ODI Security, industry leading biometric security company, has announced its successful development of prototype mobile lock solutions which incorporates Servocell's AL2 Active Latch with its own fingerprint recognition. Keys have always been a vulnerable point for traditional security systems based on locks. Fingerprints are unique, giving a much greater degree of security, convenience and low cost. The economic realities of locks using electricity have, to date, been a drawback for users, with the added complications of battery life requiring regular attention, maintenance and cost.

With increasing Government legislation requiring the effective protection of data and responsibility for employees, security is an ever-greater issue for businesses as well as consumers. Servocell's Active Latch is a very low power solution, creating a viable battery life for small, mobile locks as well as immovable locks. Suitable for a very wide range of products from bicycle locks to commercial and domestic cabinets, the prototypes combine ODI Security's embedded fingerprint modules with the AL2, Servocell's low power piezoelectric locking module.

"This is a breakthrough in the use of Active Latch technology in a component for locks designed for the consumer market," says Simon Powell, CEO, Servocell. "Biometrics is recognised as a hugely important development in security and combined with the low power needs of the Active Latch, becomes a reality for many locks that will make the consumer's life simpler – bicycle locks that read your fingerprint, for instance, will be a blessing to any cyclist who knows the problems of lost keys after a ride."

The prototypes were recently shown at the ASIS show in USA, and based on feedback at the exhibition, ODI Security will be developing modules specifically for padlocks, bicycle locks, trigger locks, locking systems for both gun and personal safes, cabinet locks for HazMat and other industry security as well as the consumer market for medical, liquor and additional cabinets around the house and in the office.

"Adding fingerprint capability to mobile and cabinet locks allows a new generation and a convenience and higher level of security than previously available," comments Rich Slevin, managing director, ODI Security. "The low power requirement of Active Latch enables us to put the benefits of biometric technology into small locks such as padlocks or trigger locks for the first time."

ODI Security will also be developing cabinet locks for filing cabinets and other office furniture that can retrofit into the traditional lock set mounting features. With partners such as Fujitsu selling ODI Security components in products worldwide, ODI Security expects consumer products to be directly available with the next six to nine months.