GENERAL SUPPORT SERVICES PRESENTS:
The Micrographics Quarterly
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GENERAL SUPPORT SERVICES PRESENTS: |
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Volume 1 : Number 1 |
Denver, Colorado |
Fall, 1999 |
MICROGRAPHIC FORMATS: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Definitions: Micro: small, minute. Graphic: written, drawn or engraved.
One of the most frequently asked questions at the Archives often involves the various formats of micrographic records. Changing times and views necessitate new and different formats for non-paper storage of records, particularly in this era of computer-generated documents. It is important for agencies to know what the various formats of micrographics are, along with their inherent advantages and disadvantages so that they may make an educated decision on how they might store their valuable and irreplaceable records. The purpose of this quarter’s newsletter is to highlight the various formats for future consideration. In the interest of space, only the most common formats will be covered. Micrographic questions can be directed to Lance Christensen at 303-866-2231.
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Format |
Description |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
Longevity |
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1. Microfilm |
16mm or 35mm roll |
Most durable format outside of cotton paper |
Requires qualified staff to create, must be carefully stored |
100 – 300 Years |
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2. Microfiche |
105mm sheets |
Easier to store than microfilm |
Holds less data than microfilm |
100 Years |
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3. Aperture Cards |
Commonly 35mm |
Stores individual images for easy retrieval |
Needs special reader, takes up space |
100 Years |
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4. Jackets (also called ‘Master Jackets) |
16mm or 35mm strips inserted into sleeves |
Easy to handle |
More susceptible to damage than other formats, hard to access information |
100 Years |
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5. Digital Data Cartridges |
Various including WORM, JAZ and ZIP formats |
Stores a great deal of information for little cost |
Proprietary: data is easily lost through changing software |
30 Years* |
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6. CD-R(Aluminum) (Recordable) |
650 MB |
Easy to store, inexpensive |
Data can be lost through damage or changing software |
7– 15 Years* |
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7. CD-R (Gold) (Recordable) |
650 MB |
Easy to store, inexpensive |
Data can be lost through damage or changing software |
30 Years* |
Note: the National Media Lab guarantees no digital format for more than 5 years due to quickly changing hardware and software.
*Source: Amigos Bibliographic Council
[http://www.colorado.gov/dpa/doit/archives/INCLUDES/bottom.htm]Last modified June 25, 2003