Smart Bits: Gemplus Smart Cards Used for Hotel Security

Gemplus Americas said it has begun installing smart-card-based security and marketing programs for the hotel industry in an alliance with CISA Security Products Inc. of Chicago and Italy.

They were contracted to put door locks on the 2,041 rooms of the New York Hilton and Towers and at Starwood Hotels and Resorts properties. Gemplus and CISA said they intend to build multiple applications into the key-cards, including loyalty programs, electronic purse, and pay television.

The chip in the card is far more secure than magnetic stripe door- openers, said CISA executive vice president Pascal Metivier. "The multi- application capacities of the smart card and its related business case turns the room key into a profitable device that opens a new horizon for marketing in the tourism and hospitality industry."

Separately, Gemplus said it will supply two million smart card driver's licenses for projects in Argentina and El Salvador, and it introduced the GCR420 card reader that connects to personal computer keyboards. The reader will be rolled out as part of the e-Comm Secure Electronic Transaction pilot in France.