What is a Digital Time Clock?
In the context of time tracking, the term “digital time clock” can refer to either a connected time clock or a biometric time clock, depending on the technology being used.
Understanding a Digital Time Clock in the Connected Sense
When referring to a digital time clock as a connected device, it means a system designed to measure employees’ working hours and transmit the data through a network, typically the Internet.
Today, most digital time clocks are connected (the punched or printed time card has become almost obsolete, although it can still be found…), though there are subtle differences between the available solutions:
- QR code clocking solutions are connected via the user’s smartphone (sometimes referred to as mobile time clocks)
- Battery-powered badge-based time clocks connected through low-power networks (LoRaWAN, LTE-M)
- Traditional connected time clocks, connected to the Internet via Ethernet, WiFi, or 4G, and therefore plugged into the power grid
The Electronic Time Clock in the Biometric Sense
For some, a digital time clock actually refers to a time-tracking device based on biometric data.
This method involves storing a digital image of a biometric characteristic (like a fingerprint) in a database and using this feature for identification instead of, for example, a badge. Each time the person presents their finger, the fingerprint is compared to the reference data, allowing for identification.
It’s important to note that in the U.S., biometric data collection is regulated, and in some cases, it may require explicit consent. Always check local laws and regulations regarding the use of biometric data in the workplace.
If you need to verify the identity of the person working when no manager is on site, you can use the random photo verification feature offered by the Ubiqod platform. This is not biometric recognition.
