An updated version of a suite of tools from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for handling digital fingerprint images has been released.
Developed by NIST’s Image Group for the FBI and Homeland Security Department, Fingerprint Image Software 2 is available free to U.S. law enforcement agencies as well as to biometrics manufacturers and researchers. There are 56 utilities and a user’s guide on the CD.
A new tool on the CD evaluates the quality of the fingerprint scan when it is made. Dry skin, the size of fingers and the quality of the equipment can affect the print and the ability to be matched with other prints. For the first time, the software will allow users to compare fingerprint image quality from scanners made by different companies, according to the agency.
