Keywords

computers, laptops, archaeology, field work

Abstract

Computers have been used in the archaeology for decades to perform various tasks including statistical modeling, database management, geospatial analysis and other processes ranging from the relatively simple to the incredibly complex. Traditionally, computers are used in relatively “clean” environments such as indoor offices or laboratories. However, when subjected to harsh outdoor conditions with extreme temperatures, precipitation, dust, and debris, failure in some degree, ranging from the irritating to the catastrophic, is highly likely and often quite predictable. Sandy and dusty regions, as well as wet and humid areas, are particularly hostile to the delicate and environmentally sensitive processors, circuit boards, disk drives, and the other assorted and interconnected “bits” and “bytes” comprising a modern computer.

Original Publication Citation

Searcy, Michael T., and Scott Ure 2008 Laptops in the Sand: Using Rugged Computers in the Field. Paper presented at the Society for American Archaeology 73rd Annual Meeting, Vancouver, BC, Canada.