Rofin Polilight Manual V1.9

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
INTRODUCTION AND SAFETY STANDARDS.................................................. 3
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................. 3
SKIN PROTECTION ........................................................................................................ 3
EYE PROTECTION ......................................................................................................... 3
DEFINITION OF SYMBOLS ............................................................................................. 4
MANUFACTURER DETAILS ............................................................................................ 4
Rofin Australia Pty Ltd ................................................................................................................................4
Australian Declaration of Conformity.......................................................................................................4
European Declaration of Conformity........................................................................................................4
STANDARD COMPONENTS ........................................................................................... 5
2
OPERATION .............................................................................................................. 6
SWITCHING ON.............................................................................................................. 6
REMOTE CONTROL ....................................................................................................... 6
Using the Remote Control.........................................................................................................................8
Changing Filters and Tuning.....................................................................................................................8
FRONT PANEL LIGHT CONTROL ................................................................................... 9
FILTER SELECTION ..................................................................................................... 10
FILTER TUNING ........................................................................................................... 10
POWER SELECTION .................................................................................................... 11
SHUTTER TOGGLE ...................................................................................................... 12
MODES OF OPERATION .............................................................................................. 12
Standby Mode / Lamp Cooldown .......................................................................................................... 12
Restart Lamp (while fans are still running).......................................................................................... 12
3
LIGHT APPLICATIONS.........................................................................................13
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 13
FLUORESCENCE IMAGING .......................................................................................... 15
REFLECTION IMAGING ................................................................................................ 15
Specular Reflection.................................................................................................................................. 15
Diffused Reflection................................................................................................................................... 16
ABSORPTION IMAGING ............................................................................................... 16
Differential Absorption............................................................................................................................. 16
APPLICATIONS AT SCENE OF CRIME.......................................................................... 16
Shoe Prints................................................................................................................................................ 17
General Fluorescent Method.................................................................................................................. 17
Blood Marks.............................................................................................................................................. 18
SEARCHING FOR LATENT FINGERPRINTS ................................................................. 19
Option 1: Absorption or Reflection Mode............................................................................................. 19
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Option 2: Inherent Fluorescent Mode................................................................................................... 19
Option 3: Treatment with Powders........................................................................................................ 19
Option 4: Superglue Fuming.................................................................................................................. 20
4
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES.................................................................................23
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 23
RS232C REMOTE COMPUTER CONTROL.................................................................... 23
INFRA-RED OPERATION.............................................................................................. 23
LIGHT GUIDE ............................................................................................................... 25
BAND PASS FILTERS ................................................................................................... 25
DIRECT OUTPUT OPTICS ............................................................................................ 26
5
MAINTENANCE......................................................................................................27
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 27
LAMP REPLACEMENT.................................................................................................. 27
TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................................................................... 30
Error Messages on the Display Panel.................................................................................................. 30
General Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................ 30
6
SPECIFICATIONS AND DEFINITIONS..............................................................31
INPUT POWER ............................................................................................................. 31
WEIGHT SPECIFICATION ............................................................................................. 31
DIMENSIONS................................................................................................................ 31
INTERNAL LAMP .......................................................................................................... 31
LIGHT GUIDE ............................................................................................................... 31
OPTICAL OUTPUT BANDS ........................................................................................... 31
AVAILABLE FILTERS .................................................................................................... 32
7
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................33
Page ii
1
INTRODUCTION AND SAFETY STANDARDS
INTRODUCTION
The Polilight is a 500 Watt forensic light with selectable and tuneable filters. It has been specifically
designed to assist the forensic scientist to efficiently carry out an examination at the
scene-of-crime.
The Polilight produces powerful narrow bands of light at wavelengths between 310 nm and
670 nm. A set of filters provide individual bands of light in the ultraviolet, violet, blue, green, orange
and red region of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Once a band is selected, fine-tuning within the band can produce the precise colour requirement.
SKIN PROTECTION
The Polilight is a high intensity light source, which if used inappropriately, may be a hazard to the
eyes and skin.
Because extremely high voltages are generated inside the Polilight casing, it must be protected
from dust, rain and moisture at all times.
Take care to avoid direct exposure to the beam from the Polilight. Appropriate clothing such as
gloves and long sleeved shirts should be worn at all times when working with or near the Polilight.
The maximum intermittent direct beam skin exposure must not exceed 12 minutes per day, while
the maximum continuous skin exposure must be less than four minutes per day.
EYE PROTECTION
Four pairs of safety goggles, each a different colour, are supplied with the Polilight. These goggles
are to be worn by the operator and all people within 15 metres of a working Polilight unit.
Figure 1 shows an example of the goggles.
