SCM Microsystems Provides NTT Communications with Smart Card Readers

SCM Microsystems, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCMM, Prime Standard: SMY), a leading provider of solutions that open the Digital World, today announced it has shipped over 14,000 dual interface (contact/contactless) smart card readers to NTT Communications (NTT Com). NTT Com will use the readers internally with employee ID cards and PCs to provide network and information systems security. The ID card also provides physical access control for employees entering the facility.

“We chose SCM’s readers because they allow both contact and contactless interfaces to coexist in a very efficient and reliable way. This is ideal for our employee ID cards because they use both technologies,” said Hisayoshi Yoshida, Senior Manager, Process ＆ Knowledge Management Department of NTT Com. “Also, the price to performance ratio is the best on the market.”

NTT Com specified SCM’s SCR331-DI smart card readers, which are dual interface devices that read and write to both contactless and contact smart cards. SCR331-DI smart card readers are based on SCM’s proven STC II microcontroller that brings a common set of advanced reader functions, including flexible communications, compatibility with SCM’s highly successful SmartOS® middleware and on-board flash memory that works with the cryptographic capabilities to provide seamless and secure firmware upgrades in the field. SCR331-DI smart card readers are fully tested and compliant with all smart cards on the market, Microsoft® Windows® and all relevant industry standards.

The smart cards used for the employee ID cards are NTT Com’s own brand, “eLWISE.” The eLWISE card features large memory capacity, strong security and high-speed data processing. This combination makes it possible to integrate a number of conventional single-purpose card applications onto one card, such as ID cards for both physical and logical access. eLWISE is also used as Japan's National ID card, known as the “JUKI”.