BIO-key Releases New EcoID II USB Fingerprint Scanner

BIO-key has released a new version of its EcoID USB fingerprint scanner. The EcoID II improves on the legacy of its predecessor with upgraded algorithms and a smaller form factor to improve performance and make the device more user-friendly.

To that end, the EcoID is built with new scanner technology, and utilizes BIO-key’s own algorithms for scanning and image capture. Those algorithms have been vetted by NIST, which ensures that they are able to live up to a strong matching standard.

The device itself can be used for both consumer and enterprise authentication. The EcoID II is fully compatible with BIO-key’s PortalGuard Identity-as-a-Service platform, which means that larger organizations can use the scanners to help verify the identities of people logging in remotely. In that regard, the EcoID II will enable the use of fingerprint recognition as an accepted biometric authentication factor.

It can also do the same for the Windows Hello and Hello for Business platforms. Consumers can plug the EcoID II directly into a Windows 10 device to add fingerprint capabilities without needing to invest in a newer and more expensive computer. The scanner can then be used for fingerprint authentication in any application with Windows Hello utility.

BIO-key has submitted the EcoID II to Microsoft for independent testing. Assuming that it clears, the scanner will be listed in the Windows Update catalog as an approved Windows Hello solution. Until then, the EcoID’s small footprint makes it well-suited tight workspaces where space is at a premium.

“Feedback on the new EcoID II has been very positive and with the accelerating interest in biometric authentication for enterprise, we are proud to introduce our latest low-cost, compact fingerprint device,” said BIO-key Chairman and CEO Michael DePasquale.

Individual consumers can acquire the EcoID II through the Amazon store, while larger enterprises can place volume orders through BIO-key’s partner network. The scanner itself is has a USB-C female port, and comes with a USB-C to USB-A cable and a USB-C port adapter.

The original EcoID has proven to be popular with law enforcement and government agencies. Several elections organizations have used the device to help secure the voting process.

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August 23, 2021 – by Eric Weiss