Live Fingerprint Recognition Systems

The ability to implement fingerprint ID systems in mobile devices hinges on the confluence of two technology developments: the recent commercial availability of very small, low power, high quality fingerprint sensors and the introduction of a new generation of fast, powerful DSPs into mobile devices.

In this section we review the engineering elements of designing fingerprint systems into the next generation mobile devices. We briefly characterize the unique aspects of mobile fingerprint systems, develop the concept of operations for mobile fingerprint systems, and then examine the critical performance metrics used to control the system design and ensure its adequacy. The fingerprint system is then decomposed into its basic elements. Each of these is described along with some possible design approaches and implementation alternatives. Lastly, we describe a prototype system architecture based on the Texas Instruments' OMAP architecture, and discuss the design and implementation of a demonstration system constructed using this architecture.

In this chapter we have presented two of the most promising techniques for user authentication within mobile handsets. Both speech and fingerprint techniques now exist and can be implemented using compute power that is presently available on modern DSPs. This chapter discussed the technical challenges faced by each method, and the engineering trade-off decisions that must be made in order to obtain the desired level of performance. The use of such technology is now dependent on our ability to integrate it into the handset in a user friendly and efficient manner

Reliable user identification capabilities working together with secure communications capabilities can allow the mobile wireless device to become a highly capable and secure personal controller for the electronic systems that serve us. Whole new classes of applications programs on the mobile device platform can now perform secure remote control of everything from our investment portfolios to the locks on our homes and cars.