The goal of any access control system is to let authorized people into specific places. Only with the use of a biometric device can this goal achieved. A card-based access system can control the access of authorized pieces of plastic, but not who is in possession of the card. Systems using PINs (personal identification numbers) require that an individual only know a specify to gain entry. Who actually enters the code can not be determined. Biometrics devices verify who the person is by what they are, whether it be their hand.
Biometrics also can eliminate the need for cards. While dramatic price reductions have lowered the initial cost of the cards in recent years, the true benefit of eliminating them is realized through a reduced administrative effort. A lost card must be replaced and reissued by someone. There is a cost associated with the time spent to complete the task. Hand are seldom lost, stolen or forgotten. They also don’t wear out and need to be replaced.