A mobile, hand-held fingerprint scanner is recharged by a data and power communication
interface. The mobile, hand-held fingerprint scanner includes a rechargeable power
supply and a data and power communication interface. The rechargeable power supply
powers the fingerprint scanner during mobile use. In one example, the rechargeable
power supply includes at least one rechargeable battery, a charging circuit, and
a voltage regulator circuit. Data and recharging power is carried over the sane
interface. A separate plug for power is not needed. The fingerprint scanner can
then be inserted quickly and easily in a docking station as only a single data
and power communication interface need be coupled. This is particularly advantageous
in law enforcement applications where mobile use is important and safety can be
compromised if a mobile scanner does not couple to a docking station quickly and easily.
