Single module for fingerprint recognition and on-screen navigation

25 September 2002 Electronics Technology

Designed for a wide range of mobile equipment including compact third-generation wireless terminals, PDAs and portable PCs, the STMicroelectronics SmartFinger module combines fingerprint recognition and on-screen navigation functions in a single ready-to-use unit. This saves space and reduces product development time.

SmartFinger combines linear AC-capacitative fingerprint sensor technology licensed from Idex ASA, with ST's integrated circuit technology to provide both scan-type fingerprint access control and pointer operation. It eliminates the need for a mechanical roller to implement on-screen point-and-click navigation features. ST has an exclusive licence with Idex for this technology.

The silicon sensor used is the linear type where a finger is simply swept over the sensor to scan the whole fingerprint area. This approach not only significantly reduces the size of the silicon sensor, and hence cost, but also reduces the overall size of the module.

The software functions for authentication and navigation of SmartFinger are within the processing power of the ARM7 and ARM9 cores widely used in mobile terminal design. ST has licences for a broad range of ARM cores which can be integrated in system-on-chip designs.

Module data

* Module size: 15 x 7 mm.

* Image resolution: 500 dpi.

* Operating voltage: analog 2,5 V, digital 1,5 V.

* ESD resistance: >15 kV.

* Operating temperature range: -20 to 70°C.

* Consumption: 40 mA peak.

For more information contact Avnet Kopp, (011) 809 6100, [email protected], www.avnet.co.za

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