>> About Us > Milestones 1977 - 1989
- Polaroid representatives Leopold Lutz and Guenther Walcher come up with an idea for replacing the existing hand-written ski passes with professional ones that would support automated processing. The idea for SKIDATA is born.
- First cash register for ticket sales: an electromagnetic stamping device for automated ticket labelling
- Launch of System 320, consisting of a cash computer and automated card issuing device
- Cash Computer KC 320
- National industrial holding Constantia acquires an interest in SKIDATA
- SKIDATA introduces first thermoplast mag stripe card system (KC 340), which soon replaces systems with barcoded tickets
- First associations of ski operators ('ski pools') begin to form
- SKIDATA achieves breakthrough with new system for accurate accounting among pools
- By 1986, SKIDATA's market share already exceeds the 80% mark
- Entry into the world of mag stripe cards with KC340
- Development of first wireless (RFID, i.e. radio frequency identification) data carrier in co-operation with EM Microelectronic-Marin (a SWATCH Group enterprise)
- remiere of “SKIDATA Keywatch” (electronic watch with wireless ticket functionality)
- Expansion of business activities into solutions for parking management
- Introduction of System 430 launches a highly successful product career
- SKIDATA develops its first own RFID chip; this is smaller land cheaper than conventional chips
- Launch of the keycard as handy wireless data carrier
