Secure connector for a memory card

[0001] The invention belongs to the field of memory card readers. In particular, the invention relates to a memory card reader for insertion into a reader for reading memory cards. Such a terminal may be a payment terminal, an identification terminal. In a broader sense, the invention relates to any type of terminal that allows a memory card reader to be inserted therein.

2. Background art [0002] The reading terminals of the memory cards comprise, in addition to the memory card reader, a number of components such as a keyboard, screen, one or more processors, memory, an electrical power supply. The expansion of terminal functions for reading memory cards has been observed for many years. This is especially true for payment terminals. In addition to the payment processing function, the terminals also take over the functions of network connection, the functions of detecting contactless memory cards (contactless cards), coupon management functions (for example, loyalty coupons), and the like.

[0003] In addition to extending these auxiliary functions, the reading terminals of the memory cards must be more resistant to a variety of attacks or attempts of fraud, which they often fall victim to. To achieve consistency in counteracting attacks on terminals, international standards have been established. For example, in the area of ​​payments, the PCI PED (Payment Card Industry - Pin Entry Device) standard establishes the demand for intrusion protection and detection of attempted attacks on terminals. However, this is not the only binding standard.

[0004] At the same time, because of these standards, terminals that have been poorly secured in the past are gradually being replaced by increasingly secure terminals. Among the issues regarding the security of terminals' terminal points, industry representatives focus in particular on obtaining protection of a memory card reader. In fact, the memory card reader remains the weakest link in the terminal for reading memory cards. This is due to the fact that the memory card reader has an access slot for the memory card, which slot makes it possible to access the inside of the terminal from the outside. In particular, attackers are looking for a way to reach the memory card connector. The memory card connector is part of the memory card reader that contacts the chip or microprocessor located on the memory card. As soon as the attacker gains access to the memory card slot before anyone notices it, it is possible to intercept and read the data that is exchanged between the chip or card's microprocessor and the terminal processor to read the memory card. Among the intercepted data, we can mention, in particular, the security code transmitted to the client when sending a security code request, which on some smart cards can be sent unencrypted.

[0005] The above explains that many attempts have been made to secure the memory card reader. For example, memory card readers have been equipped with a safety net. This protection prevents access to the terminal by puncturing. As soon as an object tries to break through the safety net, a short-circuit is generated, causing the terminal to be turned off.

[0006] In addition, modifications have also been proposed to protect the memory card connectors against static electricity and against wear. For example, it is about placing metal elements at the entrance to the memory card reader, serving as mechanical guides (protection against wear) and / or as unloading elements before the card is inserted into the memory card reader. Commonly, these metal elements have the shape of metal guide plates with a height of a few millimeters. Another example is adding metal elements in the form of a comb to unload the card.

[0007] All these modifications lead to a significant complexity in the production process. At the same time, the cost of production increases. At present, the normative requirements in terms of security are that for the production of the read-out terminal it is required to provide for many steps that combine simultaneously the distribution of the component brazing layers, the need for components resistant to reflow soldering, and the like. In addition to complicating the production process of the terminal for reading memory cards, these methods make the maintenance of manufactured terminals very complicated, even impossible, which causes difficulties for both maintenance service providers and terminal manufacturers to read memory cards.

[0008] Referring to Figure 1, a typical memory card reader assembly is described. The described memory card reader comprises a reader body 10 of a memory card, including an access slot 11 for a memory card. The memory card connector is integrated directly with the memory card reader. It contains contacts 12 connecting to the printed circuit (PCB) 13 (partial view). The printed circuit 13 also includes electronic components 14. To protect the memory card reader 10, the reader is covered by a full housing 15 and a front cover 15b.

[0009] Document US5653610 discloses a smart card connector according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0010] There is therefore a need to provide such a memory card reader architecture that is actually secure and will not require additional protection.

[0011] The invention relates to a memory card connector according to claim 1.

3. Summary of the Invention [0012] According to a particular feature, the housing described is a metal element attached to the described base.

