MAGNETIC STRIPE
A magnetic stripe card is a type of card capable of storing data by modifying the magnetism of tiny iron-based magnetic particles on a band of magnetic material on the card. The magnetic stripe, sometimes called swipe card or magstripe, is read by swiping past a magnetic reading head.
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HiCo
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LoCo
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- Harder to erase
- Requires a higher amount of magnetic energy to record
- Best for frequently used cards or cards requiring a long life
- Resistant to damage from most magnets users may come into contact with
- Can be read by any card reader
- Card writers are more costly than LoCo recording machines
- HiCo card writers can write both HiCo and LoCo cards
- Commonly used for bank cards, drivers licenses, access control cards, library & membership cards
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- Less durable
- Requires a lower amount of magnetic energy to record
- Best for infrequent use or cards where data is changed often
- More easily damaged by brief magnetic contact (such as a purse snap)
- Can be read by any card reader
- Card writers are much cheaper than HiCo recording machines
- LoCo Card writers can write only LoCo cards
- Commonly used for hotel key cards, gift cards, phone cards, transit passes
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