The fingerprint reader (biometric ID) does not take a picture of individual fingerprints. Instead, the system electronically scans hundreds of data points (on the finger) and processes them as a data string through two proprietary systems. The result is a series of random numbers used to identify you for check in/out purposes only. There is no harmful (or useful) information that can be obtained from the data produced by the fingerprint reader.

See also: How Fingerprint ID Works / Hygiene Concerns / Is "Big Brother" Watching Me?

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You may use any finger (or thumb) with the Fingerprint Reader, however, your index finger of either hand will work best. Always place the pad of your finger (not your fingertip) flat onto the center of the reader’s clear window. Do not "roll" your finger. Apply gentle pressure, similar to pushing a button. Hold your finger on the reader for up to one-and-a-half seconds or until you see the reader’s light blink, then lift your finger. You should press firmly and release. Do not press and hold your finger for an extended period.

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• Fingers that are too clean or too dry can be difficult for the reader to recognize. Rubbing your finger on your forehead before placing it on the reader sometimes helps. If this does not help, try registering your fingerprint again. Do not use hand sanitizer or wash your hands just prior to using the fingerprint reader.
• If the reader is in direct sunlight use your other hand to shield it from the sunlight while your fingerprint is being identified.

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Depending on the amount of use, the reader window will  pick up dirt and salts from fingers over time and will need to be cleaned periodically.

Recommended cleaning:

1. Apply the sticky side of a piece of scotch tape on the window and peel it away.
2. If necessary, gently dab the window (do not wipe) with a soft cloth (not paper) dampened with a mild ammonia-based glass cleaner to remove any milky haze.

Never do the following:

• DO NOT clean the reader window with paper
• DO NOT pour glass cleaner directly on the reader window
• DO NOT use alcohol-based cleaners
• DO NOT submerge the reader in liquid

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Yes. Scratches, pokes or other physical damage to the window coating can compromise the system’s ability to recognize fingerprints. Such damage cannot be repaired. Please contact your sales representative for information on purchasing a replacement unit.

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The most likely cause is that the USB Controller on your system turns off automatically after a certain period of inactivity. If you are using Windows XP, follow the instructions below to disable power save option for the USB Controller on your computer:

• Open the Windows Control Panel and double click on the System. 
• Click on the Hardware tab and then press the Device Manager button. 
• Double click on the Universal Serial Bus Controllers. 
• Right click on the USB Root Hub. 
• Go to Power Management tab and uncheck the "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power".
• If the above procedure doesn’t resolve this issue, try connecting the reader through a self-powered USB hub

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The answer is maybe. A small amount of dust on the reader window will not cause problems. A large amount of dust may make it more difficult to read the fingerprint. Dust can easily be removed by applying the sticky side of a piece of adhesive cellophane tape on the window and peeling it away.

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