Abstract
A pilot Personal Identification Credential System (PICS) has been developed and fielded. The PICS is a wireless biometric credential that interfaces with access control systems. The PICS consists of individual handheld Personal Identification Credentials (PIC), a PICS Reader located at a facility entry control point that interfaces with the facility entry control system, and a PICS Enrollment Station. In operation, an individual approaching a facility entry point in a vehicle picks up the PIC handheld unit and places a finger on its sensor. The PIC then authenticates the user and from within the vehicle initiates two-way, secure RF communication with the PICS Reader as the vehicle approaches the gate. The PICS Reader then verifies that the individual is authorized for admittance and notifies the facility gate entry control system, which informs the sentry that the request for access was successful or unsuccessful. If the request for access is unsuccessful, the gate entry control system automatically will close the gate. This sequence of events takes place while the car is moving through a normally open entry lane.
The PIC is a small, handheld device which contains the biometric sensor (fingerprint sensor), wireless RF transceiver, processor, encryption and battery. The PIC may be used while traveling in a vehicle or may be used while on foot for access to a PICS controlled man gate or secure area access portal. The PIC is small enough to be carried in a shirt pocket, or it can be left in the user's vehicle. The PIC battery will power the PIC for months and is rechargeable. Up to 10 fingers may be stored in the PIC.
