DATA COLLECTION AND HANDLING - Wind Resource Assessment: A Practical Guide to Developing a Wind Project - page 100

7.4.2 Computer Hardware
A personal computer is usually the primary location of the working database, so care
should be taken to ensure that the computer and especially its hard drives are in good
working order and that the data are frequently backed up.
7.4.3 Data Handling Procedures
Improper data handling increases the risk of data loss. All personnel in contact with the
data and storage media should be fully trained and should understand the following:
• Data retrieval software and computer operating system . Technicians should be
aware of all instances in which data can be accidentally overwritten or erased.
• Good handling practices for all data storage media . Data cards and hard disk
drives should be protected from static charge, magnetic fields, and temperature
extremes.
• Computer operations and safety practices , including grounding requirements.
To reduce the risk of data loss, the raw logger files should be permanently and safely
archived and the working database backed up regularly (at least as often as the data
retrieval). Archives and backup copies should be stored in a different location from the
main files, and not in the same building. Common data backup methods include the
use of CD, DVD, and magnetic tape. Online backup services have recently become
popular and are especially secure as well as convenient for frequent backups.
With remote data transfers via e-mail, another very effective data protection strategy
is to set up backup e-mail accounts. The e-mailed files can go to different computers
in different locations.
7.5 DOCUMENTATION
A Site Data Transmission Report, an example of which is presented at the end of
this chapter, should be developed to serve as the master raw data file log for each
site. The report can also be used to track the success of remote data transfers and
document file backups. The following lists the basic information to include in the Site
Data Transmission Report:
• Site designation
• Site location
• Data-transfer method (manual or remote)
• Last transfer date and transfer time (local and GMT)
• Backup system and location
• Transfer interval
• Comments, problems, and actions taken.