Table of Contents
Advertisement
3/ General Information
Thus chapter will provide information on using card readers in general and the CR-510 in particular. This
includes hints on marked or punched card characteristics and maintenance.
It also provides two test features that confirm the reliability of your CR-510 system.
Preparing, Handling and Maintaining Cards
Using card readers requires that you become familiar with the characteristics of cards and how to
take care of them. For the Card Reader to read cards successfully, cards must be marked or
punched properly and stored in a safe place. The equipment must be properly maintained and
adjusted when necessary.
Marking and Punching the Cards
The CR-510 can be used to read "marked" or "punched" cards. However, there are a few "rules" that
should be followed to effectively use the Card Reader.
Marked Cards
For the Card Reader to read cards accurately, be sure that they are marked correctly.
To mark a given "chad" (chads are the boxed-in areas on the card), fill the chad in completely.
For example, note the following chad marks:
Most acceptable
Card marking may be done via any medium that will produce clear and legible marks that exhibit a
maximum reflectance of 20%. To make sure that your cards are read, it is recommended that you
use a #2 pencil.
For optimum accuracy, each marked card must be completely filled.
Punched Cards
The Card Reader also reads punched cards. Cards must be punched (and designed)
to produce holes that conform to standard punch equipment and USA standard X3.21-1967.
Storing and Handling the Cards
The Card Reader requires that cards be flat, otherwise the cards will jam up in the machine. Cards
are subject to wear and tear when they are used a number of times. We recommend you not use
the same card more than seven times. You can eliminate some slight distortions in the cards by lightly
fanning the card deck.
The most common cause of card feed problems is "card warp." You can prevent this problem by
handling the cards gently and storing them correctly. Cards should always be stored flat. Cartons of
cards should be stored upright, off the floor, and not more than three cartons high. Keep the cards
away from areas which may change temperature or humidity conditions abruptly, such as windows, air
ducts, and radiators.
Card Stock
Card stock will conform to American National Standard ANSI X3. 11-1969 requirements, except
for the following:
• A corner cut cannot be located on the timing mark side of the card.
• The length of the card can vary from 6 to 14 inches.
Most 9 pt. card stock will meet this requirement.
Least acceptable
- 1 1 -
Advertisement
Table of Contents
