Digitization

Anand S. Akolkar <aakolkar [at] mtnl__net__in> writes

>We are now all going for the digitation of the documents and papers
>as a part of the conservation programme. Can any body throw some
>light on the  possible life of the digitized document viz a viz
>that of the document on paper in its original form, so that a
>decision  can be made on the application of the traditional or the
>digitized techniques in the conservation, preservation process?

The quick answer is that the digital version is infinitely viable.
However, this longevity depends on adopting a new preservation
protocol.

Rather than storage in good quality folders and boxes (or on a shelf
in the attic) used for paper documents, digital files must be
migrated from one hard drive to another before the hard drive fails.
Modern HDs fail in 5-10 years, thus the files need to be moved to a
new larger drive every 4.5 years or less.  I would predict that the
drive they will be placed on will be migrated to a new one in 3
years, because that is about how often computers are replaced.  And,
the other reason, a 6-20GB HD purchased 3 years ago is replaced
today by a 250 GB HD today for $100, or a 500 GB USB drive for $375
<URL:http://www.pricewatch.com/>.  HDs are inexpensive and the only
medium permanent enough for storage.  CD-R and DVD-R/+R have to be
assumed to have a life of 2.5 years unless recorded according to the
standard on blue phthalocyanine dye on Gold or Gold/Silver base,
such as the Mitsui MAM-A <URL:http://www.inkjetart.com/mitsui/>.

Tim Vitale
Paper, Photographs and
Electronic Media Conservator
Digital Imaging and Facsimiles
Film Migration to Digital
Preservation and Imaging Consulting
Preservation Associates
1500 Park Ave
Suite 132
Emeryville, CA 94608
510-594-8277


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 19:3
                  Distributed: Thursday, June 23, 2005
                        Message Id: cdl-19-3-005
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