Abstract: Security check method and apparatus reduces problems that can arise if the user security data set becomes known by unauthorized persons. To address this problem only part of the user data set is recorded in insecure sections of the system. For example, a security check preventing unauthorized remote access to a shared computer is provided by capturing a user data set representing a user's iris, operating the user's personal computer to select only a portion of the captured data set requested by the shared computer and transmitting the portion along a telecommunications line. The shared computer derives partial data sets from stored user data sets using a similar selection to that used by personal computer and compares the partial data set it has derived with the partial data set transmitted by the personal computer in deciding whether to grant access. Point-of-sale devices and cards recording only partial user data sets are also disclosed.

Abstract: Security check method and apparatus reduces problmes that can arise if the user security data set becomes known by unauthorized persons. To address this problem only part of the user data set is recorded in insecure sections of the system. For example, a security check preventing unauthorized remote access to a shared computer is provided by capturing a user data set representing a user's iris, operating the user's personal computer to select only a portion of the captured data set requested by the shared computer and transmitting the portion along a telecommunications line. The shared computer derives partial data sets from stored user data sets using a similar selection to that used by personal computer and compares the partial data set it has derived with the partial data set transmitted by the personal computer in deciding whether to grant access. Point-of-sale devices and cards recording only partial user data sets are also disclosed.

Abstract: A reservation system, particularly suited to small businesses, includes, a database accessible through the public switched telephone network (PSTN), an electronic diary at each serviced customer premises and a plurality of customer telephone channels connecting each customer premises to the PSTN.

Abstract: A telecommunications interface 12 is connected between a voice network 10 (for example the PSTN) and a data network 11 (for example the Internet). Calls from a caller 14 for a recipient 18 are directed to the gateway which accesses user information from a profile 15 to determine how the call is to be routed. The user profile is generated by reference to an appointment calendar 16 (for example Microsoft Outlook), and/or by reference to an organisational hierarchy. Rules based diversion is also provided so that certain calls originating from pre-specified callers (identified by network Calling Line Identification signals) are handled in a more specific manner than calls to the default destination.

Abstract: An optical apparatus records light reflected from one or more of a user's facial features. While the image is captured, visible light from a display or other scene to be viewed by the user passes to the user's eye. A portable iris pattern capture device is used. Near-infrared light is directed towards the user's eye from where it is reflected back into the apparatus. Visible light from an LCD display mounted at the rear of the apparatus travels out to the user's eye from the apparatus. A hot mirror inside the apparatus directs the near-infrared light reflected from the user's eye to a camera unit, and does not significantly attenuate the visible light emanating from the display.