We have collected the main questions about dual interface cards, a technologically advanced and very secure type of smart card.
DUAL INTERFACE CARDS
Dual interface cards are 'hybrid' cards equipped with both contact and contactless technology. Dual interface card vs contactless card comparison shows that, in dual interface cards, a single chip manages both contact and RFID contactless transmission, allowing them to function as both contact cards and RFID cards.
How does dual interface card technology work? These cards operate in the HF (High Frequency) range at 13.56 MHz. They have similar features to microprocessor-based contact cards, as they integrate a mathematical microprocessor that enables dual interface card data encryption and decryption, and usually include an operating system.
Dual interface card security features: these cards combine the highest level of physical security, provided by contact cards, with the convenience of contactless cards, offering a high level of protection.
Another advantage is the long lifespan: dual interface cards are generally more resistant to wear compared to contact cards since they also function as RFID contactless cards, with reading occurring simply by bringing the card close to the RFID card reader.
The most common secure dual interface cards are:
- Cards for public transport ticketing: The public transport sector is one of the main user of smart cards. Dual interface technology forms the basis of the so-called MIT (Maschera Italiana Trasporti) cards, the first type of public transport card developed and used in Italy;
- Dual interface chip cards for secure payments in EMV networks;
- Dual interface cards for payment in private networks;
- Regional service cards.
DISCOVER OUR CUSTOMISABLE DUAL INTERFACE CARDS SOLUTIONS
Customisable dual interface cards
At Partitalia, we produce and supply customisable dual interface card for secure transactions, in various materials: PVC and PETG, which are flexible, highly printable, and resistant to temperature and chemicals. Additionally, we offer eco-friendly alternatives such as degradable PVC and recycled PVC, which retain the technical properties of standard PVC while being more sustainable.
Logos, images, texts, and other graphic elements can be printed on the card surface using various printing technologies, including 4-colour offset printing, silkscreen printing, digital printing, UV spot varnish, and hot stamping. Customisation of dual interface cards, such as the inclusion of variable data like the cardholder’s name or card number, is carried out using thermographic printing, laser printing, inkjet printing, and embossing.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT DUAL INTERFACE CARDS SECURITY FEATURES
Data and security
Dual interface card for secure transactions can store various types of data: identifying data, such as the cardholder's name and surname, card number, expiration date, unique identifier (UID), and usage-related data, such as access permissions. The stored data is protected by security mechanisms, such as encryption, to ensure the privacy and integrity of the information.
FAQs dual interface cards
What is a dual interface card?
Dual interface cards are hybrid cards that combine two technologies, contact and contactless RFID. In this type of card, a single chip handles both contact and RFID transmission.
How does a dual interface card work?
Dual interface cards operate at 13.56 MHz (HF). They have similar characteristics to microprocessor-based contact cards: in fact, they integrate a mathematical microprocessor that enables data encryption and decryption and typically include an operating system.
What are the benefits of using a dual interface card?
Dual interface cards stand out for a range of advantages that make them a highly valid choice: they combine the security of contact cards with the convenience of RFID technology, ensuring maximum protection against fraud and unauthorised access. Compared to contact cards, they are better protected against wear and tear, as they function as contactless RFID cards and do not have to be inserted into the reader.
How secure are dual interface cards?
Dual interface cards are a particularly secure type of smart card. The data stored on a dual interface card — identifying information such as the cardholder's name and surname, card number, expiration date, unique identifier (UID), and usage-related data like access permissions — are protected by encryption to ensure privacy and protection from unauthorised access.
What industries commonly use dual interface cards?
Dual interface cards are used in industries that require high levels of security, such as public transport ticketing, EMV payments, payments within private circuits and regional service cards.