Figure 1. Goggles
Page 3
DEFINITION OF SYMBOLS
Blue Round symbol: Eye Protection
Must Be Warn in this area
Yellow Triangle Symbol: Caution- High
Intensity Light
MANUFACTURER DETAILS
Rofin Australia Pty Ltd
Address:
6/42 – 44 Garden Boulevard, Dingley, Victoria 3172, Australia
Phone:
+61 3 9558 0344
Fax:
+61 3 9558 0252
E-mail:
[email protected]
Australian Declaration of Conformity
Rofin declares that the product Polilight PL500SC conforms to the following Standard:
AS 3200.1.2:1998
Medical Electrical Equipment Part 1.0: General requirements for safety – Parent standard
AS 32001.2:1995
Approval and test specification – Medical electrical equipment Part 1.2: General requirements for
safety – Collateral Standard: electromagnetic compatibility – requirements and tests
Testing is to CISPR22 limits for Class B Equipment
European Declaration of Conformity
Rofin declares that the product Polilight PL500SC conforms to the following Standard:
IEC 60601.1.0 1998
Medical Electrical Equipment Part 1.0: General requirements for safety – Parent Standard
IEC 60601.1.2 1995
Approval and test specification – Medical electrical equipment Part 1.2: General requirements for
safety – Collateral Standard: electromagnetic compatibility – requirements and tests
Testing is to CISPR22 limits for Class B Equipment
Page 4
STANDARD COMPONENTS
The following components are standard with the Polilight and should be included with your system:
•
Polilight PL500SC light source
•
Five metre (15’) long liquid light guide
•
Focusing Optic
•
Remote Control (with five metre cable)
•
Power Cable
•
Stepping Rings for Nikon and Olympus cameras
•
Goggles (Clear, Yellow, Orange and Red)
•
Barrier filters (yellow, orange and red)
•
Camera Filter Holder
•
3 mm Allen Key
•
8 Amp Spare Fuses
•
Instruction Manual
•
Carrying Case
Page 5
2
OPERATION
The Polilight is designed primarily to be operated via the remote control unit. However, it can be
operated using buttons located on the front panel of the unit. These buttons allow operation when
the remote control is not available or the Polilight is adjacent to the operator.
SWITCHING ON
Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the Polilight body.
a.
Turn on the Polilight using the switch on the back of the unit. A red LED
illuminates on the front panel below the standby button ( ), as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2. Standby Button
b.
Press the standby button ( ) located above the red LED.
The power supply fans start (the operator should be able to hear them clearly).
The LED changes to green and the Polilight runs through a 30 second self-test
sequence. When the self-test is completed, the lamp cooling fans start (the
operator should be able to hear them clearly) and the front display panel shows
the light has defaulted to the 450 nm waveband at P7 power.
Note
The self-test sequence only occurs if a light guide is installed. If there is no light guide, the unit will start in
the shutter position 000.
REMOTE CONTROL
The Polilight remote control unit plugs into the back of the Polilight unit and has six buttons, which
control all the light functions. When the Polilight is switched on, the remote control display gives
firmware identification and then shows the default starting light information.
Pressing the Menu button allows the operator to move to the required application, check the
configuration or test the Polilight by running through all the available filters in sequence. An
example sequence can be found in Figure 3.
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Figure 3. Remote Menu Sequence
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Using the Remote Control
To set up the Polilight using the remote control:
a.
Press the Menu button.
The Applications / Configuration / Test display appears.
b.
Use the up / down buttons to select Applications and press ok.
A screen showing the search options appears.
c.
Use the up / down buttons to select from the list and press ok.
The Comments screen is displayed, showing the suggested goggles and
filter(s).
d.
Acknowledge the suggestions by pressing ok.
The Parameters screen is displayed, showing the suggested goggles and
filter(s).
e.
Press ok.
The Parameters screen is displayed asking for confirmation of the suggested
parameters:
Note
i.
Select Yes and press ok to start the system.
ii.
Select No to return to the Parameters screen and change the parameters.
Pressing the left arrow on the remote control at any time brings back the previous screen.
Pressing the shutter button at the top of the remote control (
) engages the shutter and blocks the light.
Changing Filters and Tuning
To change filters and tune the Polilight using the remote control:
a.
Use the up / down buttons to choose either Filter, Power or Tune . The small
selector arrow on the left-hand side will move according to your selection.
b.
Press ok to select the option you wish to change.
The selector arrow will change to a solid arrow, as found in Figure 4.
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Figure 4. Filter Selection with Remote Control
c.
Use the up / down buttons to change the filter and to adjust tuning and press ok.
