Forensic drug analysis: scientist versus instrument

There has been a major expansion of the use of high-technology instrumentation and computers in the field of forensic science during the past decade. Along with this, forensic scientists have developed a reliance on such equipment to perform their analytical work. Although the new technology provides a means to work more efficiently and accomplish extremely difficult assignments, it also requires a thorough knowledge of its capabilities and limitations. Unless the forensic scientist is thoroughly trained and educated, unsound conclusions can be drawn. A discussion of some difficulties is provided.