M4400 SmartCard Reader

The M4400 specs indicate that the system has a smartcard reader.

I didn't notice any smartcard option in the configurator, so I assume that it is a standard feature.

For those of you that have received your laptops, did it come with the SmartCard reader as a standard feature. If so, how does one use it? pardon my ignorance , but I am keen on using this for enhanced security. if the laptops have them, how do I get a smartcard and how do I program the smartcard so it can be read by the smartcard reader on the laptop.

Thank you.

 

Yes it is standard. You use it by having a smart card of course Looks a lot like a credit card, except it has a chip on one side. There also a radio frequency controlled ID (RFID) built in. Those require a small chip built similarly, except this one uses a unique radio frequency to identify, instead of by contact with the chip. You do not need to program the card personally, instead you set the card at the manufacturers to your specifications (if it isn't generic, although each card will be unique). That's why your computer only comes with the reader. You "register" the card with the machine, much like how you would register your fingerprint for the fingerprint reader. You will be asked to insert or confirm a PIN, etc.

Advantages:
- Security
- ID theft prevention

Disadvantages:
- Card failures (medium-high) due to placement (wallet)
- Lost cards

Purchasing options, you can look at something like this for personal use:
http://athena-scs.com/smart_card.asp

 

Thanks so much Enduct.

Question: How do I "set the card at the manufacturers to your specifications (if it isn't generic, although each card will be unique)"

Regarding the disadvantages - what can be done o minimize/avoid card failures/

if I do lose the card - what can I do - if naything?

Perhaps the fingerprint reader alone is more secure than the smartcard due to the two risks you cite after all - I can't lose my figure ( I pray so!)?

Your thoughts? Thanks again

 

You basically have a card with an area of programmable memory (EEPROM), that you (if you have the appropriate hardware) or manufacturer can change information in (some of them). Usually it is for non important things, like business address, contact details. However in your case it probably wouldn't be necessary, as you are only concerned with it from a security only point of view. Generic cards are just what it suggests, all cards are the same, the only thing that differentiates it is the security inside it (or in this case the chip), just as all credit cards are the same piece of plastic with their own information encoded in the magnetic strip.
If you lose the card, you're in for a bit of trouble. The smart card data is stored in a special data-encrypted chip made for this purpose (the Trusted Platform Module). Often people who have smart cards can connect to a domain network, which can act as a bit of a "forget your password?" function, as long as you have a valid certificate etc. If you have a personal machine this obviously can't be done. Never seen a lost card happen yet, you do tend to be a bit careful about where you leave things like that, sort of like where you put your passport
Well nothing can be done about card failures, maybe if you hide the card instead? But then that defeats the purpose of being mobile The other thing that can happen is the card is stolen along with the machine, so it of course is not foolproof.
From a personal viewpoint, the fingerprint reader is more than sufficient for a PC. As long as you don't damage the layer of cells directly underneath the skin of your finger you should be fine. The latest technology uses radio waves to do an image of your finger underneath the surface of the skin (that's why it doesn't matter if you got grubby fingers) so it's pretty foolproof. If you are in a company that needs smart cards or RFID for identification (and some of them it is mandatory), then sure. But it's a bit of trouble if it's just for yourself. Remember, too much security can sometimes be as bad as not enough!

As for your question on losing your figure, less junk food and a bit of exercise can help you do that

 

Wonderful, wonderful detailed post. Many thanks

 

I guess you could sign in two smartcards, and leave one at home at a secure spot. I was wondering the same, what kinda kard would you need, just one with a UID or a crypto card?

 

Interesting option. Is this feasible/possible?