Fingerprint Scanner Hookup Guide
This Tutorial is Retired!
Note: This tutorial is for the GT-511CXX models. If you are using any of the newer models (i.e. GT-521F32 and GT-521F52), please refer to the new Fingerprint Scanner (GT-521Fxx) Hookup Guide.
View the updated tutorial: Fingerprint Scanner (GT-521Fxx) Hookup Guide
bboyho 
Hardware Overview
Features
The GT-511C3 and GT-511C1R models have a lot in common. To name a few of the similarities, both have the ability to:
- Enroll a Fingerprint
- Identify a Fingerprint
- Capable of 360° Recognition
However, there are some slight differences if you look closely at the their datasheets. A table has been provided below for comparison with the differences highlighted. The differences include:
- Image Size
- Maximum Number of Fingerprints
- Size of the Fingerprint Template ID
- Time it Takes to Identify a Fingerprint
One significant difference to keep in mind when integrating the fingerprint scanner in a project is the number of fingerprints that the device can hold. The GT-511C3 is slightly more expensive but it can hold 200 fingerprints. The GT-511C1R costs less but it can hold only 20 fingerprints.
| Technical Specs | GT-511C3 | GT-511C1R |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | ARM Cortex M3 Cortex | ARM Cortex M3 Cortex |
| Sensor | optical | optical |
| Effective Area | 14x12.5mm | 14x12.5mm |
| Image Size | 202x258 Pixels | 240x216 Pixels |
| Resolution | 450 dpi | 450 dpi |
| Max # of Fingerprints | 200 | 20 |
| Matching Mode | 1:1, 1:N | 1:1, 1:N |
| Size of Template | 496 Bytes(template) + 2 Bytes (checksum) | 504 Bytes(template) + 2 Bytes (checksum) |
| Serial Communication | UART (Default: 9600 baud) and USB v1.1 (Full Speed) | UART (Default: 9600 baud) and USB v1.1 (Full Speed) |
| False Acceptance Rate (FAR) | < 0.001% | < 0.001% |
| False Rejection Rate (FRR) | < 0.01% | < 0.01% |
| Enrollment Time | < 3 sec (3 fingerprints) | < 3 sec (3 fingerprints) |
| Identification Time | <1.0 seconds (200 fingerprints) | <1.5 seconds (20 fingerprints) |
| Operating Voltage | 3.3V ~ 6Vdc | 3.3V ~ 6Vdc |
| Operating Current | < 130mA | < 130mA |
| Operating Temperature | ~20°C ~ +60°C | ~20°C ~ +60°C |
| Operating Humidity | 20% ~ 80% | 20% ~ 80% |
| Storage Temperature | ~20°C ~ +60°C | ~20°C ~ +60°C |
| Storage Humidity | 10% ~ 80% | 10% ~ 80% |
The image below shows the fingerprint scanner's size, mounting holes, and an indicator for the green power LED.
Below is an image of the optical sensing area where the device will be able to scan your fingerprint. There is a marking just above the JST-SH connector that indicates polarity. The JST-SH connector breaks out the pins for power and a serial UART connection. While the input voltage is between 3.3V and 6V, the UART's logic level is only 3.3V. You will need a logic level converter or voltage divider to safely communicate with a 5V device.
