ID TECH’s Gen 1 vs Gen 2 Contact Kernels

In November 2015, ID TECH created our first EMV L2 Common Contact kernel (Gen 1). Prior to this, EMV products each contained their own unique EMV L2 Contact kernel. Thanks to the Common Contact kernel, multiple ID TECH EMV products could be covered under one EMV L3 certification.

The original version of the Gen 1 Common Contact kernel only contained four different terminal configurations (1C-4C). As card brands started to promote Quick Chip, an additional terminal configuration was created (5C), which did not support cardholder confirmation. This allowed ID TECH to create the first keyboard Quick Chip devices in the industry, making the Augusta a replacement for the vast majority of keyboard emulation MagStripe readers. The following devices use the Gen 1 Common Contact kernel:

In 2018, when ID TECH wanted to add another terminal configuration, the EMV L2 Contact kernel specification changed such that the Gen 1 kernel was not able to meet the latest specification. This resulted in EMV Co designating the Gen 1 kernel as a restricted renewal, requiring ID TECH to create a second generation contact kernel that could support additional terminal configurations. The ID TECH Gen 2 EMV L2 Common Contact kernel currently supports 23 different terminal configuration types. The following devices use the Gen 2 Common Contact kernel:

Devices that support both the Gen 1 and Gen 2 Common Contact kernels can select the desired kernel as part of device configuration.

• Gen 1 Common Contact Kernel: https://www.emvco.com/wp-content/uploads/approved_products/uploaded/loa/L2_VIVO_03334_07Aug18.pdf
• Gen 2 Common Contact Kernel: https://www.emvco.com/wp-content/uploads/approved_products/uploaded/loa/L2_VIVO_04257_01Oct18.pdf

What is a restricted renewal?

When a device or kernel is up for renewal but no longer able to meet the most recent specification, EMV Co reviews the nonconforming portion and determines whether the device is no longer sellable or if they can issue a restricted renewal. If they place the product or kernel on the restricted renewal list, it is valid for another four years but cannot be renewed again. This means that gateways and processors have until one year after the kernel’s expiration date (brand grace period rule) to start an EMV L3 certification (check with your desired processor for details, as their rules may be different).