Graphic files created from 35mm digitized slides as well as photographs can quickly consume storage space on a hard drive. The result is a non-compressed TIFF or Targa file of about 1 megabyte. Displays at higher screen resolutions require higher scanning dpi's and even larger non-compressed file sizes. To address this problem, one or more hard drives of 1 gigabyte or larger are recommended to provide the fastest possible access to the digitized material. The costs of multisession CD writers are dropping rapidly and CD jukebox readers are capable of housing a large, easily accessible library.
File compression is useful if limited storage space is available.
Batch file conversion utilities such as Inset Systems' HiJaak are handy if images must be saved as compressed files. Accelerated 64 or 128 bit video boards with 2 to 4 megabytes of video RAM capable of displaying 24 bit 16 million color images are necessary for fast display updates of large graphic image files and also provides for a variety of subtle color renditions. Many high end computer packages come with 24 bit graphics boards that allow various display resolutions to be utilized using multisync monitors. They provide a more workable image display and comfortable working environment, especially when working at higher resolutions. In particular, if a local area network is available, copies of raw images can be made available to designated faculty.