Lenovo Gemplus Gempc Smart Card Reader: A Reliable Type II PC Card Smart Card Reader Review

I got this reader to replace my SMC card reader (243) which is pretty much unsupported for Linux anymore as the manufacturer didn't update the drivers as they weren't more with the released Linux kernel worked in 2009. After discovering this after updating my system to the latest version, I ordered this card while on the hardware compatibility list. This card was recognized and the driver was immediately available (no need to download or install the driver provided on the disc). I'm using the…

The delivery was very fast but when the item arrived it was not working. I've tried this on 3 different laptops and the item isn't even recognized.

Windows 7 recognized it right away and I didn't have to look for additional drivers or software to access DOD emails. Holds the CAC well and fits the laptop well.

The only reason I gave it a 4 instead of a 5 is because it's in use and sometimes needs to be "looped" by being removed from the PC's card slot and reinserted . Otherwise it outperforms the new SCR343 that comes with the laptop. I bought this as a test before buying a large batch of CF-F9 for work (DoD). I ditched the SCR243 offered by Panasonic and ordered a bunch of new Gempc readers separately for use.

For the price, this little gadget is great! I got the smart card reader and drivers, installed them, finished installing my working software and I'm done. It was easy and cheap, definitely worth it.