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IEC 11694-2-14:2019 — Optical Memory Card Dimensions and Accessible Optical Area for Linear Recording
Specifications for ID-1 Optical Memory Cards Using Linear Recording Method
The IEC 11694 series provides a comprehensive framework for identification cards that employ optical memory technology. IEC 11694-2-14:2019 specifically addresses the physical dimensions and the precise location of the accessible optical area on cards using the linear recording method. This standard ensures interoperability among optical memory cards and reading devices, supporting applications such as healthcare, financial services, and secure access.
1. Scope
IEC 11694-2-14:2019 defines the dimensions, tolerances, and location of the accessible optical area for identification cards in ID-1 format (as per ISO/IEC 7810) that use optical memory with a linear recording technique. It covers the following aspects:
- Overall card dimensions with tolerances
- Position and size of the optical recording area
- Surface quality requirements for the optical area
- Environmental resistance conditions under which dimensional stability must be maintained
The standard applies to both card manufacturers and reader designers, providing a common reference for the optical region that must remain free of obstructions.
2. Technical Requirements
The standard mandates strict dimensional control to guarantee reliable reading. The following table summarises the key dimensional requirements defined in IEC 11694-2-14:2019.
| Parameter | Nominal Value | Tolerance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Card width | 85.60 mm | ±0.13 mm | As per ID-1 |
| Card height | 53.98 mm | ±0.16 mm | As per ID-1 |
| Card thickness | 0.76 mm | ±0.08 mm | Including optical layer |
| Optical area width | 54.0 mm | ±0.2 mm | Linear recording band |
| Optical area height | 32.0 mm | ±0.2 mm | Accessible vertical span |
| Optical area X offset (from left edge) | 15.8 mm | ±0.2 mm | Start of readable zone |
| Optical area Y offset (from top edge) | 11.0 mm | ±0.2 mm | Start of readable zone |
| Surface roughness (Ra) | ≤ 0.04 μm | – | To minimize scatter |
In addition to dimensions, the standard requires the optical area to be free of scratches, voids, or contamination larger than 5 μm. The card material must have a coefficient of linear thermal expansion less than 40×10−6 mm/mm/°C to maintain the optical area position under operating conditions (−10°C to 50°C).
3. Implementation Highlights
Tip: To ensure consistent optical performance, apply a hard-coat layer only outside the optical area. Any coating inside the defined zone can alter reflectivity and cause read errors.
Warning: The tight tolerances on warpage (≤0.25 mm over the optical area) require careful lamination process control. Use of low-shrinkage core materials is recommended.
Manufacturers should design card moulds with allowances for the defined X and Y offsets. The standard recommends that the optical area’s centre may be used as a reference for alignment in high-speed personalisation equipment. All critical dimensions must be measured on a minimum sample of 30 cards from each production lot to satisfy statistical process control requirements.
4. Compliance Notes
Certification: Cards that comply with IEC 11694-2-14:2019 exhibit superior read reliability and are accepted across all compliant reader systems, reducing costly integration issues.
Risk: Non-compliance with the optical area position tolerance can result in the laser reading head failing to detect the start of the data track, leading to high error rates or total read failure.
Compliance testing follows the procedures described in IEC 11694-2-14 Annex A and Annex B. Dimensional measurements are performed with a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) with a resolution of at least 1 μm. Optical area reflectivity and surface quality are verified using a calibrated optical profiler. Manufacturers are encouraged to engage an independent testing laboratory for type approval.
Environmental tests include exposure to 90% relative humidity at 40°C for 48 hours and a subsequent dimensional check. Cards must also withstand 1000 cycles of flexure and torsion without degrading the optical area.
FAQs
Q: Does IEC 11694-2-14:2019 apply only to write-once optical memory cards?
A: Yes, the standard is written for write-once, read-many (WORM) optical memory cards using linear recording. Rewritable optical cards are covered by other parts of the IEC 11694 series.
A: Yes, the standard is written for write-once, read-many (WORM) optical memory cards using linear recording. Rewritable optical cards are covered by other parts of the IEC 11694 series.
Q: Can I use IEC 11694-2-14:2019 for cards with a transparent window over the optical area?
A: The standard does not prohibit transparent overlays, but they must not reduce the effective reflectivity below the minimum specified in the associated optical performance test. Any added layer must be considered when verifying the optical area surface quality.
A: The standard does not prohibit transparent overlays, but they must not reduce the effective reflectivity below the minimum specified in the associated optical performance test. Any added layer must be considered when verifying the optical area surface quality.
Q: What is the relationship between IEC 11694-2-14:2019 and ISO/IEC 7810?
A: IEC 11694-2-14:2019 builds on ISO/IEC 7810 by defining specific dimensions and tolerances for the optical area within the ID-1 card form factor. All card dimensions are consistent with ISO/IEC 7810 requirements.
A: IEC 11694-2-14:2019 builds on ISO/IEC 7810 by defining specific dimensions and tolerances for the optical area within the ID-1 card form factor. All card dimensions are consistent with ISO/IEC 7810 requirements.