The Many Uses of Biometric Recognition Systems

Biometric verification is gaining popularity currently. Its application in security systems, consumer electronics, and point of sale applications affords security and convenience. Biometrics is both a science and technology, which involves measuring and analyzing data of biological characteristics and checking them automatically.

There are several characteristics in humans that are believed to be exclusive to each individual. Based on this there are many biometric identification schemes. Broadly speaking they can be classified under two headings- physiological and behavioral. As the word physiological suggests this class of biometric identification has to do with the human body. Fingerprints of human beings are distinct, unique, and therefore used as a means of identification. Facial characteristics also can be analyzed for the same purpose. Hand geometry or the analysis of the shape of the hand and length of the fingers may also help in identification of individual. The study of the Retina at the back of the eye, and that of the Iris that surrounds the pupil are two distinct identification schemes.

The study of behaviors of persons can help reveal the person. The most important of this class is the Signature Analysis. The Keystroke Dynamics or typing dynamics makes a note of how individual types on a typewriter and or a computer keyboard i.e. how much force he uses to type, his speed, and rhythm. The last is of Voice Recognition. Apart from the above, other strategies are being developed too- gait, hand veins, ear canal, facial thermo gram, DNA analysis and body odor, palm prints are some.

The efficacy of each of the strategies can be judged based on some factors. The strategy should bring out the uniqueness of the individual. It should be a permanent record and not change with age. Collecting the required data should be easy, safe, and quick. It should be approved and accepted. Moreover, it should be capable of being substituted.