Other

Glossary

Algorithm

A systematic procedure for how to conduct calculation or solve a problem in a given number of steps. In Fingerprints’ specific case, the method refers to the comparison of two fingerprints with each other. 

Authentication

Control process for a particular entity; in conjunction with logging on, for example. The word is synonymous with verification.

Biometric system

A pattern recognition system that identifies or verifies an individual by studying a physiological characteristic of that individual, such as a fingerprint.

Chip

A piece of silicon that an integrated circuit is embedded in, such as a sensor chip. Normally, a silicon wafer is divided into a number of chips, with each chip being essentially identical.

Design Win

Decision by a customer (OEM or ODM) to start developing one or several commercial products using Fingerprints’ technology integrated into one or more of its products.

Identification

Comparison of compiled biometric data with all stored templates for the purpose of identifying one of these templates (and thus an individual) from many.

Internet of Things

Internet-connected devices that are linked to the Internet and can thus communicate with/be controlled via the Internet.

Matching

The process of comparing an image of a fingerprint with a pre-processed template, and assessing whether or not they are similar.

Modality

Type of biometric feature, such as fingerprint sensors and iris sensors.

ODM

Original Design Manufacturer, a company that develops and manufactures products sold under the trademarks of other companies.

OEM

Original Equipment Manufacturers, companies that manufacture the end product that is sold on an open market.

Smart card

Plastic card with an embedded chip containing information about the card and its owner.

Smartphone /tablet

A combined mobile phone and handheld computer linked to the Internet via mobile broadband. A smartphone has a complete mobile operating system that is transferable between multiple devices enabling the user to easily install mobile apps, which are small third-party programs that increase the phone’s functionality.

Template 

An arrangement of unique data that represents a specific fingerprint.

Touch sensor

Sensor that scans a fingerprint directly when a fingertip touches the sensor surface; compare to swipe sensor.

Verification

The comparison of compiled biometric data with a given template for the purpose of verifying that the two match. This enables the authentication of an individual with a high degree of certainty.

Wafer

A thin circular slice of silicon containing a number of integrated circuits such as sensor chips.