Abstract

Usually, unpredictable field situations make archaeological survey data very difficult to collect without resorting to the centuries-old technique of writing notes in a diary or notebook and annotating maps at various scales. Even with the advent of powerful laptop computers, field recording still relies heavily on paper and maps, because laptops just aren't made for truly mobile data recording. For several years, archaeologists have been experimenting with the use of PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants -pen-based hand held computers) as a means of overcoming the limitations of laptop data collection. Practical experience suggests that if PDA software is carefully designed for specific archaeological applications, such instruments can function as highly efficient survey data loggers, making rapid incorporation of field data into GISs quite feasible. The trick is to decide what PDA to use, what software to use with it, how to maintain recording accuracy and ultimately how to integrate the collected data seamlessly with a GIS. Early adopters of this technology/methodology mix must ride the wave of market-driven innovation, which is never stable and rarely predictable. This paper describes one such experience, that illustrates the perils of research and development in this area, and also the advantages that can be gained in using PDA data-loggers with GIS for archaeological data collection.