The solid arrow changes back to the selector arrow and your new settings take
effect.
FRONT PANEL LIGHT CONTROL
The front panel of the Polilight has six control pushbuttons and a display panel as shown in
Figure 5. After the light is switched on, the control pushbuttons listed in Table 1 may be used to
operate the Polilight.
Figure 5. Front Panel Light Control and Display
TABLE 1 – POLILIGHT CONTROL PUS HBUTTONS
Button
Function
To select filter change mode.
To select power output mode.
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To select filter tune mode.
The Shutter Toggle which blanks the light output when required. The Shutter Toggle
alternates between the shutter position (which blocks light output) and the previously
selected filter, power and tune.
To select the filter, power or tune mode required.
FILTER SELECTION
On start-up, the default light output is the
450 nm waveband at P7 power.
Selecting the filter changeover button ( )
displays the waveband filter selection.
Pressing either the up or down button (
),
cycles through the waveband filters in the
sequence shown in Figure 6.
FILTER TUNING
Filter tuning is used to optimise the
illumination for specific materials. Pressing
the filter tuning button ( ) activates t0 on
the display panel.
Pressing either the up and down button (
), increases and decreases the tuning
applied to the filter which is shown as a
value between t0 and t40 (the maximum is
typically t30) on the display panel.
Some filters may have a lower maximum
power setting.
A display of t0 indicates no tuning is applied.
The white light and ultraviolet 350 nm output
can not be filter tuned.
Figure 6. Filter Selection Cycle
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POWER SELECTION
Once a filter has been selected, tune the output power by altering the power setting between P1
and P8. As shown in Figure 7, P8 is the highest power setting.
Press the power selection ( ) button to show the light output power (P) on the display panel.
Select either the up and down button (
) to increase and decrease the output power of the light.
Figure 7. Power Tuning
Example Scenario:
You may want a filter selection of White Light and power at P3. Remember, the default light
output is 450 nm waveband at P7 power.
a.
Select the filter changeover button ( ).
A small line is displayed under the 450. This indicates the filter is selected.
b.
Press the up button ( ) to move the filter to White Light.
c.
Select the power selection button ( ) to select the power.
The small line moves to sit under the P7.
d.
Select the down button ( ) until the display reads P3.
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SHUTTER TOGGLE
Pressing the shutter toggle button ( ) switches the Polilight internal shutter in and out. The shutter
blocks light output and is used when the Polilight is operated intermittently.
MODES OF OPERATION
Standby Mode / Lamp Cooldown
Press and hold the standby button ( ) located above the green LED, for approximately one second
to switch off the Polilight and put it in standby mode / lamp cooldown.
Note
The fans continue to operate to cool down the lamp. After approximately three minutes, the lamp will
switch off, however the power supply will continue to run.
Restart Lamp (while fans are still running)
Press and hold the standby button ( ) located above the green LED, to bring the Polilight out of
standby mode and switch it on.
If the lamp is not restarted within 60 minutes, the Polilight will switch into low power mode. While in
this mode, the front panel display and all fans switch off.
Note
The unit may be switched on again using the standby button ( ) located above the red LED.
The shutdown procedure prevents the Polilight from being left on and creating a potentially
dangerous situation if unauthorised and unprotected personnel enter the work area.
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3
LIGHT APPLICATIONS
INTRODUCTION
The Polilight produces powerful internal narrow bands of light at wavelengths between 310 nm and
670 nm. A set of filters provide individual bands of light in the ultraviolet, violet, blue, green, orange
and red region of the electromagnetic spectrum, making a total of 12 bands.
Once a band is selected, fine-tuning of the band can produce the precise colour requirement. The
range and availability is shown in Figure 8.
The Polilight is suitable for all fingerprint detection techniques and can be used in three different
ways to detect and enhance forensic evidence:
a.
Fluorescence (Photoluminescence) imaging.
b.
Reflection imaging using specular and diffused reflection.
c.
Absorption imaging.
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Figure 8. Polilight Filters and Applications
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FLUORESCENCE IMAGING
Fluorescence occurs when a substance absorbs a specific band of light (energy), turns part of the
energy into heat and then transmits the remainder of the energy out as new light. This new light
has lower energy and hence a different colour when compared to the original illumination light. The
intensity or amount of fluorescent light is always small compared to the intensity of the original
light.
Example 1: Fingerprints treated with fluorescence powders or chemicals will fluoresce under
certain lighting conditions. This enables very faint fingerprints which could not be photographed
under normal light, to be captured with high contrast under fluorescent lighting conditions.
In the example shown in Figure 9, the view under daylight conditions is on the left and the view
when illuminated with 530 nm band from the Polilight is on the right.
