Three Wheel Tester: Precision Mechanical Reliability Testing for ICC Cards
The Model P-22 Three Wheel Tester is a purpose-built mechanical testing instrument designed to evaluate the durability and mechanical reliability of Integrated Circuit Cards (ICC) according to CQM (Card Quality Management) standards, specifically aligned with Mastercard® card certification requirements. By simulating repeated insertion and removal cycles under controlled pressure, this tester helps manufacturers and certification labs validate card structural integrity and long-term performance in real-world usage scenarios.
Key Features
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CQM-Compliant Design – Engineered to meet Mastercard CQM testing protocols for mechanical reliability.
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Three-Wheel Test Mechanism – Includes two fixed wheels (W2, W3) and one movable wheel (W1) to simulate card insertion/removal motion with precision.
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Adjustable Test Parameters – Supports standard test weights of 8N, 10N, and 12N (including tester head weight), with custom weights available upon request.
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User-Operated & Intuitive – Simple setup and operation require only one person; clear counter display tracks cycle completion.
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Compact & Portable – Dimensions of 48 × 34 × 36 cm and net weight of 18 kg allow for easy placement in lab or production environments.
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Safety-First Design – Includes transparent protective cover, emergency stop readiness, and strict operational safety protocols.
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Testing Principle & Compliance
The tester applies a controlled 0.5Hz cyclic motion to the ICC, moving it through defined positions (C to E counts as one cycle) for a total of 50 cycles per test run, as stipulated in CQM guidelines. Each test evaluates:
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Mechanical wear and tear on the ICC module and card body
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Structural resilience under repeated insertion/removal stress
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Post-test electrical and functional performance of the ICC
Standard Test Weight: 8N ±0.5N
Test Speed: Fixed at 0.5Hz (per CQM, no adjustment needed)
Test Cycle: 50 cycles per card (as per Mastercard CQM)
Applications
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ICC & Smart Card Manufacturers – Pre-certification mechanical reliability validation
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Quality Assurance Labs – Batch testing for payment, ID, and access cards
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Certification Bodies – Compliance testing for Mastercard and other card schemes
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Research & Development – Evaluating new card materials, adhesives, and structural designs
How It Works
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Setup – Select the appropriate test weight (8N, 10N, or 12N). Insert ICC into the card holder and close the transparent safety cover.
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Cycle Setting – Set the desired number of test cycles (standard is 50 cycles as per CQM).
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Start Test – Press the start button. The counter will begin tracking cycles.
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Completion – The tester stops automatically once the set cycles are completed.
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Evaluation – Remove the card and check for mechanical integrity and electrical functionality.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | P-22 |
| Dimensions | 48 × 34 × 36 cm (L × W × H) |
| Net Weight | 18 kg |
| Power Supply | AC 220V, 50/60 Hz |
| Rated Power | 0.2 kW |
| Test Speed | 0.5 Hz (fixed) |
| Standard Test Weight | 8N, 10N, 12N (including tester head) |
| Test Cycle Range | User adjustable (CQM standard: 50) |
| Operator Requirement | 1 person |
| Environment | Clean, dry, flat surface recommended |
Safety & Operational Notes
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Grounding Required – Tester must be properly grounded before operation.
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No Touch During Operation – Avoid contact with moving parts; do not open cover during testing.
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Trained Personnel Only – Only qualified and trained operators may use or maintain the tester.
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Power Safety – Always disconnect power before performing any maintenance.
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Environment – Keep away from flammables, explosives, and corrosive substances.
Warranty & Service
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Warranty Period: 12 months from delivery or 2,400 operating hours, whichever comes first.
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Exclusions: Damage due to natural disasters, improper power supply, unauthorized modifications, incorrect operation, or use of non-approved parts is not covered.
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Support: Includes operational training, technical consultation, and access to spare parts.
Ordering Information
The Model P-22 Three Wheel Tester comes complete with:
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Main tester unit with three-wheel assembly
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Set of standard weights (8N, 10N, 12N)
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Power cable and grounding wire
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User manual and test record log template
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Transparent safety cover and card holder
Optional accessories and custom weight sets are available upon request.










