Identix Introduces BioTouch, to UK Mobile Computing Markets; Enabling Fingerprint Authentication Security in Mobile PCs, BioTouch Provides Unprecedented Theft and Fraud Protection

Business Wire, March 27, 2000

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 27, 2000

Identix Incorporated (AMEX:IDX), a worldwide leader in providing biometric security and identification solutions, introduces BioTouch(TM), a unique fingerprint authentication PC card for mobile computers, to the UK markets today.

BioTouch is the first product globally introduced that incorporates the DFR300(RM) optical fingerprint reader, developed by Motorola and Identix. Recent attention in the UK news to a MI5 agent's laptop theft underscores the timeliness of the BioTouch announcement. A mobile computing solution that, when inserted in a portable's type II PC Card (PCMCIA) slot, enables one touch fingerprint authentication security for portable PC users, BioTouch protects both laptops and their data by rendering both inaccessible in the case of theft.

BioTouch secures a portable PC and its contents by controlling access using Identix's BioLogon(TM) Security software to restrict access to Enterprise and Internet applications. A BioTouch user simply presses the side of the device and out slides the fingerprint reader. The user places their finger on the small optical sensor and their finger is matched to a previously enrolled account. When they are done, they just press the reader back into the PC Card and continue working -- no external cables are required, the device is completely self-contained inside the PC Card. Only pre-registered fingerprints are permitted access to a BioTouch equipped device and its contents.

"We believe fingerprint authentication to secure one's laptop and all its confidential information is the quintessential security requirement for the global portable PC market. The recent theft of the MI5 agent's laptop from Paddington Station provides an immediate example of the vulnerability of laptop devices and their data," Grant Evans, Vice President of Identix and General Manager of its IT Security Division said. "BioTouch accommodates both quick adaptation and escalated laptop computer security with a cost effective, simple-to-use solution that provides unprecedented protection for a mobile device and its data."

Identix developed BioTouch using SCM Microsystems' secured interfacing technology for PCMCIA and its own fingerprint authentication algorithms and imaging technology from Identix and Motorola. The DFR300 incorporated in BioTouch is believed to be the world's smallest (4 mm thick) and most affordable optical biometric reader. Jointly developed by Identix and Motorola and designed for portable IT and other mobile device markets, the DFR300 has applications for many markets where size, price and security are important. The BioTouch implementation is the first of several solutions planned for the DFR300 and the rapidly growing mobile device market.

"The DFR300 sets a new precedent in the biometrics market by overcoming former market barriers, such as cost, size and durability," said Roger Janikowski, Business Development Manager of Digital Imaging at Motorola. "Motorola's advanced CMOS architecture enables the DFR300 to measure 80 percent smaller than traditional readers. The DFR300 is positioned to become the next omnipresent technology, redefining simple functions, such as unlocking your car, logging on to your computer, making transactions online or operating your cell phone."

BioTouch PC cards are expected to be bundled with BioLogon 2.0 Client for Windows, which delivers the precedent in speed, accuracy and flexibility in fingerprint security. The BioLogon 2.0 software suite supports Windows 95, 98 and NT4 operating systems, and provides a range of functionality, including: stand-alone and network logon; data encryption and decryption, application locking and a biometrically secure password bank, and multi-layered security for use with smart cards.

The combination of the BioTouch fingerprint reader with BioLogon 2.0 software provides breakthrough security and convenience for today's laptop professional.

Availability of BioTouch

BioTouch is expected to be available from Identix's IDSafe resellers and distributors, and from the Identicator on-line store at www.Identix.com/itsecurity starting in April 2000 at a projected list price of 120 pounds sterling.

About Identix

Identix Incorporated, www.Identix.com, is a leader in designing, developing, manufacturing and marketing products for the capture and/or comparison of fingerprints for security, anti-fraud, law enforcement, physical access and other applications. Through Identicator Technology, Inc., Identix's wholly-owned subsidiary and IT Security division, Identix designs and develops proprietary, cost-effective, security products and solutions for personal identification and verification. Identicator Technology provides a wide range of applications to markets that include corporate enterprise security, Intranet, extranet, and Internet access and security, E-commerce, government and law enforcement agencies. Identix's partners include Motorola (NYSE:MOT), Compaq(NYSE:CPQ), Key Tronic (Nasdaq:KTCC), SCM Micro (Nasdaq:SCMM), Cherry GmbH (Nasdaq:CHER), and Unisys (NYSE:UIS).