IDEMIA VisionPass SP Fingerscan. А compact hybrid biometric scanner.

IDEMIA VisionPass SP Fingerscan: Multifactor Biometrics in a Compact Form Factor

In corporate environments, biometric systems must deliver not only high accuracy but also consistent performance under everyday operational loads — including regular user profile updates, integration with IT infrastructure, and compliance with cybersecurity policies.

IDEMIA VisionPass SP with the FingerScan module is a compact biometric access control terminal that combines advanced facial recognition and fingerprint scanning in a single device, supporting modern security standards and centralized management.

System Architecture and Operating Principles

At the core of VisionPass SP is a 1.8GHz multi-core processor paired with a neural processing unit (NPU, 2.3 TFLOPS), handling data from three camera types: two 2MP sensors (visible and infrared spectrum) and a 3D stereo camera. This architecture enables real-time biometric analysis and identification in under one second, even with a database of up to 50,000 users.

The Fingerscan module features a 14×22 mm optical sensor with 500 dpi resolution, certified to the FBI PIV IQS standard. It captures fingerprint images in 256 grayscale levels, enabling accurate identification even with partial contact or minor skin damage. The module communicates with the main device via USB for both power and data transfer.

Benefits of a Multifactor Approach

Combining two biometric modalities addresses common limitations of single-mode systems. When facial recognition is hindered by masks, glasses, or lighting changes, the system automatically switches to fingerprint data. Conversely, in cases of finger injuries or sensor contamination, facial recognition continues to operate reliably.

IDEMIA’s algorithms, ranked among the most accurate globally by NIST FRVT, adapt to varying operational environments. 3D stereo vision and infrared illumination ensure stable performance despite changing conditions, while certified Presentation Attack Detection (PAD) mechanisms (iBeta Level 1) defend against spoofing via photos, videos, or artificial fingerprints.

Integration and Practical Deployment

VisionPass SP supports plug-and-play integration with most access control systems via the standard OSDP protocol. Power is supplied via PoE+ or 12–24V DC, simplifying installation without the need for separate power lines. A built-in RFID reader and PIN code support enable hybrid authentication scenarios aligned with organizational security policies. The 5-inch capacitive WVGA color touchscreen provides an intuitive user interface with live video feedback and adaptive prompts for improved user experience.

The system stores only biometric templates (not raw images), encrypted using AES-256 to meet GDPR compliance. It supports a database of up to 10,000 users for both 1:1 verification and 1:N identification modes, expandable to 50,000 users. The event log can store up to 1 million transactions. Operating temperature ranges from -10°C to +45°C (up to +50°C for Fingerscan module).

Network Architecture and Access Control Integration

VisionPass SP acts as an intelligent node within the access control network architecture, allowing seamless integration via standard communication protocols. It connects to the corporate network via Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps) with PoE+ support, enabling simplified installation and power delivery over a single cable.

The system operates in two main modes: standalone mode, where access decisions are made locally based on stored biometric templates, and networked Proxy Mode, in which the terminal acts as a remote sensor. In Proxy Mode, access control logic resides on the server, while VisionPass SP transmits biometric data over secure SSL/TLS channels and receives real-time commands.

Support for the OSDP (Open Supervised Device Protocol) with Secure Channel ensures encrypted communication with access controllers, while additional interfaces such as Wiegand, RS485, and USB provide compatibility with a wide range of legacy hardware. The network architecture is optimized for minimal load — typical data traffic remains under a few megabytes per hour, even under high user flow.

The system requires latency no greater than 50 ms to ensure fast door unlocks and real-time alarm triggering. These requirements align with standard local corporate networks and do not demand specialized high-speed infrastructure.

Data Management and Storage Security

The VisionPass SP data architecture is based on Privacy by Design principles and fully complies with GDPR requirements. The system does not store original facial or fingerprint images — only non-reversible biometric templates represented as binary data, which cannot be reconstructed into source images.

Biometric templates are encrypted using AES-256 and stored in the device’s internal 16 GB flash memory. Alternatively, users can store their templates on personal RFID cards, providing an additional layer of control over personal data. The system supports decentralized storage, enabling each user to manage access to their own biometric credentials.

For corporate environments, MorphoManager enables centralized management of biometric templates with automatic distribution of the most adaptive templates across devices. This improves system performance and ensures data consistency in distributed deployments.

Cybersecurity is enforced through secure boot, authenticity checks, a cryptographic chip to protect sensitive data, and tamper switches that detect physical intrusion attempts. Network communications are secured using TLS 1.2/1.3 encryption with support for 802.1X authentication.

Comparison with Alternative Solutions

Unlike traditional systems that force a trade-off between speed and security, VisionPass SP delivers both simultaneously. Its energy efficiency is 75% higher than previous generations, thanks to an automatic deep-sleep mode that reduces operational costs.

The compact form factor allows installation on standard door frames without structural modifications, which is critical for retrofitting existing facilities. An IP65/IK07-rated enclosure and operating temperature range from -10°C to +45°C ensure reliable performance in diverse climate conditions. The system supports throughput of up to 30 users per minute with an adaptive capture zone ranging from 0.3 to 1.0 meters.

Signal Processing Capabilities

The neural processor performs local biometric data processing without relying on external cloud services, ensuring data privacy and reducing dependence on network connectivity. Machine learning algorithms adapt to changes in users’ appearance over time, maintaining high recognition accuracy throughout the system’s lifecycle.

The system includes 16 GB of Flash memory and 4 GB of RAM, sufficient for storing large biometric databases and enabling rapid matching. Optimized indexing algorithms maintain consistent identification speeds regardless of user base size. A built-in 61GHz Doppler radar enables energy savings by triggering automatic transitions into deep-sleep mode.

VisionPass SP Fingerscan offers a well-balanced solution for organizations that require high security without compromising usability. Its multifactor authentication, compact design, and seamless integration make it a practical choice across a wide range of applications — from financial institutions to corporate offices.