Figure 9. Fluorescence
Example 2: A number of substances and materials fluoresce naturally without any chemical
treatment. Semen, urea, fibres, grease, lipstick, paper, gunshot residues and inks are examples of
materials that can naturally fluoresce and hence be located on other background material.
REFLECTION IMAGING
Specular Reflection
A surface appears shiny because of specular reflection. The surface acts like a mirror and light
hitting the surface is reflected away at the same incident angle.
Untreated fingerprints or shoe prints on shiny surfaces can often be seen when viewed from a
suitable angle, so that light reflection to the eye or camera from the background is significantly
different to the reflection from the latent print ridges. Images can be captured from a variety of
shiny evidence such as cups, glasses, cans and knives.
Example: Untreated fingerprints on glass illuminated with low angle white light. As the glass is
highly reflective, it looks black as no light is reflected towards the eye.
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Diffused Reflection
Some surfaces and evidence will reflect light in a diffuse manner known as random scatter. If
evidence has different reflection characteristics to its background it can be resolved under specific
lighting conditions.
Light from the background is reflected at different angles. The sample may appear lighter or darker
compared to the background when viewed from above, depending upon the relative difference in
diffused reflections from the surfaces.
Example: Contact impressions such as shoe prints, can be made from dust or dirt being left on, or
lifted off, a flat surface. Usually side and low angle lighting with a white light produces the best
results.
ABSORPTION IMAGING
Differential Absorption
Materials can both reflect and absorb light. Certain materials are better absorbers of specific light
colours and better reflectors of other colours. Differential absorption is used to reduce background
interference when attempting to capture fingerprint images.
Example: After either chemical treatment or powdering, fingerprints on multicoloured backgrounds
may not be able to be fully photographed because of background interference. Colours in the
background can be eliminated through the use of differential absorption, whereby coloured lighting
matched to the background can eliminate the background interference.
APPLICATIONS AT SCENE OF CRIME
The following examples describe some methods of detecting latent fingerprints on various surfaces
using the filters supplied with the Polilight. Clearly, these are not the only ways in which the
Polilight can be used and experimentation is encouraged, especially when dealing with latent prints
on unusual surfaces.
When working in the field, the composition of the absorbing substance in the latent print will be
unknown. This is determined by experimentation; varying the light from the light guide using the
first filter and then the fine tuner within each range to vary the incident light systematically through
the whole wavelength range.
At the same time, the barrier filter may need to be varied in order to help distinguish between the
fluorescence from the latent print and that derived from the object upon which the latent print has
been deposited.
Page 16
Shoe Prints
Note
When searching a crime scene, one of the first things to look for is shoe prints . The floor area must be
protected against people at the scene introducing new footprints.
The Polilight can be used for the discovery of shoe prints and similar marks on flat surfaces such
as ceramic or plastic tiles, varnished wooden floors and shiny concrete. However, it cannot be
used on rough, porous or textile surfaces like carpets.
Using a very oblique angle, the powerful white light is the most useful for this purpose, although it
is recommended that all the Polilight bands be used for scanning, until the right band shows the
best results.
WARNING
Amber goggles should be worn to protect the eyes.
General Fluorescent Method
Very rapid scanning for photoluminescence traces such as transferred fibres, paint, grease, semen
and vaginal fluid can be achieved using the flexible light guide to scan the general area.
Light from the 450 nm blue band is recommended for general searching and the operator should
wear the amber goggles provided. If some fluorescence is found, the other bands should be
checked in case better photoluminescence can be induced in the sample or the luminescence of
the background can be modified.
Sometimes it may be necessary to use barrier filters (565, 590 or 600 nm) instead of, or in addition
to, the goggles to reduce the red luminescence background, which often passes through the
goggles.
The 30 nm UV band together with the clear or yellow goggles, are also useful for general
searching.
Example: Viewing an old couch under UV light and using clear goggles will often bring up stains
and fibres. Viewing the same couch under the 450 nm band using orange goggles can often bring
up a different set of stains and fibres not seen under the UV light.
Page 17
This type of searching is best carried out at night or in a darkened room. In exposed situations,
screening of the exhibit from external light will help but is only likely to reveal strongly fluorescent
samples. After the preliminary searching, it is recommended that all mobile exhibits be taken to the
laboratory for more detailed inspection under totally dark conditions.
Blood Marks
Although blood has a broad absorption spectrum, it only exhibits a single absorption maximum of
around 415 nm and does not display any photoluminescence properties. This means that blood
marks can only be detected directly using either the absorption or reflection mode.
