Glance of the Eye

Biometric device is perfect technique to authenticate person's identity

  • By Julianna Benedick
  • Jan 03, 2007

RALPH Waldo Emerson is quoted as saying, "One of the most wonderful things in nature is a glance of the eye; it transcends speech; it is the bodily symbol of identity." While biometrics was a concept not yet invented in Emerson's day, the quote still applies perfectly to the technique at the heart of Panasonic's BM-ET330 iris recognition system.

This recognition system employs an advanced method to positively authenticate an individual's identity through a glance into two cameras to take pictures of both irises. This picture is then matched to a previously taken picture that is stored in the database.

This recognition system employs an advanced method to positively authenticate an individual's identity through a glance into two cameras to take pictures of both irises. This picture is then matched to a previously taken picture that is stored in the database.

Seeing Double
Iris recognition is one of the most reliable biometric technologies available, and the system enhances that reliability through its dual camera design that captures both iris images simultaneously. It's fast, easy to use and features extremely low rates for both false accepts and rejects.

Employed initially in high-security applications, iris recognition systems are now being used in a wider range of identity management installations to augment existing physical security systems such as access control. In the example of a highly trafficked Manhattan office building, the BM-ET330 system is integrated into the several lobby turnstiles, which are networked into the building's access control system.

Users initially enroll in the system by having photos of their irises taken by the iris reader and stored in a database. The system's biometric software, developed by Iridian Technologies Inc., makes a template or map of each person's iris pattern for storage on the access control system server.

In the case of the Manhattan office building, to authenticate identity in the database as an authorized employee and gain entry to the building, individuals swipe their access card and then simply look into the iris reader. The system compares the patterns in the person's irises against the templates stored on the server, if there's a match, the identity is verified, the turnstile is unlocked and the person gains access.

Looking Back
Enhancing existing security systems with biometrics, and specifically iris recognition has become more prevalent and accepted. Iris technology offers extreme accuracy and high security and is easy to use. Authentication is more accurate because unlike fingerprint, voice, facial or photo ID card programs, data obtained using the iris recognition system will never become obsolete, as iris patterns remain the same for life after one year of age. The system has a false acceptance ratio of only one in 1.2 million. In addition, it is absolutely safe to use, and no contact with the cameras is required, eliminating wear and tear and contamination issues.

Compared to other biometric technologies, iris recognition offers a definite advantage in an integrated front-end access control system. Rather than the one-to-one search used in fingerprint systems, the iris reader uses a one-to-many comparison technique, which seeks to find an identity from a database rather than verify a claimed identity. Additionally, files needed to store iris data are much smaller compared to those for fingerprints -- 512 bytes compared to 1.5 MB -- thereby making the data easier to store and access.

All Eyes Ahead
Public knowledge and acceptance of access control is commonplace, and use of iris recognition systems will increase in the public domain as an integrated or even standalone system to access control. Projects such as the Orlando Airport ClearTM Registered Traveler Program and the National ChildTM Identification Program are helping to create greater understanding of the powerful identification, authentication and security applications of iris recognition.

This article originally appeared in the August 2006 issue of Security Products, pg. 52.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

About the Author

Julianna Benedick is the group manager of marketing for Panasonic System Solutions Company -- Panasonic Security Systems.

Featured

  • Video Surveillance Trends to Watch

    With more organizations adding newer capabilities to their surveillance systems, it’s always important to remember the “basics” of system configuration and deployment, as well as the topline benefits of continually emerging technologies like AI and the cloud. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Trends Transforming Access Controller Technology

    Mercury Security, a provider in access control hardware and open platform solutions, has published its Trends in Access Controllers Report, based on a survey of over 450 security professionals across North America and Europe. The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders. Read Now

  • Overwhelming Majority of CISOs Anticipate Surge in Cyber Attacks Over the Next Three Years

    An overwhelming 98% of chief information security officers (CISOs) expect a surge in cyber attacks over the next three years as organizations face an increasingly complex and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven digital threat landscape. This is according to new research conducted among 300 CISOs, chief information officers (CIOs), and senior IT professionals by CSC1, the leading provider of enterprise-class domain and domain name system (DNS) security. Read Now

  • ASIS International Introduces New ANSI-Approved Investigations Standard

    • Guard Services

  • Cloud Security Alliance Brings AI-Assisted Auditing to Cloud Computing

    The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA), the world’s leading organization dedicated to defining standards, certifications, and best practices to help ensure a secure cloud computing environment, today introduced an innovative addition to its suite of Security, Trust, Assurance and Risk (STAR) Registry assessments with the launch of Valid-AI-ted, an AI-powered, automated validation system. The new tool provides an automated quality check of assurance information of STAR Level 1 self-assessments using state-of-the-art LLM technology. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.