The computer processing of geophysical data involves the assembly of the matrices
of measurements into their proper spatial arrangement. Significant image
processing of the data is also required to yield a quality, interpretable result.
The data processing typically requires a series of ordered steps: 1) concatenation
of data from individual survey grids into a single composite; 2) despiking of
unusually high or low readings (outliers); 3) edge matching of data values in
each grid through the balancing of brightness and contrast; 4) filtering to
smooth statistical noise in the data or to remove geologically caused broad
trends; 5) contrast enhancement through clipping of high and low values in the
data set; 6) interpolation may sometimes be employed to estimate additional
values for improved image continuity and interpretation; 7) image creation
through assignment of gray or color scales to the image matrices. Several other
specialized processing steps may also be considered as cases warrant (e.g.,
detrending, edge enhancement, etc.). More than three-fourths of the labor in
archaeological geophysics rests in the analysis, processing, and interpretation
of the data. While ample initial results have been obtained, and many final
conclusions, the volume of data acquired will yield insights for years to come.
