Electronic Information Media

Copying

Copying audio and video recordings on tape is an essential routine aimed at:

• preventing damage to originals through handling and playing;

• providing security copies, in case the originals are damaged or stolen; and

• ensuring the permanent preservation of recordings as the original carriers deteriorate.

Transfer important recordings to the latest available mainstream technology every five years or so—one source states every two or three years—to check the playability of the recording and to make sure it can be played on easily available equipment.

Make one recording per tape. Choose good-quality, polyester-based, ferric oxide-coated, standard-play, magnetic tape. Record in analogue mode.

Develop a standard procedure and make a written record of each tape copied—so that all copies will have uniform and predictable characteristics.

Do not use spliced tapes.

Leave the first two metres of each copy tape blank.

Precede each audio recording on a copy tape with a spoken announcement, giving the reference of the original, the numerical reference of the copy and a brief description of the item.

If you have a problem related to the care of electronic media, contact a conservator. Conservators can offer advice and practical solutions.