In cases where the background surface bearing the blood marks is itself fluorescent, the latent
marks will not fluoresce while the rest of the exhibit will fluoresce. In this case the latent will often
show excellent contrast, typically a black mark against a bright yellow–orange field. Initial scanning
should be conducted using the 450 nm band for illumination with the operator wearing amber
goggles. All marks identified in the initial scanning should be further inspected using the full range
of Polilight bands to maximize detail.
Common fluorescent materials are varnishes, printing inks and fluorescent brighteners placed in
paper or clothing during manufacture. The latter materials usually absorb at the upper end of the
UV range (280 to 360 nm) and emit in the blue region. If material bearing marks is not fluorescent,
or only very weakly fluorescent, scanning with the 415 nm band, which is compatible with the
415 nm blood absorption maximum, can be undertaken.
In the example shown in Figure 10, the view under daylight conditions is on the left and the view
when illuminated with Polilight using a blue band tuned to match the background is on the right.
Figure 10. Bloody Fingerprints
WARNING
Yellow goggles should be worn to protect the eyes.
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SEARCHING FOR LATENT FINGERPRINTS
Option 1: Absorption or Reflection Mode
Fingerprints contaminated with dust, dye, grease and blood or freshly deposited latent fingerprints
on highly polished surfaces like glass or metal, can be searched for using this mode.
A low angle white light is used and no treatment of the print is required.
We recommend using the Rofin Australia Pty. Ltd. Episcopic Coaxial Illumination Accessory
(ECIA).
The ECIA allows the operator to safely view the item under investigation. The Polilight can be
tuned to various wavelengths and the resultant absorption or reflection of the evidence item can be
recorded photographically.
Option 2: Inherent Fluorescent Mode
Latent fingerprints contaminated with fluorescent matter will show fluorescent properties and glow
under appropriate illumination (photoluminescence).
WARNING
Goggles are necessary for viewing this sort of latent fingerprint:
a. Use the 450 nm blue band and wear orange goggles for initial searching; then
b. Use the UV band and wear clear goggles.
When wearing the orange goggles, search for latent fingerprints which will glow. Many
contaminated fluorescent latent fingerprints should be readily detected using this mode. When
working in daylight, screening of the search area is essential. Once a latent fingerprint is located, it
is recommended that it be checked using the other Polilight bands to obtain optimum
photoluminescence. Tuning the band may help to improve the fluorescent contrast of the latent
fingerprint relative to the background.
For photography, use 565 nm or 590 nm barrier filters (select the most appropriate) and if
photography is to be carried out in daylight, that area must be screened.
Option 3: Treatment with Powders
This step is an alternative to the superglue fuming described in Option 4: Superglue Fuming. It is
up to the fingerprint officers, drawing on their experience, to decide which method should be used.
Both steps are applicable to non- or semi-porous surfaces.
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This manual provides general methods on how to approach a problem and so particular powders
or brand name powders have not been recommended. Experienced fingerprint officers will have
their own favourite powders and these should be used.
The following notes are useful as a guide:
a.
Do not over-powder. Superglue development of latent fingerprints is only possible
if there is minimal powder on the ridges.
b.
Fluorescent powder is of much higher sensitivity than normal powder. Only a very
small amount of fluorescent powder is needed on top of the ridge to produce
excellent latent fingerprints, while the same amount of conventional powder
would be almost invisible.
c.
On fluorescent surfaces, good results
non-fluorescent powders or metal powders.
d.
On non-fluorescent or dark surfaces, white or silver powder can be effective if
used in conjunction with the strong white light from the Polilight. The angle of
incidence of the white light should be varied to obtain the best results.
e.
On coloured surfaces, try to “remove” the colour by selecting a similar coloured
band from the Polilight (fine tuning is often required), then use black or silver
powder to achieve the best contrast or use a fluorescent powder.
can
be
obtained
with
black,
Option 4: Superglue Fuming
An alternative to powder treatment is superglue fuming with Cyanoacrylate. In a serious crime, it is
recommended that the area of interest be sealed with a plastic tent for superglue fuming. After
superglue application, the area is searched for latent fingerprints using white light from Polilight on
low intensity. Very often blue 450 nm or green 430 nm bands offer good results.
In cases where the detected fingerprint is barely visible to the eye, enhancement of the superglue
developed latent should be carried out. This can be achieved using conventional powders or
fluorescent powders, remembering that fluorescent powders are of much greater sensitivity.
The best results are obtained using fluorescent stains such as rhodamine 6G, Basic yellow 40,
Ardox and RAM, provided that the material does not absorb the stain as well.
In the example shown in Figure 11, the view under daylight conditions is on the left and the view
when illuminated with Polilight ultraviolet (UV) and viewed through a 350 nm filter is on the right.
