“Learn all you need to know about the applications of different types of fingerprint scanners available in the market."
Nowadays we utilize more and more sophisticated security systems to improve the safety of our operations. As we shift from standard systems like encrypted passwords, NFC keys, PIN Codes, etc., to biometric systems, you see a large shift in the adoption of fingerprint authentication. There are many applications for different types of fingerprint scanners.
So, let’s not waste any time, and get right on it.
Suitable Applications for Different Types of Fingerprint Scanners
Due to the robust nature and vast popularity of biometrics, fingerprint scanners have been used in a variety of different applications. From smartphone locks to security systems in big corporate offices. So, let’s check out the most common applications of this technology.
(A). National ID Registration
If you’ve ever registered for any type of government ID, be it a driver’s license, ADDHAR Card, PAN Card, etc., you will be required to submit your fingerprint identification. The offices that perform the registration carry portable fingerprint scanners to capture your print and connect it with your government records.
(B). ATM Machines
In today’s world of plastic money ad online transactions, there are times when we are all required to carry a bit of cash. The ATMs, now even allow users to conduct transactions without their cards or authenticate without PIN Codes. These ATMs feature an inbuilt optical fingerprint scanner. The user can just open their account and use their fingers for identification to avoid any mistype and perform transactions quickly.
(C). Home Security
Many homeowners are shifting from the traditional key-lock mechanism for their home security. The problem with a physical key is that with a skilled enough locksmith, you can always create a spare/duplicate key. However, the same is not with biometric security like fingerprints. Many home security locks now come with a fingerprint scanner to operate the gate locks.
(D). Access Control
One of the most essential aspects of running an office or corporate facility is to ensure a secure access control system. For this purpose, many businesses like corporate offices, private clubs, etc., use fingerprint scanner identification systems to grant access to employees & members.
(E). Electronic Device Lock
If you’ve been using mobile phones since the mid-2000s, you will probably remember the time when the lock just used to be a default combination of buttons on the device. From there it went to customizable passwords, patterns, and PIN Codes. And now, with the advancements in technology, almost every smartphone has an integrated fingerprint scanner that allows the user to create custom access control for their devices.
(F). Attendance Tracking
Another very popular application of biometric systems is for the purpose of keeping attendance. Many organizations utilize automated attendance machines that rely upon fingerprints to identify and record the movement of employees and other personnel in and out of the building.
(G). Law Enforcement
Law enforcement workers are big admirers of biometric systems. Earlier, it took a lot of time & energy to identify a person manually using physical government records. However, with the implementation of fingerprint scanners & their integration with the government database, law enforcement agents can now identify a person in mere minutes.
(H). Vehicle Entry System
Many vehicle owners worry about the safety of their cars, and rightly so. It’s a common experience to hear about vehicle theft in your nearby neighborhood at least once in a lifetime. Although car manufacturers have improved the security measures on cars, but so have the thieves done to their skills. One unconventional but smart way to tighten the security of your vehicle is to use a fingerprint scanner to control the operation of your vehicle.
Working Principles Behind Fingerprint Scanners
The basic working principle behind how a fingerprint scanner functions, is the identification and matching of fingerprints of an individual. So, before we see how these scanners accomplish that task, first, let’s check out what exactly are fingerprints.
The skin on the tips of our fingers is folded forming a pattern of ridges and valleys all over the fingertips. The size and shape of these ridges and valleys differ from person to person, making a person’s fingerprint patterns unique.
A fingerprint scanner utilizes different imaging techniques to map the fingerprint of a person. This can be done by using an optical sensor (camera), a thermal sensor (pyroelectric), a capacitive sensor, and an Ultrasonic sensor. A scanner can use any of these individual sensors or a combination of two, to accurately map fingerprints, and match them with the stored templates in the database.
List of Some Popular Fingerprint Scanners
Below are some of the most popular and effective fingerprint scanners available in the market:
(A). Mini LES Scanner
As the name suggests, this is a very compact & lightweight scanner; easy to carry & robust. The mini uses the Luminescent Phosphor Microparticle for detective scannable fingers, meaning that it only works with a live finger.
- 1. Dimensions – 62 x 62 x 33 mm
- 2. Resolution – 500 PPI (800 x 750 pixels)
- 3. Sensor – LES CMOS Chip
(B). CSD 200 Scanner
The CSD 200 is a lightweight & durable optical fingerprint scanner. With USB compatibility, you can easily carry it around and connect it to different devices. This scanner is compatible with the Windows operating system.
This is very ergonomic in design and requires no maintenance.
- 1. Dimensions – 69 x 61 x 51 mm
- 2. Resolution – 500 PPI (480 x 320 pixels)
- 3. Sensor – Optical Sensor
(C). FS88 Biometric
Just your basic everyday fingerprint scanner, with high-quality of scanning capabilities. The FS88 is compatible with most of biometric systems and software, making it an ideal choice for Government Agencies, Healthcare, etc.
- 1. Dimensions – 66 x 66 x 29 mm
- 2. Resolution – 500 PPI (480 x 320 pixels)
- 3. Sensor – CMOS Optical Sensor, Infrared LED Illuminator
(D). R307 Reader
Extremely small, the R307 scanner module can be directly connected to microcontrollers. The module has a storage capacity for fingerprint templates. The scanner offers a low-power consumption, high-performance biometric security solution.
- 1. Dimensions – 45 x 45 x 20 mm
- 2. Resolution – 500 PPI
- 3. Sensor – Optical Sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the advantages of fingerprint scanners?
There are many benefits of using fingerprint scanners as opposed to other forms of security systems. These scanners allow you to collect data at an extremely fast rate, they are accurate and difficult to tamper with.
Q2. What are four types of fingerprint scanners?
There are four types of fingerprint scanners, based on the technology & method they use to collect the fingerprint data-
- 1. Optical Scanner – Uses CMOS sensors and an illumination source to capture a high-resolution image of the fingerprints.
- 2. Capacitive Scanner – Uses an array of micro capacitors to detect the difference in the surface charge according to the fingerprint structure and creates a detailed imprint from it.
- 3. Ultrasonic Scanners – These scanners propagate ultrasonic soundwaves and use an array of pressure-sensitive sensors to create a 3D representation of the fingerprints of the user.
- 4. Thermal Scanner – As the name suggests, this uses an array of sensors to calculate the subtle differences in temperature on the scanner surface. To clarify, the parts of the fingerprint that are closer to the scanner surface will have a higher temperature. Then. Use that data to form a detailed imprint.
Q3. Are fingerprint scanners secure?
Yes, fingerprint scanners are extremely secure and tamper-proof compared to other types of security & identification systems.
Disclaimer: The information presented here is for general information purposes only and true to best of our understanding. Users are requested to use any information as per their own understanding and knowledge. Before using any of the information, please refer to our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.
