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Understanding the Purpose of Tapping on a Card at Train Stations in Singapore
Understanding the Purpose of Tapping on a Card at Train Stations in Si
Understanding the Purpose of Tapping on a Card at Train Stations in Singapore
Introduction to the Tapping Card System
Singapore's public transport system is known for its efficiency and seamless integration of various modes of transport. One of the key features of this system is the need to tap your card at entry and exit points. This article explains the purpose of this practice and how it contributes to the overall functionality of Singapore's train stations.The Purpose of Tapping a Card at Train Stations
In Singapore, many individuals use concession cards or contactless cards to travel. These cards contain monetary value that you deposit when you purchase them. When you enter and exit train stations, you need to tap your card to verify its validity and to pay for your journey. Tapping the card serves multiple purposes. It confirms your prepaid right to access the trains and records the transactions. For concession card holders, the tapping process also verifies the validity of the card before any cash is inserted into the fare box. This helps in maintaining the integrity of the system and ensures that only valid cards are used.How Tapping Works on Concession Cards
For concession card holders, tapping the card at the card reader is the first step in the journey. The card reader verifies the validity of the card. If the card is valid, you can proceed to drop your cash into the fare box. This process ensures that the card is properly registered and that the correct amount is deducted for the journey. If the card is not valid, you will be informed and need to take appropriate action, such as contacting the operator or purchasing a new card.Benefits of the Tapping System
The tapping system in Singapore brings several advantages to the public transport system. Here are some of the key benefits: Control Points: Tapping the card serves as a control point at entry and exit, which helps in managing and controlling the flow of passengers. Payment Verification: Each tap verifies that the card has been properly loaded with a necessary amount of travel credit. This prevents misuse of the system. Detailed Records: Tapping the card provides detailed records of your entry and exit points, which are used for financial transactions and for tracking travel patterns. Facilitating Transfers: In larger stations, the system allows seamless transfers between different modes of transport, such as buses and the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). Efficiency: The system operates efficiently, facilitating quicker entry and exit processes, which in turn enhances the overall journey experience.The Tapping System Explained for Different Types of Cards
The tapping system is not limited to concession cards. Whether you have an EzLink card or another contactless card, the principle remains the same. The tap serves as a validation step to ensure that the card is a valid payment method and that the correct journey cost is deducted. Here is how it works for different types of cards:EzLink Card:
When you insert an EzLink card into the card reader, it verifies the card's validity and deducts the appropriate fare for the journey. This system is integrated with the larger public transport network, allowing for seamless transfers between different modes of transport.
Contactless Cards:
Contactless cards, such as those used in the PayWave system, also require a tap to validate the card. This process helps in maintaining the security and functionality of the card, ensuring that it is used for the intended purpose.