hey....jus wanna find out whether an IU that accpt all types of cards would be useful?.
Hmm.. sounds like a project team member question..
Anyway.. my answer is no.
What is so wrong with the current IU system that would require increased acceptability? The logical leap forward would be post paid billing. Are there tons of feedback about IU not accepting ezlink card? Then what, all ezlink card to be upgraded to high heat resistant cards like the cash card? Increased cost for everyone?
I am well aware of the industry practice to justify it's existence. I see nothing broken that needs fixing. Proposals for cost reduction for end user, I would surely support.
i would rather no IU at all.
Cash card will be made redundant if the IU can accept other forms of card. The technology of cash card is implemented way before the EZ link card that is being used for public transport, say if EZ link card can be used instead millions of dollars will be wasted in the infrastures.
I hear that the ezlink card contactless reader cost ard $400 per pcs. Dunno what is the current cost, but unlikely to drop to the cost of a simple mechanical contact mechanism. Also.. it runs real hot. Thus.. using contactless on IU not logical.
Unless the new system can radically reduce the costs of running the present IU system, else no. New infrastructure, new units, new cards, new testing. All these need money. And will be passed on to the end user. Why fix something that is not broken?