Tableau T356789iu Forensic Universal Bridge Bundle User Manual

1. Introduction

The Tableau T356789iu Forensic Universal Bridge is an essential tool for forensic data acquisition. This integrated write-blocker is designed to be mounted in a drive bay of a forensic workstation, providing secure and reliable access to various storage media without altering the original data.

This bundle includes the Tableau T356789iu Forensic Universal Bridge unit itself, along with necessary cables: TC2-8-R2, TC4-8-R2, TC6-8, TC-USB3, TC7-9-9, and a USB B Male to USB 19 Pin Header Cable. It supports forensic acquisitions from a wide range of interfaces including SATA, USB 3.0, PCIe, SAS, FireWire 800, and IDE.

Figure 1: The Tableau T356789iu Forensic Universal Bridge shown with the included USB B Male to USB 19 Pin Header Cable.

2. Setup and Installation

The T356789iu Universal Bridge is designed for internal installation within a forensic workstation.

2.1 Mounting the Device

The unit mounts into one standard 5.25-inch half-height drive bay. Ensure your workstation has an available bay and the necessary mounting hardware (screws, etc.) which are typically provided with the workstation chassis.

1. Power down your forensic workstation and disconnect all power cables.
2. Open the computer case to access the internal drive bays.
3. Slide the Tableau T356789iu into an empty 5.25-inch drive bay.
4. Secure the unit using appropriate screws on both sides of the drive bay.

2.2 Connecting to the Host Computer

The bridge connects to the host computer via a USB 3.0 interface. Use the provided USB B Male to USB 19 Pin Header Cable to connect the bridge to an available USB 3.0 header on your motherboard.

• Connect the 19-pin header end of the USB cable to a compatible USB 3.0 header on your workstation's motherboard.
• Connect the USB B Male end of the cable to the corresponding USB 3.0 port on the rear of the Tableau T356789iu unit.

2.3 Power Connection

The Tableau T356789iu requires power from the workstation's power supply. It features two SATA power connectors for redundancy and stable operation.

• Connect one or both SATA power cables from your workstation's power supply to the SATA power connectors on the Tableau T356789iu.

Figure 2: Front panel of the Tableau T356789iu, showing various interface ports and LED indicators.

3. Operating Instructions

The Tableau T356789iu functions as a write-blocker, ensuring that data on connected drives remains unaltered during forensic examination. It supports both write-block and read/write modes.

3.1 Write-Block Mode

In write-block mode, the device prevents any data modification to the connected storage media. This is the primary mode for forensic acquisitions.

• Ensure the "Write Block" LED indicator is illuminated. This confirms the device is operating in a forensically sound manner.
• Connect the target storage device (SATA, USB 3.0, PCIe, SAS, FireWire 800, or IDE) to the appropriate port on the Tableau T356789iu.
• The connected device will appear as a read-only volume on your host workstation, allowing for safe data imaging and analysis.

3.2 Read/Write Mode

The device can also operate in read/write mode, which is useful for testing or other non-forensic operations. Caution: Operating in read/write mode will allow modifications to the connected drive.

• Refer to the device's physical switch or software interface (if applicable) to toggle between Write Block and Read/Write modes.
• Confirm the "Read/Write" LED indicator is illuminated when in this mode.

3.3 LED Indicators

The front panel features several LED indicators to provide status information:

• Power: Indicates the unit is receiving power.
• Device: Illuminates when a storage device is properly connected and detected.
• Activity: Flashes to indicate data transfer activity to/from the connected device.
• Host: Indicates connection to the host computer.
• Write Block: Green LED, indicates write-blocking is active.
• Read/Write: Amber LED, indicates read/write mode is active.

Figure 3: Front panel of the Tableau T356789iu, showing the power button, lock indicators, and various ports.

4. Maintenance

The Tableau T356789iu is designed for robust operation with minimal maintenance. Follow these guidelines to ensure longevity and reliable performance:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
• Environment: Operate the device in a clean, dust-free environment with adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and not under undue strain. Avoid sharp bends in cables.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the SiForce or Tableau website for any available firmware updates for your device. Follow the provided instructions carefully for any update procedures.

Figure 4: Internal view of the Tableau T356789iu, showing the circuit board and various connectors.

5. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with the Tableau T356789iu.

6. Specifications

Figure 5: Side view of the Tableau T356789iu, revealing the internal circuit board and connectors.

7. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Tableau T356789iu Forensic Universal Bridge, please contact SiForce or Silicon Forensics directly.

• Manufacturer: Silicon Forensics
• Brand: SiForce
• Refer to the official SiForce website or your purchase documentation for the most current contact information and warranty terms.