What makes these cards really unique is that the information on the card can be associated on a real-time basis with external data to match up for reliable identification purposes. Contact-type smart cards require that the card and the chip sensor itself come into contact with a reader or terminal that actually interfaces physically with the smart card. Contactless smart cards have a sensor array within the card that is excited when entered into a low energy field and then transmits a signal back to the accompanying receiver. In either case, there is a communication link that is initiated between the smart card and some sort of interface terminal in order for data to be transferred. This data transferal could be anything from security clearance identification to actual monetary transactions to purchase goods or services with the smart card.
Biometric data is information about the physical make-up of the cardholder.
Examples include fingerprints, hand geometry templates, retinal scans, speech or voice patterns, and facial thermal template information. In this case, the cardholder presents the smart card to start the transaction, but must also present a biological component in order to complete any processing. The smart card contains real-time information regarding monetary accounts or available security clearances. The combination of the biometric data, along with the smart card processing, allows the transaction to be completed. Just think about the possibilities for asset protection.