ISO/IEC 11694-2:2012

Overview

ISO/IEC 11694-2:2012 is an international standard issued by ISO and IEC that specifies the dimensions and location of the accessible optical area on optical memory identification cards using the linear recording method. This standard applies to optical memory cards with ID-1 physical dimensions-the most common size for identification cards, such as credit cards and driver's licenses.

The document ensures interoperability and consistency in how the optical memory area is positioned and sized, enabling compatibility across various applications and industries relying on optical memory technology for secure data storage.

Key Topics

• Accessible Optical Area
  The standard precisely defines the physical area of the card that is optically accessible for linear recording and reading. It covers aspects including:

  • Dimension C: Adjustable by user groups to meet specific interchange requirements, but must be between 9.5 mm and 49.2 mm.
  • Dimension X: Maximum 1.0 mm tolerance for lateral positioning.
  • Dimension Y: Must be at least 1.0 mm less than the card’s side dimension D to ensure proper placement.
  • Skew: The angle of the reference data track relative to the card edge shall not exceed 0.2°, ensuring accurate data reading.

• Reference Edge and Track
  Defines the card orientation by using a "reference edge" (lower horizontal or left vertical edge) and a "reference track," critical for alignment during reading and writing operations.

• Optional Layouts
  Annex A provides guidelines for optional card layouts, allowing flexibility in the accessible optical area's location on either face of the card and its coexistence with other machine-readable technologies, without interference.

• Compatibility with Other Technologies
  The standard references ISO/IEC 11693-2 to ensure the coexistence of optical memory areas alongside other identification technologies on a single card, promoting multi-functionality.

Applications

• Secure Identification Cards
  Utilized in government, banking, and corporate ID cards requiring robust storage of encrypted or sensitive digital data.

• Access Control Systems
  Cards compliant with ISO/IEC 11694-2 can be reliably used in access management, where precise optical data reading is critical.

• Multi-Technology Cards
  Enables integration of optical memory with contact or contactless chips and barcodes, supporting comprehensive security and data interchange solutions in a single card.

• Data Interchange and Storage
  Suitable for industries where standardized optical memory storage on ID-1 cards facilitates interoperability between systems and devices.

Related Standards

• ISO/IEC 7810 - Defines the physical characteristics and dimensions of identification cards, including the ID-1 format referenced in ISO/IEC 11694-2.

• ISO/IEC 11693-1 - Specifies general characteristics for optical memory cards, providing a base framework for the linear recording method.

• ISO/IEC 11694-4 - Details logical data structures for optical memory cards using the linear recording method.

• ISO/IEC 11693-2 - Focuses on the coexistence of optical memory with other machine-readable technologies to avoid interference.

Practical Value

Adhering to ISO/IEC 11694-2:2012 ensures that manufacturers and users of optical memory cards achieve high levels of interoperability, accuracy, and reliability in card design and data accessibility. This standardization helps reduce errors in reading data due to misalignment or improper sizing, supports integration with additional technologies, and underpins the consistent performance expected in secure identification and data interchange systems globally.