I know a number of older and handicapped folks, who just cannot remember the correct direction to insert ATM cards in an Anytime Teller machine; or, when trying to use the card, as a debit card at a gas pump for example. Or, sometimes, even I have had problems getting a card to swipe correctly - even after inserting it in correctly (sometimes the strip is just unreadable). If there were an identical strip on each side - this would alleviate a lot of hassles. Why couldn't the strip just be done away with completely and some other method be used to imbedd data into the card - some method in which it wouldn't matter which direction the card was put in?
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I believe there is a technology already in use in Europe, whereby the information is embedded in a chip in the card. The card has a visual arrow (albeit it could be larger for those with poor eyesight, e.g. the elderly) so that you know which way to put it into the system.
In fact the sytem we have in Europe uses a chip which is about as big as a thumbnail and shiny - so this stands out quite well - A big arrow the size of the card might still be better
The strip should be dead center of the back, recorded bi-directionally. Its probably not so that they can print a bunch of junk on it.
why not just make the machine able to tell which way the card is up ? I.e. have two stripe readers ($50 each) in the machine, rather than replace all the cards ? come on.
I meant to add that this is already operational in a few places in the UK
The "way forward" for ATM/Credit/Debit cards is clearly the ones with smart chips - let's not mess about with the magnetic ones for any longer than is necersary!
The Helsinki transportation system employs a card which records a quantity of funds available for paying for trips and is used more or less like a card for swiping through a reader but does not require a swipe - merely that it be placed against a sensitive reader in any orientation whatever. A green light indicates a successful transaction. It is as fast as a swipe card and much less troublesome. The New York subway system employs a swipe card and very frequently its inferior system is clogged by passengers going through multiple swipes trying to determine the proper swipe speed. Helsinki's system is highly superior.
Cards are redundant. Cellphones (mobiles) are the way of the future. Just swipe your phone pass the reader, and if necessary, dial your PIN. Most everyone will carry a phone, soon.