The logmeter: a new core measuring board based on bar codes.

Core description is used extensively by sedimentologists to yield critical information from sediments. It consists of a naturalistic description of th e visual and textural characteristics of the sediment. It is generally a ma nual procedure. However, digital core descriptions are now required re mana ge data processing. Hand-written description can be keyed into a computer, but it is tedious and time consuming. Moreover, recording and typing errors can occur. A system is presented for digital description of sediment cores using a bar code principle. It can be used in the laboratory as well as on board vessels. It comprises a box inside which the half-core can be placed . A ruler and several sets of bar codes are printed on the inside box top. Bar codes are read by a waterproof sensor pencil that is interfaced with a PSION 3A Docket computer. The software mimicks the traditional method of co pe description, the geologist answering questions using the optical pencil. It offers versatility and is designed with the geoscientist's need for fle xibility and ease of use in mind. It allows computerised core data manageme nt and is highly upgradable. It can help to harmonise core description and to compare it with core data provided by the new multiparameter measurement systems. Detailed log plots no longer require tedious coding. Logmeter dat a can be used to automatically create customized, full-featured log graphs displaying lithology, descriptions, curves, histograms, graphic symbols and attractive legends, using commercial or dedicated softwares. (C) Elsevier, Paris / Ifremer / Cnrs / Ird.