Biometric devices have been integrated into many devices such as door locks, computers, car ignitions and
more. Because biometric devices use physical features of people, they cannot be duplicated and provide maximum security. They are growing quickly in popularity due to their reliability and proven technology. One of the most recent applications of biometric technology are time clocks.

ABC Office now offers the new biometric Acroprint HandPunch time recorder. This new device uses an employee’s hand to clock in and out of work. Because the employee’s hand is used to check in and out, time cards and magnetic stripes are not needed. Employees no longer have to worry about losing a card or swiping an ID. All you need is your hand.  You can see an example of this device by going here.

Using biometric time clocks eliminates fraud and address several problems prevalent in older punch-style
time clocks. In the past, businesses experienced problems by having employees’ friends clock in on behalf of others, even though they were not actually present. These meant employers were paying workers for time not worked. With the introduction of biometrics, and the HandPunch time clock, employees must be physically present to punch into work. Friends and coworkers are now unable sign in for other people. This guarantees that time reported is accurate. This helps businesses run more efficiently and saves money.

The HandPunch uses geometry biometrics. It determines who the employee is based on the size and shape of their hand. The system does not capture fingerprints or palm prints. Hand geometry is highly accurate, and is generally not affected by rings, small adhesive bandages and false fingernails. Employees simply place
their hand on the HandPunch unit and punch in an ID number to clock in and out. Green and red lights let the employee know the status of each punch.

Time clocks are ideal for use with employee time attendance. Unfortunately employers cannot always rely on their employees to be honest. The “honor system” and hand written time cards can be easily manipulated and employers can be cheated out of thousands of dollars. It is also legally wise to use a time clock, as you can
prove what hours have and have not been worked.

There are a wide variety of time clocks to choose from. Over the years, time clocks have been designed so they can be placed on a countertop or mounted to a wall. Many time clocks even add the time worked,
making payroll calculations easier. A new addition to the time clock family is time recording software that can be installed on a personal computer. Time recording software allows your employees to clock in through a computer. The time is automatically added up and it is easy for employees to clock in and out.

Digital electronic time clocks are the newest style of time clock available on the market. These time clocks are slowly replacing the traditional punch-style time clock. Digital time clocks store clock in and out times electronically, in the machine. Many digital clocks keep a running total of time worked and help calculate hours worked for payroll. Some have a touch pad device that allows you to punch in a code and clock in or out. Other digital time clocks can be interfaced with a computer or a printer for larger organizations.

Some newer time systems also have the ability to use a magnetic stripe, like you see on a credit card. Many employers will put this magnetic strip directly onto a photo ID card that can be used to clock in and out. This data is stored in the device and can provide you with exact details on time worked. Some of these devices can be interfaced with a computer or printer. Security features built into digital time clocks prevent any kid of manipulation or abuse of time worked.