The project combines computer chips with photo identification cards, and these cards were initially used to track the medication activity of 2,300 inmates in a medium-security men's facility. The processor and memory chip are embedded in the cards. They have the capacity for off-line storage as well as encryption for security. One of the benefits of the cards is the increased ability to manage inmate data. Smart cards can include several different types of technologies and are issued for a variety of purposes. Some provide access to restricted areas, while others are service-related such as telephone calling cards and cards that deduct purchases from the holder's account. Still others are for identification purposes only. Biometric information from fingerprints, eye scans, and finger geometry can all be used as identifiers. Applications involving the use of smart cards by other than the DRC are noted. 1 illustration