October 21, 2026
SLE5542 and SLE4442 contact smart cards are reliable memory-based IC cards designed for applications that require controlled data storage, contact-based reading and writing, and compatibility with established smart card systems.
The SLE5542 provides 256 bytes of EEPROM memory together with programmable security code (PSC) functionality and write protection. The SLE5542 is documented as functionally compatible with the SLE4442, making it suitable for applications built around existing SLE4442 card technology.
As a professional contact IC card supplier, we provide SLE5542/SLE4442 cards in standard CR80 format, with custom printing, numbering, barcodes, magnetic stripes, signature panels, and other personalization options.
Whether you need cards for access control, hotel systems, membership management, loyalty programs, or an existing contact smart card project, the card can be customized according to your reader and issuance requirements.
What Is an SLE5542 SLE4442 Contact Smart Card?
An SLE5542 SLE4442 contact smart card is a plastic card containing a contact IC module. Unlike RFID or NFC cards, the card communicates with a compatible reader through physical electrical contacts.
The SLE4442 is a classic memory smart card with 256 × 8-bit EEPROM organization. It provides byte-wise addressing, write protection for the first 32 memory addresses, and a programmable security code for controlling data modification. The SLE5542 maintains the same basic 256-byte memory architecture and is documented by Infineon as functionally compatible with SLE4442.
This makes the technology particularly useful when an existing access control, membership, stored-value, or identification system already uses an SLE4442-compatible card interface.
Key Features
- 256-byte EEPROM memory
- Programmable Security Code (PSC)
- Write protection for designated memory areas
- Contact interface compatible with ISO/IEC 7816 requirements
- Byte-wise data addressing
- Standard CR80 card format
- Custom offset and silk-screen printing
- Optional numbering and barcode personalization
- Optional magnetic stripe and signature panel
- Suitable for OEM and high-volume card production
The SLE5542 datasheet specifies a minimum EEPROM endurance of 100,000 erase/write cycles and minimum data retention of 10 years under specified conditions.
Product Details
Contact IC card chip available:
SLE5542, 5528 SERIES,
BEILING: 7442,7428,
ATMEL: 1200446E7A, 4C00A52DD4, 4C00A52DD4, 4C00A52DD4
| SLE4428 Contact IC cards feature | – SLE5542 Intelligent 256-Byte EEPROM– SLE5528 Intelligent 1K-Byte EEPROM– SLE4428 Intelligent 1K-Byte EEPROM– Write Protection function on unique manufacturer code to identification of application. – Programmable Security Code – EEPROM Endurance minimum 100,000 erase / write cycles – Minimum of 10 years data storage time – Contact configuration and serial interface in accordance to ISO standard 7816 |
| SLE4428 Contact IC cards Feature | – Dimensions: CR80 85.60 x 53.98mm – Thickness: 0.84mm – Material: PVC, PET – Card Surface: Matte/ gloss finish – Housing: Lamination – Operating Temperature: -25 to +60°C – Storage Temperature: -40 to +70°C |
| Printing Option | – Full color offset printing– Silk-screen printing– Silver/Gold silk-screen printing background |
| Additional crafts | – Magnetic Stripe Option: 300oe, 2750oe, 4000oe – Numbering – Barcode printing – Signature panel |
| Application | – hotel key card, membership management |
SLE5542 vs. SLE4442
SLE5542 and SLE4442 are closely related contact memory card technologies. The SLE5542 was developed as a later-generation device while maintaining functional compatibility with SLE4442 systems.
| Feature | SLE5542 | SLE4442 |
|---|---|---|
| Memory | 256-byte EEPROM | 256-byte EEPROM |
| Memory organization | 256 × 8-bit | 256 × 8-bit |
| Security function | Programmable Security Code | Programmable Security Code |
| Write protection | Yes | Yes |
| Protection memory | 32 bits | 32 bits |
| Contact interface | ISO/IEC 7816 compatible | ISO 7816 compatible |
| Data addressing | Byte-wise | Byte-wise |
| Functional relationship | Compatible with SLE4442 | Original compatible technology |
| Typical use | Existing contact IC systems | Existing contact IC systems |
Infineon’s SLE5542 documentation specifically states “100% functional compatibility to SLE 4442.” This is useful for replacement-oriented projects, but the actual compatibility of a card should always be confirmed against the reader, encoder, software, and card-issuing procedure used in the customer’s system.
