Finger print access added to Sony USB storage device

 

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By Alun Williams

Posted on 1 Oct 2003 at 11:46

With an embedded fingerprint sensor, the Sony's new Micro Vault device adds a biometric twist to USB-based personal storage.

The company has added a fingerprint sensor to the top of its keyfob device, which offers 128MB via USB 2.0. Making personal storage more 'personal', boasts Sony.

Micro Vault with Fingerprint Access also comes bundled with software tools to make the most of the biometric functionality. These include the use of screensavers, which are only released by registered fingerprints and the saving of Web bookmarks, as well as file encryption (both on the Micro Vault or the computer's hard disk) via fingerprints on the sensor.

Up to 10 different fingerprints can be stored in the device. Which allows - Sony points out - continued use of the device when a particular finger may be injured or bandaged.

The Micro Vault with Fingerprint Access comes with a docking station and a 1.2m long cable. The product should be available in Europe from November.

It can be used with Windows XP, 2000, ME and 98. For Mac OS X machines, the Micro Vault can be used for storage only, with the fingerprint and password protection facilities being unavailable.

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