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Figure 11. Adrox Treated Fingerprints
When rhodamine 6G is used for searching, the green 530 nm band is recommended, in
conjunction with amber goggles. For photographing, the 590 nm barrier filter is recommended, or
you can use the blue 450 nm band with the 565 nm barrier filter.
In the example shown in Figure 12, the view under daylight conditions is on the left and the view
when illuminated with Polilight viewed through a 530 nm filter is on the right.
Figure 12. Rhodamine Treated Fingerprints
Table 2 shows the settings needed for certain crime scene examinations.
TABLE 2 – EXAMINATION AND RECORDING CONDITIONS
Technique
Ninhydrin developed
fingerprints
Ninhydrin developed and
cadmium post-treated
fingerprints
Mode
Polilight Band
Barrier Filter
BP565
Absorption
White light
Absorption
505 nm
Darkened room , no barrier
filter
Photoluminescence
(77K)
505 nm
OG550 or BP590
Page 21
Technique
Ninhydrin developed and
zinc post-treated fingerprints
DFO developed fingerprints
IND-Zn developed
fingerprints
Mode
Absorption
Photoluminescence
(77K)
490 nm or 505 nm
down-tuned
Barrier Filter
Darkened room no barrier
filter
OG550 or BP565
555 nm
BP600 or BP610
530 nm
OG590 or BP590
505 nm
OG550 or BP565
Absorption
White light
BP530
Photoluminescence
(RT)
505 nm
OG550 or BP565
530 nm
OG590 or BP590
505 nm
OG550 or BP565
440 nm
OG515, OG550 or BP565
415 nm
Dark conditions , no barrier
filter
415 nm or White Light
BP415
UV or 415 nm
Yellow Goggles
440 or 450 or 505 nm
Orange Goggles
530 nm
Red Goggles
Photoluminescence
(RT)
Cyanoacrylate developed
and rhodamine 6G stained
fingermarks
Photoluminescence
Cyanoacrylate developed
and basic yellow 40 stained
fingermarks
Photoluminescence
Blood stains (or fingerprints
in blood)
Absorption
Semen stains
Polilight Band
Photoluminescence
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4
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
INTRODUCTION
A number of optional accessories are available to allow the user to enhance the operation of the
Polilight. These are:
a.
RS232C Remote Computer Control,
b.
Infra-red Operation,
c.
Light Guide Options,
d.
Barrier Filters,
e.
Episcopic Coaxial Illumination Accessory, and
f.
Direct Output Optics.
RS232C REMOTE COMPUTER CONT ROL
The RS232C remote computer control option allows the PL500SC to be controlled by a “Windows”
based computer through a serial port. This may be useful if it was being used in a laboratory
environment.
The remote control and the remote computer control cannot be used at the same time because
they both use the same interface.
INFRA-RED OPERATION
The PL500SC can be purchased with two configurations:
a.
As a UV-Vis version, or
b.
As a UV-VIS-IR version.
If you have purchased the IR version, then you must use the PL500SC IR light guide and IR
bayonet fitting to get infra-red illumination. The IR light guide is black and the UV-Vis light guide
has a shiny metallic jacket.
The IR light guide uses the same light guide cavity as the UV-Vis light guide. The PL500SC light
guides are fitted with magnets that enable the PL500 to determine which light guide is inserted.
The light is automatically blanked with you remove the light guide.
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WARNING
The IR light guide handle can become very warm to hot with continuous use. Power can be turned down
to reduce heat, by turning the power setting to either P3 or P4.
To turn the IR light guide on:
a.
Remove the UV-Vis light guide and insert the IR light guide fitting. The PL500SC
will auto-detect the light guide and briefly display the symbol Ird.
b.
The unit will go to the IR shuttered position and you can turn the IR on and off by
using either the up or down buttons on the front panel or via the remote.
c.
To return to the UV-Vis light guide, reverse the procedure.
Figure 13 is of a dark jumper that under normal light shows a bullet hole but not much else. Under
IR 820 nm light you can now see a blood stain which is the medium tone and a powder deposit
which is the dark tone.
Figure 13. Bloodstained Jumper
Figure 14 shows a hit and run accident. Under normal light you cannot see much, but under IR
785 nm you can see the tyre tread quite clearly.
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Figure 14. Tyre Tread Under Infra-Red
LIGHT GUIDE
Note
The Light Guide is standard with the PL500SC unit.
A five metre long liquid light guide option is available for the Polilight and is used where there is the
possibility of contamination between crime scenes. The Polilight may be left outside the crime
scene while the light guide, suitably sheathed in disposable plastic tube, is used inside. Once the
investigation is completed, the light guide is stripped of its protective cover and is ready for use
elsewhere, free from contamination.
