Thinkpads Forum

I managed to find a Smart Card reader for $7 on e-Bay from a W510 pull. I'm actually going to attempt to install this in the T520. The only apparent differences are one less attachment screw according to each of the system's hardware manuals.

If I can't get it installed in the T520, I have two T510's that would also benefit from having one of these. If it works out, I'm going to order two more for the other systems.

What type of smart card do these readers require, and what software do I use for programming and card recognition?

Will any of these cards be compatible: http://www.smartcardsupply.com/Content/ ... SO7816.htm

Nevermind. I found that too.

$12 bucks and it's on it's way.

If anyone is curious though just for the sake of knowing, these are contact cards, typically called ACOS5 64KB PKI conforming to ISO 7816-1/2/3/4/8/9 standards.

They have many uses, but are particularly suited for Windows access and other software authentication needs.

I'll post another thread when this all comes together in a week or so.

I found out that Windows 7 does not natively support stand alone Smart Card security measures. I did not know this. I thought the smart card security was for the security of an individual's computer, but instead is for client based network security.

That sucks.

But, there are several programs available that overcomes this Windows network limitation and will allow you to maintain secure access to an individual system.

Thit software from Aloha in Germany is what I will be using: http://www.shareit.com/product.html?productid=300670964

It is roughly $50 and I have yet to hear back from them about multiple system use on a single license key for individual non-commercial use.

The reader is compatible with the card, and the card is compatible with the software. I should be set as soon as all of this stuff shows up and is installed and programmed.

The package deal is 10% off for a purchase of 3-4 and 20% off for five or more. One license per computer.

The guy lowered the price on the readers to $5.56 each w/cable so I picked up another.

To get this 6 contact cable from Lenovo, you have to purchase a Misc. FRU with a bunch of other bits and cables at over $100. Unbelievable for a bag of parts that aren't worth $10 in material.