The most effective and widely favored method for comparisons is on-screen assessment. RS&A offers the option to receive your test digitally via "Online Digital Download." This not only reduces the consumption of paper and DVDs but also eliminates shipping costs, allowing us to pass on the savings to you!

Here's how it works: Upon purchasing your digital proficiency test, you'll receive an email on the scheduled distribution date indicating that your PT has been released. Simply log into the RS&A PT Portal, assign the PT to a participant, and you'll find a test instruction sheet PDF along with known and latent images. With everything readily available, you're all set to complete your proficiency test. Each image file provided for download will be in TIFF format.

The original latent print images are captured at a resolution of 1000 ppi or higher, while all livescan prints are captured at 500 ppi. These latent print images are reproduced using industry leading printer technology.

For examiners conducting their examinations on-screen, our digital images present an excellent choice. The latent images supplied on DVD discs are captured at a resolution of 1000 ppi or higher, with each image available in .tiff format. We highly recommend using professional photo editing software for optimal viewing and analysis.

**See above descriptions.

**See above descriptions.

RS&A acknowledges the diverse financial needs of State and Federal Agencies. To facilitate your proficiency test purchases, we provide flexible payment options. Should you require unique adjustments or have special requirements, please reach out to us, and we will tailor a custom solution to address your specific needs.

Our payment options include:

1. Credit card
2. Purchase order
3. Check by mail
4. International Bank Wire Transfer (DOWNLOAD RS&A BANK WIRE TRANSFER INFORMATION)

Please note: International Bank Wire Transfer fees range from $50 USD to $75 USD depending on the country. For all orders paid via Bank Wire Transfer, a flat $50 USD banking fee will be charged to the client. This fee is incurred by RS&A for processing international payments through the bank. Upon order submission, you will receive an order confirmation email along with another email containing an updated invoice cost and all necessary banking details to complete your bank wire transfer.

• United States = Free Shipping!
• North American (Canada & Mexico) = $25.00 flat rate shipping
  
• All Other Continents = $50.00 flat rate shipping

Shipping charges are applied during checkout.

Avoid all shipping charges by choosing an Online download option when available!

RS&A announces the dates for all proficiency testing cycles, which encompass the deadline for entering results.

Through the RS&A PT Portal, administrators of proficiency tests can allocate their purchased PTs based on the anticipated distribution dates for the respective test cycle. Participants will be notified once a proficiency test has been assigned to them. Upon logging into the portal, participants can submit their test results along with any comments they wish to provide.

The RS&A Manufacturer's Information Report outlines the expected response set by RS&A during both internal and external pre-distribution testing.

The RS&A Individual Report contrasts the results submitted by participants with the expected results set by RS&A.

RS&A is dedicated to continuous improvement and the provision of high-quality forensic products and services, with particular emphasis on proficiency testing. We recognize the critical importance of properly utilizing published Proficiency Testing Results, as they can either support or undermine the credibility of impression evidence sciences. Often, these results are utilized by various stakeholders, including defense attorneys, to challenge forensic identification specialists.

A longstanding challenge in this domain has been the absence of essential contextual data accompanying raw proficiency test results. Without insights into participants' credentials, experience, and agency processes, published results lack meaningful interpretation. To address this, participants are required to complete a brief online demographics survey before submitting their test results. The information gathered, combined with data from other participants, will empower RS&A to furnish the forensic identification industry with comprehensive insights long overdue.

By ensuring that published data is not only accurate but also contextually rich, we strive to enhance the integrity and relevance of proficiency testing outcomes for all stakeholders.