IOGEAR's USB Common Access Card Reader is the perfect solution for most civilians as well as non-military government workers who need everyday secure access. Common Access Card (CAC), or Smart Card readers are often used as a communications medium between the EMV smart card and a host (e.g. a computer, a point-of-sale terminal, network login, etc.) in secure systems such as those used by government, banking and health care. Often referred to as a Smart Card, the Common Access Card (or CAC) is the next generation in secure identification technology. Having the same shape as a credit card, every Smart Card features an embedded data chip allowing the user's identification to be electronically verified when accessing secured systems. In addition to the embedded chip, Smart Cards are usually programmed with a PIN to ensure security for both the card holder and the system being accessed. Unlike the magnetic strips found on traditional credit cards, the EMV cards uses multiple layers of security. This chip and pin technology provides higher security by storing more encrypted data, avoiding data breach. IOGEAR's USB Common Access Card Reader (Non-TAA) uses a contact system where the card must be inserted directly into the card reader; this type of reader is less prone to misalignment and eliminates the possibility of being misread. When it comes to secure access, the Common Access Card (or Smart Card) is an evolutionary step in convenience and security.