In the world of fingerprint identification, AFIS—or Automated Fingerprint Identification System—is the technology that drives fast, accurate matches at scale. It’s used by law enforcement agencies, background screening firms, and government entities to compare fingerprint images against large databases to verify identities or uncover criminal records.
At IB Systems, we don’t just supply fingerprint equipment—we deliver solutions designed to work seamlessly with AFIS platforms while enhancing match accuracy, speed, and data quality.
What Is AFIS?
AFIS is a biometric identification system that automatically compares a scanned fingerprint image against a database of stored fingerprints. It uses algorithms to identify key features (called minutiae) like ridge endings, bifurcations, and patterns, then calculates a match score.
AFIS is used for:
- Criminal investigations and background checks
- Civil applications like licensing, immigration, or employment
- Border control and public safety screening
The better the input fingerprint data, the more accurate and reliable the match will be—which is where IB Systems comes in.
How IB Systems Enhances AFIS Match Accuracy
1. High-Quality Fingerprint Capture Devices
The first step in achieving accurate AFIS results is capturing clean, high-resolution fingerprint images. IB Systems offers:
- FBI Appendix F-certified fingerprint scanners
- Live scan systems with real-time quality checks
- Mobile capture kits that maintain consistent image quality in the field
These devices are designed to minimize smudging, distortion, or rejection, ensuring clean image submission to AFIS databases.
2. NIST-Compliant Image Formatting
AFIS systems rely on strict formatting and image quality standards, often set by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology).
Our software and equipment ensure:
- Full NIST IQS compliance
- Correct image resolution, compression, and file formats (e.g., EFT/EFTS)
- Automated checks before submission to prevent data rejection
This means your prints meet the technical standards required for accurate comparison and enrollment in AFIS systems.
3. Software that Guides the Operator
Even the best equipment needs capable operators. Our enrollment software includes:
- Visual quality feedback during fingerprint capture
- Prompts for finger placement, pressure, and rescan when needed
- Real-time scoring of fingerprint quality (per FBI/NIST standards)
This helps technicians consistently deliver match-grade fingerprints with minimal training or experience.
4. Integration with AFIS-Compatible Platforms
We ensure our solutions integrate with:
- Local, state, and national AFIS systems
- Background check and identity verification systems
- CJIS and agency-specific submission workflows
Whether you’re working with state-level databases or the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), our equipment and software are designed for compatibility.
5. Ongoing Calibration and Support
Match accuracy can degrade over time without proper maintenance. That’s why we offer:
- Regular calibration and performance checks
- Firmware/software updates for accuracy improvements
- Dedicated support for troubleshooting and compliance updates
We help ensure your fingerprinting process remains AFIS-ready and audit-proof long after the initial setup.
Why Match Accuracy Matters
A fingerprint that doesn’t match correctly—or worse, matches incorrectly—can result in:
- Missed criminal history
- Delays in background checks or licensing
- Legal liability and audit failures
By using IB Systems’ high-accuracy hardware and compliance-ready software, you reduce false positives and negatives, improving your match confidence and workflow reliability.
Partner with IB Systems for AFIS-Ready Fingerprint Solutions
Whether you’re a law enforcement agency, a government contractor, or a civil ID provider, IB Systems delivers fingerprint capture systems that optimize accuracy, speed, and compliance for AFIS operations.
- FBI-Certified Fingerprint Scanners
- NIST-Compliant Image Capture
- Operator-Friendly Software
- Integration Support and Technical Guidance
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a quote. Let us help you increase fingerprint match accuracy and streamline your biometric workflow.