Some students preview multifunction ID cards

For the past week, students of Pennypacker and McKean halls have been testing the new ID cards that will be given to all University students for the upcoming academic year.

The card's magnetic strip has the same functions for key entry and for purchasing food at the dining commons. But the card is equipped with an added chip, which gives students the option of using their cards for laundry machines, copy machines and vending machines. "I think it's pretty spiffy," said Alena Singleton (freshman-biology), about her temporary card. "It's a lot easier to carry around than loose change." The desire for the convenience of one card with several options sparked plans for the new card more than a year ago by members of the Undergraduate Student Government.

"It's hassle-free," said John Wood (sophomore-biology), a USG East Halls senator and resident of McKean Hall.

Other students have had similar responses to the new card. There have been more purchases in vending machines in Pennypacker and McKean halls by the card than by money, said Allen Chouinard, manager of Housing and Food Services for East Halls.

For the trial period, students have been given $5 to spend on the chip. They can add up to $50.

However, choice is an issue for some students. Although all the features are on a single card, there are two separate accounts. The magnetic strip is still used for the eating areas and key entry, but the chip is a separate account that has the laundry, vending machine and copying options.

"They should include everything on a single account instead of separating the chip from the magnetic part. I'd rather have the choice to make between food and laundry," Singleton said.

Another concern of students testing the new cards seemed to be the temptation of using all their money.

"If you have any money on the chip, you're too tempted to use up all your money," said Anthony Cope (freshman-chemical engineering), a resident of Pennypacker Hall.

But, overall, students said they were satisfied with the card.

"It combines everything in one and it's convenient. Although I had problems with it, everything's fixed and I have no complaints," said Dave Stout (freshman-turf grass science), who reported problems using his card in the University Creamery and The Bryce Jordan Center.

The students in East Halls will continue to test the cards until the end of the semester. Tentatively between April 20 and May 1, Rose said, all students will be able to receive new ID cards. He added there will be no charge to students for the new cards.

Additional options are planned for the ID cards by Summer Session.

Dave Rose, manager at the HUB ID Office, said more vending machines throughout campus will be available eventually.

"I would really like to see it implemented off campus as well as the whole campus. I won't have to carry around everything and worry about losing money," Wood said.

The card will also have a long distance calling option and can be used at ATM machines and as a debit card if the students opt for this feature, Rose said. But everything right now is being taken one step at a time, he said.