The paper describes an enhanced fingerprint recognition system consist
ing of image preprocessing, feature extraction and matching that runs
accurately and effectively on a personal computer platform. The image
preprocessing includes histogram equalisation, modification of directi
onal codes, dynamic thresholding and ridgeline thinning which are suff
icient to enhance the image to a state ready for feature extraction. O
nly features extracted are stored in a file for fingerprint matching.
The matching algorithm presented is a modification and improvement of
the structural approach. Experimental results acquired for matching ar
e accurate, reliable and fast for implementation using a PC and a fing
erprint scanner. The proposed fingerprint recognition scheme can provi
de an efficient way of automated identification and can be extended to
numerous other security or administration applications.