1. Introduction
The TEC TE-FPA2 Mini USB Fingerprint Reader provides a secure and convenient way to log into your Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer using fingerprint authentication. Designed for seamless integration with Windows Hello, this compact device offers fast, 360-degree recognition for enhanced security and efficiency. It also supports file and folder encryption.
2. Safety Information
- Keep the device away from water and excessive moisture.
- Avoid extreme temperatures.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Refer to qualified personnel.
- Ensure the USB port is clean and free of debris before inserting the device.
- This device is not compatible with ARM-based chipsets. Please verify your system's architecture before use.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- TEC TE-FPA2 Mini USB Fingerprint Reader
- User Manual (this document)
4. Setup Instructions
4.1. Connecting the Device
Insert the TEC TE-FPA2 Mini USB Fingerprint Reader into an available USB port on your computer. The device is designed to be compact and unobtrusive.
Image: The TEC TE-FPA2 Mini USB Fingerprint Reader shown with its dimensions (17mm width, 20.6mm length, 12mm thickness) and a comparison to a human hand, highlighting its compact size.
4.2. Driver Installation
For Windows 10 and Windows 11, the necessary drivers should automatically install when your device is connected to the internet. Windows Hello will then recognize the fingerprint reader.
Image: A TEC TE-FPA2 Mini USB Fingerprint Reader plugged into the side of a laptop, with a desktop monitor in the background showing the Windows Hello setup interface.
Manual Driver Installation (If Automatic Fails)
If the driver does not install automatically, you may need to trigger a manual update or download it directly:
- Trigger Manual Update: Connect your device to the internet. Go to Device Manager, locate the fingerprint device (often under 'Biometric devices' or 'Unknown device'), right-click, and select 'Update driver'. Choose 'Search automatically for updated driver software'.
- Direct Download: If the above fails, you can download the driver manually from the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/s/4loare3farsin3f/EFD3.10.12001.10102_USB_Driver_WHQL.rar?dl=0. Extract the contents and follow the installation instructions.
4.3. Configuring Windows Hello
After driver installation, configure Windows Hello for fingerprint sign-in:
- Access Settings: Right-click the Start button and select 'Settings'.
- Navigate to Sign-in Options: Go to 'Accounts' > 'Sign-in options'.
- Set up Fingerprint: Under 'Ways to sign in', select 'Fingerprint (Windows Hello)' and click 'Set up'. Follow the on-screen prompts to register your fingerprints. You will need to set up a PIN if you haven't already.
- Enable External Sign-in Options: In 'Sign-in options', ensure the setting 'Sign in with an external camera or fingerprint reader' is turned On.
- Power Management (Important for Reliability):
- Right-click the Start button and select 'Device Manager'.
- Expand 'Biometric devices'.
- Right-click on 'ELAN WBF Fingerprint Sensor' (or similar name) and select 'Properties'.
- Go to the 'Power Management' tab.
- Uncheck the box that says 'Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power'. Click 'OK'.
- Restart your computer for changes to take full effect.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Fingerprint Authentication
Once your fingerprints are registered with Windows Hello, you can use the TEC TE-FPA2 for quick and secure login:
- At the Windows login screen, select the fingerprint sign-in option.
- Gently place your registered finger on the fingerprint sensor.
- The device features 360-degree recognition, allowing authentication from any angle.
- Authentication typically takes 1-2 seconds.
Image: A close-up view of a finger resting on the sensor of the TEC TE-FPA2 Mini USB Fingerprint Reader, demonstrating the authentication process.
5.2. Multi-Fingerprint Registration
The device supports registration of up to 10 fingerprints. For shared computers, up to 10 entries can be registered for each user account, allowing multiple users to utilize fingerprint login.
Image: An illustration depicting the capability of the TEC TE-FPA2 to register multiple fingerprints, with a hand showing distinct cartoon faces on each finger.
5.3. File and Folder Encryption
The TEC TE-FPA2 supports file and folder encryption features available through Windows. Consult Windows documentation for specific steps on how to encrypt files and folders using your fingerprint for access.
6. Maintenance
- Keep the fingerprint sensor clean and free from dust or oils. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the sensor surface if needed.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on the device.
- Store the device in a clean, dry environment when not in use.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1. Device Not Recognized / Driver Issues
- Ensure the device is fully inserted into a functional USB port. Try a different USB port.
- Verify internet connectivity for automatic driver updates.
- Follow the 'Manual Driver Installation' steps in Section 4.2.
- Restart your computer after installing or updating drivers.
7.2. "We couldn't find a fingerprint scanner compatible with Windows Hello Fingerprint" Error
- Ensure the 'Power Management' setting for the device in Device Manager is configured correctly (Uncheck 'Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power' as described in Section 4.3).
- Confirm that 'Sign in with an external camera or fingerprint reader' is enabled in Windows Sign-in options (Section 4.3).
- Ensure you have a Windows PIN set up, as it is required for Windows Hello fingerprint setup.
7.3. Inconsistent Authentication / Connection Drops
- Ensure the device is firmly seated in the USB port. A loose connection can cause intermittent issues.
- Clean the fingerprint sensor surface.
- Re-register your fingerprints in Windows Hello.
7.4. Incompatibility with ARM-based Chipsets
This device is not designed to work with computers utilizing ARM-based processors. Please ensure your system uses an Intel or AMD processor for compatibility.
8. Specifications
| Brand | TEC |
| Model Name | TE-FPA2 |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Product Dimensions | 0.47"D x 0.81"W x 0.47"H (12mm x 20.6mm x 12mm) |
| Item Weight | 5 Grams (0.176 ounces) |
| Resolution | 600 dpi |
| Minimum System Requirements | Windows 10 |
| Fingerprint Recognition Accuracy | FRR (False Recognition Rate) 1.92% or less | FAR (False Acceptance Rate) Less than 0.0002% |
Image: A graphical representation of fingerprint authentication accuracy, detailing the False Recognition Rate (FRR) and False Acceptance Rate (FAR) for the device.
9. Warranty and Support
TEC provides 24/7 customer support. If you encounter any difficulties with the installation or use of your TE-FPA2 USB Fingerprint Reader, please contact our support team directly. Our team is available to assist you.
