Retinal Biometrics Vs. Biometrics Iris - Do You Know The Difference?

Retinal biometrics is a newer technology that is becoming increasingly popular. In fact, this technology is continuing to get better, offering one of the most reliable biometric security device options when used correctly.

However, as with any technology, it comes with both pros and cons. One problem surrounding this technology is that it is so often confused with biometric iris. It’s important to understand that retinal and iris biometrics are two totally different forms of biometric retinal technology.

To help you learn more about these two retinal options and the differences between them, here is a closer look at each retinal option and how they differ.

This way you are well informed on each retinal technology if you are considering the addition of biometric security to your home or business.

About Retinal Biometrics

Biometric retina involves the use of a scan that surveys the blood vessel patterns on the retina using infrared light this biometric vein retinal technology looks at the back of the eye that has nerve tissue, and it includes blood vessels that come in a unique retinal pattern. This biometric retinal pattern is unique to every individual.

It was back in the 1950s when this idea was first explored. Later in the 1970s, Robert Hill would found the company, Eydentify, which began to exploit this technology.

One of the main benefits that iris biometrics offers is that retinal patterns have little chance of being forged or replicated. This means that retinal scans can offer great accuracy and they are one of the least violable options among various biometric security options.

Although they are very accurate, at this point they are not widely used for several reasons. One reason they are rarely used at this point is because of the expensive behind this technology. Also, light beams have to be directly shone in the eyes of users if this retinal technology is to work.

Some find retinal scanning intrusive and unpleasant, which is why the general public is not likely to accept retina biometrics. Some diseases can also lead to changes in the retina, which could lead to inaccurate results.

Iris Biometrics Information

When it comes to biometric iris, they are often confused and referred to as the same thing as retinal biometrics.

However, while retinal scans actually look at the retina, iris biometrics looks specifically at the iris. These scans take a look at the iris, which is the colored tissue that is around the pupil of the eye.

Biometric Iris scans can be more easily carried out, since video cameras can easily pick up the iris, even if the person is a few feet away. This technology was patented back in the latter part of the 1980s.

It was used first by a Pennsylvania prison to help identify the prisoners. Today various airports are beginning to make use of this technology, including Heathrow Airport in London and Frankfurt Airport in Germany.

The benefit of biometric iris over eye biometrics is that it is easier to apply, since scanning is much easier.

However, this technology has a few drawbacks as well. Scanners may be fooled by using a photo of an iris over the actual iris. However, the iris usually stays the same throughout life, meaning that it is unlikely there will be a change that could confuse the biometric identity of a person.

When you are choosing the right biometric technology for your needs, it’s important to be well informed. Don’t make the mistake of confusing retinal biometrics and iris biometrics. Both technologies are very different, so use this information to help you decide which option may work best for you.