Collection policy

From: Tony Duell <ard_at_p850ug1.demon.co.uk>
Date: Sun May 25 17:25:01 2003

> There are many techniques to avoid static displays.
> * Rotating the equipment on a turntable with the back open.

Or just positioning it so you can walk round the back (nothing wrong with
the low-tech method!)

> * Recreating really old equipment or high wear parts.
> * Equipment displays with interactive java simulation of
> the equipment running nearby.
> * Faking the output display on unpowered equipment with
> the 'PC behind the curtain'.

Bletch. This is faking it, pure and simple...

How would you feel if you visited an art gallery and all the paintings
were actually high-resolution digial copies of the originals? They may
look just the same (and you could argue that the look is all that's
important in a paintaing), but they are not the same. I know I'd feel
cheated...

In fact, I have a policy never to help museums who want to do this (e.g.
by allowing them to record the output of one of my working machines). If,
on the other hand, they actually want to restore one of their machines to
running condition, then I'll provide time, knowledge, and often parts.

> * Or just using equipment that is still some what available.
> And don't forget the importance of the the right lighting
> and sound effects. :)

You do know how to get me to start flaming, don't you :-). I've had
enough of 'modern lighting' in museums. Meaning lighting where you can't
properly examine any of the exhibits. I want to be able to see whatever
details I need to see to sort out one of my own machines. Please keep
'creative lighting' for the movies :-)

Oh, and if the machine is running you don't need sound effects.

-tony
Received on Sun May 25 2003 - 17:25:01 BST