[0013] According to a particular feature, the protection zone described is shaped to allow placement of at least one electronic component.

[0014] According to a particular feature, the casing described is soldered to a printed circuit simultaneously with the described connector.

[0015] According to a particular feature, the body of the memory card reader supplementing the described memory card connector is secured by a screw to the target printed circuit through a metal element of the described memory card connector.

[0016] According to a particular feature, the described memory card connector further comprises a backrest zone for the memory card.

[0017] This support zone is a vertical support zone.

[0018] According to a particular feature, the described back zone of the memory card comprises a resilient metal plate detecting the presence of the memory card.

[0019] According to a particular feature, the described memory card connector includes at least one centering hole that is used in conjunction with the centering pin of the memory card reader body.

[0020] The invention also relates to a terminal for reading a memory card. According to the invention, such a terminal comprises a memory card connector as described previously.

4. Figures [0021] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will be disclosed more clearly in the rest of the description of the preferential embodiment, given as a simple illustrative example, which does not exhaust the whole issue, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

- Figure 1 discloses a typical architecture of a memory card reader.

- Figure 2 illustrates a general premise of the invention, namely dividing the memory card connector and the reader body of the memory card into two separate functional units;

- Figures 3 and 4 illustrate an embodiment of the invention in which the body of the card reader comprises an intrusion detection circuit;

- Figure 5 illustrates a system in which the reader body of the memory card is placed.

5. Detailed description

5.1. A reminder of the invention [0022] A general premise of the invention consists in proposing a memory card reader architecture that would take into account functional limitations inherent in the operation of this type of device. In particular, the general premise of the invention consists in dividing the memory card reader into two separate parts: the first part through which signals from memory cards pass, as well as signals from the switch detecting the presence of the card, and which can store some of the residual electrostatic discharge (card connector) memory), and a second part, enabling the insertion of a memory card, ensuring on the one hand the targeting of the memory card and the acceptance of the load by it, and on the other hand, the taking-over part of the electrostatic discharge of the card, as well as ensuring the protection of signals exchanged between the memory card and the memory card connector (it comes to the right body of the memory card reader). As part of this disclosure, the memory card connector is specially adapted to increase the security of the media card reader so constructed.

[0023] The general assumption of the invention is described with reference to figure 2. According to the invention, the memory card connector 10 is constructed independently of the memory card reader body C20. The memory card connector 10 is designed to allow reading of signals sent by the memory card (not shown). In figure 1, the memory card connector 10 is designed to read the chip card. To make this possible, the memory card connector 10 includes several contacts 11 (in figure 2 there are eight), allowing contact with the corresponding zones on the memory card (six or eight zones depending on the memory card). In general, the contacts 11 are elastic metal plates that overlap the surface of the chip.

[0024] According to the invention, the memory card connector 10 is independent of the memory card reader body C20. This means that, unlike prior art systems, the memory card connector 10 is not mounted together with the memory card reader C20 before being connected to the printed circuit of the read terminal. In addition, such assembly is not only complicated and expensive, but it is also susceptible to defects and poses problems in terms of mechanical strength. Whereas,lazek proposes mounting the memory card connector 10 as the first on the printed circuit, and then attaching the body C20 of the memory card reader over the connector. In other words, it is understood that such assembly is not quite similar to the assembly according to the prior art, since the memory card connector is covered with the memory card reader body that somehow protects it, either in terms of "security" (presence of the net) or at an angle " functionality "(presence of an electrostatic discharge zone).

[0025] In addition, in at least one embodiment, the invention proposes to remove the flexible cover that completely covers the memory card reader. In one embodiment, the invention proposes that this flexible cover be replaced by an internal protective device, i.e. one that is inside the C20 body of the memory card reader itself.

[0026] In the following, a particular embodiment of the invention will be described. It is understood that the following embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention in any way. In particular, in other embodiments of the invention, it is possible to increase the security level of the memory card connector by using alternative means than those disclosed herein, but which perform analogous functions.

