Fun Fact Friday – Invention of bank cards
In 1960, while at IBM, Forrest Parry invented the magnetic stripe now used on bank cards.
He had the idea of glueing short pieces of magnetic tape to each plastic card, but they didn’t stay on. When he returned home, his wife was ironing some clothes. Forrest told his wife about his problem and she suggested using an iron to melt the stripe onto the card. He tried it, it worked, and the bank card was born.
In the main, this seems like a straightforward solution. On further investigation, the work to develop the card continued for many years to achieve the desired result. The design brief was twofold – to adhere the magnetic strip to the plastic securely and to keep the data safe. A complex task requiring a great understanding of the materials involved. Decades later and the bank card is commonplace and a necessity for many people.



Apple Watch Charging base
I also like how the solution to the bank card problem has been used to successfully develop other products. ID badges, travel cards, access swipe cards etc – all everyday things that stem from the original engineering to create a reliable, safe bank card. Born from an iron, at home, the fact is a good reminder of the hands-on, persistent and innovative – fundamentals we employ here at WHC. Technology progresses, and we now see smartphones and watches replacing bank cards. In fact, I design a charging base for a smartwatch a little while ago.
I started my career as apprentice toolmaker and believe my practical experience is a great asset to my designing. I was reflecting on my apprenticeship this week and took a little trip down memory lane. You can read about on our blog – I hope it’s helpful to any budding engineers or a bit nostalgic for more experienced peers. I had a good time learning my trade and still work with those contacts now designing new pieces.
We’re only a telephone or Zoom call away so please get in touch to start a conversation about your idea.