Chipkarte

Chipkarte, or chip card, is a plastic card that contains an embedded integrated circuit (IC). The IC may be a microprocessor or memory chip and is used to store data, perform cryptographic operations, and manage secure access to resources. Chipkarten are designed to provide authentication, data security, and convenient portability.

There are two main interface types: contact cards, which require physical contact with a reader via contacts on the card edge, and contactless cards, which communicate by radio with an appropriate reader. Many cards combine both interfaces in a hybrid or dual-interface form. Security features typically include tamper-resistant memory, encryption, mutual authentication, and secure key handling.

Standards play a key role in interoperability. ISO/IEC 7816 covers contact cards, while ISO/IEC 14443 covers contactless implementations. In payment contexts, the EMV specifications govern processing and security of chip-based transactions, often with additional country-specific rules and networks. Chips may be microprocessor-based, capable of running applications, or memory-based, storing data without executing code.

Common use cases include bank and credit/debit cards, national or organizational identification and access control badges, public transit fare cards, healthcare cards, and loyalty programs. The chip enables offline verification and secure online transactions when connected.

History and terminology: The concept of smart cards emerged in the late 20th century. In German-language contexts the term Chipkarte is widely used, though “smart card” describes the broader class. Adoption varies by sector and region, with rapid growth in payments, identification, and security applications.