Biometric Examples

Retinal Scanners are pretty much exactly what they sound like: they are miniscule video cameras used to measure the size dilation, color, and shape of the retina. Since everyone's retina characteristics are different, this ensures an extra level of security.

Facial Scanners are another great line of defense in the battle for security. Facial Scanners use complex 3D technology to make a "map" of a persons face. The computer studies the persons facial features, and records them. Once the map of the face is saved, it can be projected back onto a given surface to verify the identity of of the person.

Fingerprint Scanners are used to ensure the person accessing a facility or set of files, is who he or she says she is. The Scanner takes a pre-stored copy of the Authorized users fingerprint, and compares it to the print that is being read. These scanners are already in common use at ATM machines accross the country, as well as in Law Enforement practices.

The final, and last most common type of biometric scanner that can be found in regular use is that of Speech Recognition. Speech recognition scanners will read the timbre, intonation, and speech characteristics of an authorized person, and compare them to the person wishing to gain access. The speech recognition can also be combined with a common phrase, or a passphrase. This adds and extra level of security.