APC Password Manager Scans Fingerprints

By Staff On Apr 19 2004 - 6:00am

Offering users a "simple and secure way" to remember passwords, American Power Conversion (APC) is debuting Biometric Password Manager, a personal fingerprint scanner that makes it easy for PC and laptop users to manage their passwords.

Based on fingerprint sensor technology, the solution allows users to "biometrically" secure their PC or notebook, as well as eliminate the need to memorize passwords.

Up to 20 different fingerprints or passwords from 20 different users can be stored on a single computer system. Each user enrolls using a finger as identification. The Biometric allows for stable placement and accurate finger verification, coming equipped with a 6-foot USB cable, easy-to-use software and compatibility with Windows XP, ME 2000 and 98 operating systems. The software stores an unlimited number of login names and passwords.

The Biometric scans fingerprints below the surface of the skin to the live layer or true fingerprint. The scanner is not affected by common skin surface conditions that hinder taking accurate fingerprint images for authentication purposes.

The Biometric Password Manager became available in March at a suggested $49.99 retail.