ISO/IEC 19794-4 Fingerprint Image Record Standard

Overview

Fingerprint Scanner ISO Standards

ISO/IEC 19794-4 (FIR) - The Fingerprint Format Behind Secure Application

How does a fingerprint scanner capture your unique personality? The answer lies in the ISO/IEC 19794-4 technical standard also known as FIR (Finger Image Record). This blog post reveals the secret behind FIR, explaining the role it plays in fingerprint security and how it ensures proper data exchange between devices.

The FIR format specifies how this fingerprint image is stored, ensuring consistent data structure across different fingerprint scanners and recognition systems. Here's what FIR captures:

Image Data: The raw fingerprint image data, typically in grayscale format.
Resolution: The level of detail captured in the image, often measured in pixels per inch (ppi).
Scanning Information: Details like capture device type and date of scan.
Optional Data: Additional information like finger position (thumb, index finger, etc.) can be included.

FIR allows fingerprint scanners from various manufacturers to capture and store fingerprint images in a universally understood format. This enables:

Seamless Data Exchange: Fingerprint data captured on one device can be used for recognition on another device that adheres to the FIR standard.
Improved System Integration: Developers can create fingerprint recognition systems with the confidence that FIR-compliant scanners will provide compatible data.

FIR serves as the foundation for secure fingerprint-based applications like:

Mobile Device Security: Unlocking smartphones and tablets using fingerprint scanners.
Access Control Systems: Granting secure entry to restricted areas.
Law Enforcement Identification: Verifying identities during investigations.