The smart card: don't leave home without it

The author introduces smart cards, discussing both their background and where they're headed in the future. The term smart card generally refers to a plastic card the size of an ordinary credit card with a chip that holds a microprocessor and a data-storage unit. Developers hope smart cards will combine conventional identification documents with an electronic purse and a bank account access card for telebanking transactions. Another goal is to be able to insert the cards into an Internet terminal for e-business. Smart cards might also provide access to mail functions; replace key chains by acting as a multipurpose digital key; serve as a ticket for public transportation systems; or serve as a key card for a previously booked hotel room. The author discusses the history of smart cards, standards, communication, and their use in mobile applications.