Another question on this archaeology database

[NoFedora]

Each dig site has a name, XXXXXX, that is assigned by the state.

After this, a dig site can either have had shovel tests done, or test pits dug, or both.

The shovel tests are done with a row, number coordination, ie test row 1, hole 1; test row 1, hole 2 and so on.

The test pits go by level as in the depth dug down, so they are just level 1, level 2, level 3 and so on.

Now all of the other bits of information such as what is found in these pits, ceramics, lithics, metal, need to be under both the dig site name, then the individual test pit row/number identifier OR level identifier.

So far I was trying to say, one table with just the Site Number, then it connects to a table with shovel test and level information.

But I am unsure as to how to connect these to the tables which have JUST item types such as pipe stems and what not.

If I must I can default LEVEL to zero if Shovel Test row and numbers are used but this seems problematic.


Also, if there are any good books which offer good novice info for Access, I'd be appreciative for any recommendations.

 

[Fuga]

Not sure I understand:

Does the levels of the test pits apply to the showel test rows?

i e "row 1, hole 1, test pit level 2"

Or is there no location specification if the test pit is done?

Fuga.

 

[NoFedora]

Ah no. The shovel tests and the test pits are separate.

a shovel test being just a small foot around hole dug by shovel or post hole digger with no concern for level. They are usually done in a row/column method and are just to see if anything is present.

A test pit is a carefully excavated 1 meter by 1 meter pit where each level is carefully pulled off and checked for artifacts and such. Test pits are usually done when a Shovel test indicates the presence of something which needs further investigation.

Each Site can have any number of shovel tests or test pits and then all the identifying artifacts within.

Example. Site 9xx101

Has three shovel tests So just one row, Row 1. it also has 1 test pit with three levels.

So we have shove test row 1, hole 1 which has 5 pieces of prehistoric ceramics,

Shovel test row 1, hole 2 has 4 pieces of prehistoric ceramic.

Shovel test row 1, hole 3 has 8 pieces of prehistoric ceramic.

and test pit 1, level 1 has 4 pieces of historic glass
test pit 1, level 2 has 1 piece of historic glass
test pit 1, level 3 has no pieces of historic glass.

So the database needs to distinguish between each combo of shovel test row/number and each test pit and level all under the same Site Number. Each is unique under the site number.