AbstractThere are many electronic tools available for ground water field studies including a wide variety of computer equipment. Consideration should be given to the use of computers when planning field studies. A foundation for determining the appropriate use of computers in field studies is presented in two parts. Part One includes a brief description of the components that comprise a computer and is intended to clarify terminology and illustrate the general characteristics of these machines. Related and frequently‐used computer equipment is described in detail. Topics of special concern will be presented in Part Two, which will appear in the Spring 1984 issue, to alert the reader to common misconceptions and problems. This is illustrated by the description of two field studie