HP iPaq hx2700 PocketPC series

As a Pocket PC, the iPaq is the perfect candidate for fingerprint-based login. Holding the device in one hand and swiping a finger with the other across the scanner couldn't be easier. Fingerprint scanning is part of HP ProtectTools, which was developed by Credant Technologies. It is possible to use several combinations of authentication, including fingerprint-only, fingerprint or four-digit PIN, and fingerprint or password.

For an additional layer of security, you can also require two-factor authentication: fingerprint and PIN or fingerprint and password. As a fail-safe, there is also a hint question you can set up that will get you into the system.

The enrollment process is similar to the other devices we tested, the main difference being that the training process is more extensive, requiring six successful scans, and then seven more before moving to enrollment. It is not possible to enroll more than one user (although you could cheat by enrolling different fingers for different people).

Re-authentication is required if the device is locked or logged off, or if you try to access certain configuration screens within HP ProtectTools. There is also an encryption feature that allows the creation and mounting of encrypted folders. These encrypted folders are automatically decrypted only after a proper login.

At one point in testing, the fingerprint scanner on the iPaq stopped working effectively. The display showed that even with our consistent technique, the scanner was picking up only part of the fingerprint. After two device resets, it started working again. Maybe it was a fluke, but we'd hesitate before locking this handheld down too tight.