Tape Analysis and Authentication using Multi-Track Recorders
Durand R. Begault, Brian M. Brustad, Andrew Mhya Stanley · 2005
Techniques and advantages of multi-track (> quarter track) playback heads for forensic analysis of standard monophonic and stereophonic cassette and micro-cassette tape recordings is discussed. The time-domain waveform for recorded signatures can be analyzed in terms of relative timing offset for determining azimuth of the record head used in making a specimen tape. Additionally, excursion of the erase signature into the guard band region is a reliable indicator of an original versus a copied erase signature. Comparative advantages over magnetic development techniques are discussed.