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Magnetic Stripe Readers (MSR)

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Mag stripes can hold almost any type of information, but in order for the information to be useful, standards must be followed to allow for constant encoding and interpretation of the data (see Mag Stripe Standards).

Simply stated, credit and debit cards generally have only Tracks 1 and 2. The primary difference is that the account holder’s name is included on Track 1. Track three is used on drivers’ licenses and specialty cards.

All of the MSR’s we carry are bi-directional meaning it does not matter which direction you swipe the card.
There are four interfaces for these readers:
  • RS232 or Serial – this is the 9-pin connector on the back of your computer
  • PS/2 or Keyboard Wedge – this is the small round connector on older computers for keyboard connection. This reader plugs into the computer and the keyboard is connected to the other cable coming out of the reader.
  • USB Keyboard Emulation – this is for the thin rectangular connector on your computer. The reader sends the data from the card looking like keyboard entry.
  • USB HID – this is the same connector as above. The communication interface between the reader and the computer, however, must be written by the developer.
Automated Imaging