Many systems are ready for the market and could replace passwords soon. One identity-recognition system by Dialog Communication Systems based in Berlin, is reminiscent of the type of space-age gadgets used in Star Trek. Instead of entering a password, users stand in front of a camera and say their name. Seconds later, access is granted. The computer has measured facial features, registered lip movements, and recognised voice patterns. The data is matched to a previously-stored biological pattern. Not even a biological twin can fool the computer. If the computer cannotmatch the identity, a voice responds: ``Unfortunately, I was unable to identify you.''

The company Keytronic now offers keyboards integrated with fingerprint recognition systems. The keyboards contain a built-in touchpad which scans a user's fingerprint and compares it to a stored `original'.

Such systems are not only more convenient but also more secure, says DCS. ``It's very difficult to imitate someone's movements,'' says product manager Maraus Klische. Not even someone's biological twin can fool the computer. If the computer cannot match the identity, a computerised voice responds: ``Unfortunately, I was unable to identify you.''

Klische believes that such systems will eliminate the problems of dealing with lost chip cards or forgotten pins.

Some companies, such as Hamburg-based software company Info Ag, have already adopted these space-age identification systems. The system by DCS will begin operating at Info Ag in the near future.

Biological identity recognition is another cutting-edgetechnique currently being marketed. The company Keytronic now offers keyboards integrated with fingerprint recognition systems. The keyboards contain a built-in touchpad which scans a user's fingerprint and then compares it to a stored `original'.

But Keytronic emphasises that even criminals who cut off a victim's finger to gain access will still have no chance. ``Access is granted only to living persons,'' said a spokesperson. The computer measures body temperature and pulse to ensure that the user is ``alive''.

Mobile phone manufacturers Siemens and Ericsson will also rely on fingerprints in new systems. Their telephones will use fingerprint technology to recognise users within seconds to determine whether access to the phone may be granted.

Fingerprints are ideal for identification since they remain unchanged over a person's lifetime, says Keytronic. Other types of identity recognition systems have to be updated regularly to accommodate changing facial features, such as facial hair or the wrinkles ofold age.

New hairstyles, however, pose no problem to feature-recognition devices. Because hairstyles change so often, such systems usually scan only the lower half of the face.