ODI Security, LLC, the first company to produce a stand-alone embedded fingerprint module in the U.S., has announced the introduction of the first truly low cost, power efficient, stand-alone fingerprint modules for the consumer and commercial markets.

ODI Security designed and manufactured the new modules that utilize patent pending, high security algorithms and small footprint hardware design, in combination with Atmel® Corporations FingerChip® fingerprint sensor technology and power efficient ARM 7® processor core. This powerful combination allows the modules to extend battery life that exceeds a year in normal consumer use.

The modules are the result of many years of development by both companies. Through optimized technology, they have the unique ability to be used in all weather conditions, including rain, snow, and temperatures ranging from 85°C down to -40°C, and in extreme user environments, such as with greasy or dirty fingers.

"These are the first truly suitable sensors for use outdoors. Unlike the other sensors, these work as well in the rain as they do dry. Our modules ability to identify a persons fingerprint under less than ideal conditions allows us to build the first really reliable consumer and commercial products," said Rich Slevin, ODI Securitys CEO. "When The Atmel sensor is combined with our patent-pending imaging and algorithm technologies, and our optimized hardware design, we can now hit the right price points for these modules and products and offer the first truly usable and affordable biometric products."

Most biometric products have a backup key or keypad to allow access for the roughly 20% of the users that cannot register or for when weather conditions are less than ideal. In contrast, the ODI modules do not require such backup due to their inherent reliability. The modules are the most robust on the market today.

Atmels FingerChip technology offers the highest levels of sensitivity and image quality on the market, ensuring operation in difficult environments and with difficult, dry and poor fingerprints. Its embedded grounded surface electrode ensures excellent ESD protection, and its thick surface coating ensures unbeatable mechanical robustness and protection in all weather.

"ODIs biometric algorithm demands the highest levels of performance, quality and reliability, from the embedded fingerprint sensors image output. Atmels FingerChip sensor is uniquely suited to satisfy these requirements," said Martin Squibbs, Biometric Business Development Manager for Atmel. "We are delighted to have worked with and supported ODI Security in combining the FingerChips industry leading performance with ODI Securitys excellent biometric software and integration expertise and Atmels low power high performance ARM7 microcontroller."

All modules contain a complete user interface, and LED feedback for registration and use. They also provide low battery indication and the ability to drive up to 5 different lock actuators. Any of these actuators can be supplied as part of a full turnkey lock module for an OEM to develop a lock system easily, without any electronics knowledge. Just add a battery and follow the mechanical design reference guide to build any number of different locking systems from a briefcase lock or door lock to a padlock.

The modules also have a full serial port and IR communication capability, allowing them to be used as part of larger systems, such as a multi-door access control system. The IR enhancement can be used in a multi-lock application to maintain the user template database of an unlimited number of locks using a secure PDA or Laptop, making these modules incredibly versatile. ODI Security can also provide a Software Development Kit (SDK) with full documentation and source code for developers to design their own systems, from WiFi interfaces to time and attendance devices.

ODI Security provides design support, or can design the product or system to any specification, including low cost off-shore manufacturing, making it a truly one stop biometric solution provider for any OEM.

For more information, please send your e-mails to swm@infothe.com.

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