Item Subject: Re: fingerprint scanner (fwd)
I found the following note yesterday (Thu, 8/13).  It really amazes me just
how much technology is available (1) at all, and (2) for the home consumer.

--Glenn

>     Fingerprint Scanner to Come to iMac Customers
>
>     Most people enjoy the string of James Bond films made over the past
>     few decades -- this editor included -- but the idea of a
>     fingerprint scanner being announced this morning for iMac was a
>     surprise. TeraGlobal Communications announced early this morning
>     their plans to ship a fingerprint scanner for the upcoming Apple
>     iMac later this year to aid in security applications.
>
>     With the
>     iMac's low cost and superb performance, many companies may consider
>     purchasing the systems for use as network terminals. At that point,
>     security becomes key, and the fingerprint scanners would ensure
>     only those granted access to specific computers and applications
>     would be able to use them. Parents could even conceivably use the
>     device to keep youngsters from playing Escape Velocity Override
>     until their homework was complete, or restrict their access to lewd
>     and unsavory content on the Internet.
>
>     The company says its
>     Macintosh software for the scanner will allow managers and
>     consumers to issue and manage security access and passwords with
>     ease. No word yet on the industrial design of the device, although
>     the statement from TeraGlobal said they intend to produce a "rugged
>     ergonomic solution that the Macintosh market is accustomed to." Do
>     we get translucent colors? Shipment of the new fingerprint scanner
>     is expected sometime in mid-November. Pricing information was not
>     released.