You plug a new USB fingerprint reader into your PC, and nothing happens. Your application can't see the device, and Windows doesn't know what it is. The scanner needs a driver before it can talk to your computer. This one covers Nitgen's Fingkey Hamster readers.
Quick facts
- Version: EasyInstallation v3.12
- Platforms: Windows 32-bit and 64-bit
- Price: free download
- Interface: USB 2.0
- Install is manual: you unzip it and run Setup.exe yourself
Key features
A driver that lets Nitgen scanners talk to Windows
The driver is what allows the scanner to communicate with your computer. It is built for the Nitgen Fingkey Hamster I (HFDU06), Hamster II (HFDU14) and Hamster III (HFDU06S). The vendor's download page also lists the eNBioScan-C1 (FDU08).
A fingerprint capture tool that installs with it
Installing the driver also installs fingerprint image capture software. You can use it right away to grab a fingerprint and save it as a BMP image on your PC. You open it by searching for NFD.exe or through Start-Run.
A short, guided install
You unplug the scanner, unzip the download and double-click Setup.exe. Then you pick your model and click Install, plug the device in, and replug it when asked. Device Manager then shows the correct device. In the capture tool you click Device Scan, then Init, then Auto On. Auto On keeps the device ready for the next finger.
Works with third-party fingerprint software and SDKs
The scanners support various third-party fingerprint applications. Developers can use the devices in their own applications alongside a fingerprint SDK.
Who it's for
This is for you if you've bought a Nitgen Fingkey Hamster scanner and need it recognized by Windows. It also suits developers who need the scanner connected before they build or test with a fingerprint SDK. It is not a fingerprint login program or a matching engine. It is the layer underneath those.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free to download
- Covers both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows in one package
- Includes a capture tool for saving fingerprint images
- Light requirements: 16 MB RAM and 20 MB of free disk space
Cons
- Installation is manual, with several steps
- Windows only
- The capture tool saves BMP images only
- Made for Nitgen devices, so it won't help with other brands' scanners
FAQs
Which scanners does it support?
The Nitgen Fingkey Hamster I DX, Hamster II DX and Hamster III, plus the eNBioScan-C1 (FDU08).
Do I need to unplug my scanner first?
Yes. Unplug it before running the installer. The setup then tells you when to plug it in.
Does it come with software to capture fingerprints?
Yes. The capture software installs along with the driver. It lets you store fingerprint images as BMP files. The vendor also says the driver software has features such as fingerprint enrollment, matching and quality checks.
Which Windows versions work?
The vendor's guide lists Windows 98 (second edition or later), ME, 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, 7, 8 and 10. The download page lists Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Server 2012 and Server 2008 R2.
Does it cost anything?
No. The vendor lists it as a free download.
System requirements
- Interface: USB 2.0
- RAM: 16 MB
- Disk space: 20 MB free
- Operating system: Windows 98 (second edition or later), ME, 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, 7, 8, 10