Electrical resistance survey

In this type of survey electrical resistance meters are used to detect and map subsurface archaeological features and patterning.

Electrical resistance surveying is one of the most popular geophysical methods thanks to the fact it is a nondestructive and economically favorable investigation.

[1] In most systems, metal probes (electrodes) are inserted into the ground to obtain a reading of the local electrical resistance.

While these show promise for archaeological applications, currently available systems operating on this principle lack sufficient spatial resolution and sensitivity.

[7][8] Survey usually involves walking with the instrument along closely spaced parallel traverses, taking readings at regular intervals.

With the corners of the grids as known reference points, the instrument operator uses tapes or marked ropes as a guide when collecting data.

Early surveys recorded readings by hand, but computer controlled data logging and storage are now the norm.