Innometriks Rhino biometric access control approved for deployment in pilot tests of the TWIC program

(19/11/2008)

The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program is mandated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act. It will require port personnel and additional transportation workers to use a tamper-resistant biometric credential to gain authorized access to secured outdoor areas. The TWIC pilot is currently scheduled to begin in early 2009 and will collect operating data from over 20 port facilities and maritime vessels.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has evaluated and passed the Innometriks Rhino™ for deployment in critical pilot tests of the TWIC program. The Rhino, a ruggedized smartcard-based access control device with integrated Lumidigm multispectral biometric technology, is now ready for deployment in the upcoming TWIC pilot sites in California, New York, Texas, and Maryland. The decision by the TSA adds the maritime industry's first fully NEMA 4 weatherproof rated reader using multispectral imaging technology to the TWIC Initial Capability Evaluation (ICE) list.

The TWIC-ready Innometriks Rhino incorporates Lumidigm's multispectral imaging technology, making it the only TSA-evaluated TWIC terminal that maintains its superior performance in wet conditions - a crucial differentiator for any maritime environment. Lumidigm's multispectral technology also contributes world-class liveness ("fake finger") detection to partner products.

"Lumidigm had the first fingerprint sensor technology that we saw that just plain worked," said John Cassise, CEO of Innometriks Inc. "We finally had the missing link. We had a fingerprint sensor that would capture anyone from 8 years old to 80 years old no matter the condition of their finger and no matter the environment. Water, dirt, grease, poor fingerprints, no matter - Lumidigm's multispectral imaging just works."

The Rhino has a HID smartcard reader, a large 3.5-inch color LCD, and a vandal-proof keypad to provide an outdoor fingerprint biometric reader that works in all weather conditions. Relying on Lumidigm's multispectral imaging technology to maintain high biometric performance in rugged environments, the Rhino has been designed for installation outside in direct weather with no enclosure, covering or other protection - making it especially suitable for deployment at port facilities and maritime vessels.

"Lumidigm multispectral technology is well known for its real world capabilities, especially its ability to perform well in harsh outdoor environments," said Matt Shannon, Vice President of Public Sector Sales at Lumidigm. "The harsh port environment, so challenging to other biometric technologies, will be no problem for Lumidigm's fingerprint sensors and the Innometriks Rhino."

"The Innometriks Rhino has demonstrated one of the fastest read times, contributing to its user-friendly reputation," said Cassise. "We believe that the smartcard capabilities of the rugged Rhino terminal, together with the robust performance of the Lumidigm fingerprint sensor, will exhibit the potential of the TWIC program.

Related topics:  Building access control system   Fingerprint biometrics   Legislation   Smart card 

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