Datacard Group Unveils Enhanced Smart Card Solutions Suite; Issuing Smart Cards Just Got Simpler and More Cost Effective

Business Wire, April 6, 2006

MINNETONKA, Minn. -- Datacard Group, the world leader in secure ID and card personalization solutions, today introduced a new, modular suite of Datacard(R) Affina(R) smart card software solutions designed to address the full range of card issuers' needs through the complete lifecycle of their smart card programs.

This new smart card issuance and management software suite enables card issuers to introduce smart cards into their existing Datacard production environment affordably for pilot and rollout program phases. The modular and scalable platform allows an issuer to reuse the same software and hardware resources as the size and needs of their program change over time. Additionally, an exciting new Affina(R) One Step Issuance Software configuration makes it simpler to integrate and operate the smart card issuance program.

"The Affina software suite provides issuers in banking, government, telecommunications, healthcare and retail a clear migration path to smart card issuance," said Neil Crocker, vice president of marketing and product management for Datacard Group. "It keeps issuers in control of costs and schedules for their growing smart card program, all while allowing them to maintain tight security over customer data because it never leaves their network."

Every component of the Affina software suite has been thoroughly tested and integrated to help ensure a seamless installation and operation, whether it is new or in a mature stage of its lifecycle. The software suite incorporates GlobalPlatform open standards for smart card profiles and scripting technology to help assure interoperability along with enhanced speed to market.

"Datacard has helped more than 100 customers worldwide transition to smart card issuance. With this modular Affina issuance and management software suite, Datacard continues to simplify the move to smart card issuance and fully support the needs of mature programs," said Crocker. "The Enterprise version of our Affina software accommodates more advanced requirements such as multi-application smart cards, exceptionally high volumes and mainframe environments."

Datacard Group offers the world's best-selling secure ID and card personalization solutions. The company's portfolio includes systems for high-volume card issuance, card delivery, secure ID issuance and passport production, plus extensive service and supply offerings. Datacard Group serves customers in more than 120 countries (www.datacard.com).