How do retinal scanners work?

You’ve seen thrillers where a spy or bank robber has to get into a vault that can only be opened with a retinal scan. They’re very cool and very high tech, and yes, they’re real.

In This Article...

1. What is the retina?
2. What are retinal scanners?
3. Are retinal scanners effective?
4. Can retinal scanners be fooled?
5. Retinal care at CEENTA

What is the retina?

The retina is a light-sensitive layer in the back of the eye that contains highly evolved cells called rods and cones. It’s divided into the central (macula) and the peripheral retina. The macula has the highest concentration of photo-receptors (cones) and provides the sharpest vision. The peripheral retina is used for peripheral vision, which is critical for many activities, like driving and playing sports.

What are retinal scanners?

Retinal scanners are devices that detect unique patterns on a person’s retinal blood vessels and are used for authentication and identification purposes. Low-energy infrared light traces a path on the retina. Capillaries absorb more of the infrared light than surrounding tissues, and the difference in how much light is reflected is measured and assigned numbers. These numbers are turned into a computer code, which is compared to codes stored in a computer. Authorized codes will allow access to whatever the scanner is locking.

Are retinal scanners effective?

Retinal scanners are among the most reliable biometric devices. Retinal patterns usually remain unchanged throughout a person’s life, although they can be altered by diabetes, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. While originally used primarily by government organizations, they have grown increasingly popular in the private sector.

Can retinal scanners be fooled?

Retinal patterns are so unique that it can be very difficult to fool a scanner. Failure rates are less than two percent.

Retinal scare at CEENTA

Do you have diabetic retinopathy? Are you concerned about flashes and floaters? CEENTA’s retina specialists are experts in their field. If you are concerned about the health of your retinas, ask your doctor to refer you to CEENTA today.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor.