It is no secret that the biometric industry has ridden on the security wave post Nov 11. Post Nov 11, the US government laid down several policies for the purpose of homeland security, the FIPS 201 standards for personal verification is just one of them. Biometric fingerprint reader devices, like Futronic FS88 Fingerprint Scanner, have to be FIPS 201 consistent. The standard was laid down by NIST in response to HS Presidential Directive 12 that is discussed later in this article.

The key drivers of biometric security

The Home Security Presidential Directive 12 (2004) and the Prum Decision (2005) are the key drivers when it comes to the explaining the growth of the $10 Billion dollar, Biometric industry. The HS Presidential Directive 12 laid down the guidelines for protecting federal property and network resources. It mandated the standardization of federal employee identification system, protection of federal installations and resources, and setting up of training and research institutions for home land security. The objective of this directive was to prevent any repeat of the 9/11 accident.

The European Union got together and passed the Prum Decision a year following the HS12 directive. The original signatories included Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands and Spain. The treaty was signed in a small town in Germany, Prum. The Prum treaty laid down rules for sharing of data, including DNA and fingerprint data collected with the help of a Fingerprint Reader.

Following these directives, investment in the moribund biometric industry picked up considerably. The industry grew by doggedly pursuing quality. Government intervention also helped. The turnaround came when private players jumped in the fray, demanding biometric security enabled appliances at their place of business. Fingerprint readers such as Futronic FS88 Fingerprint Scanner and Futronic FS80 Futronic FS80 are ideal biometric security devices.

Why Biometrics?
The biometrics industry is tailor made for the security business. Biometrics uses immutable characteristics like fingerprints, iris patterns, voice data, and gait for identification purposes. The Futronic FS88 Fingerprint Scanner can be used to record fingerprint data which can then be used for identifying an individual. Biometric technology can be used in hospitals, dispensaries, hotels, restaurants, construction sites to provide access control and employee time clock.

Griaule is a well known software company behind more than 500,000 biometric transactions worldwide. This biometric software company provides well calibrated facial and fingerprint recognition biometric software solutions to clients all over the world. Over the last few years, it has collaborated closely with companies like Lumidigm to provide banking and e-passport solutions to clients in South America and the rest of the world.

Airports are being modernized all over the world to phase out manual verification procedure and replace it with automatic e-verification technology. In this light, E-Passport based verification, using technology similar to the Griaule ICAO Face SDK, will become more commonplace in the coming few decades, as a smooth transition is made to a passenger friendly environment at all airports. E-Passport systems will make passenger management systems smoother at the airports and remove the need to queue up to get security clearance. The United States is yet to embrace e-passport fully; however, many countries including France have already started using this system successfully.

Griaule has also provided its expertise to personalize the whole banking experience and make it more attractive and customer friendly. Griaule Fingerprint SDK, a Fingerprint recognition software development kit can be used in a banking environment to provide ATM logins. The use of fingerprint recognition biometric software in ATM’s dispenses with the use of pin numbers that can be stolen very easily. Fingerprint login in ATM machines makes it safer for the user to login and withdraw money. Recently, a conglomeration consisting of Granule, Lumidigm and Deobold Brazil took up a massive project in Brazil to enable 3500 ATM’s with biometric login technology. This project is one of the largest in Brazil when it comes to modernizing the banking; however, experts feel that this is just the tip of the iceberg.

More and more Brazilian banks will shift towards biometric ATMs in the near future. The reliability and user friendliness allows it to be used in remote unmanned locations. The new biometric validation used in these ATMs is reliable; customers can simply withdraw money by inserting the card in the slot and validating their fingerprint. The information is fed into the system and money is dispensed only if the sample provided and recorded data matches. This is method is foolproof because biometric fingerprint data cannot be duplicated or tampered. The fingerprint SDK reads only live data and the system cannot be fooled with silicon fingerprint impersonations. The fingerprint reader reads the distance between the ridges and valleys and to get a match. Here, it should be remembered that everybody has a unique fingerprint and the probability of two people having the same set of fingerprints is zero.

