Signature pads for businesses: a buying guide

A signature pad captures the handwritten signature along with biometric features. When used in conjunction with suitable PDF signature software, this can be converted into an advanced electronic signature (AES). The choice of model depends primarily on display requirements, sensor technology, location of use and system integration. Sigma and Sigma LITE use RTP; Zeta, Gamma and Delta utilise ERT with a glass surface. Sigma LITE does not have a display. For browser-based processes using signoSign/Universal, the signoPAD API/Web is required when using a pad. A QES also requires a qualified trust service provider.

Where signatures are regularly provided in person, a digital workflow eliminates the need for printing, scanning and re-entering data. This applies, for example, to consultancy, customer service, healthcare, administration and contract processing. The signed PDF file can be fed directly into the next stage of the process.

A signature pad is particularly useful when signatories prefer the familiar motion of writing with a pen and the company wishes to capture biometric data. Whether an FES is sufficient or a QES is required depends on the document and the legal form.

Display: A compact device is sufficient for a simple signature. If instructions or document extracts are to be displayed on the device, a larger display is advisable. The Sigma LITE deliberately does not have an LCD; the signature is made on the pad without a display.

Sensor: RTP (Resistive Touch Panel) works with a passive stylus. ERT (Electromagnetic Resonance Technology) uses a special battery-free stylus and a robust glass surface. Both methods can provide biometric data for a FES; ERT captures characteristics in greater detail.

Systems: Take into account the desired signature workflow, existing line-of-business applications, interfaces and the operating system. signotec pads are used on Windows and Linux. On iOS and Android, signatures are created directly on the smartphone or tablet using signoSign for iOS/Android.

Sigma LITE: A compact pad without an LCD screen, designed for simple scenarios where a display is not required. Signatures are made on the pad without visual verification on the device.

Sigma: A compact model with a monochrome display and an RTP sensor. For mobile workstations, where space is limited and a higher volume of signatures is required, it is a more suitable choice than the Sigma LITE when a display is needed.

Zeta: Monochrome display, ERT sensor and a more robust glass surface. The sensor quality is superior to that of the Sigma.

Gamma: 5-inch colour display with 800 × 480 pixels. It can display messages, instructions and logos; a slideshow is possible when the device is idle. This does not refer to a general mirroring of the computer screen.

Delta: The largest colour display in the signature pad range. Longer documents can be viewed and signed on the device; the display is not a full-size A4 page.

Compare all current signature pads.

signoSign/2 is the desktop software for local PDF and signature processes on Windows. The browser-based signoSign/Universal solution supports web-based signature processes, including FES and optional QES. If a signature pad is to be used with signoSign/Universal, the signoPAD API/Web connects the device to the browser application; this is required for this purpose.

Interfaces are available for your own CRM, ERP or specialist applications. Before purchasing, please check the specific integration, the number of devices and the required signature type.

Portable with a laptop: Sigma is compact yet still features a display. A simple workstation without a device display: Sigma LITE may be sufficient if the workflow is deliberately designed to operate without an LCD. Greater precision and a glass surface: Zeta offers ERT with a monochrome display. Coloured prompts and logos on the device: Gamma is a suitable option. Viewing longer documents on the pad: Delta offers the largest display area.

For a high volume of signatures without the need for extensive document display, Sigma should be considered as the standard option. It is not just size or price that are decisive, but the specific workflow and software integration.

Is a pad signature legally valid?

Yes, electronic signatures are legally recognised. A FES can be created using biometric capture and suitable PDF signature software. A QES may be required for transactions subject to a statutory written form requirement.

Can I create a qualified electronic signature (QES) using a pad?

Not using the Pad on its own. A qualified trust service provider is required for a QES. If the Pad is used with signoSign/Universal in a browser, the signoPAD API/Web is also required for device integration.

Which operating systems are supported?

The pads run on Windows and Linux. On iOS and Android, the signoSign app captures the signature directly on the display of a smartphone or tablet.

Conclusion

Choose based on the display, sensor, location of use and connectivity. Sigma, Sigma LITE, Zeta, Gamma and Delta cater to different requirements. Testing the full signature process will help you make a decision.