Fujitsu Upgrades Fingerprint Sensor

Fujitsu Microelectronics and Phoenix Technologies recently announced that Fujitsu has introduced the latest member of its fingerprint sensor IC technology, the Fujitsu MBF320 Sweep Sensor. The new MBF320 features TrustedCore pre-boot authentication (PBA), fingerprint-matching algorithms and biometric software from Cogent Systems, and a USB 2.0 full-speed interface. According to the companies statement, a single, rapid fingerprint sweep across the MBF320 sensor captures fingerprint features associated with high-resolution, 500-dpi fingerprint data.

The MBF320 with pre-boot authentication is the latest in Fujitsu’s series of low-power, cost-efficient fingerprint verification systems. In 2002, the company launched the MBF300 Sweep Sensor, the first sweep sensor built using the company’s solid-state sensor technology. In 2003, Fujitsu introduced the MBF310 in a much smaller package, which was designed into the JumpDrive TouchGuard USB Flash Drive from Lexar Media.

“The added layer of security in the MBF320 Sweep Sensor, provided by pre-boot authentication, represents a significant move forward in the technology,” according to Keith Horn, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Fujitsu Microelectronics America.

The MBF320 is packaged with a patented “finger-guide” feature in a compact, 43-pin plastic FBGA (Fine-pitch Ball Grid Array) module, and will be manufactured using Fujitsu’s 0.35-micron process technology. The device’s small form factor and compact packaging make it easy to manufacture cost-efficiently in high volumes. Samples are available now at $6 each for fewer than 1,000 pieces.

Full PR details here.