BUZZWORD WATCH

Jul 1, 2002 12:00 PM

A

Analog video: A video signal made of a continuous electrical signal. Televisions or VCRs can be analog devices, but analog video must be converted to digital video in order to be stored or manipulated on a computer.

B

BioAPI: Combines an application programming interface (API) with biometric technologies, allowing common biometric data interchange among technologies developed by various vendors.

Biometric identifiers: Information about identity — ie. fingerprint, face, iris, voice, etc. — encoded onto a form of identification document.

Breeder document: Identification credential, such as a birth certificate, that is the basis of other identification documents, which, in effect, are “bred” from it.

C

CBEFF: Acronym for Common Biometric Exchange File Format, it enables multiple biometric types to be communicated across systems.

D

Digital video: A video signal made of binary digits, instead of a constantly varying signal as in analog video.

G

GIS: Acronym for Geographic Information System, it combines layers of information about a location. In map form, GIS can combine descriptions such as streets, buildings, population, etc., into one map.

L

LINC: Acronym for Local Integration National Atmospheric Release Advisory Center, it enables cities and counties to track and respond to movements of dangerous releases in the atmosphere.

M

Magnetometer: Essentially, a metal detector. It compares intensity and direction of magnetic fields to detect, depending on sensitivity, small or large pieces of metal.

N

NEXUS program: Known as a part of the “smart border” plan, it allows for ease of travel across U.S.-foreign borders for pre-approved travelers.

P

PCR: Acronym for Polymerase Chain Reaction, it is technology capable of detecting anthrax and other high-risk biohazards on a piece of mail.

R

RAM-D/RAM-T: Acronyms for Risk Assessment Methodology for Dams/Transmission Systems. The assessment questionnaires were developed by Sandia National Laboratories.

S

Smart card: A kind of identification card that contains a computer chip enabling the card to be used for other purposes in addition to identification.

Smart video: Digital closed-circuit television systems capable of recognizing an event and alerting monitoring personnel when it happens.

Want to use this article? Click here for options!
© 2012 Penton Media Inc.

This month in Access Control

• Targeting The Customer
• Electronic Pedigrees
• One Hero Among Many
• Who? What? When? Where? Why?
• More from September's issue