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

1. Setup – Select the appropriate test weight (8N, 10N, or 12N). Insert ICC into the card holder and close the transparent safety cover.

2. Cycle Setting – Set the desired number of test cycles (standard is 50 cycles as per CQM).

3. Start Test – Press the start button. The counter will begin tracking cycles.

4. Completion – The tester stops automatically once the set cycles are completed.

5. Evaluation – Remove the card and check for mechanical integrity and electrical functionality.

Technical Specifications

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.