3M is a Euro 2008 winner for Swiss border police

2 July 2008

Football fans without valid visas to Euro 2008 in Switzerland have had a football-less summer following a trial of a new 3M Security Systems Division hand-held 3M Mobile Swipe Reader with the Swiss Border Guard (Grenzwachtkorps).

Specialist Swiss Border Guard teams of officers have used the 3M Mobile Swipe Reader, a completely portable data terminal, for reading and processing passports and identity documents of fans on trains travelling to Euro 2008 matches in Switzerland, to assure additional security.

Roger Zaugg, Commander Region North says: “The 3M Mobile Swipe Reader met very special requirements for the Euro 2008 tournament. We needed a lightweight, portable device that can accurately read identity documents on trains that does not rely on the non-secure transmission of data over radiowaves.

“With this technology at our disposal, we have been able to stop people who think trains offer a soft border entry point before they reach Switzerland and the tournament, quickly disrupting their travel plans.”

Designed for maximum portability, ease of use and reliability, the 3M Mobile Swipe Reader is a rugged, versatile, hand-held unit capable of reading and processing OCR data from passports, ID cards and other documents presented as proof of identification. Processing of RF chip data is also possible as an option.

Traditionally, the Swiss Border Guard have manually checked travel documents and communicated information to central operations staff with radios, in difficult terrain where signals can be lost in tunnels and valleys.

Commander Zaugg adds: “The 3M reader is a fully-automated solution and means there are virtually no authentication problems as the information is downloaded directly on the device from a securely-encrypted central database. Rather than waiting minutes, we have authorised documents in a matter of seconds.

“Officers carry lots of equipment and are pleased that the device is small-enough to be transported in cars and is easily operated in the confined space of a train carriage.”

In a typical operation, the 3M Mobile Swipe Reader scans the passengers’ identity documents, verifies these against a watch list either stored locally or accessed via wireless link and compiles a manifest for export to a border control system. Capturing of biometric data is also possible. “

The 3M reader not only helped make authentication faster and more accurate, but is a multi-role device that can be used in a number of other areas in which we operate,” concludes Commander Zaugg.

The integrated touchscreen and keyboard allow the operator to correct or manually enter data. Battery operation enables use in virtually any situation - airports, ships, trains and vehicles - while on-board processing capability allows real-time verification of documents, data and individuals.

With a wide range of wireless interface options, integral data storage and optional biometric devices, the 3M Mobile Swipe Reader is the perfect solution for ID management on the move.

Features include:

  • OCR swipe reading for MRZ capture of ICAO standard and many non-standard documents
  • Full alphanumeric keypad
  • Colour touch screen display
  • Clear audio and visual indication of read success or failure
  • Data storage to internal SD memory card in plain or encrypted format
  • SD card may be used to store watch lists or further databases (up to 8GB capacity)
  • Scan and store or scan and transmit
  • Full range of power management tools to maximize battery life
  • Ergonomic design, rugged construction
  • Based on the field proven Psion Workabout Pro C – G2
  • Secure “switch off” function

3M has worked in a close technical collaboration with the Grenzwachtkorps to develop the specifications and software of the 3M Mobile Swipe Reader.

Walter Guttinger, 3M Switzerland Business Manager said: “During Euro 2008 it has been vital that secure travel and identification documents are efficiently and confidently issued. The 3M Mobile Swipe Reader combines document security standards and technologies needed to manage ID authentication process securely during the tournament as well as in the future.”

3M brings more than 30 years of experience, a global presence, technical innovation and a strong customer focus to the secure document marketplace. Its solutions cover a broad spectrum of enhanced travel and border security, including document issuance and border management.  

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $24 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com.

3M is a trademark of 3M Company.

From:
3M Security Systems
3M Center, Building 0225-04-N-14
St. Paul, MN 55144-1000
 

Contacts:
David Bellis or Nick Zea-Smith
+44 (0)208 399 1184
db@garnett-keeler.com / nzs@garnett-keeler.com

 

A 3M Mobile Swipe Reader being used by a Swiss Border Guard