Light guides can also be custom made to required lengths.
BAND PASS FILTERS
Four additional band pass filters are available for photography while using the Polilight. These are:
a.
415 nm (Violet),
b.
565 nm (Green / orange),
c.
590 nm (Orange), and
d.
610 nm (Orange / red).
Page 25
DIRECT OUTPUT OPTICS
A direct output is a fixed quartz rod that enables the user to transmit light from the PL500SC
without using the light guide and provides up to thirty percent more transmission.
A direct optic would be used at a crime scene on a door or wall, where the surface is vertical and
more power is required.
Page 26
5
MAINTENANCE
INTRODUCTION
The Polilight uses a 500 Watt Xenon lamp, which has a life of over 2000 hours. If, over time, a
reduction of light output is apparent, the lamp may need replacing.
Only lamps from your Polilight supplier should be used.
The 500 Watt Xenon lamp is mounted in a metal heat sink, which is then fitted in the lamp housing
as shown in Figure 15. The lamp housing connects directly to the power supply through two,
high-voltage single pin connectors.
Figure 15. Lamp Housing
LAMP REPLACEMENT
Spare lamps for the Polilight are supplied as a kit, which includes a pre-mounted lamp in a heat
sink and lamp housing.
To replace the lamp:
a.
Ensure that the power is disconnected and the Polilight has had time to cool.
b.
Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, remove screws A and B, see Figure 16.
c.
Remove the back trim.
d.
Using a 3 mm allen key supplied standard with the PL500SC, remove screws C,
D, E and F, see Figure 16.
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e.
Slide the top panel of the Polilight towards the rear and upwards to remove, see
Figure 17.
f.
Remove connector by lifting vertically. Do not pull the connector out by the wires,
see Figure 18.
g.
Remove the blue or black lamp housing by pulling it up, see Figure 19.
h.
Insert the new lamp housing, ensuring that the new lamp is carefully pushed
down until firmly seated.
i.
Reattach the connector.
j.
Attach the top panel and handle assembly, ensuring the screws are firmly
tightened.
k.
Attach the rear trim ensuring the screws are firmly tightened.
Figure 16. Polilight Fixing Screws
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Figure 17. Removing Polilight Housing
Figure 18. Removing Connector from Lamp
Figure 19. Removing Lamp from Housing
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TROUBLESHOOTING
Error Messages on the Display Panel
When the Polilight is first powered up, the power supply (PSU) conducts a number of safety and
electrical self-checks.
There are three error messages that are associated with the testing of the stepper motors, which
are designed to help service technicians with fault finding problems.
a.
ERR1:
Mirror wheel initialization error.
b.
ERR2:
Filter wheel initialization error.
c.
ERR3:
Filter wheel tilt initialization error.
If these error messages are displayed, turn the Polilight off and then switch it on again. If the
problem persists, contact your service agent.
General Troubleshooting
Problem
Troubleshoot
a. Check the power is connected and the Polilight is switched on.
The Polilight will not turn on.
b. Check power is available at the power outlet. Do this by checking that other
devices work from that power outlet.
c. Check the fuses at the back of the Polilight, see Figure 16.
The Polilight initialises, but the
lamp does not turn on or there is
no light emitting from the light
guide.
The remote control does not work.
a. Check the light guide is inserted correctly, by reinserting and twisting to lock.
The unit will shutter if the light guide is not connected.
b. Check that the Polilight shutter is open.
a. Check the remote control is correctly plugged into the back of the PL500SC
Polilight.
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6
SPECIFICATIONS AND DEFINITIONS
INPUT POWER
100 to 240 VAC
50 – 60 Hz.
WEIGHT SPECIFICATION
10 kg (Unit only: liquid light and remote control not attached.)
DIMENSIONS
Height: 365 mm
Width: 145 mm
Length: 340 mm
INTERNAL LAMP
500 Watt Xenon arc lamp.
LIGHT GUIDE
Five metre long, 8 mm internal diameter liquid light guide with steel reinforced casing.
