Archive for the ‘USB Fingerprint scanners’ Category

Is Your Workstation Safe?

Friday, December 23rd, 2011

Digitalization and the use of computers at work are rampant today. Right from attendance and payroll to security systems, we work in automated offices. We use personal computers or laptops at our workstations for transactions, data storage, processing and analysis. With digitalization comes the concern for safety against hacking and cybernetic impersonation. Our machines contain a large volume of critical information, which we require to safeguard every time we leave our workstations.

A great solution to address the concerns of safety within the umbrella of digitalization and automation is the use of biometric devices. This method reduces the risks of hacking and cybernetic impersonation. Biometric systems may use any option from face, iris or fingerprint recognition systems for security enforcement. Fingerprint scanning is the most preferred of these methods as it is feasible both in terms of overheads and implementation. USB fingerprint scanners are the most popular biometric device.

From the currently available options, the Suprema BioMini USB Fingerprint Scanner is great for use in a desktop and networking environment and hence the best fit for office security systems. It has a 500dpi optical fingerprint sensor and is compatible with Windows 98, Me, 2000, XP, Vista and 7, making it ideal for workstation security. The Suprema Biomini also supports Linux (Debian, Fedora, Ubuntu) with Kernel 2.6.1 along with multiple programming languages, using which it can be easily customized.

The Suprema BioMini uses one of the world’s best fingerprint algorithms. It has 1:100,000 per second matching speed, which brings it at par with the fastest of fingerprint scanners. The high resolution images and high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity makes Suprema Biomini USB fingerprint scanner perfect for any identification, authentication, verification and scanning applications.

Futronic FS88 Fingerprint Scanner Changes the Scene

Friday, December 23rd, 2011

We all remember traditional scenes in movies and books, in which the villain tries to torture someone for a hidden key or password of top-security vault and eventually kills him. With the arrival of biometric security systems into the real world, this scene changed and the security systems in books and movies became biometric, too. Now the villain needed only the specific body part to access secure vaults. Long-drawn torture was eliminated as he went straight for the kill, making the twist in the plot a little boring.

It is time for the next innovation and subsequent change in scene with Futronic’s FS88 Fingerprint Scanner. What is so special about this particular biometric device? Well, it can detect the difference between live and dead fingers. So we can say goodbye to Dan Brown killing off scientists so that a can of neutrinos can be stolen from the biometric vault and to Jennifer Garner cutting off some high-ranking executive’s finger to gain access to a protected room!

The Futronic FS88 Fingerprint Scanner gets better as it can also detect and reject fake fingers like the ones that are made from Play-Doh, rubber or other materials used to embed fingerprints. Live finger detection, engineered through a special electronic circuit complemented with appropriate PC software, is a special feature in Futronic FS88 fingerprint reader.

This device is also FBI FIPS 201/PIV approved and has a factory-programmed unique serial number built into each copy. The Futronic FS88 fingerprint scanner comes with a USB cable and an LED-illuminated scanning window. All these features of the FS88 combined makes your home and office biometric security systems not only a lot safer but also a lot fancier.

Biometrics in the Retail Sector

Friday, December 23rd, 2011

Point-of-sale systems are the crux of revenue as well as that of theft in the organized retail sector. One of the biggest concerns for large-scale retailers today is to properly secure their point-of-sale (POS) systems. A break in the POS system can lead to loss of sensitive customer data, sales numbers, costs, profit margins, etc. In the hands of competitors or crooks, this loss could be disastrous.

Traditionally, the retail POS system assigns a password to every cashier to gain access to the software. But the password system has its drawbacks in that it is still vulnerable to hacks and tampering. These fears for business safety are prompting POS manufacturers to incorporate biometric devices into their retail software and POS hardware. Biometric security will reduce the chances of incorrect access and tampering and definitely make it easier to track and find individuals responsible.

These biometric components have to be separately installed into the system by the POS system manufacturers. Today, there are several biometric device manufacturing companies such as Futronic, Suprema, SecuGen and Nitgen. These retail systems could use a USB fingerprint scanning component such as the Nitgen Hamster II or the SecuGen Hamster IV or they could also use embedded fingerprint modules.

In terms of feasibility and best fit, the Nitgen Fingkey Hamster II is the best bet for better biometric security analysis. The Nitigen Hamster II is being appreciated by speculators and buyers alike for its extreme portability and durability. Overall, the Nitgen Fingkey Hamster II is very well equipped with the provisions of software and support modules for all security analysis. With its durability and analysis capability, it fits the bill as the ideal component for a POS biometric device.

