People communicating with objects...
In order for a
person to "communicate" with an object, the object must
be able to identify the person. This brings about the subject of
identification and the application of biometrics which is the
science of identifying a person based on his or her physical
characteristics. Imagine not having to remember a PIN number,
password or carry an ID or credit card which can be lost or
stolen. Biometrics provides a process of identifying an
individual, capable of providing a secure method of transaction
between humans and computers.
Iris Scanning:
No two iris's are alike, even on the same person. A laser scans
an individual's iris identifying at least 64 individual
characteristics and storing them in a database. This method of
identification is currently being used at many automatic teller
machines.
Voice Print:
By storing a sample of a person's voice, a computer can verify or reject a person's query by comparing the frequencies of the stored sample and the person's voice. This method is also supported by comparing an image of the person's face in conjunction with the voice.
Palm Print:
Many airports across the globe have installed a system developed by IBM called FastGate. FastGate provides a method of scanning an individual's palm. This method helps streamline the process of people entering a country.
Thumb Print:
Several low cost thumb print readers are becoming available on
the consumer market. Have you ever misplaced your drivers license
or credit cards? Your thumb print: You won't leave home without
it!
