CPI Card Group earns FIPS 201 certification

Last year’s rush on FIPS 201 and HSPD-12 certification has waned, but there are still a few stragglers coming across the finish line. The latest to do so is Littleton, Colorado-based CPI Card Group, perhaps known to our readers for having been recognized by the International Card Manufacturers Association for its excellence in card manufactuing. This no doubt was due to the composite-based card stock the company offers, which lasts more than five years (even after the challenging “paint shaker” test) and is compatible with laser engraving and personalization. One year later, the card stock has succesfuly completed independent FIPS 201 certification. The tested cards relied on smart card chips from semiconductor developer Atmel and represents for CPI, after ten years in the card manufacturing business, a high point in its conscious effort to expand into the FIPS 201 marketplace. “We understand how important it is for the Administration to control the origin of the PIV,” said company vice-president Bob Clarke. “We are proud to share with the market that we passed all tests with excellent results and are now ready to produce.”