Fingerprint Sensor: Advantages and Disadvantages

This article explores the pros and cons of fingerprint sensors, covering their basic functionality, benefits, and drawbacks.

What is a Fingerprint Sensor?

Introduction: A fingerprint sensor is a device designed to capture a biometric image of the unique pattern on a finger. The sensing device itself is often referred to as a fingerprint scanner. The captured biometric data is then used for various identification purposes, including password control for computing devices, biometric passports, and more.

Fingerprint sensor used in fingerprint scanner

Fingerprint sensors are developed using a range of technologies, including:

• Optical
• Pyroelectric
• Thermal
• Piezo-electric
• Capacitive
• Piezoresistive
• Ultrasound
• MEMS

The basic process involves a person pressing their finger onto the scanning device, which then captures the image of the finger’s unique pattern. Once captured, this image can be stored as a reference sample for future verification of the same individual.

Benefits or Advantages of Fingerprint Sensors

Here are some key benefits of using fingerprint sensors:

• High Accuracy: Fingerprint recognition offers a high degree of accuracy in identifying individuals.
• Long-Term Stability: These systems tend to be stable and reliable over extended periods.
• Ease of Use: The technology is generally non-intrusive and easy for users to operate.
• Smaller Storage Space: Biometric samples require relatively little storage space, reducing database memory requirements.
• Uniqueness and Permanence: Fingerprints are unique to each finger of each individual, and the ridge arrangement remains permanent throughout a person’s lifetime.
• Improved Security:
  • Fingerprint patterns are harder to guess than traditional passwords.
  • Unlike physical access cards, fingerprints cannot be misplaced.
  • It’s difficult to create fake identity cards based on biometric images.

Drawbacks or Disadvantages of Fingerprint Sensors

Despite the advantages, fingerprint sensors also have some drawbacks:

• Enrollment Issues: Some users may have difficulty enrolling their fingerprints into the system.
• Skin Condition Sensitivity: The accuracy and performance of the system can be affected by skin conditions such as dryness, cuts, or abrasions.
• Forensic Applications Association: Fingerprint technology is often associated with forensic applications, which can be a concern for some users.
• Health Concerns: There are potential health issues associated with multiple individuals touching the same scanning sensor, especially in pandemic situations like COVID-19.
• Image Capture Challenges: In some cases, it can be difficult to capture a complete and accurate fingerprint image due to factors such as age or occupation.
• Skill Requirements: Collecting a high-quality fingerprint image from nail to nail often requires training and specific skills.