What Causes ETC Card Reading Errors?
3 Answers
The reasons for ETC card reading errors are: 1. Driving too fast through the ETC lane, resulting in incomplete information reading; 2. Weak antenna signal between the device and the lane; 3. Malfunction of the card or onboard device, which should be checked. A card reader is a device for reading cards. Due to the variety of card types, the scope of card readers is quite broad. Depending on the card type, card readers can be categorized into IC card readers, including contact IC cards. Based on the type of storage card, they can be divided into CF card readers, SM card readers, PCMCIA card readers, and memory stick readers. By port type, they can be classified into serial port readers, parallel port readers, and USB readers. The ETC system requires the installation of an onboard device containing vehicle information. When a vehicle enters the entrance of an electronic toll collection lane, the station-level device of the highway data collection and processing system reads the vehicle information from the onboard device, retrieves matching vehicle data from the database for processing, stores the record, and uploads it to the data management center of the highway data collection and processing system.
I have several years of experience using ETC and have encountered read failures multiple times. The most likely reason is incorrect card placement—if the antenna isn't aligned properly, the signal gets interrupted, preventing the toll station equipment from reading it. Windshield tint that's too thick or colored film blocking the signal transmission area can also cause issues. Additionally, if the internal battery of the card is depleted, low power leads to weak signals and frequent errors, especially after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Dirt, grease, or dust covering the chip can interfere with sensing. The solution is simple: after stopping, readjust the card position to ensure it's securely fixed and wipe the chip with a clean cloth; if the battery is dead, contact the service provider for a replacement card; or temporarily use a manual lane. Regularly avoid placing the card in your pocket where hard objects might scratch it, and perform periodic device maintenance to reduce malfunctions.
When using ETC while driving, common read errors occur due to misaligned or loose cards, or unstable signal reception. If the card's chip is aged or damaged, data transmission may be hindered; obstruction of the device's antenna by window tint is another factor. Additionally, a depleted card battery may fail to emit sufficient energy, or the toll station's card reader might temporarily malfunction. I recommend cleaning the chip surface to remove dirt and resecuring the card in place to observe any changes in the indicator light. If that doesn't work, contact customer service to check the card's status for possible overdue fees or expiration without activation. Choose thin or partially transparent window films to prevent interference. Remember, battery life is limited—avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures to extend usage.