Available Contact IC Card Chips
Different projects may require different contact IC memory capacities or chip families. We can supply several contact IC card configurations according to application requirements.
| Chip / Series | Memory | Interface Type | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| SLE5542 | 256 bytes | Contact IC | Access control, membership, legacy systems |
| SLE4442 | 256 bytes | Contact IC | Access control, stored-value and identification |
| SLE5528 | 1 KB | Contact IC | Higher-memory contact card applications |
| SLE4428 | 1 KB | Contact IC | Membership and legacy IC card systems |
| Other compatible chips | Upon request | Contact IC | OEM replacement or custom projects |
The product range can also include other contact IC configurations according to project requirements. If you are replacing an existing card, providing the exact chip number and reader model is recommended before production.
256-Byte EEPROM for Compact Data Storage
The SLE5542 and SLE4442 use a 256-byte EEPROM memory structure. The memory is organized into 256 addresses, with each address containing 8 bits.
This capacity is appropriate for applications that only need to store a relatively small amount of structured information rather than large files or biometric data.
Typical data may include an account identifier, membership information, access parameters, status information, counters, or application-specific records.
The first 32 data addresses also have corresponding protection bits. These can be used to permanently protect designated data from further modification.
Why Use EEPROM Memory?
EEPROM allows data to remain stored when the card is removed from the reader and power is disconnected. This makes contact memory cards suitable for portable identification and transaction-related applications where information must travel with the card.
For the SLE5542, the documented minimum endurance is 100,000 erase/write cycles, while data retention is specified at a minimum of 10 years under applicable conditions.
Programmable Security Code and Write Protection
The SLE5542/SLE4442 architecture includes a Programmable Security Code (PSC) that controls write and erase access to protected memory functions.
In practical terms, the card can be read by a compatible system, while changing protected data requires the appropriate security verification process. This provides a basic access-control mechanism for applications that need to prevent unauthorized modification of stored card data.
SLE4442 documentation describes a three-byte programmable security code and an error counter that can block further attempts after repeated unsuccessful verification.
This technology should be understood as a legacy memory-card security mechanism, rather than a replacement for modern cryptographic smart cards. For applications requiring advanced encryption, mutual authentication, secure key management, or strong resistance against sophisticated attacks, a modern secure-element or cryptographic smart card may be more appropriate.
ISO 7816 Contact Interface
SLE5542/SLE4442 cards use a physical contact interface designed for established smart card readers and encoders.
The SLE5542 documentation specifies contact configuration and synchronous transmission characteristics in accordance with ISO/IEC 7816 requirements.
This makes the card suitable for systems where users insert the card into a reader rather than presenting it wirelessly.
The final compatibility depends on more than the physical contact layout. The reader must also support the relevant memory-card protocol, voltage, timing, commands, security procedure, and card configuration.
For replacement projects, we recommend checking:
- Existing card chip model
- Reader or encoder model
- Card operating voltage
- Communication protocol
- Memory structure
- Security code requirements
- Existing card initialization procedure
Standard Contact Smart Card Specifications
The card body can be manufactured in the standard CR80 format used by most ID and payment-card-style applications.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Card Size | CR80, 85.60 × 53.98 mm |
| Standard Thickness | 0.84 mm |
| Card Material | PVC / PET |
| Surface | Matte or glossy |
| Construction | Laminated |
| Operating Temperature | -25°C to +60°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +70°C |
| Chip Type | SLE5542 / SLE4442 and other options |
| Interface | Contact IC |
| Printing | Offset / silk screen |
| Personalization | Numbering, barcode, signature panel |
The dimensions, materials, and environmental specifications above are based on the product configuration listed for this card range.
Custom dimensions or alternative materials may be discussed for specific OEM projects.
