The Timex Speedpass Watch

RedWolves2 writes "Timex Corporation is developing a watch which incorporates Speedpass technology embedded into it. McDonalds has also partnered with Speedpass with 400 stores in the Chicago area that accept speedpass. Now you can order a value meal like this "You will serve me a Big Mac Meal with a Coke!" (While waving your hand like a Jedi Knight using the Jedi Mind trick)."

Comments

So?

[CaptainZapp]

Maybe I'm a tad dim tody, but what else is new? Swatch released the Swatch Access about 5 years ago.

It is a little larger then a normal Swatch and you can load it at umpteen or so ski resorts, where it can be used instead of a normal ski pass.

They don't have batteries...

[weave]

I have had a Speedpass for a few years now, before Exxon bought Mobil and it was just in the rare Mobil station. They are great and can also be used to buy crap inside the store. No "minimum charge" hassles either.

They do not have batteries. I'm not exactly sure HOW they work but I haven't seen anyone else explain it either and, you know, this is the net. The answer can't be that difficult.

A web google search didn't turn up much besides this. The Mobil Speedpass is based on Texas Instruments' Registration and Identification System (TIRIS), the first radio-frequency identification (RFID) device used for retail transactions. The system is similar to a remote control but different in that RFIDs transmit a user-specific signal, almost like a wireless PIN number.

But a usenet search turned up a lot, like this post. Ok, a typical device of this type is quite simple in concept. The coil with rod, acts to recieve 100Khz or so RF, which is then rectified to charge a capacitor, to power the rest. There is a small chip in there, which talks to the reader, usually by shorting out the coil for short periods of time, this causes the RF field to change, which can be read by the reader. Another way is for the chip to connect a diode to the coil, this causes the transmitter/reciever to generate a harmonic, at 2* the frequency of the exciting field, this can also be picked up.

Re:If this is stolen....

[Darkstar9969]

I am a Speedpass user in the Chicago area.

Firstly, the Speedpass needs to be pretty close to the speedpass readers to get your "secret speedpass code". (within a foot or so)

Secondly, McDonalds and Walgreens don't turn their readers on until you tell them you are using Speedpass. You can't just walk past one and have it ring up someone's happy meal.
(The readers are also in Mobil gas stations but are too high up on the pump to be read accidentally)

As to the stolen point kwishot makes, yes it would suck if my speedpass got stolen, but it's attached to my car keys. If it got stolen I'd notice. They'd have to take half of my keychain to get it. I agree it IS a bit less secure than a credit card but somebody could smash my car window and get my Ipass and cruise the tollway free and clear until I noticed the gaping hole in my windshield...

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