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Personal identification has always been regarded as a must-have feature as part of a security set-up. While facial and iris recognition by the computer is beyond the current means of most of us, there is still the fingerprint element of biometrics. After being used by law enforcement agencies for many years, identification by fingerprints is well within the capability of today’s home computers as the technology is taken up by companies such as Microsoft and American Power Conversion (APC).

APC is best known as a leading provider of global, end-to-end AC and DC-based back-up power products that include surge suppressors, uninterruptible power supplies and power management equipment. Recently, however, APC has branched out into biometrics and the field of password management with the release of a small fingerprint reader unit. Available in bubble pack format, and some might consider this form of packaging as a security device itself as it is rather difficult to get into, this product is entitled Biometric Password Manager.

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The fingerprint reader unit measures 7 x 4 x 2cm (L x W x H) and links to the computer via a permanently attached USB lead. While the 195cm lead does give you plenty of scope with regards to positioning the reader, it provides little help when it comes to stabilising this lightweight device. Often I found that I was knocking this reader unit around my work area as I performed different tasks. The solution I came up with was to anchor the unit by placing the USB lead under my keyboard. While hardly the perfect solution, it did serve its purpose.

Installation of the unit is straightforward and involves attached the reader to the computer before inserting the software CD. Driver software is supplied for various versions of Windows and you also get APC proprietary OmniPass software. The APC OmniPass software starts out by leading you through the process of adding your fingerprints to its database.

Although there is nothing to stop you just registering a single fingerprint, I would strongly recommend that you take the trouble to register fingers from both hands. Accidents can happen and it might prove inconvenient if your chosen finger became damaged in some way, resulting in you not being able to be identified. As the software can store up to twenty fingerprints you can set up a number of users as long as you do not exceed this limit. In each case up to eight readings will be taken of each finder so that the software can build up a complete picture of the fingerprint. This will increase the accuracy of the software and allow for easier recognition.

Any programs and Web sites that require a password will need to be introduced on an individual basis to the reader. This will enable the software to store the relevant information required for accessing the various locations. While this could be a little onerous, it just needs to be carried out once and can be spread over a period as you make use of the various programs and Web sites. Once the process is completed then a touch of your finder on the reader should guarantee access.

It is also possible to encrypt and decrypt files and folder that are then protected by your fingerprint. However be aware that not all files and folders can be encrypted. Among those you will be unable to protect in this way are those in the Windows directory and the folder where APC OmniPass software is installed.

Although APC state that cleaning of the unit’s sensor will not be required on a regular basis, it is possible that it might be needed occasionally. If this should happen then APC recommend using a water-based household cleaner.

If you are inclined to forget passwords, as many are, then this device could provide the aid your memory needs. However at £44.99, it does seem a little expensive but it is more secure then having Post-It notes dotted around.