Discusses major features of microcomputers (word length, memory, size, disk size and capacity, central processing unit speed, peripherals, software) and provides descriptions of 19 models. Comparative analysis on basis of cost, software support, machine capacity, storage capacity, and types of peripherals is presented. A 173-item bibliography is…

Much of what librarians do today requires adeptness in creating and manipulating databases. Many new computers bought by libraries every year come packaged with Microsoft Office and include Microsoft Access. This database program features a seamless interface between Microsoft Office's other programs like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. This book…

Describes applications of new technology to information handling on the basis of two trends--the miniaturization of electronic circuits and the shift from analog to digital modes of communication. Information technologies discussed are microcomputers, word processors, telecommunications, storage technologies, databases, videotex, and teletext.…

Describes the step-by-step process of writing a bootable CD-ROM. Discusses equipment and background. Steps include copying the hard drive, creating an image, editing, determining boot catalog placement, and creating the boot record. (AEF)

Explains the basic hardware, software, and media options for changing from a CD-ROM user to a CD-ROM publisher. Highlights include system configurations; computer recommendations; transfer media, including tapes, discs, and optical media; backup software and formatting/simulation software; costs; and publishing systems. (LRW)

This paper briefly outlines the process used to organize, classify, and make accessible a collection of architecture slides in the Architecture Resource Center at Andrews University in Michigan. The classification system includes the use of Art and Architecture Thesaurus subject headings, the ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) concept…

Arguing that videodisc technology has major implications for the storage and retrieval of information and that it may meet learners' needs in ways never before possible, this paper highlights key points regarding the history and development of videodisc technology, explores its implications for education, and addresses current and future uses of…

This current overview of optical disk technology describes the evolving marketplace for optical products, the use of libraries as test sites for prototype CD-ROM (compact disk read-only-memory) products, CD-ROM developments, new optical technologies, and advances in magnetics. A list of some compact disk manufacturers and a glossary of terms are…

Describes a microcomputer-assisted method of using the commercial dBase III software package for the management of a personal bibliographic storage and retrieval system. This system provides users with a systematic way of keeping, for rapid retrieval, references to papers or documents previously read. (Author/CLB)

Discusses factors converging to create high-capacity, low-cost nature of next generation of microcomputers: a coherent vision of what graphics workstation and future computing environment should be like; hardware developments leading to greater storage capacity at lower costs; and development of software and expertise to exploit computing power…

This discussion of uploading (the transmission of information from local memory to a remote system) covers benefits, disadvantages, host system features, technical aspects, and four examples of uploading using CROSSTALK. Examples include function keys, searcher assistance with commonly-used terms, the use of hedges and boiler-plate searching, and…

Description of Optical Disk Pilot Program (ODPP) at Library of Congress, a research and development excursion into laser-based information storage and retrieval, focuses on the Sony videodisk system and innovative use of microcomputers in the storage and retrieval of visual and audio materials. Future goals of ODPP are outlined. (MBR)

This second in a series of six articles introducing microcomputer applications in smaller libraries describes the main microcomputer hardware components--processors, internal and external memory, buses, printers, communications, hardware. Importance of ergonomic factors in equipment design, multi-user and network configurations, and the role of…

Intended to enable educators to make intelligent decisions when purchasing hardware and software, this article presents basic information on computer hardware, effective software, and necessary peripherals needed to achieve educational objectives instructors have set. (MBR)

Describes computer operating systems applicable to microcomputers, noting hardware components, advantages and disadvantages of each system, local area networks, distributed processing, and a fully configured system. Lists of hardware components (disk drives, solid state disk emulators, input/output and memory components, and processors) and…