What Is a Video Spectral Comparator and Why Forensic Experts Rely on It

Let’s unpack the term video spectral comparator step by step, because each word tells us something about what the device does:

Video refers to the live imaging capability. A video spectral comparator captures high-resolution real-time video of the document being examined. Unlike traditional static imaging, the live feed allows forensic experts to manipulate the document (zoom, rotate, change light settings) and instantly observe effects under different lighting conditions. It's like looking through a digital microscope—what we see is dynamic and can be analyzed in real time.

The word spectral relates to the light spectrum, including ultraviolet (UV), visible, and infrared (IR) light, as well as optics, which is the camera and filters.

Different materials comprising the document (like paper, inks, and fibers) react differently under various wavelengths of light. By illuminating a document with different light sources, experts can verify the authenticity of banknotes or documents by visualizing security features like watermarks, security threads, microprinting, fluorescent patterns, and holograms, and by determining printing techniques. The device can also reveal hidden or altered information, such as erasures, altered handwritings or printed texts, and morphed photos.

Finally, the term comparator emphasizes comparison—a key function of the device. It is particularly valuable in forensic science, where, based on a comparison between genuine/reference samples and questioned documents or banknotes, it is possible to determine their authenticity. It is done by comparing paper, inks, fonts, types of printing, glowing patterns, and embedded security features under various lighting conditions and magnification.

Again, a video spectral comparator is a device that captures live images of an object under various spectra of light, and contains different tools to compare the obtained images and data with references.

The primary users of video spectral comparators are:

• Various forensic laboratories.

• Border control, immigration, and law enforcement agencies.

• Central banks and financial institutions.

• Printing houses and manufacturers.

Other users that can benefit from using video spectral comparators are auction houses and museums. Video spectral comparators feature strong magnification, different types of white, UV, IR, and narrowband light sources, spectrometers, 3D reconstruction modules, and powerful optical systems that are helpful for examining art objects, paintings, and handwritten and printed documents.

A video spectral comparator is a professional device that combines many tools widely used in forensic science under one roof. It features a bunch of light sources, advanced optics, a combination of optical and digital magnification, a spectrometer, hyperspectral and 3D reconstruction modules, RFID and barcode readers, etc.

A video spectral comparator is the ultimate solution for almost all forensic tasks that deal with banknotes and travel documents of varied types, as well as printed and handwritten documents, books, and even paintings and art objects. Its functions, tools, and light sources are tailored to meet the requirements of modern forensic science.

Again, the term “comparator” derives from the verb “to compare”—usually, the comparison is performed against a genuine reference sample. But what if an examiner lacks a physical specimen? In such cases, there is no better remedy than using Information Reference Systems (IRSs), as these digital catalogs contain high-quality images of travel and vehicle documents, banknotes and coins, and close-up images of their security features. It has everything necessary to conduct a comprehensive analysis in the absence of a physical specimen of a document or banknote: images under different light sources (including Anti-Stokes luminescence), visualized security features in JPG and GIF formats, and magnetic cards.

A video spectral comparator is a professional device that requires special knowledge in forensic science, as well as the skills to operate and maintain it.

The good news is that Regula can help with both requirements.

For example, let’s take an operation. After the device is delivered, our training specialists are happy to conduct offline training, all the way from unpacking and setting up the device to detailed explanations of how to conduct advanced forensic tasks. Extensive training takes 2-3 days, depending on the customer’s needs.

If users lack some knowledge, Regula has specialized training courses on document and banknote authentication. These courses are designed for employees and officials across industries: law enforcement, aviation, healthcare, customs and migration, banking and finance, and many more. The instructors are forensic examiners with more than 20 years of experience in the field.

Currently, our product line includes four video spectral comparators. All of Regula’s solutions—hardware, software, and IRS, are developed entirely in-house. It’s a collaborative effort between experienced engineers, talented programmers, and skilled production teams that ensures everything works seamlessly together.

Besides that, forensic experts are deeply involved at every stage of product development. From designing new features to configuring software and testing devices, their hands-on experience ensures each solution is practical, reliable, and ready for the field.

Plus, there are plenty of game-changing features that open up even more possibilities for detailed and accurate document examination, while making it easy and comfortable for users:

• All-LED lighting
  Regula has fully embraced LED technology—even for UV light. That means better energy efficiency, longer-lasting components, and minimal heat. Nearly all of our video spectral comparators use 100% LED lighting.

• One app to rule them all
  Regula Forensic Studio (RFS) is the only program for all Regula forensic devices. It works across platforms and lets you control equipment, take measurements, process images, generate reports, and even build custom automations with scripting. 

• Built-in RFID chip reader
  Every model comes with an RFID module to read and verify electronic documents. It checks chip integrity and reads the embedded data.

• Anti-Stokes fluorescence detection
  Thanks to special wideband IR light (970–990 nm), these devices can reveal hidden security features printed with Anti-Stokes inks—used in passports from the US, Austria, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Switzerland, and others.

• Hyperspectral imaging
  Hyperspectral imaging is great for spotting alterations or uncovering the original content of documents, banknotes, or even historical texts without damaging them.

• 3D reconstruction
  This feature builds a 3D model of the document’s surface, helping you see fine details like overlapping signatures or printed text layered over handwriting.

A video spectral comparator is a professional device that conducts crucial document and banknote examination. Document experts are lucky in one regard—few areas of forensic science have such a versatile tool at their disposal. A video spectral comparator is like a Swiss Army knife, capable of handling almost every challenge in document analysis.

Modern comparators have a wide range of functions, including a built-in computer, spectrometer, and hyperspectral and 3D analysis modules.

To better understand the Regula video spectral comparator product line, read the article Choose Your Fighter: Picking the Perfect Video Spectral Comparator or contact our sales team directly. They will be more than pleased to answer your questions or conduct a dedicated presentation.