Discussion of basic telecommunications concepts includes data terminal equipment, carrier equipment and data communications equipment. Guidelines offered for librarians planning the implementation of a telecommunications network address reliability and costs of equipment, requirements of the system, and ease of use of the system. (CLB)

Discusses the major categories of add-on microcomputer equipment--memory, mass storage, printers, plotters, monitors, modems, music and voice synthesizers, light pens, game controllers, graphics tablets, word processors, graphics packages, and furniture--and offers suggestions that may be helpful in making purchasing decisions. (MBR)

This checklist based on an earlier version (1980) relates specifically to cathode ray tube and other visual display terminals (VDTs) and also applies to personal computers. Highlights include changes in VDTs, selecting a VDT (evaluate needs, survey market, observe and use, talk to users), and screen and keyboard characteristics. (EJS)

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)

Focusing on the use of microcomputers as "smart terminals" for accessing time-sharing systems for libraries, this document discusses the communications software needed to allow the microcomputer to appear as a terminal to the remote host. The functions which communications software programs are designed to perform are defined and…

Based on a survey sponsored by COMPress Quarterly of various schools to determine the extent of the problem of lack of funds for purchasing computer software and how schools have coped with the problem, this booklet describes numerous ways to raise funds for software purchases. Nearly 1,000 questionnaires were returned and this booklet was…

Presents the options and limitations available in microcomputer-based graphic systems. Factors that must be considered when selecting a system--resolution, color, video-compatibility, and cost--and the relationship between these factors are discussed. (MBR)

Discusses development of the first computers; identifies five generations of computers; reviews projections for sales and proliferation of microcomputers into the marketplace; outlines procedures for selecting microcomputers and evaluating software; and reviews several articles on microcomputers centering on user requirements. (MBR)

Suggests guidelines for selecting microcomputers, reviews present status of microcomputer industry, projects microcomputer capabilities for 1988 and 1998, and discusses implications of recent trends on microcomputer purchasing. It is concluded that buyers interested in a microcomputer for information management will make a safe decision selecting…

A 1983 site-visit survey of 20 colleges actively engaged in developing their information technology (IT) expertise and resources indicate that many teachers do not appreciate the relevance of the computer to their work; few colleges have an effective and structured approach to IT in terms of staffing, equipment, or application; and lack of…

The Microcomputer Program Oriented Budgeting System (MICROCOMP POB) is an accounts payable system intended for use in school districts. The system is based on the general principles of encumbrance accounting and the use of multiple account numbers. For each account number, the primary information provided consists of year to date balances for…

Designed to assist administrators in making intelligent decisions about microcomputer selection, this nontechnical guide provides information in three areas: how, where, when, and why to use a microcomputer; what questions to ask about software and hardware; and what terminology to use. It provides a framework for answering six questions the…

This 5-article section provides an annotated bibliography of 39 books about computer technology; describes peripheral equipment essential for building computer systems; suggests an approach to software evaluation and selection; describes the implementation of a computer program for elementary/secondary students and teachers; and reviews 34…