this innovation of Charles Babbage, we honor Charles Babbage as “The Father of Modern Computer”.
Punch card was made of a kind of hard pages in which we could store our digital data, however in today's time, its use is negligible.
Types of Card Readers
There are different types of card readers in the market according to their work. Some of these card readers are as follows -
1) Smart card readers
The smart card reader is an electronic device which is made of plastic and it is of the size of our pocket. It is used to read the data inside the smart card.
Smart cards are used to store personal data. These smart cards have integrated chips which are read with the help of a card reader.
2) Memory card readers
The memory card reader reads/writes the data stored in the memory. It is a medium for accessing data on compact flash, multimedia cards and secure digital cards.
3) Access control card reader
This card is used by many businesses, and it is slightly better than the physical card. Proximity Card Readers come under this. It is more secure and more convenient.
- Barcode card reader
- Biometric card reader
- Magnetic stripe card reader
- Wiegand card reader
- Smart card reader
4) Banking card readers
A card is provided as a service in banks, which is used to withdraw money quickly by going to an ATM and transacting money through an online medium. There is a chip installed in it whose data is read with the help of a card reader so that the transaction can be successful.
Importance of Card Reader
The importance of card readers has increased a lot and many people use it today. It helps in storing your important documents. This device also provides the facility to transfer information to another device.
Which device is a card reader?
The card reader is an input device. It is called an input device because through it we give the data inside the memory card to the computer or input the data into the computer.
Advantages of Card Reader
- It is very easy to use
- It transfers your data within a few minutes, in this you can get quick access to the file and save your time.
- You can plug and play it.
Disadvantages of Card Reader
- It is a small device which is more likely to get lost.
FAQs - frequently asked questions
What type of device is a card reader?
The card reader is a type of input device.
What is the use of a card reader?
The main function of card read is to read out the memory card, SD card, microchips or whatever data is inside the computer and provide access to it to other devices.
What are the two basic types of card readers?
There are two types of key card readers – magnetic strip key card readers and proximity card readers.
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Conclusion
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