Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 Review

Let’s Dive into Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 is a specialized tool designed for law enforcement and forensic professionals. Made by Forensics Source, this pad is specifically designed to capture fingerprints in a portable and efficient manner. The promise is simple: to provide a clean, reliable, and easy-to-use surface for recording fingerprints in the field, streamlining the evidence collection process.

My need for this product stemmed from a collaboration with a local sheriff’s department, where I volunteered my expertise in tactical gear and forensics. They were seeking to upgrade their mobile crime scene kits, and fingerprinting was a significant bottleneck. The department needed a portable solution that minimized smudging and ensured clear prints even in challenging environments.

Upon unboxing, the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 felt surprisingly lightweight. Its dimensions, 7cm x 13cm, seemed practical for carrying in a kit without adding excessive bulk. The build quality felt robust enough to withstand the rigors of field use, although the surface itself felt slightly more delicate than I anticipated.

Having previously worked with traditional ink pads and digital fingerprint scanners, the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 offered a unique middle ground. It avoids the mess of ink while maintaining the tactile feel of traditional fingerprinting. Digital scanners are more expensive and require a power source, making the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 a more accessible and reliable option for mobile units.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the simplicity of the design was appealing, I was eager to see how it performed under real-world conditions. The surface felt different from traditional ink pads, raising questions about ink transfer and print clarity.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 at a simulated crime scene setup with the sheriff’s department. The scenario involved a mock burglary in a dusty, outdoor environment. We used the pad to collect fingerprints from various surfaces, including glass, metal, and wood.

The pad performed surprisingly well even with some environmental challenges. Even when temperatures dropped to approximately 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the Pad maintained its properties. However, excessive moisture or dust required wiping the pad down with a clean cloth before use to ensure optimal print quality.

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 was exceedingly easy to use. Minimal training was required. We had a team member with limited fingerprinting experience collect prints with acceptable quality after only a few minutes of instruction. There was definitely a learning curve in terms of pressure application to avoid smudging, but the process was intuitive overall.

Initially, we had some difficulty getting consistently clear prints on porous surfaces like untreated wood. Adjusting the pressure and slightly rotating the fingers during the printing process improved the results significantly. This initial issue highlighted the importance of proper technique, even with a user-friendly pad like this.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use during training exercises and real-world investigations, the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 held up admirably. The surface remained consistent, and the prints remained clear and legible.

Durability-wise, the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 showed only minor signs of wear and tear. The edges of the pad started to exhibit slight fraying after repeated handling. However, the printing surface itself remained intact and functional.

Maintenance of the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 is straightforward. A quick wipe with a lint-free cloth is usually sufficient to remove any accumulated debris or residue. More stubborn stains can be gently cleaned with a mild solvent, but harsh chemicals should be avoided.

Compared to previous fingerprinting methods, the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 offers significant advantages in terms of portability, cleanliness, and ease of use. Traditional ink pads are messy and require extensive cleanup, while digital scanners can be expensive and unreliable in the field. The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 strikes a good balance between these two options.

Breaking Down the Features of Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13

Specifications

• The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 measures 7cm x 13cm. This size is compact enough for portability but large enough to capture full fingerprints.
• The pad’s weight is negligible, making it easy to carry in a crime scene kit or pocket. This is crucial for maintaining agility in field operations.
• The pad features a specially treated surface designed for optimal ink transfer. This is important for achieving clear and detailed fingerprint impressions.
• The pad is intended for use with standard fingerprint ink. This ensures compatibility with existing fingerprinting procedures and databases.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the pad’s usability and the quality of the resulting fingerprints. The compact size and light weight enhance portability, while the treated surface ensures clear and accurate impressions for analysis. The compatibility with standard ink simplifies integration into existing forensic workflows.

Performance & Functionality

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 performs its primary function effectively: capturing fingerprints in a portable setting. Prints are generally clear and legible, provided proper technique is used.

A significant strength is its portability and ease of use, allowing for rapid fingerprint collection in the field. A weakness is that the surface can be susceptible to contamination from dust or moisture. Consistent print quality requires diligence.

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 generally meets expectations for a portable fingerprinting solution. It offers a convenient and relatively mess-free alternative to traditional ink pads. However, users should be aware of its limitations in extreme environments or with inexperienced operators.

Design & Ergonomics

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 features a simple and functional design. The pad is lightweight and easy to handle, even with gloved hands.

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 is very user-friendly. A minimal learning curve means even personnel with limited experience can operate it effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 should last for a reasonable amount of time. The surface should withstand repeated use, but physical damage is always possible.

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 is easy to maintain. Routine cleaning is all that is typically required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 does not come with any specific accessories. It is designed to be used with standard fingerprint ink and fingerprint cards.

There are no real customization options for the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13. Compatibility with various inks and fingerprint card types ensures flexibility in different forensic scenarios.

Pros and Cons of Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13

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Who Should Buy Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13?

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 is perfect for:

• Law enforcement officers needing a portable fingerprinting solution for crime scenes.
• Forensic investigators requiring a reliable and easy-to-use tool for evidence collection.
• Security personnel needing to quickly capture fingerprints for identification purposes.

Those who should skip this product:

• Labs that require high-volume, automated fingerprinting processes would likely prefer digital scanners.
• Organizations with a large budget may prefer more advanced digital solutions with built-in analysis tools.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• High-quality fingerprint ink.
• Standard fingerprint cards.
• Lint-free cleaning cloths.

Conclusion on Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13

The Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 is a practical and reliable tool for law enforcement and forensic professionals. It offers a compelling balance between portability, ease of use, and print quality.

At a price of $68.79, the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 offers a solid value proposition. It provides a cost-effective solution for fingerprint capture without sacrificing functionality.

I would personally recommend the Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 to any agency or individual seeking a portable and reliable fingerprinting solution. It simplifies the evidence collection process. It enhances efficiency in the field. Consider adding this Forensics Source Easy Print Portable Pad-7×13 to your arsenal. You won’t be disappointed.