Dorm hand scanner trial ends

The experimental biometric hand scanner, used for the past eight months as an alternate means of entry into Hamilton College House --Eformerly High Rise North -- was removed last week after the conclusion of its trial run. Opinions of the high-tech gizmo were generally mixed to negative, with many people, including those involved in the scanner's implementation, saying that this specific version of the device is probably not the best choice for Penn at this time. "The Division of Public Safety is satisfied with the performance of the technology, but with student feedback and our observations, we decided this was not the right fit for the location," Director of Security Services Stratis Skoufalos said. "We are exploring the use of other technology that may be more appropriate." Skoufalos explained in an e-mail that the removal should not come as a surprise because the scanner was intended to be experimental from the onset. "The configuration was done as a prototype for a feasibility study," Skoufalos said. The device was part of a joint project between Public Safety and the Office of College Houses and Academic Services to test the feasibility of installing similar devices in all campus residences. Since it was a prototype, a Spectaguard security guard was always on duty to swipe cards for residents who did not want to use the scanner, but officials hoped that if the project was a success it would free up guards at night to patrol the campus. Still, there would always be at least one person --Eeither a guard or house staffer -- in the reception areas in case of a problem with the scanners. After the device's installation in late December, students and faculty were invited to sign up to use the system. Registered individuals entered the glass portal by swiping their PennCards, and once inside, would place their hand over the scanner in order to gain access to the building. Undergraduate Assembly Chairperson Michael Silver said that while the scanner idea may have looked good on paper, the reality left a lot to be desired. "I applaud them for trying it and at least being innovative," said Silver, a College senior. "But on a practical level, I don't see how it could work. You're not really saving anything if there always has to be a back-up." Michael Pezzicola, vice chairperson of the Residential Advisory Board, explained that his group was asked to put together a forum -- comprised of roughly 20 students -- late last semester to discuss the scanner's strengths and weaknesses. "The students and everyone that used [the scanners] tended to like them, but no one was overly enthusiastic," the Wharton and Engineering sophomore said. "It's something they thought would be a good addition, but not something they felt was at the top of the list." Pezzicola said he also e-mailed a questionnaire to all registered scanner users, to which he received about 50 responses, from both students and faculty. Director of College Houses and Academic Services David Brownlee described the scanner as "a little too intrusive" and explained that he personally received more negative than positive feedback. But he said he is anxious to explore other technological avenues that may find their way into Penn's college house system. "I think we'll certainly see new technology," Brownlee said. "We'll look at a variety and we'll test a lot of things. I think it's very important that we begin this now, with all the renovation" from the University's $300 million dorm-dining overhaul. And while RAB Chairperson Jennifer Jong explained that, due to occasional glitches, the scanner was "not like you see in the movies," but that she was pleased with Penn's willingness to experiment with something new. "I did use it and I think it was a bit more cumbersome than people thought it would be," said Jong, a College junior. "But it was fun to see and I'm glad they're willing to try things."