Abstract: A narrow array capacitive semiconductor fingerprint detection system includes an array of capacitive sensing elements. The array has a first dimension about the width of a fingerprint and second dimension less than the length of a fingerprint. A scan control unit is coupled to scan the array at a scan rate determined by the speed of finger movement over the array. The scan control unit scans the array capture partial fingerprint images. Output logic is coupled to the array to assemble the captured fingerprint images into a complete image based upon the direction of finger movement over the array. A mouse device is positioned adjacent the array in the path of finger movement over the array. The mouse device is coupled to provide finger movement speed information to the scan control unit. The mouse device is also coupled to provide finger movement direction information to the output logic.