Smartcards
Information on how to get a smartcard and what you can use it for.
Functionality
The new smartcard contains a microchip so can be used for cashless catering and contactless door entry, where facilities exist, printing and photocopying in the open-access computing labs using the new cloud printing service, and speed lane access to the Main Library.
Existing access to services including library facilities, gym membership and building access permissions are automatically carried across to the new card.
Access to the Main Library using a smartcard
All of the swipe access lanes in the Main Library have been replaced by smartcard-operated speedlanes.
All users who currently hold a University of Edinburgh swipe card should replace this with a smartcard.
Cloud printing
Cloud printing (also know as "pull printing") was introduced in the main open-access computing labs at the University of Edinburgh during the summer of 2012.
How to get your smartcard
Remaining red and white card holders
If you still have a red or white University card, please come to one of the following Card help desks to exchange your old card for a smartcard:
- The Main Library, Ground Floor, George Square.
- The Edinburgh College of Art Library, Evolution House, West Port.
- The Lady Smith of Kelvin Veterinary Library, Easter Bush Campus.
- The Noreen and Kenneth Murray Library, The King's Buildings.
Your smartcard will become active the morning after you exchange it. If you need to use your card on the day of exchange, please let the Card help desk staff know and they will advise you on the procedure for doing so.
Placement and exchange students
Next time you are in Edinburgh please get a replacement card by following the procedure for remaining red and white card holders, detailed above.
Distance learners
If you are currently studying via distance education, you do not need a new card as the facilities it provides are only available on campus. If you are on campus in future you can choose to get a replacement card by following the procedure for remaining red and white card holders, detailed above.
Charges
If you bring your old card to exchange, or have never been issued with a University card, there will be no charge for the first issue of your new card. If your old card is lost, damaged or stolen then standard replacement fees apply.
This article was published on Mar 11, 2013