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What is a magnetic stripe?

mag - net - ic stripe
noun

A magnetic stripe is a slim, encoded strip on the back of credit and debit cards. It holds crucial details about the cardholder, allowing for swift and secure transactions when the card is swiped through card readers or terminals. This technology has been widely used for decades, contributing to the convenience and efficiency of everyday transactions.

How does a magnetic stripe work?

A magnetic stripe operates on a simple yet effective principle. It consists of a thin layer of magnetic material that's been encoded with essential information. When a card is swiped through a card reader or terminal, the magnetic stripe interacts with the reading head, inducing a series of electrical pulses.

These pulses are then translated into data, which includes the cardholder's account number, name, and other relevant information. The magnetic stripe's reliability and ease of use have made it a foundational technology in the world of payments, ensuring swift and secure exchanges of funds for countless everyday purchases.