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IR-Cut Filter

Definition

A filter placed in the camera optical path that blocks near-infrared radiation, allowing only visible-range light to reach the sensor; must be removed (or switched out electronically) for IR luminescence and IR transmission examination on the VSC.

Related terms

ENFSI Document and Handwriting Working Group
The European Network of Forensic Science Institutes working group responsible for harmonising best-practice guidelines for forensic document examination across European national laboratories.
Foster+Freeman VSC8000
The current-generation forensic document examination workstation produced by Foster+Freeman Ltd (UK), used by the FBI Laboratory, DSTL (UK), CFSL (India), AFP (Australia),...
IR Luminescence
Emission of near-infrared radiation by ink dye molecules when excited by visible light; different ink formulations luminesce at different intensities, allowing differentiation...
IR Transmission
Examination of a document with infrared radiation transmitted from below; exploits the IR-transparency of titanium dioxide in correction fluid to image underlying...
Oblique-Light Illumination
Illumination of a document surface at a very low angle (5-20 degrees) to create disproportionately long shadows from surface irregularities, revealing mechanical...
Optical Brightening Agent (OBA)
A fluorescent compound added to paper pulp or coatings that absorbs UV-A radiation and re-emits it as visible blue light, making paper...
Transmitted-Light Examination
Examination of a document with diffuse illumination from below, making paper thickness variation, watermarks, erasure thinning, and some obliterations visible as brightness...
Video Spectral Comparator (VSC)
A multispectral imaging instrument combining UV, visible, and near-infrared illumination with selectable emission filters and a calibrated digital camera; the primary bench...
Watermark
A pattern formed in paper during manufacture by localised fibre-density variation on the Fourdrinier wire; visible in transmitted light as a lighter...

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