O2Micro International Limited, a leading supplier of innovative power management and security ICs to mobile computer and communications manufacturers, announced that OZ773 will be available in select Compaq Presario Desktop PC configurations beginning in early Spring.
The OZ773 adds an industry standard EMV compliant, low cost smart card reader to Compaq’s desktop computer keyboard.
The OZ773, the first in the patent pending E-Guardian family of products, combines a standard USB HUB with smart card reader functionality, eliminating the need for an external smart card reader. The OZ773 provides PC users with the ability to transact secure e-commerce transactions on the Internet using their desktop computer keyboard and a financial smart card. It is fully compliant with the Microsoft (MSFT) PC/SC specification and is EMV Level 1 certified. EMV certification is a requirement for a smart card reader when used with the new financial smart cards issued by American Express, Visa, and Citibank (MasterCard).
“We are delighted to have Compaq Computer as our first customer to incorporate this technology into their Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard,” said Sterling Du, O2Micro’s Chairman and CEO.
“Compaq strives to bring our customers the very latest technologies to make the PC an easy-to-use, yet powerful tool that facilitates secure and convenient Internet purchasing, instant, secure Internet log-on and off, quick and easy access to Web sites and email by storing links, management of unique passwords and login information for favorite Internet sites, and other online convenience utilities,” said Will Townsend, senior manager of Consumer Desktop Product Marketing in Compaq’s Access Business Group. “Our use of the OZ773 allows Compaq the ability to offer such flexibility to our customers, so we’re very pleased to be partnered with O2Micro.”
The OZ773 is fully compliant with the Microsoft (MSFT) PC/SC specification and is EMV Level 1 certified. It is also compatible to the IEEE 7816 specifications and standard transmission protocols including T = 1, T = 0.
About O2Micro
Founded in March 1995, O2Micro designs, develops and markets innovative power management and security components for mobile communication, computer, information appliance, and LCD products. Products include AudioDJ(R), SmartCardBus(R) for secure on line e-commerce, LCD Backlight Inverters and Battery Management IC’s. O2Micro maintains an extensive portfolio of intellectual property with 378 patent claims granted, and over 710 more pending. The company maintains offices worldwide. Additional company and product information can be found on the company website at [www.o2micro.com][1].
[1]: http://www.o2micro.com/
