Are you shopping for biometric locks? Then you need to read this article explaining exactly how the fingerprint sensor works
If you are searching for a new solution to your security needs,
biometric locks may do just the trick.
Unlike traditional locks which require a physical tool to work (a key, an access card or remote control), biometric locks scan and compare physiological or behavioral traits in human beings to information within a database. When the system determines a match, it grants you access.
Sensor Technology
Biometric door locks rely on sensors to scan and evaluate information such 2D or 3D images or even vocal recordings.
When working correctly, most biometric fingerprint locks are much more efficient at access control than previous methods, including human security.
Not all sensors are created the same.
If you are looking for a state-of-the-art biometric locks, you will probably run across several 3D sensors or 2D/3D combinations.
These sensors produce a three dimensional image of a subject. These images contain more details than those which result from traditional 2D censors.
3D sensors are also less dependent on variables such as lighting, position and even facial expression.
However, 3D sensor technology is still in development and is not as readily available in a biometric system as 2D sensors.
Biometric systems are not perfect, however; there are a few known issues:
* False Acceptance—the biometric lock falsely confirms a match and permits access
* False Rejection—the biometric device fails to identify a correct match and denies access
* Power Source—biometric locks require a power source; most off-the-shelf fingerprint locks rely on batteries which will ultimately die
In addition to this, should the database somehow be corrupted or the sensor physically broken, a biometric door lock could potentially become useless. It is for this reason that some biometric fingerprint door locks include back up entry methods such as a number pad (for a PIN) or a regular keyhole.
Getting to Know the Specs
To make an informed decision about your access control needs, spend some time becoming accustomed to different biometric locks specifications.
For instance, you will want to choose a product with false acceptance (FAR) and false rejection rates (FRR) as close to zero as possible.
Biometric door locks which scan fingerprints will have what is known as fingerprint capacity. In essence,
the database can only hold so many permitted users. Deadbolt style biometric locks which you can purchase and install in your home frequently have a fingerprint capacity of 99.
An additional aspect of biometric sensors is resolution.
Resolution, which is measure in dots per inch (DPI), indicates how rich the resulting image will be.
A higher resolution sensor produces a higher quality image; however, it also takes longer to scan.
Many devices have a DPI of 500. Although a few, state-of-the-art devices have a DPI of 560. A resolution of 400 DPI or more is considered acceptable.
Some locks require specific door sizes and materials as well. It is important to note these requirements and features before purchasing a biometric lock which is useless to yourself.
However, once you are familiar with biometric locks, you can make an educated decision to protect the people and things which mean the most to you.
