SCM Microsystems Introduces ExpressCard Smart Card Reader

The new readers enable the use of full-sized smart cards or small form factor SIM cards with any desktop or portable PC through the use of an ExpressCard slot. The SCM readers are the first smart card readers to be introduced to the market for ExpressCard equipped computers, and are among the first devices in the world under the new high-performance hardware expansion standard. The SCM readers are designed to meet the requirements of the ExpressCard specification developed by the PCMCIA standards organization and will undergo ExpressCard compliance program certification later this year. ExpressCard products are expected to become generally available late in 2004. The technology will enable the addition of flash memory cards, wired and wireless communications hardware, security devices, and emerging applications by simply inserting a module into a notebook, desktop or other compliant system. ExpressCard technology supports sealed-box expandability in both desktop and notebook systems in a form factor that is roughly half the size of todays PC Card module but with improved performance. In addition, ExpressCard technology supports hot plug-n-play and auto-configuration. More than 95 percent of all notebook computers use PC Card technology for expansion. SCM Microsystems new ExpressCard SIM reader and smart card reader are based on SCMs proprietary STC II microcontroller. Both readers are Microsoft Chip Card ID (CCID) compliant and support Microsoft class drivers. SCM Microsystems, an executive member of the ExpressCard working group, is among those supporting development of the new standard under the PCMCIA umbrella, including Dell, HP, IBM, Intel, Lexar Media, Microsoft and Texas Instruments.