logo
Contact us Contact us

What is MSI?

Multi-spectral imaging  (MSI) is an advanced method of capturing images that ensures a very high level of detail. Multi-spectral imaging penetrates deeper into the surface of its subject than standard optical sensors, and creates clearer, cleaner, more accurate images.

When a normal camera captures images, it does so by dividing the light into three channels: red, green, and blue (RGB). This is the same way that human eyes perceive colour and see the world around them. Multi-spectral cameras utilise other light sources that sit outside the RGB set and capture information that cannot be seen by human eyes or by standard cameras.

An outstretched hand points towards a graphic representation of a fingerprint highlighted by a strong light.

Where is MSI used?

The first successful uses of multi-spectral imaging were in the medical field, where it was used to identify and diagnose diseases that could not be detected with other means. Since then, MSI has been adapted for use in a wide range of industries, such as:

  • Military target tracking & land mine detection
  • Historical document & artwork analysis
  • Farming and land management
  • Forensic science
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Surveying & mapping
A green ievo ultimate fingerprint reader is mounted on a wall next to a locked door. An outstretched hand in a Latex glove is reaching out to use the reader, which is capable of scanning fingers even through some Latex gloves, thanks to its multi-spectral imaging sensor

How is MSI used in access control?

CDVI utilises MSI in its ievo ultimate™ biometric fingerprint reader.

Typical fingerprint readers employ basic optical sensors that analyse the surface of the fingerprint. These sensors read images up to around 150 microns deep.

Meanwhile, the ultimate™ reader’s multi-spectral sensor utilises nine different sources of light that penetrate much deeper into the skin. The ultimate™ captures images up to 4000 microns deep, reading the surface and subsurface of the skin simultaneously. This makes the ultimate™ a high performance, high reliability biometric solution.

Even when fingerprints are hard to distinguish due to age, dirt and debris, moisture, or damage, the powerful multi-spectral sensor can still effectively analyse the print and produce an accurate image. The ultimate™ even works through certain Latex gloves.

A person's hand reaching out with a pointed finger towards a graphic padlock representing security and encryption

Interested in biometric fingerprint readers?

Learn more about how these high security, high performance products work or browse our full range.