plastikkortit

Plastikkortit, often referred to as plastic cards, are a ubiquitous form of identification and transaction media. Typically made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or similar durable plastics, these cards come in various standardized sizes, with the most common being the credit card size (85.60 x 53.98 mm). They are used for a wide array of purposes, including credit and debit transactions, identification badges for employees and students, loyalty programs, gift cards, and access control systems.

The functionality of a plastikkortti is often enhanced by embedded technologies. Magnetic stripes, a long-standing feature, store data that can be read by card readers. More recently, integrated circuits, known as chips, have become prevalent, offering greater security and storage capacity for sensitive information. Contactless technology, utilizing radio-frequency identification (RFID) or near-field communication (NFC), allows for transactions and data transfer without physical contact with a reader, increasing convenience and speed.

The design and printing of plastikkortit involve specialized printing techniques to ensure durability and security. Features such as holograms, UV inks, and microprinting are often incorporated to prevent counterfeiting. The manufacturing process involves layering and lamination to create a robust and long-lasting card. The widespread adoption of plastikkortit has significantly impacted commerce, security, and personal identification in modern society.