Smart Card Tools Announced for Windows -- Redmondmag.com

Smart Card Tools Announced for Windows

By Scott Bekker
02/16/1999

SCM Microsystems Inc., an OEM supplier of digital access control and connectivity solutions, announced it was ready to deliver smart card reader solutions proven to work reliably on the Windows 95/98 and Windows NT 4.0 operating systems.

SCM Microsystems' smart card interfaces can be used with Microsoft Internet Explorer to authenticate a secure connection as well as Outlook Express or Outlook 98 for sending and receiving secure e-mail. A number of companies are developing additional security applications that leverage smart cards in a Windows environment. SCM Microsystems' SwapSmart PC Card and RS-232 smart card readers allow the use of smart cards on desktops and notebook PCs.

"Smart card technology provides our customers with a high level of security assurance and allows them to take advantage of the public key security features built into the Microsoft Windows family of operating systems as well as applications, such as Microsoft Outlook 98," says Jason Garms, Windows NT security product manager.

SCM Microsystems says its smart card readers can communicate with any smart card -- regardless of the manufacture. The key component to this functionality is SCM Microsystems' SmartOS Technology. SmartOS was developed to maximize interoperability and can be updated as needed to support new cards and operating systems -- preventing obsolescence and protecting the investment in the reader.

SwapSmart smart card readers are available for computer interfaces including PCMCIA, RS-232 and USB. Each reader provides all of the features of the SmartOS, including support for all smart cards, while delivering additional benefits provided by the interface used. Software updates via the Internet can be used to add support for new smart cards or evolving APIs and operating systems to maximize interoperability and to ensure future compatibility.

"SCM Microsystems is focused on providing quality connectivity solutions for mainstream computing environments," says Steve Humphreys, CEO and president of SCM Microsystems. "The thorough testing completed by Microsoft is yet another way to ensure that our customers receive products that meet their current and future needs." -- Brian Ploskina, Assistant Editor

About the Author

Scott Bekker is editor in chief of Redmond Channel Partner magazine.

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