Bar Code & Magnetic Stripe Swipe Reader Applications

Probably the best-known application for magnetic stripe cards is the debit or credit card with a magnetic stripe, which is used as a backup in case the NFC or chip-based information can’t be read accurately. The ferromagnetic particles contained in the magnetic stripe store specific information on the card. Still popular today, magnetic stripe and bar code cards are used to provide access and authorization for a wide range of applications. Whether used for access control by security personnel, at events such as concerts to allow VIP’s access to select areas, or in larger corporations to allow access to all employees or only selected groups, a magnetic stripe reader and card with data stored on the 3 magnetic tracks can be used. In other cases, the barcode reader is still popular for in-house time and attendance systems. Customer cards, merchant loyalty cards, frequent flyer cards, coupon cards, parking garage cards, or health insurance cards can all be read with a bar code or magnetic stripe reader.

How your Swipe Card Reader works

The Swipe Card Reader is a small, handy device with an integrated swipe channel. To recognize the data stored on the card (magnetic or barcode data), the card is simply swiped through the channel in either direction. All swipe readers offered by PCP recognize and accurately read barcodes & magnetic stripe cards at different swipe speeds. One of the benefits of using magnetic stripe and bar code cards is the ease with which the administrator can provide unique data to the cards. Using specialized applications and encoders, personalized data can be quickly and easily added to cards. Cards can be reused for many different users repeatedly, making them environmentally friendly.

These are the benefits of a Swipe Card Reader

Bar code and magnetic stripe readers use traditional technology, are very easy to use, and are considered extremely customer friendly. Today, most readers support bi-directional swiping, meaning that cards can be swiped in both directions. The devices also provide visual and audible signals to indicate that the card has been accurately read. In addition, many of our swipe card readers are water and dust resistant and feature a very rugged, compact design.

Choosing the right Swipe Card Reader – here’s how

Basically, a swipe card reader can read different types of data. There are the following solutions:

  • Magnetic stripe card readers
  • Barcode card readers
  • Biometric passport readers with RFID technology
  • ID, passport and VISA readers with OCR recognition

The right reader depends on the application. In some cases, such as in financial institutions, different technologies are required to read chips and magnetic strips simultaneously. In this case, we recommend a magnetic stripe reader that can also read smart cards. If, on the other hand, you need a magnetic stripe or bar code reader for access control or one that reads customer data as part of a loyalty program, there are several classic swipe card readers available. Models with OCR recognition have the advantage of being able to read passport data. Need help choosing a swipe card reader? We will be happy to advise you on a model that will meet your application needs.

Conclusion about your PCP Swipe Card Reader

Whether for payment or identification, a swipe card reader gives your customers and application owners the flexibility to store and identify important and personal information. With barcode and magnetic stripe readers, you can meet a wide range of unique requirements that are still used in many applications today. At PCP Europe you benefit from our extensive experience to guide you in purchasing the right reader for your needs at very competitive prices.