Specialist Course — Module 3B
Chip Off
Bespoke automotive chip-off training
Chip-off taught as a controlled, repeatable acquisition technique — the safe removal of memory chips from automotive ECUs, including telematics and infotainment systems, across a wide range of circuit board sizes and chip types commonly encountered in casework.
- Delivery
- In person — West Yorkshire
- Duration
- 2 days
- Cost
- £2,000 ex VAT
- Prerequisites
- Patience and a steady hand
Who should attend
Who should attend
Those who wish to learn how to effectively and safely remove chips from printed circuit boards within infotainment modules. Roles include VSF examiners, DMI's, Digital Forensics Practitioners, Forensic Collision Investigators, and Insurance Investigators involving motor vehicles.
Syllabus
Full course syllabus
- 01Core theory and health & safety principles
- 02Solder and flux — how and when to use them, and why different chips and boards require different approaches
- 03Heat control and technique — the direct effect on the risk of damage and data loss
- 04Live demonstration of the full chip-off workflow
- 05Controlled PCB heating and memory device removal
- 06Chip cleaning and preparation
- 07Re-balling where required, and correct re-mounting of the device to the circuit board
- 08Hands-on practice across multiple ECUs and memory types, with time deliberately allocated for repetition
- 09Equipment options — practical guidance on what is suitable for operational use back in the workplace
What you'll need
Nil — all material and equipment provided.
Good to know
Chip-off is often a last-resort technique, but the global vehicle population contains a wide, long-tail population of ECUs — many never supported through non-destructive access — and vehicles remain in service far longer than consumer devices, so these ECUs will continue to appear in investigations for years to come. Chip-off remains an essential capability, frequently underestimated by those without practical experience: it requires knowledge, planning and practice to perform safely and consistently. Delegate numbers are strictly limited to one or two participants for close supervision and meaningful time at the bench. The course does not include reading or parsing memory devices once removed — it supports advanced acquisition workflows where physical chip removal is necessary, and commercial vendor tools such as Berla and Rusolut accept chip-off imports. Delivered by Phil Cocking, who brings over 30 years' experience in electronics, soldering and board-level work in digital forensics.
Upcoming dates