Smart cards and soft certificates

1. Do I need a smart card to prepare patent applications using the Online Filing software?

You do not need a smart card to prepare applications, but you do need one to sign and send your application online to the EPO and most of the national offices.

2. How can I verify that my smart card reader has been properly installed and that my smart card is recognised by my PC?

You can check the functioning of your smart card and certificates as follows:

Insert your smart card into the reader. Go to Start -> Programs -> Gemplus -> GemSAFE Libraries v3.2.5 -> GemSAFE Card Details Tool. In the prompt enter your PIN code and click Verify. Once your card has been recognised, click Card -> Information. The Card Information page will display details of the certificates contained on your smart card.

Users of GemSAFE Libraries version 4.2. or 5.1 should click on Start -> Programs -> Gemplus/Gemalto -> GemSAFE Toolbox -> Certificates. You will see the window below, with the reader icons shown.

3. What are soft certificates and are they accepted by the EPO?

A soft certificate is a file which contains certificates which are similar to those on a smart card but which are not stored on or secured by the chip of a smart card. The EPO does not at present accept applications signed or sent to the EPO using soft certificates using the Online Filing software. It is, however, possible to file Form PCT/RO/101 prepared using PCT-SAFE and a WIPO-issued certificate.

4. If I enter my PIN code incorrectly three times in succession, how do I then unlock my smart card?

You should contact EPO user support for assistance.