PREVENTING AND MANAGING DAMAGE FROM AGING BATTERIES IN HISTORIC COMPUTERS IN MUSEUM COLLECTIONS
PREVENTING AND MANAGING DAMAGE FROM AGING BATTERIES IN HISTORIC COMPUTERS IN MUSEUM COLLECTIONS
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Issue Date
2006
Authors
McClure, James G.
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Abstract
This thesis argues that the most appropriate course for the stewards of museum computer collections is prompt, thorough internal inspections to locate batteries still in their host computers and safe removal of all batteries found in the inspections. Although the removal of batteries somewhat diminishes the computers' value as historical artifacts, it is preferable to the likely damage that the batteries will cause if they are left in place.
This thesis suggests steps to mitigate the reduction in object integrity that will result from battery removal. In addition, this thesis presents some techniques that may be useful in remediating battery damage that already has taken place in historic computers and in stabilizing the computers for continued storage. Finally, to assist museums in meeting their obligations to maintain a safe and healthy workplace, this thesis outlines health and safety issues associated with the proposed work.