Direct Fingerprint Reader

A direct fingerprint reader (DFR), also called a fingerprint scanner or fingerprint reader, is a biometrics device that uses automated methods of recognizing a person based on unique physical characteristics of a person’s fingerprint.

A fingerprint is made up of a pattern of ridges and furrows as well as characteristics that occur at minutiae points (ridge bifurcation or a ridge ending). Fingerprint scanning essentially provides an identification of a person based on the acquisition and recognition (or verification) of those unique patterns and ridges in a fingerprint.

Fingerprint Diagram

Image Source: MSU Biometrics (2004)

Fingerprint devices are by far the most popular form of biometric security used, with a variety of systems on the market intended for general and mass market usage.

Recommended Reading: See Webopedia’s How Fingerprint Scanners Work and also learn How Biometrics Security Works.

Vangie Beal
Vangie Beal
Vangie Beal is a freelance business and technology writer covering Internet technologies and online business since the late '90s.
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