As a leading biometric software company, Griaule offers reliable fingerprint and facial recognition software to its vendors. Having won the 2008 Fingerprint verification competition, it has truly emerged as a world class company providing unique solutions to businesses as well as individuals.

Biometric devices are widely used for security and management purposes, the fingerprint reader being one of the most popular of all. While the fingerprint reader itself is great, without the right kind of fingerprint software, it would be of no use. Thus, you need to invest in an efficient fingerprint SDK like Griaule Fingerprint Software Development Kit. Let’s learn more about this fingerprint reader software.

The Griaule fingerprint reader software supports multiple finger print readers in identification with various programming languages, code samples and in depth documentation. This software is available in two different variations; one is the fingerprint software for Windows (Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows 2003, Windows Vista, Windows 7) and fingerprint Software for Java (Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows 2003, Windows Vista, Windows 7,Linux x86). The latter offers cross-platform Java program development, which may run in Microsoft Windows and Gnu/Linux, alternatively. The fingerprint software Windows 7 is ideal for supporting various Windows programming languages with DLL, Java, Activex or dot NET.

The key aim of this fingerprint software is to offer backing for custom applications at various places like sale systems, authorization, transaction, time and attendance, access control and of course, security.

The main features of Griaule fingerprint reader software is that it is extremely easy-to-use along with its compatibility with most important operating systems and being ISO 19794-2 and ANSI 378-2004 compliant. Additionally, it offers compatibility for over 26 different types of fingerprint readers, so you may pick the one that suits the best for your organization, without modifying your basic codes.

With over 80 countries already using Griaule’s fingerprint SDK, it has one of the fastest fingerprint identification and matching speed with Fingerprint Identification (1:N) matching speed of up to 35,000 fingerprints per second, Fingerprint Verification (1:1) matching speed of 10 milliseconds, Template extraction speed of 100 milliseconds. If you are looking for a fast, and easy to learn Software Development Kit, then Griaule fingerprint SDK is the way to go.

The workforce management community is waking up to the advantages and benefits of biometric security devices. Fingerprint attendance devices identify the fingerprints in an indelible manner and are completely reliable. Organizations lose their valuable time that adds up to numerous hours, even after a few minutes of delay on the part of the employee. This lost time will make the company incur huge losses on income and of valuable productive hours. Biometric security device helps various companies, whether government or private, to keep a track on their employees and enhance their productivity.

The fingerprint reader works by capturing the image of the fingerprint and keeps it as a record along with the time. Every individual has a different set of fingerprints and this fact ensures that only the required employee is able to get authenticated. These fingerprint access control devices help organisations eliminate buddy-punching as it works on the fingerprint recognition mechanism. Buddy punching is when one worker inappropriately clocks-in for another worker. It is a problem that most organizations have to deal with and is very difficult to full-proof dishonest behaviour. It is believed that around 75% of organizations lose a lot of money because of this trend of buddy-punching.

Biometric security devices are an appropriate means to check and control buddy-punching. They provide effective, reliable and cost-effective means that are easy to install in workplaces. Fingerprint reader is used by the person by placing the finger upon the scanner. The fingerprint access control captures the image and matches it with the specific employee. The device uses a high sensitive camera in order to purge all loopholes in identification of the fingerprint. The camera efficiently captures dry, wet and blurred images. Fingerprint readers are very compact in size and work brilliantly in temperatures ranging from -10 to +55 Degree Celsius.

Biometric security devices have significantly reduced costs related with buddy-punching and administrative time. It has helped organizations achieve better employee accountability which results in a more efficient and productive work force. These fingerprint access control devices are increasingly being adopted, not only in companies but also in many government operations and for verification, fingerprint recognition, identification, and scanning based applications.

