Interlink hopes to gain ground in young e-transaction industry. (Up Front).

Although the electronic transaction business is still in its early stages, officials at Interlink Electronics believe its new technology will help set a standard for the industry.

The Camarillo-based company, which makes wireless keyboards, remote control devices and computer mouse pointing devices, has been moving into the business with its e-Pad electronic signature device and figures to push further with its new thumbprint technology.

"With revenues totaling $538,000 for the first quarter and a strong backlog going into the second quarter, it is clear that momentum is building in this business," said E. Michael Thoben, Interlink chief executive.

Revenue from the company's e-transaction business was zero two years ago. Interlink posted total revenue of $7 million in the first quarter ending March 31, with $240,000 in net income.

Interlink's ePad-ID) device captures personal signatures and fingerprints for security identification in electronic transactions over the Internet or through other telecommunications means.

While other companies have developed similar signature pads, it's unclear whether any of these plan to market a thumbprint capability with their signature pads, according to the American Electronics Association.

Although there is yet no standard developed for electronic signatures or security systems, ePad-ID will provide companies with the needed technology to meet guide- lines set forth by the banking and financing industries, said Rod Vesling, the company's vice president of sales and marketing.

Interlink has recently signed contracts with both Unisys and EDS for the ePad-ID.

The Patriot Act of 2001 prompted by the Sept. 11 terrorist incidents boosted interest by companies in security measures for electronic transactions.

"In response to new legislation, many financial institutions, government agencies and Fortune 1000 companies are starting to require both signatures and thumbprints on their important documents and transactions," Vesling said.

The new device allows users to simply sign the electronic pad with a stylus then press the thumb against a fingerprint sensor which can then be authenticated in order to access important documents or applications online.

Other applications for the ePad are the automation of government documents like the issuance of drivers' licenses, consumer check cashing and access for company computer networks.

But Thomas R Mullally, an attorney with Shennan Oaks-based Szabo, Spencer & Mullally who specializes in online contracts and electronic signatures, said e-transactions are still a long way from being widely accepted.

"It's going to take getting a lot of people to feel comfortable with signing their names on an electronic pad and putting their thumbprint on it," he said.