Firm unveils fingerprint ID system

I/O Software today announced a fingerprint identification terminal, designed for those interested in the ultimate high-tech security system.

The biometric terminal, which includes a Fingerprint Identification Unit manufactured by Sony, is designed to read fingerprints in about .3 seconds and verify the identity of the person attached to the finger.

Many are looking to futuristic security technology, like biometrics, as the growing popularity of Internet commerce requires tighter control than simple passwords offer.

The terminal includes a keypad, LCD screen, and optional smart card reader, according to I/O Software, which develops and distributes similar biometric technology. The system also offers 32KB of memory to store up to 3000 fingerprints.

The technology has less than a one percent false acceptance or rejection rate, according to the company.

I/O Software is distributing the product, which is currently in limited availability, according to Steve Wong, director of marketing for the software firm. Terminals ordered today will be shipped in roughly three months, he said.

The Sony Fingerprint Identification Unit with smart card reader is priced at $2,000. Without the smart card reader, the device is $1,600.