Kofuku Trading Enhances IC Card Reader Solutions for Healthcare and Administrative Sectors

Kofuku Trading Enhances IC Card Reader Solutions for Key Sectors

Kofuku Trading LLC, based in Arakawa, Tokyo, has announced a strategic expansion of its proposals for ACS-manufactured IC card readers, particularly focusing on those compatible with the Health Insurance and Medical Qualification Identification (HPKI) card. In light of the growing use of medical qualification certificates and the increase in smartphone My Number cards, the necessity for a reliable authentication infrastructure has become increasingly urgent.

To address this need, Kofuku Trading is launching its latest offerings in contact and contactless IC card readers, including the ACR40U and ACR1552U models, tailored for healthcare, administrative, and automotive maintenance applications. The ACR40U operates as a contact-type IC card reader, while the ACR1552U serves as a USB-connected NFC/contactless reader, providing optimal solutions based on the specific requirements of users.

Among the primary products on offer are three models that meet various operational demands. The ACR1555U, a portable NFC reader equipped with Bluetooth 5.2, adds mobility to the mix, appealing to environments where portability is key. Each model has been carefully selected for its application potential.

The HPKI certification issued by the Japan Medical Association’s Electronic Certification Center enables doctors to authenticate their qualifications electronically. The use of IC card readers in healthcare settings for electronic signatures and regional medical network authentication is crucial. The Japan Medical Association confirms that the HPKI card can be effectively utilized through IC card readers for digital verification in healthcare facilities.

Current usage data for Kofuku Trading's IC card readers regarding HPKI cards is as follows:

- ACR40U: Registered
- ACR1552U: Registered

While the older model ACR1255U-J1 has been removed from the Japan Medical Association’s HPKI compatible equipment list, its successor, the ACR1555U, remains fully compatible.

In addition to the healthcare sector, ACS readers are also applicable in the electronic vehicle inspection domain. Confirmed devices by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism include ACR1252U, ACR1255U-J1, ACR1251T, ACR1252-MW, ACR40U, ACR1552U, and ACR1555U. This extensive validation allows Kofuku Trading to provide focused solutions to automotive maintenance and inspection-related businesses based on proven performance.

In the My Number card arena, Kofuku Trading sees substantial growth opportunities for ACS products. ACS Japan recently announced that by 2026, models like WalletMate II, AquaGuard, ACR40U, ACR1552U, ACR1555U, and ACR1581U will be compliant with smartphone My Number cards, broadening their utility for administrative procedures, online authentication, and other identity verification solutions.

Moreover, Kofuku Trading proposes the WalletMate II series for contactless applications. This series features mobile wallet NFC readers recognized by Apple MFi and Google Smart Tap, including WalletMate II Mini and WalletMate II Boost, which can be utilized for a wide array of applications such as membership cards, coupons, ticketing, access management, loyalty programs, and smart marketing strategies.

Kofuku Trading LLC is committed to delivering a comprehensive range of IC card readers spanning healthcare electronic signatures, administrative functionalities, automotive maintenance, corporate authentication, membership management, and access control. Focusing on ACR40U and ACR1552U for healthcare, and ACR1555U for mobile-centric requirements, Kofuku Trading aims to provide tailored solutions that align with diverse business needs.

Key Usage Scenarios

- Healthcare: Use of HPKI cards for electronic signatures and regional healthcare network authentication.
- Automotive Maintenance: Proposing devices compatible with electronic vehicle inspection.
- Administrative Applications: Facilitating administrative procedures and online identity verification via My Number cards.
- Corporate Security: Enhancing authentication using multi-factor authentication solutions compliant with FIDO.
- Retail and Facilities: Implementing systems utilizing FeliCa, MIFARE, and NFC for member cards and access control.

Consultation for Technical and Implementation Support

Kofuku Trading welcomes inquiries regarding the implementation of ACS IC card readers and general technical questions, including those pertaining to the WalletMate series. For specific technical needs, inquiries can also be directed to their sales and technical partner, GL Solutions Co., Ltd. Even at the contemplation stage, prospective clients are encouraged to reach out for assistance.

Product Overview

- ACR40U: A contact-type IC card reader supporting USB and ISO 7816 A/B/C standards.
- ACR1552U: USB-connected NFC/contactless IC card reader compliant with CCID/PCSC.
- ACR1555U: A mobile NFC reader supporting Bluetooth 5.2 and AES-128 encryption.
- WalletMate II/Mini/Boost: Mobile wallet NFC products compatible with Apple VAS and Google Smart Tap.

Purchase Links

- For ACS products, visit K-SHOP.
- For other purchasing options, check iDATEN and Amazon.

About Advanced Card Systems Japan (ACS)

- Location: 1-2-6 Muromachi, Nihonbashi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0022
- Established: 1995
- Business Scope: IC card readers/writers, FIDO security keys, NFC solutions
- URL: ACS Japan