Abstract: The present invention is an electromechanical lock system which includes an electromechanical lock and a release device for releasing the electromechanical lock. In one embodiment of the invention, the electromechanical lock may be released when a release device is placed on, within or in proximity to an electromechanical lock. The electromechanical lock may operate on power derived from an external power source, and may receive power from a release device. A release device in accordance with the present invention may also include a biometric sensor for sensing a biometric feature of a user. A release device may be activated by receipt of an authenticated biometric feature. When the biometric feature has been authenticated, the release device may be activated and may supply power to the electromechanical lock of the present invention.

Abstract: A transaction authentication card uses a biometric input and a wireless output. The biometric input may be a sensor pad on the transaction authentication card that measures blood flow patterns, temperature, and/or fingerprint patterns to identify a user to permit access. The transaction authentication card is preferably substantially rigid, but may be formed to have some flexibility. Power to the transaction authentication card may be accomplished through an internal battery that is optionally rechargeable. Biometric data is stored on the card only and used for user verification. Biometric data will not be transferred from the card. If authorized biometric data is authenticated the card will transmit a wireless access code to a proximity reader or transaction equipment.

Abstract: A transaction authentication card uses a biometric input and a wireless output. The biometric input may be a sensor pad on the transaction authentication card that measures blood flow patterns, temperature, and/or fingerprint patterns to identify a user to permit access. The transaction authentication card is preferably substantially rigid, but may be formed to have some flexibility. Power to the transaction authentication card may be accomplished through an internal battery that is optionally rechargeable. Biometric data is stored on the card only and used for user verification. Biometric data will not be transferred from the card. If authorized biometric data is authenticated the card will transmit a wireless access code to a proximity reader or transaction equipment.