Comparison of dot matrix impact printers details price, matrix density, speed, print sizes, feed width, interface connectors, and true descender characteristics. Dot matrix versus preformed characters, maintenance and repair, installing printers at microcomputer workstations, value comparisons, and descriptions of specific printers are…

Describes the components, costs, and capabilities of several desktop publishing systems, and examines their possible impact on work patterns within organizations. The text and graphics of the article were created using various microcomputer software packages. (CLB)

Describes current desktop publishing packages available for microcomputers and discusses the disadvantages, especially in cost, for most personal computer users. Also described is a less expensive alternative technology--desktop typesetting--which meets the requirements of users who do not need elaborate techniques for combining text and graphics.…

Presents a conceptual overview of online information systems, emphasizing the distinction between hypertext (associative) and more traditional (search) models of information management. Five commercially available hypertext systems are reviewed, hypertext design issues are discussed, and the application of structured writing techniques to…

The differences between the media of books and computers lies partly in the way in which information is displayed, rather than in the content of the information itself. The term "legibility" denotes how specific physical characteristics of a display affect visual fatigue, reading speed, and ultimately comprehension. Some of these…

The first of two articles discusses the current status of desktop publishing, including some of its benefits and limitations. The second article compares and critiques both hardware and software currently available for the Macintosh and for MS-DOS microcomputers. A glossary of typographic terms is included. (CLB)

Some of the major trends in the merging of videotex and personal computer technology are outlined in this promotional brochure, one of 10 in a series on videotex, a system which uses standard transmission links to transmit information in text and graphics to a television set or computer monitor. Topics addressed include the NAPLPS standard (North…

Describes current developments in microcomputer technology, including CD-ROM, the 80386 microprocessor, and the graphic user interface. It is argued that, as the information handling capacity of microcomputers increases, the microcomputer industry will increasingly market information to end users, and the library will be challenged to provide the…

Discussion of online catalogs focuses on issues in interface design. Issues addressed include understanding the user base; common user access (CUA) with personal computers; common command language (CCL); hyperlinks; screen design issues; differences from card catalogs; indexes; graphic user interfaces (GUIs); color; online help; and remote users.…

Arguing that females need instruction in visuo-spatial skills before adolescence, when they begin to lag behind males in the development of these skills that are so strongly correlated with success in technical careers, this paper discusses the use of the three-dimensional and spherical graphics of ExperLOGO to develop spatial skills in students…

This discussion of the impact of computers on education focuses on microcomputer developments since 1975, the advantages of microcomputers over other computers, some innovative computer based activities in the United States, and the principal inhibitors to effective use of computers in schools. Four references are listed. (CHC)

Discussion of computer-aided publishing hardware and software emphasizes their impact on the production of printed learning materials, especially for distance education and self-instructional texts. Highlights include desktop publishing; electronic publishing; typographic design considerations; distinguishing textual features; implications for…

A computer program written for the Apple II was designed to teach college students how to map expository information. The program consists of five lessons, the first beginning with a definition and illustration of mapping. In this introductory lesson, students are asked to answer three basic questions when reading expository text: identify the…

Presents a selective survey of micro-based genlocking systems currently on the market including those systems with open and closed architecture; examines the number and diversity of uses for this hybrid medium, which synchronizes video signals with computer-generated text and graphics; and discusses the role of cause and effect in innovation.

Discusses the growing importance of the use of Graphic User Interfaces (GUIs) with microcomputers and online services. Highlights include the development of graphics interfacing with microcomputers; CD-ROM databases; an evaluation of HyperCard as a potential interface to electronic mail and online commercial databases; and future possibilities.…