4th August 2007, 04:38 PM
Richard, the other problem that you will come across is one of OS accuracy i.e corners of buildings as shown on OS maps aren't exactly where they are in relation to 'real' co-ordinates. This even extends to digital maps. Some rumours suggest OS are deliberate in their inaccuracies so as to catch out 'map pirates'. This may or may not be a problem depending on the degree of accuracy you are seeking to achieve.
With hindsight it has to be said that before the advent of modern survey machinery probably 90%+ of archaeological sites were located by using a combination of triangulation from fixed map points (buildings, gate posts etc) using 30-50 metre tapes and 'best-fit' overlays. So console yourself if you find an error in fittin' your site, that at least you are continuing a long established UK archaeological tradition.
With hindsight it has to be said that before the advent of modern survey machinery probably 90%+ of archaeological sites were located by using a combination of triangulation from fixed map points (buildings, gate posts etc) using 30-50 metre tapes and 'best-fit' overlays. So console yourself if you find an error in fittin' your site, that at least you are continuing a long established UK archaeological tradition.