Advancements in Fingerprint Scanners

Friday, December 2nd, 2011

Fingerprint scanning is one of the most popular methods to implement biometric validation or security. While biometric devices such as iris scanners are used in fewer facilities, fingerprint readers and OEM components are used for a variety of applications by leading financial, medical, government, educational and corporate institutions across the globe. In fact, their implementation has become so viable that they can be found embedded even in laptops and mobile devices. Fingerprint scanners are used in the form of stand-alone devices or USB embedded scanners. Some of the most popular fingerprint scanners in the market currently are the EKION Privacy Manager in the USB category and Secugen Hamster IV among standalone scanners.

The actual fingerprint identification process varies slightly between different systems but the basis of identification remains the same. Standard systems comprise of a scanner and a processor, which stores, compares and matches the scanned print against the predefined database. In large government organizations, biometric devices in particular fingerprint scanners play a huge role in employee identification and security.

Some of the most popular companies manufacturing fingerprint readers and OEM components are Crossmatch, Lumidigm Nitgen and Secugen. These firms design, develop and manufacture hardware and software required for different kinds of biometric devices and systems. Latent print image deletion; fingerprint template encryption; fingerprint reader recognition and multi-device connection are some of the useful features achieved by today’s biometric software. The developer kits and software are used to create desired modules or systems for healthcare, security, attendance and payroll and control systems.

The test for quality in fingerprint scanners is a certification by the FBI for the device in question. The latest biometric fingerprint reader to receive this certification is the second version of the SecuGen Hamster IV. It is an improvement over the first version and significantly different from the Secugen Hamster III. The attributes that differentiate it from other fingerprint scanners are its auto-on and smart capture features, ensuring higher quality and eliminating the need of prompting the reader for every scan.

Crossmatch Verifier

Friday, November 11th, 2011

Fingerprint scanners have become an integral part of security and identification systems. The two popular Crossmatch Verifier USB fingerprint scanners are Crossmatch Verifier 300 and Crossmatch verifier 320.

The Cross match Verifier 300 is a single fingerprint USB scanner that gives precise and dependable results for identification, verification, and registration programs. The Crossmatch Verifier 300weighs only 1 lb and is ANSI-NIST compliant. The low weight is possible due to the lightweight, polycarbonate lexan case which is extremely tough and durable. The scanner can endure temperatures ranging from -18° C to 40° C and has already proven itself in border areas and at airports.

CrossmatchVerifier 300 fingerprint scanner is capable of taking high resolution images at 500 DPI. Crossmatch verifier is compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 operating systems. The USB connectivity makes it easy to integrate intothe existing systems. A kiosk ready version is also available to simplify integration.

The Crossmatch Verifier 320 is another one of the popular fingerprint scanner from Crossmatch. Itis a two fingerprint capture device that has the same ruggedness and durability as that of the Crossmatch Verifier 300. The scanner delivers fast, accurate and reliable results for identification, verification and enrolment programs. The dual finger scanner provides forensic quality flat/ rolled fingerprints that are FBI Appendix F certified.The large active platen along with its enhanced ambient light rejection ensures that the results are accurate and reliable. The system provides quick and accurate fingerprint capturing. This makes it perfect for high volume deployments like border security, correctional facilities, law enforcement and court systems, etc. The Crossmatch verifier 320 is as easy to use and install as the Crossmatch Verifier 300. It is compatible with Windows XP and Windows Vista operating systems and its ideal operating range is between 2° C and 38° C.

The Crossmatch Verifier line of fingerprint scanners is well known for their advanced image quality, durability and low maintenance requirements. The Crossmatch Verifiers are perfect for challenging applications like border and port control, hospital patient record verification, desktop ennoblements and much more. The Crossmatch Verifier lines of fingerprint readers are ideal for most fingerprint security systems.

Interprint uses cross match solutions to ID 20 million citizens of Sao Paulo, Brazil

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

Till very recently, the Brazilian Government used relatively primitive practices of ID documentation by the means of pen, ink and paper to maintainstate papers in the state of Sao Paulo. Sao Paulo being one of the largest states of Brazil, with a population numbering around 20 million, made this a harrying procedure, with application timelines that stretched onto weeks, and even months at times. In order to achieve greater efficacy in managing state identification papers, the Brazilian Government started searching for secure system that could handle massive volumes of ID data in a swift and efficient manner.

