Apparatus for decoding (reading) encoded cards; apparatus for issuing reading cards bearing encoded information; apparatus for payment with magnetically encoded cards; apparatus for payment with magnetically memory cards; apparatus for reading (decoding) encoded cards; automatic dispensing (vending) machines for visiting cards; card readers for credit cards; computer terminals for use with credit cards at point of sale; computer terminals for use with debit cards at point of sale; computer terminals for use with encoded cards at point of sale; computer terminals for use with magnetic cards at point of sale; terminals for processing credit cards; terminals for the electronic payment of charges with credit cards