Access control systems add a layer of security and convenience to your business. You can quickly unlock doors by swiping a card, clicking a smartphone app or using your fingerprint. Further, an access control system can protect your business by controlling who can access the premise and assets. Although there are different sizes and configurations of access control systems, biometric fingerprint scanners are becoming a popular choice due to a host of benefits, including enhanced ability to authenticate identity and the difficulty of forging a person's biometric details. This article explores biometric fingerprint scanners for business use.

What Is Biometrics?

Biometrics implies measuring the unique physical attributes of a person. While human beings can identify another person with ease, it is tough for computers to distinguish one person from another. Therefore, biometrics breaks down human identification information into manageable bits that a computer can understand. In this sense, computers are programmed to recognise voices, faces, retinas and fingerprints. Since the features are unique to each individual, a computer can be programmed to compare the information to a database. 

Configurations of Biometric Fingerprint Scanners

A fingerprint scanner maps out an individual's fingerprint-based on ridges and any unique features such as scars and marks. The mapped out information is compared to the information available in a database. There are three common types of biometric fingerprint scanners, namely capacitive, optical and ultrasonic. Capacitive sensors derive a fingerprint map using the difference between print valleys and ridges as electronic contact points. Conversely, optical scanners comprise an image sensor that renders a 2D image of a fingerprint. Ultrasonic variants use a calibrated sonic pulse that bounces off a fingerprint and maps the returning echo instead of the actual fingerprint. Captured data is then used to form the shape of a print. 

Enhance Accuracy

Although fingerprint recognition improves your business's security, it can pose challenges to operations. For example, an injured finger can lead to inaccurate fingerprint recognition. Also, dirty or wet fingers can affect the proper recognition of biometrics. A practical solution to such problems is installing a scanner that can read at least two or three fingers. Similarly, contactless and 3D fingerprint scanners can help improve accuracy and reliability.  

Safeguard Against Fraud

Access control systems are susceptible to fraud. A quality image of a fingerprint or a 3D-printed finger can compromise some biometric systems. Therefore, adding liveliness detection technology to your scanners can help protect against fraud. The system detects blood flow, texture, and warmth of fingers during scanning. 

For more information, contact a company that offers security systems from places like Gallagher Certified Channel Partners.