Vision CMOS image sensors at core of new biometric desktop security solution

Citation

(1998), "Vision CMOS image sensors at core of new biometric desktop security solution", Sensor Review, Vol. 18 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.1998.08718dab.001

Vision CMOS image sensors at core of new biometric desktop security solution

Vision CMOS image sensors at core of new biometric desktop security solution

Keywords Biometrics, Fingerprints, Machine vision, Sensors

Vision's CMOS image sensors have been chosen by Identicator Technology (San Bruno, California) for their new OEM solution for biometric-based desktop security. Vision is the leading supplier of CMOS imaging sensors world-wide, and this new development further expands the wide range of markets where their leading CMOS imaging technology has been adopted.

Vision's VV5404 monochrome sensor is used in Identicator's Direct Fingerprint Reader OEM module, the DFR200, a product designed for incorporation into PCs and PC peripherals which introduces new and powerful levels of user authentication to the desktop PC. The DFR200 is a compact unit that electronically captures fingerprint images. It interfaces with the PC without the need for frame grabbers or a separate power supply. The unit may be incorporated into PC keyboards or mice, with the user's fingerprint being used for security access to the PC. This simple solution removes the burden of remembering PINs or passwords.

Identicator Technologies has considerable experience in the design and development of cost-effective, finger-imaging products and solutions for personal identification and verification.

The company is part of a recently announced consortium including Compaq Computers, IBM Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Miros Inc. and Novell Inc. with the aim of bringing biometric technologies to the mainstream PC marketplace. The consortium plans to introduce a range of standards which will help promote access to biometric products.

"We are very excited at being the sensors of choice for such an innovative application as PC security and we are confident that this is the first of a range of products in this marketplace which will incorporate Vision technology", said Peter Denyer, Vision managing director.

VlSION's VV5404 sensor at the heart of the DFR200 is a highly integrated 356 x 292 pixel monochrome CMOS image sensor with an on-chip ND converter, ideal for biometric applications using either fingerprint or iris recognition. Requiring only a 5V power supply, the sensor may be used as the basis for access systems for keyboards, for ATMs or for credit card verification.

Vision produces the most comprehensive range of CMOS imaging products world-wide. The company has a proven track record in volume supply to leading OEM companies, with customers in markets as diverse as video conferencing, digital photography, security and toys, as well as biometrics. All Vision products are based on the company's proprietary CMOS imaging technology. Unlike the established CCD technology, CMOS imagers offer highly integrated solutions with extensive on-chip system integration. Vision's CMOS image sensors are compact in size with reduced power consumption, operating from single power supplies as low as 3.3V. Both monochrome and colour sensors are available in resolutions from 20k to 1.3 million pixels.

For further information contact VLSI Vision Limited, Aviation House, 31 Pinkhill, Edinburgh EH12 7BF, UK. Tel: +44 (0)131 539 7111; Fax: +44 (0)131 539 7141; E-mail: info@vvl.co.uk Web Site: www.vvl.co.uk