The JAVA applet below is able to scan fingerprints off the monitor of the computer. It
uses the same technology that a light pen uses. A light pen pointed at a video monitor
records coordinate positions by responding to the light emitted from phosphors on the screen.
The present system of fingerprint classification derives from the system published in 1900 by Sir Edward Henry of Scotland Yard. It is based on the classification of three general patterns--arches, loops, and whorls--which are subdivided into types. This subdivision is extended by ridge counts. Fingerprint cards are filed according to classification type, and the cards can be retrieved by computer networks for comparison with new, unidentified fingerprints.
Place your left thumb on the scanner and press the Start button. If you have no police record you will be allowed to view the JAVA repository.