Importance

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Abstract

A secure communications card modem, in general accord with PCMCIA standards, is provided for use in authenticating authorized users to transmit or receive sensitive data. In a preferred embodiment, the communications card modem is configured for use with two sliding interface ports and a connector for interfacing with a host computer. The two sliding interface ports comprise a media connector port and a security port. The media connector port is adapted for receiving a media connector, such as a RJ-11 phone jack. The security port is adapted for receiving a security card. During use, a user inserts a security card into the security port whereupon the security card is authenticated by a reader circuit within the modem. Thereafter, the modem circuitry within the modem is enabled to transmit or receive sensitive data. In the event the reader circuit does not authenticate the security card, the modem circuitry is disabled from transferring data from between the computer and communications line. In the event authentication is not required, the modem circuitry is enabled to transfer data as a conventional modem.

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First Claim