In an agreement with the Sao Paulo Government, Interprint, a systems integration company installed biometric devices such as Crossmatch 300 fingerprint scanner in order to shorten ID application and receipt time schedules. The Crossmatch Verifier 300 Fingerprint scanner transformed the entire application process into electronic database by means of storing information in an Oracle database in order to prevent duplication and fraud.

Citizens were now required to visit Poupatempo to have their Ids issued.Their digital photographs and demographic information were recorded by Interprint staff. This was followed by a fingerprint enrolment process via CrossmatchVerifier 300 fingerprint scanner for renewal document purposes. Finally, after the collection of the applicant’s electronic signature, the completed file would be sent back to the printer for ID creation.

The timely process enabled by usage of biometric devices ensured that an applicant’s waiting time could now be foreshortened to a few days instead of the pre-existing period of 3 weeks or more. as Crossmatch Verifier 300 devices were installed all over the Sao Paulo Government’s ID offices (Poupatempos) and helped achievean efficient, precise and timely form of ID registration and verification. Their compact form and convenient, user-friendly interface meant that little technical training was required in order to handle these biometric devices.

Following the astounding success of Sao Paulo’s ID registration system, many government officials from all over Brazil travelled to the state in order to review the Crossmatch fingerprint scanners to emulate them in their own states.

Biometrics to help teacher attendance tracking in India

Thursday, October 13th, 2011

Considered as one of the most preferred biometric devices because of its accuracy and non intrusive characteristics, biometric fingerprint scanner is increasingly being adopted in all the organisations. It is easy, effective and has a very high rate of accuracy. The latest fingerprint scanners have gone a step ahead from their counterparts and incorporated the best technology in optical sensor capability. They also have a smart capture technology that makes sure that all the images are of very high quality. Biometric fingerprint scanner identifies, verifies and recognises the print in no time. Due to these features, it is most widely used in keeping a track of the attendance for various purposes ranging from employees, during security checks, camps, banks and financial systems etc.

Placing fingerprint scanners is a simple job as it is applicable to all the security systems and applications. USB fingerprint scanners can be easily installed in buildings, security boxes, laboratories etc. Placing them at these restricted entry places ensure that the place is secure and no one can breach into the private space. Earlier, companies used systems with passwords to get their employees registered for attendance and time. This system records the entry and exits of the employee from the office and keeps a control.

Keeping a track on the employee is essential towards improving the efficiency and outcome of the work. It saves time and ensures that there is no buddy punching in the office. Placing usb fingerprint device also saves money and increases the man-hours of the company that results in better work.

There are various occasions when certain data has to be kept under security and in such a situation, using old methods can be critical for the company or mission. Biometric security scanners offer full proof systems which will only grant access to people who are allowed to go inside.

Companies face a lot attendance issues as employees tend to stay after the office hours to use internet and other company resources in chatting, and making phone calls. This increases the expenses of the company. All these problems can be effectively handled using biometric fingerprint scanners for attendance.

The Use of Fingerprint Scanners in ID Card Solutions and Governmental Security

Monday, October 10th, 2011

In the increasing apprehension-wrought era of security, it is essential to use the latest technology to tighten all possible nooses against theft and other malpractices. For this reason, fingerprint SDK’s and other fingerprint software are technology’s latest answer to security control.

If we take into account the macro-level identification protocols such as a solution for national ID Card personal identification, it becomes essential to have state-of-the-art Biometric SDK to ensure that security hazards do not occur.

For example, a painstaking research conducted by On Track Innovations concluded that fingerprint classification and positive identification was a crucial step in personal registration processes. Due to the manual process of fingerprint scanning, with a complete lack of fingerprint software, it was soon observed that security obstacles were multiplying as time progressed. Furthermore, essential manpower was being involved in the process, so apart from wastage of human resource, the success of security depended upon the expertise of the said government agent.

However, the latest revelations in the field of Fingerprint SDK, the patterns have been categorized into six different areas, namely, arch, right loop, left loop, tended arch, scar and whorl.

Performing a multi-faceted role of fingerprint verification, fingerprint recognition, fingerprint scanning and fingerprint authentication, these Biometric SDK achieve whole scale integration of fingerprint classification in terms of national/governmental ID arena.

