There is a fascinating array of computer forensics equipment available to help analysts in the field. Fieldwork is an essential part of digital forensics investigations, allowing you to access hardware and storage devices more quickly and protect data integrity.
These devices allow you to access computers that can’t be easily moved like heavy servers and mainframe systems. On the other hand, you can make a desktop computer “portable” by adding a carry along power source that will keep it live while you transport it – great for catching suspects unaware and preventing activity record losses during shut down. A tool for creating a fake mouse movement keeps password protected systems from activating the screensaver or going into sleep mode. You can even catch data from any USB device anywhere with one tool. These are just a few of the many excellent forensic equipment options to help digital investigators collect information and solve crimes. Check out these helpful tools for your computer forensics needs.
HotPlug
HotPlug allows you to create an alternate power supply to a running desktop computer so you can move it without turning it off. You can literally walk up to someone and confiscate their desktop computer while they’re using it, preventing the potential difficulties involved in getting around security features like passwords and whole-disk encryption. You can most easily attach it to a computer plugged to a power strip, but you can also take a computer plugged directly into the wall, although you have to do a little electrical work by removing the wall outlet.
Mouse Jiggler
The Mouse Jiggler tool creates simulated mouse movement to prevent a computer from popping up the screensaver or going into sleep mode. It was created by the same company that created HotPlug as a way to prevent the computer from starting a password-protected screensaver while it was being transported. However, it also works well for keeping a laptop from going to sleep before you can begin analysis. The device plugs into a standard USB port so it can be used on virtually any system.
Logicube OmniPort
If you need computer forensics equipment that will give you instant access to a variety of USB flash devices, try the OmniPort, a tool that lets you view them all with one handy accessory. Read jump (thumb) drives, pen drives, SD / xD / MMC / CF cards, 2.5” and 3.5” external USB drives. You can also connect the drive directly to a motherboard to boot as an IDE device. You can even clone the target drive through the OmniPort using Logicube’s compatible programs. Choose the Write Protected version for forensic work to prevent potential data contamination; there is also a standard version for general use.
RoadMASSter 3 Mobile Computer Forensics Data Acquisition and Analysis Lab
For field computer forensics, the RoadMASSter 3 Mobile Computer Forensics Data Acquisition and Analysis Lab has a complete set of tools for analysis on the go. The durable case protects an assortment of essential tools for thorough analysis. Interface options include FireWire 1394A/B, USB, IDE, SATA, SAS and SCSI, allowing you to access nearly any hard drive. Multi-device capture capability allows you to collect information from more than one device simultaneously and preview and analysis can be done immediately on the built-in 15” display, visible both indoors and outdoors. Built in software provides tools for data copying, cloning and disk sanitation. Adapters and card readers are included in the kit. If you need computer forensics equipment for field work, you can’t go wrong with this powerful mobile lab.