Fingerprint door lock is one of the latest innovations in the security devices. A fingerprint door lock is a keyless door lock which eliminates any chances of duplications. Nowadays, biometric devices are not only used in large organizations but have also become very famous for household security. This technology is the most practical one as it is cost effective, reliable and non-intrusive. It is the ideal solution to the problems of searching for the door key, door key being lost and so on.

A biometric door lock uses physical traits for identification process as every person has a different fingerprint. As a matter of fact no two fingerprints are identical. The main technology used in capturing fingerprint image is optical, silicon and ultrasound. The setting up of such locks is very easy and it is advisable that it is done by a skilled person. Your fingerprint is scanned and converted into a numerical algorithm and saved in the database. Now when you attempt to unlock the door, your fingerprint is scanned and compared with the data stored in the system.

There are two main algorithms to recognize fingerprints, Minutia matching and Pattern matching. When you register with the lock for the first time, the minutia points are located along with the position and direction. In the matching stage the already stored image is compared to the minutia points of the fingerprint. If the fingerprint matches, a green light will be activated for not more than 5 seconds during this time the door will open and you get access. It takes only 0.63s to get a response.

If you want to allow access to more people you simply have to add their fingerprint to the system. In case you have some extra prints you simply have to delete the print from the memory. In this way biometric lock denies or allows access to someone.

Most of the biometric devices such as biometric locks come with an emergency code lock. This can be used for manual entry in case of any damage. A finger print lock is powered by a battery; you also get an LCD light indicator when you are required to change them. You can easily store 10, 20 or up to 50 fingerprints at one time. One should always keep in mind that the fingerprint is used for verification only, the lock is what provides security.

The concept of identifying a person based on his fingerprints has been widespread since ages. The unique fingerprint of every human being renders fingerprint scanning the most favorable and reliable method of person identification. With the advancement in biometric devices, fingerprint scanning has become the most prevalent means of secure authentication. There are a variety of fingerprint scanners available in the market today, each supporting a wide range of applications such as fingerprint recognition, fingerprint verification, fingerprint authentication, fingerprint scanning and fingerprint matching applications. Cross Match has launched the Verifier 300 Fingerprint Scanner which offers optimal fingerprint scanning and access control facility. This biometric identity management solution is ideal for identification, verification and registration purposes. This verifier promises to offer precise and discrete result for every fingerprint scan. Here are top 5 reasons that can make you Crossmatch Verifier 300 fingerprint scanner for your organization:

Reason#1 – Reliability

The scanner captures foolproof fingerprint images at a high resolution of (500 ppi +/- 1%). It has an average linearity and recti-linearity of less than 1% that ensures reliable and accurate results every time.

Reason#2 – Easy to handle

The Crossmatch 300 verifier fingerprint scanner has a USB port for connectivity and the compact size make it easy to integrate it in existing applications. The attached cable can endure rough handling making it ideal for high volume processing environments.

Reason#3 – High quality image capture

These fingerprint scanners capture single finger flats and deliver forensic quality fingerprint images, making them the ideal choice for high security organizations like investigation bureaus and access control at borders and ports. The advanced illumination technique making the whole scanning process user friendly and hassle free. Even for stained or dark fingers, the scanner produces clear and distinct images.

Reason#4 -Intuitiveness

It has an intuitive system with automatic fingerprint capturing feature that require very little practice to get used to its functions. This makes fingerprint access control a feasible procedure for the users.

Reason#5 – Durability

The compact and lightweight unit of the fingerprint scanner has a rugged polycarbonate lexan case, assuring a long time of durability. Qualities like splash resistance and non-condensation make it an ideal choice among biometric devices.

These diverse features make the Verfier 300 one of the suitable fingerprint access control system for a wide range of applications like hospital record identification and verification, school attendance systems and also national border access.

