Hand-held, battery operated computers are used as field tools to record archaeological excavation data; these data are automatically transferred to an IBM compatible desktop computer and used in the production of archaeological databases and publication drawings. The mapping and recording system is described within the context of excavations in Tucson, Arizona, at Nippur, Iraq, and at Kourion, Cyprus. The system allows on-site reviewing and editing of data, hard copies of the data, and graphic display of the mapped points on paper. Automatic transfer of field data to the laboratory desk-top computer eliminates redundant data entry. The larger computer makes it possible to produce sophisticated graphics and to manipulate accumulated database files. Flexibility within the graphics program allows for automating portions of the drawing process, and the system will eventually allow direct linkage between database records and drawing files. -- AATA