PKard apps FAQ

• Why is a smart card hardware reader required, or couldn't I just use my old USB Mac/PC, Blackberry etc. reader with the right connectors or cables?

  Apple's iPad, iPhone and iPod touch devices, much like iMac and MacBook, don't have smart card readers built in.  Unfortunately plugging a Mac/PC USB reader, or non iPad/iPhone specific reader in to the 30 pin connector with an adapter doesn't work. Specific smart card readers are required for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch use.

• Why is Thursby's software needed for the reader(s), or couldn't I just roll my own apps?

  Apple's built in software is not secure natively.   It does not support smart cards, or smart card readers.   Building apps is possible with an SDK but for most users who are not organizations developing app software, COTS software is preferable.

• Why a secure browser?

  It's the app that everyone needs!   With so much business functionality already written on secure web servers, it's the logical starting point -- the biggest bang per buck for both users and organizations - no need to reinvent cards, security or infrastructure.   Custom apps on the iPad and iPhone all have their place but it would be a rare use case where any other single app or even group of app is as broadly useful as a browser.  The web after all was designed a generation ago at CERN to maximize interoperability, sharing and collaboration.   Many consumers already build their digital lives around mobile and cloud sites.   PKard adds the missing element of strong security.
   

• Which hardware readers do you recommend?

  We support a range of hardware readers varying in features and/or pricing.   We recommend picking the reader(s) that best meet your needs.

• Android or legacy Windows or Blackberry devices?

  An Android version is on the roadmap but that will be a separate app.

• Can Thursby work with non CAC/PIV smart cards?

  If you have an ISO 7816 smart card(s) that we do not already support, we can still help you.    We typically need to know -

  How many devices are you looking to support with the cards?
  Do you have test cards and full specifications available?
  Do you have test sites, a plan, success criteria and a time-line against which to test?

• How do I setup an Apple iTunes account with no credit card?

  Click here.

• Do you provide training and consulting around secure mobile development and deployment?

  Professional services are offered by a number of specialized consulting and systems integration companies.  Our business is COTS software rather than services.

• For more information  please contact us at sales@thursby.com or +1 (817) 478-5070