Custom Printing and Personalization
A contact IC card does not have to look like a plain technical card. We can combine the IC module with customized card artwork and personalization to create a finished product suitable for commercial deployment.
Available options include:
- Full-color offset printing
- Silk-screen printing
- Gold or silver silk-screen effects
- Sequential numbering
- Barcode printing
- Signature panel
- Magnetic stripe
- Custom artwork and branding
For cards used in membership or access control programs, numbering and barcode printing can also provide a visible identification method alongside the electronic chip.
Magnetic Stripe Options
For systems that combine contact IC technology with magnetic-stripe infrastructure, a magnetic stripe can be integrated into the same card.
Available magnetic stripe options include:
| Magnetic Stripe | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| 300 Oe LoCo | Applications with lower magnetic recording requirements |
| 2750 Oe HiCo | Higher-coercivity magnetic applications |
| 4000 Oe HiCo | Applications requiring higher coercivity |
The appropriate magnetic stripe should be selected according to the customer’s existing encoder and reader specifications rather than by coercivity alone.
A dual-technology card can also combine a contact IC module with RFID or NFC technology when a project requires both contact and contactless identification. Existing product configurations demonstrate combinations such as MIFARE plus SLE5542/SLE4442.
SLE5542 Contact Smart Card for Access Control
SLE5542/SLE4442 cards can be used in access control systems where the installed reader is designed to read and write compatible contact memory cards.
A typical system can use the card to carry user or access-related information. The card is inserted into an encoder or reader, and the system verifies or updates the relevant information according to the application design.
This type of card is particularly relevant for upgrading or replacing existing systems without changing the entire card infrastructure.
Access Control Card Options
| Requirement | Available Option |
|---|---|
| Contact-only access card | SLE5542 / SLE4442 |
| Contact + RFID | Dual-technology card |
| Contact + NFC | Dual-technology card |
| Printed employee ID | Custom artwork + numbering |
| Visitor card | Numbering + barcode |
| Hotel-related card | Custom print + contact IC |
| Existing SLE4442 replacement | SLE5542-compatible option |
Actual compatibility should be verified with the installed reader and card-encoding software before bulk production.
Other Applications
Although access control is an important use case, SLE5542 and SLE4442 contact cards can also be used in other systems that require small amounts of electronically stored information.
Common applications include:
Membership Cards
Membership information can be stored on the card and accessed through a compatible contact reader. Custom printing can include the member’s organization, card number, branding, or barcode.
Loyalty Programs
The EEPROM structure can be used for applications that require compact card-based records. The exact data structure should be designed around the software and reader system.
Hotel and Hospitality Systems
Contact IC cards can be integrated into legacy hotel-related systems where compatible encoders and readers are already installed. Some established hotel access-control equipment has supported SLE5542/SLE4442 contact cards.
Identification Systems
For identification applications that only need a small amount of stored information, a contact memory card can provide a simple physical credential.
Contact Smart Card vs. RFID Card
Choosing between a contact IC card and an RFID card depends primarily on the existing reader infrastructure and user experience required.
| Comparison | Contact IC Card | RFID / NFC Card |
|---|---|---|
| Reader Connection | Physical contacts | Wireless |
| User Action | Insert / contact card | Tap or present card |
| Typical Interface | ISO 7816 contact interface | RF interface |
| Compatibility | Existing contact readers | RFID/NFC readers |
| Typical Use | Legacy access and memory-card systems | Contactless access and identification |
| Dual Technology | Available | Available |
If an existing system already uses SLE4442 or SLE5542 cards, replacing the card with a different RFID technology may require changes to the reader and software. For replacement projects, a compatible contact IC card is often the more straightforward starting point.
Why Choose a Custom SLE5542 Card?
A successful card project requires more than selecting a chip. The card body, IC module, printing, encoding, personalization, and reader compatibility all need to work together.
Our manufacturing service can combine these elements into one customized card.
