[Am-info] Microsoft Puts Fingerprint Readers Into Hardware

[Fred Miller]

http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml;jsessionid=3DPN5XCGSA3VI4ICRBAEZSF=
EY?type=3DtechnologyNews&storyID=3D6183975

Microsoft Puts Fingerprint Readers Into Hardware
 Wed Sep 8, 2004 03:16 PM ET=20

SEATTLE (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp. (MSFT.O: Quote, Profile, Research) on=20
Wednesday unveiled a new array of keyboard and mice, with some featuring=20
built-in fingerprint readers to make it easier for users to log on to=20
personal computers and Web sites.=20

A keyboard, mouse and stand-alone fingerprint reader were added to Microsof=
t's=20
hardware lineup, which works with software to verify and switch between use=
rs=20
of its Windows operating system, as well as automatically enter the=20
identifications and passwords needed to log onto secure Web pages.=20

In its annual refresh of its computer input hardware, the world's largest=20
software maker also introduced a new small wireless mouse designed for lapt=
op=20
computers and keyboards with a zoom slider bar to shrink or enlarge digital=
=20
text or photographs.=20

Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft, which discontinued its hardware=20
networking business earlier this year, said that it would continue to=20
introduce new keyboard, mice and PC input-related products using technology=
=20
derived in part from its $6 billion annual research and development efforts=
=2E=20

Hardware with built-in fingerprint recognition is expected to retail at=20
between $55 and $110, while the wireless notebook mouse will sell for $45 a=
nd=20
the keyboard with zoom for $35, Microsoft said.=20

Microsoft is not the first to introduce fingerprint recognition hardware. S=
ony=20
Corp. (6758.T: Quote, Profile, Research) , Targus and other manufacturers=20
also sell fingerprint readers to boost computer security, although Microsof=
t=20
says its new hardware is more for convenience.=20

 =A9 Reuters 2004. All Rights Reserved.=20

=2D-=20
"Running Windows on a Pentium is like getting a Porsche but only being
able to drive it in reverse with the handbrake on."