NCJ Number
218677
Date Published
October 2005
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This paper outlines a forensic method for determining whether a particular videotape was recorded in a particular video recorder.
Abstract
Comparison of replay radio-frequency waveform, audio-track configuration, and replay-tracking position is a useful technique to aid video recorder identification. However, an understanding of the significance of minor or noticeable differences between waveforms is essential to the accuracy of this technique. Viewing waveforms at different replay-tracking settings highlights differences and improves the robustness of the technique. This method can be useful for screening a large quantity of items for examination. Following the “Watergate tapes,” forensic audio-recording authenticity analysis became prominent. Even though today many organizations conduct forensic video authenticity analysis, little documented evidence exists of research conducted in this area. This paper sought to validate a forensic method for analog VHS video recorder identification. The method uses three techniques that compare replay radio-frequency waveform, audio-track configuration, and replay-tracking position. The techniques require the use of a storage oscilloscope, plotter, video monitor, and video player. Tables, references