Shannon's concept of a light box is quite feasible. I believe that 
control of the light source and intensity is essential. However, I would 
suggest a switch with a built-in timer set say for 30 seconds. This is 
better than asking the visitor to press a button while viewing. Check 
with your local electrician or electrical wholesaler for such a device.


Shannon Lindridge wrote:

> We have just installed an exhibit of images from glass plate negatives 
> and we currently have the glass plates in a display case laying on 
> acid free white paper.  I have purposed the idea of a light box which 
> the glass plate could rest on and when a visitor would like to look at 
> the plate they could push a button and the light would come on only 
> for as long as the button is pressed.  We have yet to build such a 
> devise and sure how well it would work, but it is one idea I have had.
>  
> I would be interested as well to hear the opinions from conservators 
> on the impact of light/heat on glass plates from such a display.
>  
> --Shannon
>  
>
> /from generation to generation/
> *The History Center in Tompkins County*
> Shannon Lindridge, Collections Manager
> 401 East State Street, Suite 100, Ithaca, NY 14850
> 607.273.8284 ext.7 (FAX) 607.273.6107
> _www.TheHistoryCenter.net <http://www.thehistorycenter.net/>_
> Please note my new email address:_ [log in to unmask] 
> <mailto:[log in to unmask]>_
>
>     -----Original Message-----
>     *From:* Museum discussion list
>     [mailto:[log in to unmask]]*On Behalf Of *Britton, Kathleen
>     *Sent:* Wednesday, April 27, 2005 11:21 AM
>     *To:* [log in to unmask]
>     *Subject:* Display of glass plate xrays
>
>     Good morning all -
>
>     I work at a medical museum/archives that is part of a hospital. As
>     a result, we do collaborative exhibits from time to time with
>     hospital departments. Our next one is with the radiology
>     department - basically showing the development of the process from
>     my understanding (the meeting about it is next Tuesday).
>
>     As part of the exhibit, the docs would like to display at least
>     one constantly lit glass plate/lantern slide xray. I have no idea
>     as yet if it would be direct or indirect lighting and how the xray
>     would be supported within the exhibit. Needless to say, this whole
>     idea makes me very nervous. My thinking is that the constant
>     exposure to light would not be good for the xray, not to mention
>     the effect the heat of the case/light combo and support methods on
>     the plate's emulsion. Does these sound like reasonable objections
>     and can anyone give any others that I can take to the docs on Tuesday?
>
>     Many thanks!
>     Kathleen
>
>     Kathleen Emerson Britton
>     Curator of Collections and Education
>     Baker-Cederberg Museum and Archives
>     (585) 922-3521 / [log in to unmask]
>
>
>
>
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