Which technology uses a computer to scan and digitize fingerprints, translating the ridge patterns into a binary code for search algorithms?

• A. Iafis
• B. Afis
• C. OCR
• D. GIS

Answer: (B)

Automated fingerprint identification centers on converting ridge patterns into a digital template that search algorithms can compare. The technology scans a fingerprint, extracts distinctive ridge features (like minutiae), and encodes them into a binary or numerical template. This template is stored and used to quickly find potential matches by algorithmically comparing patterns across prints. That process is what AFIS describes. OCR focuses on recognizing text, not fingerprints, and GIS handles geographic data. IAFIS is the federal system that uses AFIS technology, but the name for the process of digitizing fingerprints into a searchable template is AFIS.