The CarySECURE keyboard is designed to replace the standard PC keyboard with one more suited to point-of-sale applications. It includes the membrane expansion module to provide users with up to 113 programmable keys. A new long life, dual-track magnetic stripe card reader and PS/2 connection to a PC are also provided.

The ergonomics are optimized for use in a broad range of point-of-sale environments, such as fast food outlets and petroleum service stations. Careful attention was given to details such as the angle of use, tactile feel, dual-purpose pencil tray or credit card holder, protected key-switch positions, recessed connectors, and integrated peripherals.

The CarySECURE keyboard provides Data Encryption Standard (DES) encryption capability, which it applies to credit card data swiped through the magnetic stripe reader prior to that data leaving the keyboard. No other keyboard data is changed. A 56-bit key is used for encryption and it is changed after every credit card swipe. The DES algorithm uses a 64-bit data field running eight rounds. A decryption program resides on the PC to return the swiped encrypted data to its original state.

By protecting the data before it leaves the keyboard, the CarySECURE keyboard eliminates one of the biggest threats of theft of credit card account information through the use of readily available “ghost boxes”. Furthermore, enhanced components within the keyboard allow it to perform at the same level of throughput as it would if the data was not being encrypted.

The CarySECURE keyboard has been designed to withstand the rough treatment and high volumes encountered in retail point-of-sale, petroleum, financial, and industrial applications.

Technical highlights

Keyboard

• 57 programmable, reconfigurable key-switches
• Optional 56-key membrane with user-replaceable label sheet
• Keycap kit includes numeric pad, single, dual and quad-sized keytops, multicoloured labels, and clear lenses
• Rugged splash and dirt-resistant design
• Easy to configure during staging or in the field. Its unique design allows any keycap to be repositioned anywhere on the array. No switch or stabilizer changes are required.
• Internal 256 Kbit non-volatile memory
• Optional two-position keylock with manager's position
• Internal programmable beeper

Peripherals

• Optional internal single or dual-track MSR
• Second AT or PS2-compatible keyboard port
• Internal wedge
• Scanner port (non-decoded) standard. Decoding is available as an option.
• Optional MICR reader
• Optional barcode decoder (wand, laser, 4680, or OCIA)
• Optional optically isolated outputs for either a cash drawer or a security video camera

Programmable features included in setup utility

• "Total Soft" architecture allows programming of both configuration and firmware updates
• Download or upload using either a PC keyboard or a scanner port
• Each key is programmable with a varying length string
• Additional character support is through multilevel CARY^3D programming
• Automatic repeat (typematic) and audible beeper are selectable on a per-key basis
• Advanced variable-length macro capability allows extensive data manipulation on all keyboard or peripheral programming strings
• Enhanced wedge capabilities include the following:
• Barcode: preamble and postamble
• Magnetic stripe: preamble, postamble, and field separator LRC suppression
• Keylock: Programmable header
• Control of upstream keyboard using a manager's key
• Programmable key output suppression based on keylock position, including Ctrl, Alt, Shift macro capability, and CARY^3D

Specifications

Electrical

	Keyboard power	+5Vdc + 1% 150 mA maximum
	Scanner port power	+5Vdc + 1% 900 mA maximum
	ESD	20 Kv minimum, keylock 17 Kv
	EMI-RFI	In accordance with FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Class B.
	Rollover	N-Key
	Magnetic stripe	ISO 7811/2/3
	Memory size	256 Kbits

Environmental

Mechanical

Communications