Modern Information Carriers

Module Synopsis

This module discusses the structure, composition, and format of various types of modern information recording media. Chemical and physical agents of deterioration and remedies for affected media are covered, as well as ways to promote longevity through selecting appropriate media, understanding both controllable and less controllable factors, and ensuring proper handling and storage.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:

• identify and explain differences in structure, composition, and format of various types of recording media
• identify the main deterioration problems and understand their effects on media
• understand factors affecting longevity and choose media for maximum life span
• implement proper handling and storage procedures for various media
• systematically approach the task of preserving modern information carriers

Units

Structure, Composition, and Formats
Structure and composition of modern information carriers including optical discs (read-only, write-once, and erasable formats of CDs and DVDs), magnetic disks (hard and floppy), and magnetic tapes (computer or data, analog, and video).

Deterioration
Why and how modern information carriers deteriorate. The most common chemical and physical deterioration problems and examples to help recognize them. Remedial actions to recover damaged or deteriorated media so that the stored information can be retrieved will be presented where possible.

Longevity
Predicted life span of CDs, DVDs, magnetic tapes, and magnetic disks. Steps to maximize media longevity by focussing on the quality and stability of the media itself, technology obsolescence, and error rates in digital media. A discussion of errors in digital media, including how to measure them and how to minimize them.

Storage and Handling
A look at existing technical standards and recommendations by experts in the field. Proper storage conditions including temperature, relative humidity, light, and type of storage container. Handling procedures to minimize physical abuse and damage including equipment maintenance, labelling of materials, physical handling of items, and periodic winding of magnetic tapes.

Decision Tree for Preservation of Media
A systematic look at the key decisions that need to be made and key procedures to follow in order to properly preserve modern information carriers and the information stored on them. Several information resources are provided to assist in the decision-making process.

Disaster Recovery
Procedures for the recovery of modern information carriers from water, fire, dust/dirt, mould, and shock. Note: This topic will be discussed only if time permits.

Target Audience

Curators, collections managers, conservators, archivists, and other personnel responsible for the preservation of modern information carriers.

Facilitator(s)

Joe Iraci

Language

English (written materials available in both official languages)

Enrollment Limits

Minimum 10; maximum 20

Duration

1 day

Special Requirements

• Meeting room
• Internet access
• Projector
• Screen