What are Biometric Time Clocks?

Biometrics refers to authentication techniques that rely on measurable physical characteristics of the person seeking authentication. Biometrics are used in time clocks in order to accurately and uniquely identify each employee and avoid issues such as buddy punching. Biometrics are much more reliable than older methods such as time cards

There are several types of biometrics used in time clocks. Biometric time clocks use various human body parts, as shown below, to identify an employee:

fingerprint: an individual’s unique fingerprints
hand: the length of the fingers and the shape of the hand
iris: the coloured ring that surrounds the pupil
face: facial characteristics
retina: the capillary vessels at the back of the eye

Biometrics also play a significant role in computers and electronic commerce. Many laptops today use a fingerprint scanning device where you place your index finger on a certain spot on the computer as your signon. The computer analyzes your fingerprint to determine who you are and, based on your identity, authorizes your access and gives you your level of security access.