28-01-2016, 11:10 AM
ABSTRACT
Biometrics is the science of measuring and statistically analyzing biological data. In information technology, biometrics refers to the use of a person’s biological characteristics for personal identification and authentication. Fingerprint, iris-scan, retinal-scan, voiceprint, signature, handprint and facial features are some of the most common types of human biometrics.
Digital signal processors (DSPs), which are specially designed single-chip digital microcomputers that process electrical signals generated by electronic sensors (e.g., cameras, fingerprint sensors, microphones, etc.), will help to revolutionize this world of biometrics. The core of the biometric authentication process is made up of image processing and pattern matching or minutiae comparison algorithms. And the programmable DSP, with an architecture well-suited for implementing complex mathematical algorithms, can efficiently address all the processing needs of such a system.
The following information introduces the concept of a complete biometrics system solution based on semiconductor components, development tools, and software solutions. Additionally, the various concepts that outline the inherent advantages of a DSP in a biometric system - better accuracy, faster recognition and lower cost, all leading to smarter biometrics - will also be covered.
[b]INTRODUCTION
Imagine how convenient it would be to activate the security alarm at your home with the touch of a finger, or to enter your home by just placing your hand on the door handle. How would you like to walk up to a nearby ATM which will scan your iris so you can withdraw money without ever inserting a card or entering a PIN. You will basically be able to gain access to everything you are authorized to, by presenting yourself as your identity.
This scenario might not be as far off as we might expect. In the near future, we may no longer use passwords and PIN numbers to authenticate ourselves. These methods have proven to be insecure and unsafe time and time again. Technology has introduced a much smarter solution to us: Biometrics.
Biometrics, the use of a person’sunique biological characteristics (such as face, voice, or fingerprints) for personal identification. The advantages of biometrics are becoming more apparent with the increasing use of computers in our daily life. As cyber crime increases, the need for security against identity theft becomes more and more apparent. Add to this the ever-increasing threat to personal, corporate and government assets, the need for better forms of security is obvious.
Biometric authentication will help in enhancing the security infrastructure against some of these threats. After all, physical characteristics are not something that can be lost, forgotten or passed from one person to another. They are extremely hard to forge and a would-be criminal would think twice before committing a crime involving biometrics.