ACR38 Reference Manual version 1.9 February 2006
1. Introduction
The ACS Smart Card Reader/Writer ACR38 is an interface for the communication between a computer (for
example, a PC) and a smart card. Different types of smart cards have different commands and different
communication protocols. This prevents in most cases the direct communication between a smart card and
a computer. The ACR38 Reader/Writer establishes a uniform interface from the computer to the smart card
for a wide variety of cards. By taking care of the card specific particulars, it releases the computer software
programmer of getting involved with the technical details of the smart card operation, which are in many
cases not relevant for the implementation of a smart card system.
The ACR38 Smart Card Reader/Writer is connected to the computer through USB interface. The reader
accepts commands from the computer, carries out the specified function at the smart card and returns the
requested data or status information.
NOTE - Although the ACR38 is a true card reader/writer as it can read and write smart cards, the terms card reader or reader will be
used indifferently to refer to the ACR38, for the sake of readability and because these designations are commonly in use for this kind of
devices.
2. Features
• Support ISO-7816 Class A, B and C (5V, 3V, 1.8V) cards
• Supports CPU-based cards with T=0 and/or T=1 protocol
• Supports PPS (Protocol and Parameters Selection) with 1,743 – 250,000 bps in reading and writing
smart cards
• Full speed USB 2.0 interface (12 Mbps) to PC with simple command structure
• Supports the most common memory-based smart cards
Advanced Card Systems Ltd. Page 4 of 43
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