Because ATMs (cash machines) are used frequently, they are designed to handle a high number of payment transactions. Due to heavy use, dirt easily accumulates in the card reader, which can prevent ATMs from working properly. With every transaction, debit
and credit cards deposit skin oils on magnetic heads, and facilitate the build-up of dust and dirt in the card reader. In addition, the varying air humidity and large variations in outdoor temperature can prevent ATMs from performing adequately. Consequently,
reading errors can occur, and the ATM can stop working entirely.
The top of the magnetic head in the ATM card reader is constantly polished with frequent card use. Dust and dirt are deposited mainly on the edge of the magnetic heads. If not cleaned
regularly, the heads can quickly collect dirt.
DISKO cleaning cards have a flexible top layer of microfiber cleaning cloth with a highly elastic and dirt-absorbing surface structure. The elasticity of the top layer is a result of spot-welding the microfiber outer layer to the core of the
card using a high-frequency technique. Consequently, the DISKO cleaning card reaches the sides of the magnetic heads, ensuring efficient cleaning of the card reader. DISKO cleaning cards can be used at least 4 times. Four
coded magnetic stripes attached to each cleaning card cause the ATM shutter to open, allowing the cleaning card to be fed in. Turning the cleaning card allows to clean at least four times. Special coding on the cleaning cards makes it possible to clean
the magnetic head automatically and thoroughly by only one time insert the cleaning card.
For some years now in many countries the cash withdrawals can be done only after proper reading of the microchip on the debit or credit card. Once an
ATM card is fed into the card reader, chip contacts are pressed onto the card’s microchip (landing contacts technology). No friction occurs between the card microchip and the card reader chip contacts. Clean chip contacts are extremely important for
defect free payment transaction, as even a small amount of skin oils affecting the chip contacts can disrupt the ATM operation.
DISKO cleaning cards (patent EP 0 789 313)
When it comes to cleaning ATM chip contacts, DISKO cleaning cards are the only cards in the world able to do it well and effectively. The DISKO cleaning card for ATM
chip contacts is a semi-automatic card with a specially developed spring system.
Before the cleaning card is fed in, the spring system is put under tension. Once the chip landing contacts come in touch with the cleaning card, the spring system
is released, the high-quality microfiber top layer moves over the chip reading contacts and ensures optimal cleaning. With regular, preventive cleaning of chip contacts, operators can avoid costly defects of the card reader.