Synaptics Intros SecurePad

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Synaptics Incorporated (NASDAQ:SYNA), a leading developer of interface solutions for mobile computing, communications and entertainment devices, today announced the introduction of SecurePad(TM), a new biometric TouchPad created especially for notebooks. The SecurePad product is the result of a partnership with Validity Sensors, Inc. which allows Synaptics to exclusively offer TouchPad interface solutions that incorporate Validity's LiveFlex(TM) fingerprint sensing technology for convenient and reliable biometric security in the notebook market.

The SecurePad integrates the LiveFlex fingerprint sensor with a Synaptics TouchPad, offering notebook OEMs a single integrated biometric interface module. This modular approach not only simplifies integration for the OEM, but also allows manufacturers to offer fingerprint security as a build to order option.

"Synaptics has always been at the forefront of introducing new technologies to the notebook market and supporting our customer's design initiatives," said Mariel van Tatenhove, Senior Product Line Director of PC Products. "The SecurePad offers computer manufacturers a reliable biometric security TouchPad solution that is easy to integrate."

With the LiveFlex sensor, users simply swipe their finger over a durable plastic surface for authentication, identification, and data security, eliminating the need to remember multiple usernames and passwords. To overcome the drawbacks of existing fingerprint sensors, the LiveFlex sensor is separated from the silicon, dramatically increasing the sensor's resistance to electrostatic discharge (ESD). Additionally, the surface of the Validity sensor provides superior resistance to general chemicals, liquids, abrasion, and impact, critical factors for notebook use in real world environments.

"Until recently, the implementation of fingerprint technology into notebook computers has been hindered by frail silicon sensors," said Curt Chandler, Vice President of Technical Marketing at Validity Sensors Inc. "SecurePad is an integrated solution that combines the best available in biometrics and capacitive position sensing technology to offer a durable and convenient all-in-one human interface module to computing manufacturers."

Synaptics Inc.