The Siemens ID Mouse is an amazing new product from Siemens offering security for documents and making it easier to log on to Windows, using your finger/thumb print.
I purchased this product about two months ago, the mouse connects to a USB port, the setup process took a while but there were no problems. The ID Mouse software changes your Windows 2000 and Windows XP Logon somewhat, enabling you to discard the use of a username and password and assigning a username and password to a fingerprint. In short, all any computer user has to do to login to their user account is place their pre-recorded finger print onto the fingerprint pad and they will be logged on.
I have added twelve users to the ID Mouse software database so far and I have several logons myself therefore I use different fingers for different logons.
My Family find logging on to the computer quick and easy and although I expected the fingerprint detection to be fairly un-sensitive it is actually extremely sensitive to different finger prints which would probably make it ideal in Industry.
The Mouse also enables you to finger-print lock practically any application or document with the ID Mouse software that comes with it. (You can also finger print protect the control panel.)
The main let down is that the ID Mouse is a roller-ball mouse rather than an optical mouse which means that frequent cleaning will be necessary to keep the pointing accuracy of the mouse at a maximum, although I have not had to do so, so far.
Two points mentioning are that the ID Mouse software allows you to manually log in, for example if the mouse is damaged, you will still be able to gain access to your PC via a typed Username and Password. Finally I have tried and tested the mouse under Windows XP and Windows 2000 and the mouse has performed well under both. The manual states that the mouse will work under Windows 98 and NT 4.0 however I have not tested the mouse under these operating systems myself and therefore am not sure how well the mouse will work under them.
The Siemens ID Mouse is a great product for anyone wanting to protect their Log On, Applications or Documents.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Sounds cool, asides from the rollerball mouse thing. Something that sounds so advanced should at least be an optical mouse. My iPaq has a finger print scanner. Great stuff.
very helpful by (30%):
helpful by (70%):
