A Closer Look At Fingerprint Scanners

October 12th, 2021



The future is here, at least where various things are concerned. And one area that the modern world has finally caught up to sci-fi movies is in security systems. Fingerprint scanners, for example, are now more common in Chico, CA than most people realize.

You’ll find them almost everywhere, and fingerprint scanners are being used to secure a number of things including:

  • Mobile phones
  • Company keys
  • Access doors
  • Bank vaults
  • Vehicles
  • And more

From apartment buildings to casinos to your iPhone, fingerprint scanners are the new norm. But how do they work? Learning more about them is something well worth doing, especially when living in a world that is so reliant on them.

Fingerprint Scanner Basics

Fingerprint scanners are nothing more than devices that capture the ridges and patterns on your finger. Just as fingerprinting has been used for centuries by law enforcement, your fingerprints are stored in the system databanks. Then, instead of using a key to access different areas or things, you simply scan in your fingerprint. The system processes it and compares it with what is on file. If a match is found, your identity is verified and you’ll gain access.

There are four main types of fingerprint scanners being used today in Chico, CA. These include the following.

  • Optical – The most common option, these use a light sensitive scanner to scan in a digital copy of your fingerprint. They’re more affordable than other options, but aren’t as secure and can be manipulated.
  • Ultrasonic – One of the most accurate options, these use high frequency sound waves to scan in the fingerprint, then create a 3D image. It’s technology similar to sonar, and while it’s more accurate and reliable, they’re also more expensive than other options.
  • Thermal – Thermal readers use temperature fluctuations caused by valleys and ridges in your fingerprint. They’ll scan in very accurate fingerprints, but require a controlled temperature in the room at all times.
  • Capacitive – These systems use electricity to capture the fingerprint. Every person’s body gives out a tiny electrical charge. These sensors pick up those charges and store the information as a fingerprint.

The Big Advantages Of Fingerprint Technology

Of course, plenty of homes and businesses still use the more conventional key and lock systems. There’s nothing wrong with this, but as more and more people begin to implement fingerprint technology instead, the benefits become more apparent. Some of the advantages include:

  • Fast and easy, with no need to fumble with keys
  • No risk of losing keys or having them stolen
  • Much harder to fake or duplicate than keys
  • Can’t be picked or hacked
  • Database is easy to update, modify, and review as needed.

The Right Security For You

Whether you’re securing your home, some valuables, or your business in Chico, CA and various rooms within the business, fingerprint scanning technology is an option that deserves more attention from everyone. They’re becoming more common than ever, and offer advantages that make them stand out as being the right call for your security needs. And, with today’s technology, they’re becoming more reliable and accurate than ever before.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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