One-Stop Card Customization
We can support:
- IC chip selection
- Card body manufacturing
- Custom artwork
- Offset printing
- Silk-screen printing
- Magnetic stripe integration
- Barcode printing
- Sequential numbering
- Signature panels
- OEM packaging
- Card personalization requirements
This allows customers to order finished cards instead of coordinating separate suppliers for the chip, plastic card, printing, and personalization.
SLE5542 Card Production Process
A typical project can follow the process below:
1. Application Review
Confirm the intended application, reader model, existing card type, and required memory configuration.
2. Chip Selection
Select SLE5542, SLE4442, SLE5528, SLE4428, or another suitable contact IC according to the system requirements.
3. Card Artwork
Submit the card design, logo, colors, text, barcode requirements, and personalization layout.
4. Sample Confirmation
Samples can be produced for physical, printing, chip, and reader compatibility checks.
5. Mass Production
After sample approval, the cards are manufactured, printed, encoded or personalized as required, and prepared for delivery.
For replacement projects, testing a sample batch with the customer’s actual reader and software is recommended before full-scale production.
How to Select the Right Contact IC Card
Use the following checklist when requesting a quotation:
| Requirement | Information to Provide |
|---|---|
| Existing Chip | SLE4442, SLE5542, SLE4428, etc. |
| Reader Model | Manufacturer and model number |
| Memory | Required capacity |
| Card Size | CR80 or custom |
| Thickness | 0.76 / 0.84 mm or custom |
| Material | PVC / PET / other |
| Printing | Offset / silk screen |
| Personalization | Number / barcode / signature |
| Magnetic Stripe | Yes / No and coercivity |
| Quantity | Required order quantity |
| Encoding | Required data or initialization |
| Application | Access control, hotel, membership, etc. |
Providing this information helps reduce compatibility issues and allows the card specification to be matched to the actual system.
OEM and Custom Contact IC Card Service
We support OEM requirements for companies that need their own card artwork, numbering system, packaging, or application-specific configuration.
The front and back of the card can be customized with corporate branding, logos, instructions, serial numbers, barcodes, or other visual elements.
For projects requiring electronic personalization, the card encoding process can also be discussed according to the customer’s system and security requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SLE5542 compatible with SLE4442?
The SLE5542 datasheet states that it is 100% functionally compatible with SLE4442. However, compatibility should still be tested with the specific reader, encoder, software, and card-issuing process used in the application.
How much memory does an SLE5542 card have?
SLE5542 provides 256 bytes of EEPROM data memory, organized as 256 × 8 bits.
Does SLE4442 have a security code?
Yes. SLE4442 includes a programmable security code used to control write and erase access to the memory. Its security architecture also includes an error counter for unsuccessful verification attempts.
Can SLE5542 cards be used for access control?
Yes, provided that the access control reader and software support the SLE5542/SLE4442 contact memory card technology. The SLE5542 is also documented for applications including access control and membership cards.
Can the card be printed with a company logo?
Yes. Full-color offset printing, silk-screen printing, and additional personalization options are available.
Can I add a barcode or serial number?
Yes. Sequential numbering and barcode printing can be added to the card according to the project requirements.
Can an SLE5542 card include a magnetic stripe?
Yes. Magnetic stripe options such as 300 Oe, 2750 Oe, and 4000 Oe can be integrated into the card configuration.
Can the contact card be combined with RFID?
Yes. Dual-technology cards can combine a contact IC module with RFID or NFC technology. The exact combination should be selected according to the readers used in the application.
Is SLE5542 suitable for a new security-critical system?
SLE5542/SLE4442 is primarily a legacy contact memory-card technology. Its PSC and write-protection functions are useful for compatible applications, but they should not automatically be considered equivalent to modern cryptographic authentication. For new systems with high security requirements, the complete security architecture should be evaluated before selecting the card technology.
Request a Quote for SLE5542 SLE4442 Contact Smart Cards
If you are replacing an existing SLE4442 card, developing an access control card, or sourcing custom contact IC cards for a membership or identification system, send us your card requirements.
Please include the chip model, reader model, card quantity, card size, printing requirements, and whether encoding or personalization is required.
Our team can recommend a suitable card configuration and provide a quotation for samples or bulk production.