5.2. Detailed Description of the Embodiment [0027] In the present embodiment of the invention, a particular architecture of the memory card connector is proposed.

[0028] The present embodiment is illustrated in more detail with reference to figures 3 and 4, each of which illustrates two embodiments of the memory card connector that is the subject of the invention.

[0029] In particular, in these embodiments of the invention, the memory card connector 10 includes a rectangular shaped base 12 in which the contacts 11 are arranged. In at least one embodiment, the contacts are formed from a section comprising longitudinal elastic plates. 11-1, and this section contacts at least one predetermined part of the chip of the memory card. The contacting takes place via openings 13 on top of the base 12. In at least one embodiment, the contact comprises, on the extension of the section comprising the longitudinal elastic plates, the contact terminal 11-2. Such a contact tip is intended for soldering to the contact zone of the printed circuit. Such a contact end extends to the back of the base 12. Inventive, the contact terminal 11-2 of the respective contact 11-1 faces the side opposite to the opening, which he refers to. This is due to the fact that in a chip card, only a few chip contacts are valid. In particular, only one chip contact exchanges data. It is an element that is commonly called the IO contact (from Input / Output). The fact of deriving the end of this IO contact opposite the opening, within which the elastic "IO contact" plate is located, is interesting for safety reasons: access to the protrusion of the contact tip IO is more complicated. According to the invention, the security is further strengthened within the joint by the use of the housing 14, which is a continuous barrier that extends over the back of the base 12. which is commonly referred to as IO contact (from Input / Output). The fact of deriving the end of this IO contact opposite the opening, within which the elastic "IO contact" plate is located, is interesting for safety reasons: access to the protrusion of the contact tip IO is more complicated. According to the invention, the security is further strengthened within the joint by the use of the housing 14, which is a continuous barrier that extends over the back of the base 12. which is commonly referred to as IO contact (from Input / Output). The fact of deriving the end of this IO contact opposite the opening, within which the elastic "IO contact" plate is located, is interesting for safety reasons: access to the protrusion of the contact tip IO is more complicated. According to the invention, the security is further strengthened within the joint by the use of the housing 14, which is a continuous barrier that extends over the back of the base 12.

[0030] The above casing 14 makes it possible to define a protection zone 15 which includes contact terminals 11-2, including the end of the "contact IO". An advantage of the invention is that the above protective zone is also used for the distribution of sensitive electronic components on the printed circuit. The size of the housing only affects directly the surface available for the placement of electronic components. In fact, it should be recalled that the connector of the memory card is covered with the memory card reader body C20 (see figure 2). However, this cover is protected by the use of a protective mesh on the inside surface of the reader's body of the memory card. In other words, as soon as the protection zone 15 is covered by the body of the memory card reader, it is protected,

[0031] In one embodiment (figure 4), the casing is made of metal and simultaneously soldered to the connector of the memory card.