With terrorist attacks and fraud cases on the rise, security is a major concern for every country today. Biometric systems help us with proper authentication and identification, thus reducing the risk of illegal entry into organizations, schools, hospitals, banks and even our homes. The uniqueness of fingerprints has made them the perfect means of recognition and authentication. In fact the use of biometric devices is no more limited to fingerprint access control and has transcended to other areas of life. There are a variety of fingerprint scanners available in the market today and you can choose one depending on your requirements. One such fingerprint scanning device was launched by Futronic Technology Company Ltd., called the FS80 usb fingerprint scanner. Here are top 5 reasons for you to consider this state-of-the-art Futronic FS80:

Reason#1 – Live Finger Detection Technology

The FS80 usb fingerprint scanner is integrated with Live Finger Detection (LFD) Technology which can easily differentiate between a live finger and a fake one. The built in sensors can detect a live finger and reject fingers made from play-doh or siliconerubber. This technology makes it one of most reliable systems among all the biometric security devices.

Reason#2 – Hi quality fingerprint images

This FS80 fingerprint scanner uses advance CMOS sensor technology and precise optical system to deliver hi quality fingerprint images. It is suitable for a variety of fingerprint applications as it can capture an almost undistorted raw fingerprint image at high speed.

Reason#3 – Adaptability

During every scan the finger is illuminated by 4 infra-red LEDs. The Futronic FS80 has the ability to automatically adjust the light intensity to the fingerprints characteristics such as wetness, dryness or blurriness. Thus it provides a fingerprint image with optimum quality.

Reason#4 – Robustness

The Futronic fingerprint scanner has a rigid scanning surface made up of crown glass of thickness 14mm. The tough surface ensures its robustness and reliability, making it suitable for installation in public places as well, where constant use won’t decrease its efficiency.

Reason#5 – Accuracy

The scanner has an accuracy range of FAR-10-6 and FAR-10-2 ensuring an extremely accurate and distinct image for every fingerprint scan.

These unique features make the scanner one of the most efficient biometric security devices in today’s world. It is suitable for a large number of applications like sales machines, attendance systems, medical information systems, financial systems and other access control applications.

Fingerprint scanning is one of the most practical applications of Biometrics. Used for identification and authentication, this system compares a fingerprint scan with the pre-scanned images present in the database, to allow entry and control access. Here are top 5 reasons that answer why paper based attendance systems need to be replaced by fingerprint attendance systems:

Reason#1 – Eco Friendly

In most of the organizations employees use paper based attendance systems for signing in the log in and log out times in organizations. Mass production of paper and ink consumes a lot of energy and utilization of resources. With the world becoming aware about global warming, everyone wants to cut down on waste of such resources. Using fingerprint attendance can help in making a small but significant contribution to help save the planet. It also saves users from the hassle of carrying an ID card with them all the time.

Reason#2 – Identity Management and Security

Every person has a unique set of fingerprints, so faking identity on a fingerprint scanner is totally impossible. Keeping an attendance register at the entry for visitors can give access to unauthorized people. Using fingerprint access control systems such as a biometric door lock at the entry point will help in keeping an organization’s premises secure as people cannot have access to the organization without a proper authorization.

Reason#3 – Eliminates Buddy Punching

Employers face huge payroll losses when the absenteeism of an employee is covered up through buddy punching by another co-worker. By using a fingerprint attendance system, company’s can cut down on such losses. With the option of buddy punching being unavailable, employees are encouraged to work, thus increasing the efficiency and performance of the company.

Reason#4 – Track Movements

In schools, installing fingerprint access control can help the administration track the students’ movements who attend school at unusual hours for after-hours classes. Some schools that have implemented this system are Singleton High and Cessnock High in Australia. . It helps the staff to monitor the students’ attendance and tardiness.

Reason#5 – Accounting working hours

Companies can use attendance systems for project management too. Using a biometric door lock for attendance instead of pen and paper can help the company efficiently monitor and record the hours put in by each employee and the number of tasks completed. These systems can also help the project managers to identify the free-riders in the team and acknowledge diligent workers.

