engleski

Investigating the possibility of using microchips (aq:bits) for safeguarding special collections

AQ:bit is a breadboard-compatible WiFi development board which allows the measurement of four atmospheric variables: temperature, relative humidity, air pressure and the concentration of microparticles (with a diameter less than 2.5 micrometers). It has an ARM processor, accelerometer and magnetometer sensors, Bluetooth/WiFi and interface for other sensors. It is based on MicroPython programming language and has built in web editor which allows uploading programs to the device. To work properly, AQ:bit needs to be connected to a power supply using USB- C cable. Tracking of the measured data is easy, as it doesn't require physical access to the device and additional PC software (like dataloggers), but does require stable wi fi connection and logging in to a website where data is collected. AQ:bit also allows unlimited data storage, but can be affected by failure of information systems. For this reason, we decided to evaluate AQ:bit as an alternative to dataloggers and similar sensing devices that operate on common batteries. Our final goal was to implement a product that is innovative, reliable and cost-saving, giving it a lead over the existing technology for continuous monitoring of environmental conditions in storage spaces. For the purpose of this research, five AQ:bits were exposed to different microclimate conditions (both indoor and outdoor) over a 6 month period, in order to analyze and compare their long-term accuracy, sensitivity to fluctuations, and reliability at collecting data with those of other types of sensing devices. Although it was observed that all AQ:bits' measurements deviate from those of other reference devices, the deviations were of the same amount and constant during the whole tracking period. AQ:bits also detected fluctuations in RH precisely and in a timely manner. We first assumed the deviations were a result of the fact that the sensor probe is located inside the AQbit case and close to other components that additionally heat the probe. However, the data suggests that the deviations are more likely a result of a different calibration. The results obtained indicate that AQ:bit is a potentially useful tool that operates in real-time and could be crucial in rapidly changing conditions and crisis situations, when access to library collections is restricted. So, to conclude, the new technologies using wireless communication with the computing power of a microcontroller should be utilized, because they can help collections become more resilient and adaptive to change, while ensuring the transition towards more innovative and effective solutions.

aq:bit, microclimate conditions, wi fi communication, heritage collections

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