“A Biometric Security System uses a combination of biometric devices and a software database system to function. Facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, palm and hand scanning, iris and retina scan are some of the features biometric devices come with.”
Biometrics plays an important role in security and access control systems but that is just one aspect of this extremely popular technology. Various biometrics devices can capture not only the fingerprint but also facial and retinal scans to identify and authenticate an individual’s identity. Voice recognition and palm vein scanning are also part of advanced biometric security systems.
The use of biometrics in access control systems is not a new trend. In developed cities, biometrics is generally an intrinsic part of office security and access. People are encouraged to use their fingerprint or facial scan to enter the office building gate. Moreover, various digital payment systems also employ biometrics to complete transactions.
The most common example of biometrics applications is the finger sensors in our smartphones or the facial scan feature that we use to unlock our smartphones.
A Biometric Security System uses a combination of biometric devices and a software database system to function. The software database contains the data of the enrolled users and when an individual accesses the system, it matches their biometrics data to the one saved in the database, allowing or denying access.
Biometric Devices and Types
Biometric devices are used to measure and analyze unique physical or behavioral characteristics such as fingerprints, face, retina, voice, unique features of palm, etc. of individuals for identification or authentication purposes.
There are various types of biometric devices, including contact, contactless, and hybrid devices. Let’s see them one by one.
Contact Biometric Devices
Contact biometric devices are the ones that require physical contact between the individual and the device for the measurement or capture of biometric data.
Some examples of contact biometric recognition devices are:
Fingerprint Scanners
Fingerprint scanners are one of the most widely used contact biometric devices. When a user puts his fingers on a fingerprint reader, it captures the unique patterns of ridges and valleys on a person's fingertip to create a digital representation of their fingerprint. It uses this unique data to match with pre-saved data and verify the user.
The UIDAI AADHAR (Govt. mandated ID proof) registration and verification system in India is also based on fingerprints and facial scans of individuals.
Palm Print Scanners
Palm print scanners capture/measure the unique patterns and features present on an individual's palm including the length, width, and curvature of the palm, as well as the location of lines and creases.
Various advanced car door access systems come with this feature where you put your palm on the door glass and it opens the car door upon successful verification.
Hand Geometry Readers
Hand geometry readers measure and analyze the physical characteristics of an individual's hand, including the length and width of fingers, the shape of the palm, and the position of the knuckles.
Signature Recognition Devices
Signature recognition devices capture the dynamic characteristics of an individual's signature, such as stroke order, speed, and pressure.
Such devices are commonly used for authentication purposes.
Contactless Biometric Devices
Contactless biometric devices are the ones that do not require physical contact between the individual and the device. Such devices use wireless technologies such as infrared, ultrasound, or radio frequency to capture biometric data.
Some examples of contactless biometric recognition devices are:
Facial Recognition Systems
Facial recognition systems analyze the unique features and patterns of an individual's face, such as the distance between the eyes, the shape of the nose, and the contours of the face. These systems can capture and compare facial images in real time.
When an individual brings one’s face near a facial recognition device, it forms a digital image capturing the details of the face and compares it with the pre-saved similar data to verify and authenticate. Nowadays, various smartphones also come with a Facial recognition feature which allows quick phone unlock.
Iris Scanners
Iris scanners are one of the most sophisticated biometrics devices. It uses infrared light to illuminate the Iris and to capture the unique patterns present in the colored part of the eye, known as the iris. These patterns are highly distinctive and can be used for accurate identification and authentication.
Retina Scanners
Like an Iris scanner, a Retina scanner is also very accurate. It analyzes the unique patterns of blood vessels located at the back of the eye. It requires individuals to look into a device that emits low-intensity light to capture the retina's image.
Voice Recognition Systems
Voice recognition systems analyze the unique characteristics of an individual's voice, such as pitch, tone, and pronunciation. These systems can be used to verify the identity of individuals based on their voice patterns. Voice recognition systems are also used in smartphones to provide unique services in various applications such as Google Assistant and Siri. People can use their voice to unlock their phones as well.
Hybrid Biometric Devices
Hybrid biometric devices combine multiple biometric technologies to improve accuracy and security. Such devices may capture and analyze data from both contact and contactless methods.
A hybrid device may combine fingerprint scanning with facial recognition or iris scanning for multi-factor authentication. Hybrid devices leverage the strengths of different biometric modalities to enhance overall accuracy and security. It also provides an additional layer of protection against spoofing or fraudulent attempts.
In summary, contact biometric devices require physical contact with the individual, while contactless biometric devices do not. Hybrid biometric devices combine multiple biometric technologies for enhanced security and accuracy. People choose biometric devices depending on various factors such as the level of security required, ease of use, and the specific application or environment in which it will be used.
EnCStore, as a trusted supplier of biometric devices, provides various kinds of contact, contactless, and hybrid types of biometric devices and necessary installation support where required.
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