[0032] In at least one embodiment, the memory card connector 10 further comprises a support zone 16. This support zone 16 has two functions: the first is to allow adjustment to the thickness of the card. In fact, the assembly, as proposed, entails a certain margin of tolerance as regards the height of the reader body of the memory card in relation to the memory card connector. The above backrest zone allows you to manage this light difference in height, ensuring that the card will not bend when it is inserted. The second function is to detect the total insertion of the card (switch system). The above second function is carried out by using a resilient metal plate 17 contained in the support zone. This resilient metal plate 17 is connected to the payment terminal processor via solder on a printed circuit. As soon as the connection is established, it means that the card has been completely inserted into the reader. The above enables the contacts 11 of the connector to be activated (and therefore, until the card is completely inserted, no voltage passes through the connector contacts). The above has two advantages: the first allows you to limit the possibility of fraud, since it is not possible to simulate the insertion of the card into the reader; the second one avoids damaging the terminal by an unpolluted card, because as soon as the card reaches the end of the backrest zone, it is completely discharged (no electrostatic discharge), and then the contacts are activated. that the card has been completely inserted into the reader. The above enables the contacts 11 of the connector to be activated (and therefore, until the card is completely inserted, no voltage passes through the connector contacts). The above has two advantages: the first allows you to limit the possibility of fraud, since it is not possible to simulate the insertion of the card into the reader; the second one avoids damaging the terminal by an unpolluted card, because as soon as the card reaches the end of the backrest zone, it is completely discharged (no electrostatic discharge), and then the contacts are activated. that the card has been completely inserted into the reader. The above enables the contacts 11 of the connector to be activated (and therefore, until the card is completely inserted, no voltage passes through the connector contacts). The above has two advantages: the first allows you to limit the possibility of fraud, since it is not possible to simulate the insertion of the card into the reader; the second one avoids damaging the terminal by an unpolluted card, because as soon as the card reaches the end of the backrest zone, it is completely discharged (no electrostatic discharge), and then the contacts are activated. if it is not possible to simulate entering the card into the reader; the second one avoids damaging the terminal by an unpolluted card, because as soon as the card reaches the end of the backrest zone, it is completely discharged (no electrostatic discharge), and then the contacts are activated. if it is not possible to simulate entering the card into the reader; the second one avoids damaging the terminal by an unpolluted card, because as soon as the card reaches the end of the backrest zone, it is completely discharged (no electrostatic discharge), and then the contacts are activated.

• The resistance against the card is not carried out by the connector but through the reader body. In fact, soldering tips soldered in the SMD ("surface mount") technique do not put up enough resistance to ensure maintenance for thousands or hundreds of thousands of cycles. Hence, the presence of centering elements on the connector to make the reader connector / body mounting more durable;

• The resistance is realized by the reader body;

• The mechanical joint assembly is partly provided by the contact terminals soldered on the card.

[0033] The card detection switch in the reader operates on the basis of good practices commonly used in chip card connectors (sequencing detection: the switch is activated before card insertion, and information on card removal reaches the switch before the chip card contacts leave the contact zone).

The invention, however, has one particular feature at the level of the switch: the terminals of the switch are rotated by 90 °, allowing the metal element to be rear-mounted and providing contact visibility during soldering.

[0035] In both embodiments shown with reference to figures 3 and 4, the joints also have at least one centering hole 18 which is used in connection with a card reader body which has at least one corresponding centering pin. The centering hole 18 is used to guarantee the correct installation of the memory card reader and to protect against inaccurate deployment, and also to allow, in this case, the extreme position of the memory card to be precisely defined.

[0036] In both embodiments shown with reference to Figures 3 and 4, the joints also include at least one metal insert 20. The above metal insert 20 allows to attach, strictly to the printed circuit, an additional element (this additional element is the connector body a memory card) via a pin (reference 26, figure 5) that connects the memory card connector to the memory card reader body. The above pin 26 is inserted into the insert 20 which is brazed or bonded to the printed circuit (the dot line in figure 5 corresponds to the insertion axis of the pin).

[0037] The above-mentioned insert is attached to the memory card connector in an embodiment in the figure

3. In the embodiment of figure 4, the insert is part of a housing 14 that is metal and brazed (or affixed) to the printed circuit, so as to guarantee the impossibility of undermining (or undermining the memory card connector). The above metal insert has many advantages:

- It is made only of bent sheet metal, which in terms of costs is very beneficial;

- The special shape of the insert allows you to gain surface on the perimeter, at the same time retaining significant holding power and remaining in line with the current processes of reflow soldering;

In a particular embodiment, the above-mentioned insert can come from the same strip as the metal sheet used to make the contacts. Its cost is therefore totally inert (only the cost of the dowel attached to the mechanical attachment is added);

- The above-mentioned insert allows the connection of the memory card connector body in a secure manner by pushing the component against the electronic circuit;

- Two assembly methods are provided: in which the insert is embedded, but this may result in flatness problems, or in which the insert is placed displaced and thus flatness is not problematic.

