Software upgrades and hardware changes cause new technologies to obsolete themselves, often in only a matter of years. Think about it. What if you back up information onto magnetic tape or floppy disks. Are you confident that it will still be readable 25 years from now? What if it was saved in a software format that no longer exists? How will you open that file?

For mission-critical information, the kind that needs to be kept for legal or archival purposes, there is a low-cost and extremely effective storage alternative. You’ve probably used it yourself. It’s called microfilm.

What is Microfilm?

Microfilm is a unique backup medium because it can be read by the eye, without the need for hardware or software. Like paper, microfilm is an "analog" medium that can be viewed by anyone, anywhere. It’s different from digital data, such as information stored in a computer, which is completely dependent on technology.

Microfilm is also much less costly for backup than digital media, for two reasons: first, microfilm technology is consistent – it doesn’t require continual hardware/software upgrades. Second, unlike digital graphic devices, it’s not limited by "dots per inch", since a single photograph holds virtually an infinite amount of detail.

Another microfilm benefit is that it’s always acceptable as courtroom evidence because the information cannot be altered. This is not true for digitally stored information. And, unlike typical digital media, microfilm has never "crashed".

How Could You Use Microfilm?

By combining the best of micrographics and the latest in computer technology, such as electronic imaging, data processing, electronic printing or telecommunications, you can handle both immediate and long-term storage needs.

Some organizations think of microfilm as a safety net because it allows them to store filmed documents in vaults, or in duplicate in more than one location.

But others, such as government agencies, insurance companies and human resource departments, regard microfilm as an absolute necessity. Once again, the reason is microfilm’s longevity and constancy.

Digital data recording technology has been continually changing since its introduction decades ago. But microfilm has remained essentially the same for considerably longer. All you really need to read a microfilmed image is a light source and a magnifier. That’s why microfilm made at the turn of the century is still accessible. On the other hand, try using a 5 ¼" floppy disk on most computers today... let alone the 10" variety from the 70's.

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