This article describes the development at Case Western Reserve University of an all-fiber optic communications network linking 7,300 outlets (faculty offices, student residences, classrooms, libraries, and laboratories) with computer data, television, audio, facsimile, and image information services. (Author/DB)

In response to concerns about the cost of keeping up with individual desktop computing technology, several new solutions have emerged. Referred to as "thin clients," or network-centric computers, they include two types of desktop device: the network computer and the Windows terminal. Purchase cost, life span, support costs, and overall total cost…

Reviews the progress and problems associated with the development of Carnegie Mellon University's new computing and communications system, "Andrew." Describes the accomplishments and capacities of the system and provides examples of the programs developed for "Andrew." (ML)

Discussed are the factors to be considered when establishing a computer network. Considered are telecommunications, in general, along with channels, switching, packet switching, transmission, multiplexing, and local area networks (LANS). (TW)

Ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of communication and record-keeping in college and university planned giving programs are outlined. Simple techniques are offered for using laptop computers, planned giving software, and institutional databases to improve access to information during travel and on campus. (MSE)

Seven papers from the 1990 CAUSE conference's Track IV, Policy and Standards are presented. Topics addressed in this track include data administration, computing access, involvement of constituencies in policy making and enforcement, and institutional standards for departmental systems. Papers and their authors are as follows: "Evolution of a…

Six papers from the 1990 CAUSE conference's Track V, Managing Telecommunications and Networking are presented. Topics address such subjects as network funding, support services, access to networks, improvement of instruction through networks, and image transmission. Papers and their authors are as follows: "What's New in…

Describes the facilities and major networks of IBM's Corporate Technical Institute state-of-the-art residential campus at Thornwood, New York. Explains the operations and components of its information transport system and the capabilities of its cabling system. (ML)

Three high-technology approaches are suggested to make college and university development efforts more efficient: (1) use of automated systems for phonathons; (2) use of local area networks to speed access to databases; and (3) exchange of information on electronic bulletin boards. (MSE)

Information technologies such as computer mediated communication (CMC), virtual reality, and telepresence can provide the communication flow required by high-speed management techniques that high-technology industries have adopted in response to changes in the climate of competition. Intra-corporate CMC might be used for a variety of purposes…

This two-page digest briefly outlines some of the technological trends in updating a library, and briefly discusses the administrative issues and strategies involved. It begins by describing the wholly integrated information environment, which would include: (1) public-access personal and professional communications networks; (2) information…

Traces the origin, changes, and current status of the PLATO system at the University of Illinois. Highlights the program's benefits to students, its adaptations, and its establishment of large networking systems. (ML)

This description of workstations, i.e., multipurpose computers expected to become one of the dominant forms of computing in higher education, focuses on computer vendors and market considerations. Highlights include hardware requirements, cost factors, the relationship of vendors and educators, software development problems, and possible future…

The shift from limited-capacity personal computers to powerful workstation technology offers an environment for writing instruction that allows networking, simultaneous performance of many tasks, and tools for designing custom lessons and individual applications. At Allegheny College (Pennsylvania), a first-year writing course is supported…

Technological advancement in academic library resources sharing, networking, and information transfer have developed dramatically in the past decade, with institutions (including nonacademic libraries) finding themselves hard pressed to acquire the resources necessary to institute or otherwise improve their networking capabilities. Further, these…