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The QCAT Standard: Revolutionizing QR Code-Based Ticketing for Public Transport

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By mvryo





Public transportation is an essential component of modern urban life, and efficient ticketing systems are critical for keeping it running smoothly. AF Payments Inc. has introduced the QCAT standard, a comprehensive framework designed to streamline QR code-based ticketing systems, making public transportation more accessible and interoperable.

Who is AF Payments Inc.?

AF Payments Inc. (AFPI) is the driving force behind the QCAT standard. The company develops and operates electronic payment systems and automated fare collection solutions in the Philippines. AFPI is best known for managing the popular beep™ cards, which are widely used across the country’s public transportation networks. With a mission to create a seamless, cashless payment experience, AFPI leverages both QR code ticketing and NFC-based systems to modernize transport fare collection.

As the owner and operator of the QCAT standard, AFPI is committed to enhancing the interoperability of public transport ticketing solutions, allowing passengers to enjoy a smooth, efficient experience.

What is the QCAT Standard?

The QCAT standard provides a detailed collection of documents and technical specifications that define how QR code-based ticketing can be used for automated fare collection in public transport. These specifications ensure that all ticketing systems using QR technology are interoperable, meaning tickets issued by one operator can be validated across different systems.

At the core of QCAT is the QR code specification, which outlines how ticket information—such as fare, travel time, and validity—should be encoded and formatted. This standardization simplifies the passenger experience, enabling them to use the same type of ticket across various transport operators.

The QCAT Ecosystem: A Unified Approach

The QCAT ecosystem goes beyond technology. It also includes the operational and legal frameworks necessary to support a truly interoperable ticketing system. This ensures reliable and seamless ticketing experiences across different transport systems.

Participants in the QCAT ecosystem have defined roles:

  • QCAT Ticket Issuers - create and sell the tickets.
  • QCAT Ticket Acceptors - validate the tickets during boarding.
  • QCAT Ticket Creators - generate and manage tickets.
  • Public Transport Operators - provide the transport services.
  • Passengers - use the tickets for their travel.
  • QCAT Certificate Authorities - handle cryptographic security for ticket validation.
  • QCAT Registrars - manage ticket issuer identifiers.

How QCAT Works: Inside the QR Code

A QCAT QR code is packed with essential data that ensures both passengers and operators have access to accurate, real-time ticket information. This includes:

  • Ticket Identifier - a unique number assigned to each ticket.
  • Ticket Creator ID - identifies the authorized entity that generated the ticket.
  • Time of Ticket Creation - timestamp of when the ticket was issued.
  • Ticket Validity Period - how long the ticket remains valid for use.

Additional optional fields may include boarding and destination stations, as well as fare information. These data elements are outlined in detail in the QCAT specification.

QCAT vs. beep™ Cards: What’s the Difference?

While AFPI's beep™ cards use NFC technology for fare payments, they are not directly compatible with QCAT QR tickets. However, both technologies are part of AFPI's vision to create an integrated ticketing ecosystem. Eventually, the goal is to have ticketing systems that can support both beep™ cards and QCAT tickets, offering greater flexibility for transport operators and passengers alike.

The Significance of Interoperability in QCAT

At the heart of QCAT is interoperability. It ensures that QR tickets issued by any operator can be validated by any compatible system. This is made possible through cryptographic signatures, a common certificate authority, and uniform data standards. The system also relies on clear commercial agreements to ensure fare settlements are handled seamlessly between different transport operators.

QCAT License: Open, Yet Guarded

The QCAT specification is available for public study and non-commercial development. However, any implementation, whether commercial or non-commercial, must adhere to the QCAT license to maintain system interoperability. Interested parties, such as ticket issuers or transport operators, can use the standard but must sign an agreement with AFPI to use QCAT tickets in a live environment.

Joining the QCAT Ecosystem

Any organization interested in implementing the QCAT standard—whether as a ticket issuer, equipment vendor, or transport operator—can do so by following the technical guidelines. However, participation in the live QCAT ecosystem requires a formal license agreement with AFPI, ensuring all participants meet the necessary standards for interoperability and data security.

What’s Next for QCAT?

With its robust framework and clear guidelines, the QCAT standard is positioned to become a game-changer in public transport ticketing. The seamless and interoperable system benefits both passengers and operators by simplifying fare collection and ensuring reliability across various modes of transportation.

For those interested in the technical aspects, the full QCAT specification is available for review, and participation in the ecosystem is open to organizations that wish to contribute to the future of public transportation.

If you’d like to learn more or get involved in the QCAT ecosystem, feel free to check out my guides on QCAT specification below or check out AF Payments Inc.'s GitHub for the latest updates and contribution guidelines.

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DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, AF Payments Inc. reserves the right to update or modify the QCAT standard and related materials at any time. Use of the QCAT standard is subject to the terms of its license agreement, and any implementation must adhere to AFPI's guidelines and licensing requirements. For the latest details and official documentation, please refer to AF Payments Inc.'s authorized channels.

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