Electronic research notebooks (ERNs)

• My research is in the humanities, can I use an ERN?

  Yes, of course! Image or video files and film clips can be embedded amidst text in the notebook—multiple file types on one page. Transcripts, manuscripts, or other text from multiple sources can be searched in one place, rather than keeping track of searches across various documents. Tabular files for text analysis or other information can be stored and searched alongside Word documents using plugins. Everything—brainstorming and analytical notes, presentations, chapter drafts, etc. can be stored in one place and is well-protected against loss. Additionally, LabArchives can be synced across devices for use in archives or fieldwork. 

• What happens to my notes and data if I leave LabArchives?

  You can export notebooks in bulk, creating ‘offline’ copies.

• What is the largest file size I can upload to LabArchives?

  The individual file limit is 4GB.

• What is the capacity of one LabArchives notebook?

  1TB. After you reach 1 TB, the notebook may become slow due to being web-based. However, users can create additional notebooks in identical format using the first as a template.

• How many notebooks can I create?

  There is currently no limit on the number of notebooks you can create.

• What if the University does not renew its LabArchives subscription?

  This is unlikely to be the case, but if the University did not renew, users would still have 3 years of read-only access to back-up any data. Users can also export notebooks in bulk, creating ‘offline’ copies of their notebooks.

• Do I have access to the LabArchives API?

  Yes, the University of St Andrews holds an Enterprise subscription, which includes access to an API. For more information, see the API notebook.

• What is the backup schedule for LabArchives?

  Users’ data is saved every 5 seconds, hourly backed up on a UK server, and every 4 hours is backed up on a remote emergency server in Ireland.

• Where can I find support?

  LabArchives offer a 22-hour-per-day technical support service, in which users can expect a reply within an hour. See the LabArchives resources for articles, blog posts, FAQs, and more. For general inquiries, requests, and institutional support, email ernsupport@st-andrews.ac.uk.