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What is the magnetic stripe?
A magnetic stripe card is a plastic card with a magnetic stripe on the back that stores data, commonly used for credit, debit, and identification cards. When swiped through a reader, the magnetic stripe’s magnetic particles are read, and the stored data is transmitted to a system to verify the cardholder and approve transactions.
How it works:
- Magnetic stripe: A strip containing tiny iron particles holds the data.
- Data storage: The stripe has three tracks that store different types of information, such as the account number, expiration date, and cardholder’s name.
- Reading the data: When the card is swiped through a reader, a magnetic head reads the data encoded on the stripe.
- Transaction processing: The data is sent to a central system to verify the account and approve or deny the transaction.
Magnetic stripes types:
- High-coercivity (HiCo): These are more durable and secure, often black, and used for credit cards and debit cards.
- Low-coercivity (LoCo): These are less secure, often brown, and more easily reprogrammed. They are typically used for short-term uses like hotel room keys, gift cards, and transport passes.
Common uses:
- Identification badges
- Hotel room keys
- Gift and loyalty cards
- Credit and debit cards
- Access control for security systems
Limitations:
- Security: The data is not encrypted, making it vulnerable to “skimming,” where criminals use devices to copy the information.
- Durability: The magnetic stripe can be damaged or erased by strong magnets, and it wears out over time.
What are magnetic strips used for?
- Magnetic strips are perfect for labeling applications involving C-channels. Affix the strips to metal racks, drawers, or shelves, and insert labels to designate stored products or materials. Labels can be effortlessly replaced as required, and the robust adhesion guarantees they remain secure, even under difficult conditions.