4 4. IMAGE DATA FILES

Digital video microscopy allows the conservator to create image data files as a future reference source. The conservator can create image data files for fibers, pigments, or any other type of specimen that may prove practical in performing side-by-side comparative analysis. Image data files can be created to suit the individual needs and purposes of the conservator. They can be created for exclusive in-house use or so they can be accessed by others, through a computer network, for instance.

Images may be captured and saved in different image file formats, such as Tagged Image File (TIFF) and Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG), which were both developed by the Joint Photographic Experts Group (D'Amato and Klopfenstein 1996). Most video capture cards support these formats. Each storage file format has its own advantages and disadvantages, so the conservator should choose carefully from the options before setting up his or her own image file database. Concerns may involve issues about portability, storage, image stability, system integrity, accessibility, etc. Some common storage formats are Graphics Interchange Format (GIF), TIFF, Photo CD, and BitMaP (BMP) (D'Amato and Klopfenstein 1996).