Comparison software

[Deuby]

Our Agency has been toying with the idea of conducting comparisons using computer software. The hope is to alleviate eye strain as well as neck strain, and being able to document the process if needed. Any suggestions?

[Steve Everist]

You could do a dual monitor setup and use Photoshop. Put one image on each screen. Using layers, you can mark you progress as you go without working on the original image.

You can also use it for making your charted enlargements, if necessary.

[Deuby]

Thanks for the input Steve. We also thought about using photoshop or possibly the AFIX comparator software, however that software isn't being sold by Arrowhead Forensics anymore so I have to contact the company direct. The search continues!

[Les Bush]

Hi Deuby,

This will be a somehwat hollow reply as I cant actually give you a software package to evaluate. In 2003/4 my agency in Australia subcontracted a local software firm to produce a comparison program based on our scope and criteria. Today we are happily using flat desktop monitors to display digital images of both the latent and the inked in the one window. We have a toolbox for each image and running behind the scene is an Excel spreadsheet that audits any changes to each image and tracks our selections. The tool box includes markers for features, move,zoom, rotate and locking of images. We save our comparisons as new files and export them as pdf or bitmap that can be charted in Powerpoint. Because we are accredited there is a procedure needed to operate the system. The OH&S advantages are great, large images, eye height and all things ergonomic. If Kasey is interested I could send some screen grabs to show the system. Cheers Les

[Neville]

Try V++ at http://www.digitaloptics.net/ distributed by Rofin in the US. Or you could try ImagePro Plus these are both Forensic packages designed to enhance not alter images and are easy to use.

Artistic packages like Photoshop or Paintshop are designed to alter images (ie rub-out or draw in lines) Photoshop is very powerful and you will need to be able to explain any changes to the image and hours of training to get the best out of it, on the other hand there are allot of students out there who are very comfortable with Photoshop and/or Paintshop.

I guess it all comes down to what you intend to use the software for and how much effort and expense you want to go to, both before and after installation

[Deuby]

Les and Neville,
I appreciate both of your replies and will definitely be looking into the suggestions that you've mentioned. I think we are a bit fortunate right now as expense might not be such a huge concern (did I actually say that?), so all avenues are open to us. I was also able to get in contact with AFIS Tecnologies Inc (formerly The Phoenix Group) who handles the AFIX Comparator software. We were able to get a 30 day free trial (should be here sometime this week), and if anyone is interested, I'd be happy to supply contact information for them.

Kasey, would it be possible to have some of Les' screen shots put on the site somewhere??