Types of Calling Cards

Stored-value vs. Remote Memory System Phone Cards
By: Tavis McKenzie, GM. Phone Card Depot

There are two types of calling cards, Stored-value Phone Cards and Remote Memory System Phone Cards. One saves the balance of your service directly onto the card via magnetic strip or chip and the other stores the value of your service in a remote database.

• Stored-value Calling Cards: These cards have a magnetic strip on them like a credit or debit card. The magnetic strip stores the balance left on the calling card right on the card itself. For more detailed information see: A History of Stored Value Calling Cards.

Sample Canadian Stored-Value Cards:

1. 2. 3.

1. $20 Bell QuickChange Card Original First Issue (Couple at Payphone)
2. $2 Bell QuickChange Card (Logo)
3. $20 Bell Canada (Coca-Cola and Santa)


*Note: this small rectangular chip on each card stores the remaining balance of the card

• Remote Memory System Calling Cards: Unlike Stored-value calling cards, these cards do not have a magnetic strip on them. The user must connect to an external database in order to retrieve information about the calling card. Most calling cards that you purchase from variety stores or gas stations today are remote memory system based. The local access number or 1-800 number on the card connects you to this database via your landline or cell. See: A History of Remote Memory System Calling Cards. All calling cards instantly delivered online are Remote Memory System Calling Cards because there is no magnetic strip to swipe.

Sample Canadian Remote Memory System Calling Cards

1. 2. 3.

1. $20 BC Tel (Native Series) - 1995
2. $5 Bell Canada (Toronto Blue Jays) - 1994
3. 10 minutes Telus (Bears) - 2000

Phone Card Depot is an online retailer of pre-paid phone cards. All cards are instantly delivered via e-mail.

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