The significance of biometric devices has increased to a great extent in recent times. Biometric security is no more a dream realized only in science fictions. Today it is a reality that has managed to touch every aspect of our lives. As a result, there is no dearth of hi-tech fingerprint scanners in the market today.

A fingerprint scanner that stands out among the crowd is Nitgen FIngkey Hamster II. Its elegant design and compact size makes it perfect for use in every environment. It has a resolution of 500 dpi and boasts of certifications from MIC, CE< FCC and WHQL. The algorithm it uses for user identifications gives exceptionally fast matching results. Additionally, the fingerprint reader comes with features such as System Restriction, Log management, DB Backup and Screen Saver.

Nitgen Hamster II is extremely durable and has a long battery life. It has a working temperature of -20 to 60 degree Celsius. The rigged, maintenance-free optical fingerprint sensors ensure that it is suitable for rough environments as well.

But the hallmark of the Nitgen Hamster II is its Live Finger Detection (LFD) function. This is new technology that allows fingerprint identifiers to detect live fingers only and reject the fake counterparts. This unique feature ensures that the system cannot be fooled with forged or spoof fingers.

The LFD function of this fingerprint reader makes it apt for systems where live scanning is essential. For instance, in September 2008, the Brazilian Department of Transport (DETRAN) undertook a project to check use of fraudulent measures during driving tests held in several driving institutes across the country. To record the timings of students and instructors during driving lessons, live-scanning systems were installed in the driving institutes of the Parana state in southern Brazil. These scanners served the purpose of fingerprint identification as well as time and attendance control. Needless to say, scanners like the Nitgen Fingkey Hamster II are extremely suitable for such large scale projects.

The Futronic FS50 fingerprint scanner is one of the latest offerings provided by forensic science technology to the world of biometric security. The fingerprint scanner is an optical 2.0 USB that is designed to swiftly scan and identify single or double finger prints. This extremely advanced finger print scanner is also able to identify and scan a rolled single finger print.

Futronic FS50 fingerprint reader is extremely reliable and has won much critical appreciation from all the sectors in the field of biometric security. The Futronic FS50 has been certified as a potent device by the FBI for reliable and accurate, speedy forensic reports. It is also certified by the same esteemed organization for its compliance with the Image Quality Specification for a single finger print reader thereby solidifying its claim as the most reliable forensic report analyzer and scanner. To add the cherry on the very credible cake, its acquiescence to the FIPS 201 standards for Personal Identification Verification is another credibility proof for the device.

This fingerprint scanner consists of infrared LEDs that illumine the finger during the scan so that the finger print comes out crystal clear and identifiable. Another important fact that needs to be known with regards to the Futronic FS50 fingerprint scanner is that it is adaptable to the finger image quality. This means that it is able to identify the finger despite it being wet or dry or has ever incurred damages from fire. What it does is that it adjusts the illumination intensity to get to the real print. Co partnering this act is the sensory window which continually resists and prevents scratches and smudges on the scanning surface that might occur due to stress and pressure situations.

The modules that support this fingerprint scanner are included in the Griaule Fingerprint SDK, Windows Futronic Fingerprint SDK, Linux Fingerprint SDK, MegaMatcher 4.0 SDK and Finger print Verification SDK. It has also been known to work with the VeriFinger 6.3 SDK program. The device also comes with a free fingerprint image capture program which allows users to store fingerprint as an image file on their computer.

Futronic FS50 fingerprint reader works very well with operating systems like Microsoft Windows in both the 32 bits and the 64 bit programs and the 32 bit Linux. It is also known to work easily with the Mac OS X. The finger print scanner has a resolution of 500 dpi and an image capture area in platen size of 41x 38mm or 1.6″ x 1.5″. It pixelates the image size of the fingerprint by 800 x 750 pixels.

The Futronic FS50 Fingerprint scanner weighs a mere 380 grams and thus is extremely easy to carry anywhere in the pocket. With an operating temperature ranging from -10 degrees Celsius to a 55 degree Celsius, this finger print scanner is well equipped to work in the roughest of conditions.