- 01: Introduction
- 02: History
- 03: Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development
- 04: Modern Firearms Manufacture
- 05: Small Arms Ammunition
- 06: Evidence Handling Procedures
- 07: Equipment and Instrumentation
- Introduction
- Objectives
- AFTE Knowledge and Ability Factors
- Measurement, Standards, and Accuracy
- Weight, Force, and Their Measurement
- Dimensional Data and Measurement Tools
- Muzzle Velocity of Bullets
- Stereo and Comparison Microscopes
- Small Tools and Supplies
- Imaging Equipment
- Field Support Equipment
- Computer-Based Technologies
- Firing Facilities
- Selected Bibliography
- 08: Examination of Firearms
- 09: Cartridge and Shotshell Examination
- 10: Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles
- 11: Bullet Comparison and Identification
- 12: Gunshot Residue and Distance Determination
- 13: Toolmark Identification
- 14: Communicating Results
- Resources
BulletTrax-3D™
Home > Equipment and Instrumentation > Computer-Based Technologies > BulletTrax-3D™
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The BulletTRAX-3D™ workstation
Click for larger imageBulletTRAX-3D™ is the latest technological evolution from FTI (Forensic Technology, Inc.) and is designed to address the comparison needs of the forensic firearms examiner. When paired with MatchPoint+™, it allows the examiner to personally conduct preliminary correlations prior to actual microscopic comparisons.
This system moves beyond IBIS® technology and includes the following:
- A confocal microscope designed to simultaneously gather two- and three-dimensional images of bullet surface topography
- A digital camera to capture the data
- An automated bullet holder to physically manipulate bullets, including damaged bullets
- Computer hardware
- Proprietary software to manage image capture, transmission, and storage on a computer server
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Digital screen images depicting the surface
of a fired bullet showing surface topography
This system expands case linkage capabilities from criminal cases to a broader scope that includes terrorist activities. As such, the examiner may be able to develop linkages between shooting incidents as a means of intelligence gathering. BulletTRAX-3D™ was preceded by products using the BulletProof™ and BrassCatcher™ software. These systems are still used by many laboratories.
