Landis+Gyr recently launched the Cashpower Smart Encryptor (CSE) encryption device to make prepaid token vending more convenient for consumers and utilities.
"A key element in the technology of vending equipment that generates credit tokens for prepaid metering systems is the high-security processor (HSP) component," says Andy Stoner, project leader at Landis+Gyr.
"In older vending systems, size was not a major issue and the HSP modules were similar to PC processor boards. However, we had identified the need to develop updated technology in this area for two important reasons. "Firstly, the processor technology was due for an upgrade and this provided an opportunity to develop a system that could be scalable to meet future needs. Secondly, the trend towards the use of small-footprint POS (point of sale) terminals, as well as emerging market requirements for mobile and handheld vending equipment, created a demand for smaller device formats with lower power requirements - such devices being typically battery-powered.
"We were able to take advantage of the synergy between our vending technology and the latest advances in smartcard technology to produce a product that meets the above needs and has potential for easy extensions of its use in the future.
"The single most important attribute of such a device is its security and, in this area, smartcards provide the ideal vehicle, their development having been driven by the exacting requirements of the banking and mobile phone industries.
"The obvious advantages of the CSE are its small form factor and low power consumption. Beyond that, however, it utilises the industry-standard Multos smartcard operating system, designed to handle multiple applications which are firewalled to operate completely independently, thereby providing optimal security for this demanding environment.
"We have adopted this advanced multi-application technology for a good reason. The CSE presently handles prepayment systems based on the proprietary Landis+Gyr CTS encryption system. In the future, however, we anticipate agreements being reached between all the industry vendors so that common encryption standards, such as STS, or other vendors' proprietary systems could operate concurrently on the same card, thereby simplifying equipment design and significantly reducing costs.
"We already have reciprocal agreements in place with other vendors so that we can share vending technology and the CSE is designed to further support these initiatives which will benefit both consumers and utilities," concludes Stoner.
For more information contact Andy Stoner, Landis+Gyr, 011 921 7900, [email protected]
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