-iPad

As a tablet, the Apple iPad stands in stark contrast from its ancient forbearer. A feat of modern technology, this simple slab of glass and metal contains enough storage capacity to hold millions of digital books, transmits information across the world using wireless Internet, captures images and makes video calls with two cameras, and has access to an ecosystem of millions of applications. Despite all of these technical accomplishments, this iPad and most other computers of its time are rapidly becoming obsolete. New versions of software have stopped supporting older devices, lithium-ion batteries are incapable of holding a charge, and technical support has long since ceased. So why does Lehigh keep obsolete technology? Not only does outdated technology provide a good point of comparison for both historical and modern forms of information, but some data may only be accessible using older technology.