The $30,000 system was loaned to the Tampa Police Department for one year. So far, no arrests have been made using the technology. However, the 36 cameras positioned in different areas of downtown Tampa have allowed police to keep a more watchful eye on general activities. This increased surveillance of city residents and tourists has riled privacy rights groups.

People have an amazing ability to recognize and remember thousands of faces. In this edition of HowStuffWorks, you'll learn how computers are turning your face into computer code so it can be compared to thousands, if not millions, of other faces. We'll also look at how facial recognition software is being used in elections, criminal investigations and to secure your personal computer.