NCJ Number
182839
Journal
Forensic Examiner Volume: 8 Issue: 11-12 Dated: November/December 1999 Pages: 24-27
Editor(s)
Daphne Greenlee
Date Published
1999
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article details some of the basics of videotape recording, the editing of videotapes by forensic experts, and the continuing and increasing threat posed by both linear and non-linear editing to both professional and consumer videographers and attorneys requiring forensic videotape analysis.
Abstract
Storage of information for both audio and videotape recordings is accomplished using either analog or digital magnetic tape or high-density digital computer disks. The most popular videotapes presently in use include VHS, S-VHS, VHS-C, 8 mm Hi-8, and DV (digital video), although greater resolution and quality of film can be obtained in the Hi-8, S-VHS, and DV formats. Numerous VCRs present instabilities during the recording and playback of videotapes which often causes timing differences or time-based errors in the video signal. In the detection of videotape editing, forensic examiners need to consider analog (linear) versus computer-based (non-linear) editing and the use of instrumental analysis of edited videotapes. Forensic examiners should also take into account legal issues associated with alterations to videotapes. 11 references and 6 figures