Such fingerprint software can come as great utilities while creating ID cards and fingerprint cards for civil enrolment and law enforcement procedures. The new design of fingerprint scanning can also save an inordinate amount of time, by simplifying the computer’s job. By using subtle methods of cross-referencing and split-finger databases through classifications, the computer can immediately look for the required fingerprints under the same category of finger pattern classification. This ultimately results in shorter time durations to furnish results.

This allows for both cost-effective and time-efficient methods of identification, verification and authentication for law enforcement agencies, not to mention ID card enrolment agencies. It can also be applied in both small-scale and large-scale organisations and corporate, where classified information and protocols of access call for certain levels of security management.

How is Biometric technology making a difference in Point of Sale Systems?

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011

Retailers have to deal with many concerns over security and identification and one of those issues is the proper security of their point of sale systems. These points of sale systems (POS) store a lot of information regarding sensitive customer details and business information. Details like sales figures, costing, clientele, profit margins etc, are sensitive to a company’s finances and integrity. It is important for every organization to keep a seal on such information from leaking outside the company.

Traditionally, every retail shop used to provide its worker with a unique identification code or pin but with changing times, fingerprint scanners are becoming the norm. Instances of stolen or altered passwords have cost companies very large losses as point of sale system is susceptible to intrusion. The trespasser, after accessing into a company’s retail software, can change details, delete data, and extract client list easily along with being completely irretraceable. For this reason, many organisations are now adopting biometric devices that efficiently and seamlessly identify employees in the organization. Fingerprint scanners are being incorporated into a lot of retail software and point of sale hardware.

Biometric device fingerprint scanner works by capturing the picture of the finger print and providing the said employee access in the company. The captured image by the fingerprint scanner is matched with the existent finger prints in the records. Every person has a different set of fingerprints and this fact ensures that no loopholes are experienced while identifying the required employee. This process makes the employees more accountable and more cautious with their actions.

The Biometric device is equipped with a highly sensitive camera to capture dry, wet and blurred images. Fingerprint scanners are very compact in size and work well in temperature ranging from -10 to +55 Degree Celsius. They are light in weight with120gms and can be added to your processor, which includes Windows 2000, XP, Vista, CE 5.0 and 6.0.

Not just limited to retail shops, fingerprint scanners are increasingly used for verification, fingerprint recognition, identification, and scanning based applications. Government programs are also adopting biometric devices for their reliability aspect and applicability during identification and surveys.

How are fingerprint scanners being used for background checks of volunteers at NGOs in US

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011

Replacing the traditional methods of identification and security, biometric devices are being adopted world over to accurately identify personnel. The older methods included the use of PIN numbers, signatures and photo Ids, iris scan, voiceprint, facial recognition etc. These methods were easily tampered with and failed to create that sense of guarantee. Organizations incorporated newer technologies of biometric devices to tackle these gaping loopholes and ensure that proper safety norms were adopted. Fingerprint scanners capture the image of the fingerprint, which is different for every individual. The user has to simply place the finger on the scanner and the system will identify the person. The process of identifying a person through his fingerprints is a sure shot way to ascertain the identity of the individual. The convenience factor of biometric device has successfully eliminated the need for use of ID’s.

Fingerprint scanners have gained a variety of applicability in diverse fields. During any background check of volunteers at NGO’s or other organizations, fingerprint scanners come to great use. Such activities can be carried out by ascertaining that the volunteers who have come to participate are free from any criminal record. Fingerprint scanners help one recognise the true identity of the person in case it is hidden or manipulated. These biometric devices start working as soon as a user places the finger on the scanner. The fingerprint scanner immediately scans the image and finds the real identity from its existing records.

Biometric devices are designed craftily and are equipped with the most sensitive camera capable of capturing wet, dry and blurred images as well. The captured impression of the fingerprint is stored and can be printed for future use. They are easy to install and do not eat into much space and energy, another important aspect especially in outdoor activities.

Fingerprint Scanner biometric device is used for many other purposes such as Fingerprint Based Computer Login, Biometric Point of Sale Machines, Web Based Fingerprint Recognition Systems, Fingerprint Time and Attendance, Fingerprint Access Control. Not just this, it is also used for biometric identification in Slum Survey & Slum Re-development Projects, Domain Controller, Driver’s License, Biometric File Encryption, PC/workstation security, Network/enterprise security, Internet content security, E-commerce, B2B transactions, Electronic transactions, Bank and financial systems, Medical information systems and any password-based application.