Snowflake Previews Touchless Vein Pattern Recognition

A Memphis, Tenn.-based biometric company has unveiled a prototype of an identity verification system using vein pattern recognition.

Snowflake Technologies, a two-year old unit of Luminetx Corp., which itself developed vein recognition technologies for health care applications, will demonstrate its Enterprise Biometrics system at the ISC West conference in Las Vegas next week.

Unlike other biometric devices, the Snowflake prototype is “touchless.” A user places his hand below an optical reader, which scans the palm. The system uses a Luminetx-developed algorithm to translate some 700 data points within the subcutaneous vein image into a numeric key, said Brad Silver, Snowflake’s vice president of business development.

The palm scan compares to the 35 to 125 data points fingerprint recognition offers, while at the same time, is far less invasive than iris scanning.

Potential applications could include access control; time and attendance; transaction recording; and audit trail creation. “In some cases a palm scan can be done faster that a signature. Also, it can’t be defrauded or spoofed,” Silver says.

The system can also be networked into other security and building systems, whether legacy or IP-based. “I don’t care how you want to hook it up. It’s going to hum in any environment,” Silver stated.

Silver declined to discuss price points, but emphasized the degree of value that Enterprise Biometrics offers across a wide range of corporate security application. Cost estimates, featured in an article at findBiometrics.com by Imran Khan, a research associate for AutoID & Security, in 2006, put per-unit vein recognition cost $2,000 to $4,000, compared to hand geometry readers and fingerprint scanners are priced at $1,200 and $500, respectively.

The product will be ready for full market rollout in the fourth quarter 2008. Beta-testing will begin mid-summer, Silver said.

During ISC West, Snowflake will be demonstrating the prototype at booth 70-137. The scanner is also featured in the video link below.

About the Author

Steven Titch is editor of Network-Centric Security magazine.

Featured

  • 2024 Security Today New Product of the Year Award Winners Announced

    More than 20 companies are being recognized this year for products that help keep us safe. Read Now

  • It Always Rains in Florida

    Over the years, and many trips to various cities, I have experienced some of the craziest memorable things. One thing I always count on when going to Orlando is a massive rainstorm after the tradeshow has concluded the first day. Count on it, it is going to rain Monday evening. Expect that it will be a gully washer. Read Now

    • Industry Events
  • Live from GSX 2024 Preview

    It’s hard to believe, but GSX 2024 is almost here. This year’s show runs from Monday, September 23 to Wednesday, September 25 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. The Campus Security Today and Security Today staff will be on hand to provide live updates about the security industry’s latest innovations, trends, and products. Whether you’re attending the show or keeping tabs on it from afar, we’ve got you covered. Make sure to follow the Live from GSX page for photos, videos, interviews, product demonstrations, announcements, commentary, and more from the heart of the show floor! Read Now

    • Industry Events
  • Elevate Your Business

    In today’s dynamic business environment, companies specializing in physical security are constantly evolving to remain competitive. One strategic shift these businesses can make to give them the advantage is a full or partial transition to a recurring revenue model, popularly called a subscription service. This approach will bring numerous benefits that not only enhance business stability but also improve customer relationships and drive innovation. Recurring monthly revenue (RMR) or recurring annual revenue (RAR) are two recurring cadence choices that work simply and effectively. Read Now

Featured Cybersecurity

Webinars

New Products

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions. 3

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles. 3

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening. 3