Interfacing LIMS to Mine Data Systems

The first stage of the microprocessor revolution brought computing power down to the desktop, giving small, mine-site laboratories with limited resources the ability to capture, manipulate, analyze, store and retrieve their data electronically. The revolution that began 30 years ago with a small sliver of silicon continues today; unabated, but changed in focus. While the first two decades introduced stand-alone machines running in isolation, recent rapid advances in networking technologies, and the dramatic rise of the Internet have combined to give users the unprecedented ability to share data with others inside the lab, throughout the mine and around the world with equal ease. This paper outlines the benefits derived from integrating the lab and mine data management system. It looks at the methodologies needed to make it work and the pitfalls to be avoided along the way.