In practice, such an insert allows replacing the nut connecting the pin (see figure 5), without making a hole in the printed circuit, which is costly and problematic regarding the printed circuit guidelines, because the hole can be located opposite a usable area (e.g. ) and without adding an additional element. The hole does not cause a loss of surface, usually necessary for the insertion of a pin. Since the surface is not wasted, it is possible to place more components and thus reduce the size of the assembly.

5.3. Additional features [0039] In addition to the features previously described, the memory card connector, as described, may be made of an electric charge dissipation material (VECTRA A700 LCP type). The described connector may thus have a discharge zone (called an electrostatic discharge zone) that allows the memory card to be discharged when it is inserted into the reader. This zone is indicated by reference numeral 21 in Figure 4. It is a local shape that is used to complete unloading the memory card before contacting the connector (charged plastic). Local shapes allow to have localized points of contact and thus allow better discharging.

[0040] Furthermore, still with reference to the embodiment of figure 4, the housing 14 comprises a positioning zone 22 of an elastomeric connector, for example of the Zebra type (trade mark). To avoid problems related to the brazing of the protective nets (on the inner wall of the memory card connector body) to the printed circuit, the connection between the two elements is made via elastomeric connectors, e.g. Zebra type (trade mark). Therefore, the use of the complicated soldering mechanism of the memory card reader body to the printed circuit is not necessary: ​​moreover, since the connection is provided by the elastomeric connectors, the assembly of the memory card connector assembly, the elastomer connector and the reader body of the memory card is facilitated.

[0041] More generally, to facilitate assembly, the following steps have been implemented:

- The step of attaching the memory card connector to the printed circuit. This fixing can be done by fixing or soldering or gluing or by a combination of these methods. Other attachment methods can also be used.

- Erection stage of the elastomeric joint (if used). The positioning of the elastomeric connector can preferably be implemented in a zone left free for this purpose within the memory card connector.

- The step of arranging and fixing the body of the memory card reader, with the method of mounting the reader body in relation to the printed circuit. In the case of Zebra, a beneficial solution is to use a screw that penetrates into the memory card connector part, or additionally, to add a fifth pin that serves as mechanical support.

[0042] In this way, only two or three steps are sufficient to assemble and secure the memory card reader on the printed circuit.

5.4. Description of the embodiment of the media card reader [0043] This embodiment is described in more detail with reference to Figure 5. For the sake of simplicity, reference numerals that were used earlier in Figures 3 and 4 have been retained. In this embodiment, the memory card reader includes a memory card reader body C20, a memory card connector 10, and an elastomer connector 30. The architecture of the memory card connector 10 is adapted to contain a free space in the ECE slot for the location of the elastomeric connector 30. Therefore, during the assembly of the memory card connector 10 is first attached to the printed circuit, and then the elastomeric connector 30 is placed in the space of the ECE slot. The C20 of the memory card reader is then placed above the assembly, consisting of a memory card connector and an elastomer connector. As mentioned above, the body of the memory card connector body C20 includes a card unloading zone 25. The memory card reader body C20 is affixed to the printed circuit via pin 26 (via the memory card connector) and four anchor elements 27. The anchoring elements have a particular form, with one side adapted to act as guides for the memory card in the reader, and on the other hand to perform, if necessary, discharging the electrostatic edge of the inserted card. The pin 26 is optionally soldered or adhered to the printed circuit (the dot line in figure 5 corresponds to the insertion axis of the pin). It is therefore not necessary to place the hole on the printed circuit. To a minimum extent,

[0044] In addition, in this system, the centering between the memory card connector and the memory card reader body enables accurate positioning.

[0045] As a result, in the present embodiment, the memory card connector comprises at least two centering holes. The centering holes are shaped so that the centering pins that are integrated into the body of the memory card reader can be superimposed on the centering holes. In this way, in the present embodiment, it is not possible to incorrectly install the memory card reader. In particular, it is not possible to place the reader body of the memory card at an incorrect angle relative to the connector.

27635 / EP / 17

EP2915093