Identity, Security, Payments, Biometrics, Smart Cards and Authentication News

Fujitsu notebook PC secured via biometrics and smart cards

Thursday, December 2, 2004

The new LifeBook model notebook computer from Fujitsu features a fingerprint scanner from AuthenTec and built-in smart card capability to secure the device, data, and authentication processes.


Fujitsu Expands Mobile Offerings with Suite of Security Features

LifeBook S7000 Notebook Is Latest to Include Fingerprint Sensor

SUNNYVALE, Calif. - November 30, 2004 —Fujitsu Computer Systems today announced the release of the new LifeBook® S7000 notebook. Mobile professionals and corporate users will welcome this full-featured notebook with an enhanced Intel® Pentium® M 745 Processor and new Crystal View display. In addition, Fujitsu further expanded upon the multiple security technologies available across both notebook and Tablet PC offerings.

Fujitsu security technologies provide several layers of protection for users’ data, applications and passwords. Among the features offered are an AuthenTec biometric fingerprint sensor device, the Fujitsu Security Panel, embedded Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and Smart Card capabilities.

Fingerprint Sensor Device Fujitsu offers a built-in biometric fingerprint swipe sensor on the LifeBook S7000 and LifeBook P7000 notebooks as well as the Stylistic® ST5000 Tablet PC. With a simple swipe of the finger, users can quickly and easily access their protected system and online accounts without having to enter passwords.

Fujitsu chose to work with AuthenTec, the leading supplier of biometric fingerprint sensors in the consumer biometrics market. Unlike traditional, surface-based imaging technologies, AuthenTec uses its unique TruePrint® technology which reads through the top layer of skin to recognize the true uncontaminated live fingerprint layer located below the surface.

TruePrint technology accomplishes this by creating a small radio frequency field between the sensor and the live layer of the finger. By reading the live layer, AuthenTec sensors are not affected by common skin surface conditions such as calloused, dirty or oily skin - making them capable of reading everyone’s finger under virtually any conditions.

“AuthenTec’s TruePrint technology is the most accurate and reliable fingerprint recognition technology on the market,” said Scott Moody, president and CEO of AuthenTec. “We are pleased that Fujitsu can offer a secure biometrics solution to its corporate customers to provide peace of mind and added convenience.”

Fujitsu Security Panel The LifeBook S7000 notebook and the Stylistic ST5000 Tablet PC include the Fujitsu Security Panel, which provides the user with a means of selecting one of approximately 800,000 code combinations to lock/unlock the system. The security panel consists of an array of buttons with which the user enters a code. The security panel can be made accessible from either a supervisor or user ID level. The panel can also be used as a programmable application launcher panel to allow quick-launch of email, the Internet or user-selected applications.

Smart Card Technology Containing an embedded chip, the Smart Card is an increasingly popular data storage device. The Stylistic ST5000 Tablet PC and the LifeBook T4000 Tablet PC have a dedicated Smart Card slot, and the LifeBook S7000 notebook is Smart Card ready, requiring a PCMCIA Smart Card holder to access the reader.

The Smart Card chip can be used as a secure method for storing and transmitting critical data electronically. The cards can store information such as health records, passwords and credit card numbers. They can also be used to secure e-cash, for personal identification, and for electronic door and gate opening.

Trusted Platform Module In addition to the fingerprint sensor and security panel, the LifeBook S7000 notebook and the Stylistic ST5000 Tablet PC include an embedded Trusted Platform Module employing a Trusted Computing Group (TCG) security chip. The chip allows the user to store files or other data securely by encrypting them. This makes it impossible to read the data when the hard drive is used in another system, or for unauthorized users to read the encrypted data.

This technology provides a convenient centralized location for encrypted password storage on the TCG chip. It also allows the system to check for unauthorized hardware changes while it is booting up.

“As our customers demand increased security features, and with the rise of mobility and wireless communications across the enterprise, we are pleased to offer the added safety of TPM,” said Paul Moore, director of mobile product marketing at Fujitsu Computer Systems. “By deploying a host of security features including TPM and biometrics, Fujitsu is helping ensure organizations have the tools to implement a secure environment.”

When used in combination, the Fujitsu Security Panel, fingerprint recognition, Smart Card technology, and TPM provide extremely high security for information and passwords.

About Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation Headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., Fujitsu Computer Systems is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) committed to the design, development and delivery of advanced computer systems and managed services for the business enterprise. The company offers a complete line of high-performance mobile and desktop computers, scalable and reliable servers as well as managed and professional services. Fujitsu Computer Systems emphasizes leading-edge technology, exceptional product quality, and productivity, as well as outstanding customer service. More information on Fujitsu Computer Systems is available at http://us.fujitsu.com/computers.

About Fujitsu Fujitsu is a leading provider of customer-focused IT and communications solutions for the global marketplace. Pace-setting technologies, highly reliable computing and communications platforms, and a worldwide corps of systems and services experts uniquely position Fujitsu to deliver comprehensive solutions that open up infinite possibilities for its customers’ success. Headquartered in Tokyo, Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.7 trillion yen (US$45 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2004. For more information, please see: http://www.fujitsu.com/[end] 

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