Electronic Signature Instruments

2007-03-08 10:33:40

( Computers )



An electronic signature is the digital version of your handwritten signature, which is capture electronically. Just because you can obtain a copy of your electronic signature online, does not mean that cutting and pasting it onto a new document in order to enforce an agreement can be done. It also does not mean that the person who has affected his signature on the document has consented to the agreement. In court, original biometric and forensic signature data is required for paper-based and electronic signatures for it to be valid. The higher the value in transactions such as loans, mortgages and the like, the stricter and more complex an electronic signature system is necessary.

The simplest form of electronic signature generates your signature and gets rid of the raw data. Then some notations are made based on each signature stroke you make. A more complex electronic signature method will not only capture one’s signature, but also records the speed in making the signature when signing a document. The pen data is recorded so that it is included as proof along with the signed document.

In order for an electronic signature to be produced, you will need to purchase an electronic signature pad and compatible electronic signature software.

There are two basic types of electronic signature pads: a pressure-sensitive touch pad-style signature pad has a thin plastic-like membrane that is capable of sensing when a pen stylus touches it. For the instrument to function properly, the pen stylus must be in direct contact with the pad. Using this type of signature pad does not allow you to sign through documents and is not capable of obtaining ink-on-paper copies. Because the touch screen requires the pen to be in direct contact with the screen, the touch pad easily becomes over used and often needs to be replaced within a short period. Because this type of gadget is cheap to buy, some people use this type of signature pad when a small amount of electronic signatures are needed.

A digitizing electronic signature tablet is composed of an electromagnetic pen and a sensor that captures the position of the pen without needing any direct contact with the tablet’s surface. The sensor is contained within a protective housing so that the surface is kept from damage. Because the pen relies on the electromagnetic source, only the pen instrument and no other objects such as your finger or another pen can be used to make an electronic signature. This instrument is capable of creating electronic signatures on paper forms, plastic countertops or any other housing.

Electronic signature software should be included with the electronic signature pad or tablet that you purchase. Sometimes, a company will request you to download such software from their website. If you are thinking of using electronic signatures on a larger scale, then it may be worthwhile to consider the purchase of an electronic signature development tool.


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