Sharp announced that it has developed an intelligent, standalone contactless IC card reader/writer device that uses Linux as the basis of its embedded intelligence. According to Sharp, the RK40PR004 is useful in environments ranging from ordinary homes, to large building control systems, to parking lots and garages, and can be used… either standalone or as one of multiple reader/writers under the control of a centralized server. (An enlarged photo is available here.)

The RK40PR004 reader/writer works with Sharp's combination IC Smart Card and ISO/IEC 14443 Type B Smart Card, provides three external interfaces (RS-485, RS-232C, 10-BaseT Ethernet), and supports communication via the “touch-and-go” system currently used for office entrance security or transportation system fare collections, the company said.

According to Sharp, the RK40PR004's embedded Linux operating system makes it possible for the device to function automomously without needing to be connected to a host terminal or personal computer for reader/writer control, unlike conventional systems. Many standalone applications for the device are thus possible, for example its use in a parking lot where access to a communication network infrastructure is not available. The presence of an embedded Linux OS also makes application development easier, Sharp said.

Mass production is scheduled for October 2003.

 
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