OPTICAL OUTPUT BANDS
Band
Colour
Band Width
Application Examples
BLANKED
400 to 680 nm
White light band
280 nm
350 nm
Ultra violet band
80 nm
General searching (stains, fingerprints)
415 nm
Violet (blood filter)
40 nm
Blood prints, splatter, gunshot residue
450 nm
Blue
100 nm
470 nm
Blue
40 nm
General searching (ninhydrin prints)
490 nm
Blue
40 nm
General (semen, urea, fibres)
505 nm
Blue / Green
40 nm
Superglue and ninhydrin treated prints
530 nm
Green
40 nm
DFO treated prints, background reduction
555 nm
Green / Orange
27 nm
DFO treated prints, background reduction
590 nm
Orange
40 nm
Ninhydrin treatments, background reduction
620 nm
Orange / red
40 nm
Ninhydrin treatments, background reduction
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General searching (footprints)
General searching (semen, urea, fibres)
Band
Colour
650 nm
Red
Infrared
Infrared
Band Width
40 nm
240 nm
Application Examples
Ninhydrin treatments, background reduction
Document examination
AVAILABLE FILTERS
Filter
Status
Camera filter, 50 mm high pass, mounted OG550
Supplied standard with every PL500SC unit
Camera filter, 50 mm high pass, mounted GG475
Supplied standard with every PL500SC unit
Camera filter, 50 mm high pass, mounted OG515
Supplied standard with every PL500SC unit
Camera filter, 50 mm high pass, mounted OG590
Supplied standard with every PL500SC unit
Camera filter, 50 mm high pass, mounted GG49
Optional Accessory
Band Pass mounted 50 mm Filter 565 to 40 nm
Optional Accessory
Band Pass mounted 50 mm Filter 555 to 24 nm
Optional Accessory
Band Pass mounted 50 mm Filter 415 to 40 nm
Optional Accessory
Band Pass mounted 50 mm Filter 450 to 80 nm
Optional Accessory
Band Pass mounted 50 mm Filter 530 to 40 nm
Optional Accessory
Band Pass mounted 50 mm Filter 590 to 40 nm
Optional Accessory
Band Pass mounted 50 mm Filter 610 to 40 nm
Optional Accessory
*Filter Goggles 555 nm (Semen Searching)
Optional Accessory
*Filter Goggles 530 nm (Semen Searching)
Optional Accessory
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7
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Term
Description
Absorption filters
Optical filters remove unwanted electromagnetic radiation by an absorption process
(which results in heat generation). Remaining wavelengths are transmitted.
ABTS
A dip used for revealing blood on porous and non-porous surfaces.
ALS
Alternative Light Source.
Ardrox
Fluorescent spray for enhancing latent prints developed with cyanoacrylate
(superglue).
Band Pass Filter (BP)
A band pass filter is designed to transmit over a specific wavelength range, while at the
same time rejecting the rest. In this way, the band pass filter creates a ‘monochromatic
band’ of the light by transmitting a discrete band of wavelengths.
BW
Band Width.
Cyanoacrylate
Superglue.
DFO (Diazafluoren)
A spray or dip used for developing prints on dry, porous papers.
FLS
Forensic Light Source – a specialised light source designed for forensic applications,
for example, the Polilight.
Fluorescence
The direct emission of light from a material following the absorption of light energy. The
fluorescence process is fast and fluorescence emission occurs only during the
exposure to the excitation light. When the excitation light is removed, fluorescence
emission ceases.
Fuming
Developing latent prints using the fumes from heated cyanoacrylate.
Goggles
Fully wrap-around eye protection to be worn by all personnel within 15 m of the
operating light source.
Iodine fuming
A fuming technique that may be used on porous and non-porous surfaces.
Light guide
A light transmitting liquid filled tube used to direct the light beam.
Luminescence
The cold emission of light following energy absorption. Examples include:
•
•
•
•
Photoluminescence (the absorption of light energy).
Chemiluminescence (energy from a chemical reaction).
Thermoluminescence (absorption of heat energy).
Bioluminescence (energy from a biological process).
MBD
Fluorescent spray or dye for enhancing latent prints developed with cyanoacrylate.
Ninhydrin
A spray or dip used for developing prints on porous paper and cardboard.
nm
Nanometre – one billionth of a metre.
Photoluminescence
The cold emission of light from a material following the absorption of light energy. This
emission can be immediate (fluorescence) or delayed (phosphorescence).
RAM
A mixture of fluorescent stains used to enhance cyanoacrylate developed prints. Used
on non-porous surfaces.
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Term
Description
Rhodamine
Fluorescent dye or spray for enhancing latent prints developed with cyanoacrylate.
Used on non-porous surfaces.
Superglue
Cyanoacrylate used in fuming to develop latent prints
UV
Ultraviolet light. Electromagnetic radiation in the range of 200 nm to 400 nm.
Wavelength
The length of one wave unit. Wavelength is the distance between the two nearest
points in the same phase of motion. Wavelength is inversely proportional to energy.
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Dingley, Vic. Australia
Tel: 61 3 9558 0344
Fax:61 3 9558 0252
E: [email protected]