Equipment & Instrumentation
Meiji Trinocular Stereo-Microscope
Used for microscopic examination of documents. The trinocular attachment enables photographs to be taken of whatever is viewed through the microscope. These photographs can be easily incorporated into reports and demonstrative court charts.
Video Spectral Comparator - 4 (VSC-4)
The VSC-4 is used to examine documents in the visible, ultraviolet, and infrared ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. We normally see the 400nm to 700nm range of the spectrum. The VSC-4 can examine a document from 200nm (UV) to 1000nm (IR). Inks can be differentiated to show the use of different pens, alterations, or to disclose obliterated entries. The transmitted light feature (backlighting) shows watermarks and is useful in deciphering entries obliterated by the use of opaquing fluid.
The examinations conducted using the VSC-4 are non-destructive and the images obtained can be incorporated into reports or into demonstrative court material (printed or electronic).
Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA)
The ESDA is used to reveal indented impressions of handwriting. Impressions from handwriting on the top page of a note pad can be detected to several pages below the top page. The impressions are permanently preserved on an acetate background. The impressions can be scanned and copied into a report or a court chart.
The ESDA is very useful in detecting page substitutions and altered pages in medical and business records. Sequencing indentations and ink strokes or inkjet printing can be used to show backdated entries, added printing, or an added signature, for example.
While the ESDA is considered to be non-destructive, minor amounts of toner, pencil, or ink may be removed during the processing. The documents are normally humidified for 2 to 3 minutes before processing.
Cameras & measuring devices
Digital and 35mm film cameras; measuring grids; dichroic filters
Testimony
Testimony is often requested for court or deposition. Findings can be demonstrated by the use of printed charts or electronically by PowerPoint or by using an ELMO Visual Presenter (Document Video Camera).