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
CQM-Compliant Design – Engineered to meet Mastercard CQM testing protocols for mechanical reliability.
Three-Wheel Test Mechanism – Includes two fixed wheels (W2, W3) and one movable wheel (W1) to simulate card insertion/removal motion with precision.
Adjustable Test Parameters – Supports standard test weights of 8N, 10N, and 12N (including tester head weight), with custom weights available upon request.
User-Operated & Intuitive – Simple setup and operation require only one person; clear counter display tracks cycle completion.
Compact & Portable – Dimensions of 48 × 34 × 36 cm and net weight of 18 kg allow for easy placement in lab or production environments.
Safety-First Design – Includes transparent protective cover, emergency stop readiness, and strict operational safety protocols.
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:
Mechanical wear and tear on the ICC module and card body
Structural resilience under repeated insertion/removal stress
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
ICC & Smart Card Manufacturers – Pre-certification mechanical reliability validation
Quality Assurance Labs – Batch testing for payment, ID, and access cards
Certification Bodies – Compliance testing for Mastercard and other card schemes
Research & Development – Evaluating new card materials, adhesives, and structural designs
How It Works
Setup – Select the appropriate test weight (8N, 10N, or 12N). Insert ICC into the card holder and close the transparent safety cover.
Cycle Setting – Set the desired number of test cycles (standard is 50 cycles as per CQM).
Start Test – Press the start button. The counter will begin tracking cycles.
Completion – The tester stops automatically once the set cycles are completed.
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
Grounding Required – Tester must be properly grounded before operation.
No Touch During Operation – Avoid contact with moving parts; do not open cover during testing.
Trained Personnel Only – Only qualified and trained operators may use or maintain the tester.
Power Safety – Always disconnect power before performing any maintenance.
Environment – Keep away from flammables, explosives, and corrosive substances.
Warranty & Service
Warranty Period: 12 months from delivery or 2,400 operating hours, whichever comes first.
Exclusions: Damage due to natural disasters, improper power supply, unauthorized modifications, incorrect operation, or use of non-approved parts is not covered.
Support: Includes operational training, technical consultation, and access to spare parts.
Ordering Information
The Model P-22 Three Wheel Tester comes complete with:
Main tester unit with three-wheel assembly
Set of standard weights (8N, 10N, 12N)
Power cable and grounding wire
User manual and test record log template
Transparent safety cover and card holder
Optional accessories and custom weight sets are available upon request.
Q: What is the primary function of the Three Wheel Tester?
A: It performs precision mechanical reliability testing on ICC cards (Integrated Circuit Cards) to ensure durability and performance under stress.
Q: Which standards does this tester comply with?
A: Complies with ISO/IEC 7810, ISO/IEC 7816, and other international smart card testing standards.
Q: What parameters are tested?
A: Tests bending strength, torsion resistance, surface hardness, and edge durability.
Q: How many cards can be tested simultaneously?
A: Capable of testing multiple cards in parallel, significantly improving testing efficiency.
Q: Is the testing process automated?
A: Yes. Fully automated operation with precise control over test cycles and data recording.
Q: What is the test accuracy?
A: High precision sensors ensure accurate measurement of mechanical stress and deformation.
Q: Can it handle different card materials?
A: Yes. Supports PVC, PET, ABS, and other common card materials.
Q: How are test results displayed?
A: Real-time data display on touchscreen, with options to export detailed reports.
Q: Is calibration required?
A: Yes. Regular calibration ensures long-term accuracy and compliance with standards.
Q: What are the main applications?
A: Ideal for smart card manufacturers, quality control labs, and R&D departments.
