GE Fanuc Automation Develops Biometric Interface for Proficy(TM) HMI/SCADA iFIX Operator Audit Trails
Security and Operator Efficiencies Key To Safe and Compliant Operation of Pharmaceutical and Biotech Manufacturing Processes
Charlottesville, Va. - April 5, 2006 - GE Fanuc Automation announced that it has added significant Biometric capabilities to its Proficy(TM) HMI/SCADA iFIX 4.0 to enhance the safe and compliant operation of pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturing processes.
The use of Biometrics to augment Password collection is the latest technology to enhance security and improve operator productivity. Biometrics, the ability to use a physical property of the operator such as a fingerprint or iris scan, can greatly reduce operator fatigue and response time.
GE Fanuc now offers users a choice between a standard interface to Biometric software or developer tools enabling an interface to virtually any other authentication technology. The standard interface supports Saflink SAFsolution® Enterprise Edition security software. SAFsolution manages all Biometric Signatures and Biometric Devices and integrates with Microsoft® Windows® Security. The enhanced iFIX functionality senses when a password is required, and interfaces with SAFsolution for Biometric Authentication and password fulfillment.
"This is no longer technology for science fiction movies," says Roy Kok, Senior Product Manager of Proficy HMI/SCADA software. "Our implementation of Biometric Support enables our existing customers to upgrade without application changes. The solutions available today are very cost effective, off-the-shelf and need no custom configuration."
The use of electronic signatures to validate operator activities and create audit trails has been very valuable in improving the consistency and reliability of manufacturing operations. With the introduction of strong passwords, the requirement for passwords with defined minimum lengths and combinations of letters and numbers to enhance security comes an extra burden on the operator for authentication and audit trailing. Biometrics removes the burden.
The Biometric Tools for Developers was available with the December release of iFIX 4.0 and is delivered on the iFIX 4.0 Integration Toolkit. The Biometric interface for Saflink SAFsolution is available through GE Fanuc Support and Developer Downloads and will be available free of charge to GE Fanuc GlobalCare customers.
About Saflink
Saflink Corporation offers biometric security and smart card solutions that protect intellectual property, secure information assets and eliminate passwords. Saflink identity assurance management solutions allow administrators to verify identity and control access to computer networks, physical facilities and applications. Winner of seven awards in 2005, Saflink and its solutions have been recognized by organizations such as Frost & Sullivan and Software Magazine's Software 500. For more information, please visit www.saflink.com or call 800-762-9595.
About GE Fanuc Automation
GE Fanuc Automation, a joint venture between GE and FANUC LTD of Japan, delivers automation hardware and software designed to help users reduce costs, increase efficiency and enhance profitability. With solutions and services catering to virtually every industrial segment, GE Fanuc Automation provides a diverse array of capabilities and products, including controllers, embedded systems, advanced software, motion control, CNCs, operator interfaces, industrial computers, and lasers. Headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, GE Fanuc Automation is a part of GE Industrial and combines the diverse global strengths of the GE family with the local presence customers need to design, develop and maintain their automation investments.
For more information, visit www.gefanuc.com or contact: GE Fanuc Information Center, P.O. Box 8106, Charlottesville, VA 22906, Phone: (800) GE FANUC (800-433-2682), Fax: 434-978-5205, e-mail: gefanuc@gefanuc.com.
NOTE: "Saflink" and "SAFsolution" are registered trademarks of Saflink Corporation.
