nShield Trusted Verification Device (TVD)

 nShield Trusted Verification Device (TVD)


  • nShield Trusted Verification Device (TVD) is a USB connected smart card reader.
  • The nShield TVD connects to a laptop or work station. The TVD facilitates the authentication between the smart card and the HSM.
  • The user is prompted to confirm the Electronic Serial Number (ESN) of the HSM being displayed on the nShield TVD.
  • Each time a smart card is inserted a new secure channel between smart card and HSM is established, when the smart card is removed the secure channel is shut down.











Safety and security

  • When the TVD is not being used it must be stored in a secure place.
  • There are no user-serviceable parts inside the nShield TVD. Any attempt to dismantle the nShield TVD results in any remaining warranty cover, the maintenance and support agreement, or both being rendered void.
  • Always inspect the USB cable and the nShield TVD before use.
  • Make sure that the two nCipher tamper seals on the nShield TVD are undamaged before using the device, see "nCipher tamper seals" below. If they are damaged the reader could have been tampered with. If this is the case please contact nCipher Support, https://help.ncipher.com.
  • Never store or carry smart cards with the nShield TVD.







Connecting the metal support bracket
  • Remove the nShield TVD and the metal stand from the packaging.
  • Slide the metal stand into the slots on either side of the TVD.
  • Route the USB cable through the groove in the base of the metal stand (if required).










Connecting an nShield TVD
  • Connect the nShield TVD to your computer, using the USB cable.
  • If your operating system detects the nShield TVD automatically, allow it to finish.
  • Do not connect a nShield TVD to your computer with a smart card already inserted. The nShield TVD will not be recognised and the message Please remove card will be displayed on the nShield TVD. When the smart card is removed the message Secoder 2 V2.2.1 will be displayed and the nShield TVD will be available.





Disconnecting and reconnecting the nShield TVD

After use, you can disconnect the nShield TVD from the computer’s USB port, and then reconnect it when you next need to use it.
Do not disconnect the nShield TVD or remove the smart card when data is being written to the
inserted smart card.




Troubleshooting

If the nShield TVD does not function as expected, disconnect the nShield TVD, wait a few seconds, and
then reconnect it. If this does not solve your problem, contact nCipher Support, https://help.ncipher.com.


Using the nShield Trusted Verification Device






A: Card slot
For inserting a smart card into the TVD, the chip on the card should face the user and inserted first into the card slot.

B: Display Displays the ESN of the HSM.

C: Keypad 0 -9, CLR,  ^ and  v: Not used
  • C: Used for canceling the current smart card verification
  • @: Can be used to show the firmware version and the name of the reader (status LED flashes at the same time)
  • Note: Do not press the @ key when there is a smart card in the card slot because the time taken to display this information can cause the secure connection between smart card and HSM to be broken.
  • OK: Used to confirm the smart card verification and abort messages
D: Status LED
The status LED will flash when the TVD:
  • Is connected to a USB port
  • Requires the user to confirm a decision. For example, if the C button is pressed during a smart card verification the LED will flash and you will be asked to confirm the abort by pressing OK.



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