Using the advanced features of Xilinx Virtex-II ProÆFPGAs, Pixel developed the revolutionary biometrics technology to replace todays limited two-dimensional (2-D) technology in applications such as airport surveillance cameras and automated travel kiosks in airports throughout the world. Coming to an airport near you Biometric facial recognition technology is currently available in a few select airports. Over 28 countries have mandated facial recognition technology be in place by 2007. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is requiring the top 20 U.S. airports to install biometric technology pilot programs. The FAA is also working to produce the trusted traveler program; designed to expedite security clearance for frequent flyers identified by the FAA as safe travelers. With the ability to identify facial fingerprints of known terrorists, plans are also in place to utilize this same non-intrusive method for homeland security screening at U.S. border crossings and international airport customs departments. The U.S. is already issuing biometric visas and plans to start issuing biometric passports by the end of next year, while the European Union (EU) recently announced it will develop new visa, passport, and immigration systems incorporating biometrics. Cheaper technology enables more than just security Like the mobile phone, biometric devices are becoming smaller, safer and cheaper, thanks in part to the dramatic cost reductions of Xilinx chips. Labeled one of the top ten emerging technologies by MIT Technology Review, biometrics is primed for explosive growth. In addition to security, Pixel is busy tailoring their 3-D biometric technology for other end applications such as video conferencing and low-cost medical imaging. According to the International Biometric Group, global biometrics revenues are expected to reach $4.6 billion by 2008, with $800 million specifically in facial recognition revenues.
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