What kinds of cards are used in an Automatic Fare Collection System (AFC)?

In an Automatic Fare Collection System (AFC), the use of contactless, prepaid, or smart cards is essential due to their efficiency and ease of use. These types of cards are specifically designed to facilitate quick transactions in transit systems. Contactless cards allow riders to simply tap their card on a reader, significantly reducing the time spent at entry points compared to cash transactions or other payment forms that require more steps. Prepaid cards can be loaded with funds in advance, enabling users to travel without the need for cash on hand. Smart cards also contain embedded technology to store data securely, making them ideal for transactions in fare collection environments.

Using cash, checks, or standard credit cards in an AFC system is typically less efficient. Cash transactions require a change mechanism and can slow down the boarding process. Checks are rarely used in automated environments due to their processing time and risks of bounced payments. Standard credit cards, while digitized, may not offer the same speed and convenience as specially designed contactless or smart cards, which are optimized for rapid interactions in transit systems. Therefore, the most appropriate and efficient options for an AFC system are indeed contactless, prepaid, or smart cards.