Thermal Chip Removal

The last resort in mobile forensics is the destructive chip-off process. The thermal chip removal procedure involves several steps. Users must understand how to disassemble a phone and identify the target memory that needs to be removed. Other configurations such as the processor, package-on-package RAM, coprocessor, video memory, and other chips may need to be identified to help narrow down the location of the correct chip to pull. Users must be familiar with the manufacturers of processors versus the various flash memory types that contain the user data (evidence). Examiners must also be familiar with how to research the target memory prior to the disassembly. The memory often contains a heat shield, which will also require removal. To remove the memory, users will need several tools. Safety glasses, fume extractor, metal printed circuit board holders affixed to wood, liquid solder flux, rework station, precise solder unit, dental picks, small pry tools, headband magnifier, and precise tweezers are some of the main items required.