AFIS Workstation
Definition
A dedicated computer system with encoding software and database connectivity used by fingerprint examiners to encode latent minutiae, submit searches against criminal and elimination databases, and annotate comparison charts for court reports.
- Function: encoding
- Encode latent minutiae
- Function: search
- Submit searches to criminal, elimination databases
- Function: annotation
- Annotate comparison charts
- Output use
- Court report material
Common questions
How does an AFIS workstation differ from the AFIS database itself?+
The workstation is the examiner's local terminal for encoding and reviewing prints, while the AFIS database and matching engine typically run on a separate networked server that the workstation queries.
Why does annotation capability on the workstation matter for court testimony?+
It lets the examiner mark the specific corresponding minutiae used to reach an identification, producing the visual comparison chart that supports and illustrates testimony in court.
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