Describes steps involved in developing and producing multimedia CD-ROMs. Topics discussed include planning; incorporating a variety of types of data; selecting data formats; selecting software; problems; replication issues; data preparation; and CD-ROM as an alternative to paper copies of conference proceedings. (LRW)

Discusses the need for security and metering features for CD-ROM products. Topics covered include user productivity issues, pricing problems, integrated information resources, advantages of CD-ROM distribution systems, unauthorized use, content encryption, and multiple simultaneous meters. (MES)

Discusses issues to be considered when networking multimedia CD-ROMs. Topics addressed include CD-ROM networking software; license concerns; configurations for CD-ROM servers; data caching; SCSI devices; CD-ROM drives; workstation configurations, including minimum requirements for five popular CD-ROM titles; and system setup troubleshooting tips.…

Describes how audio technology is being integrated into CD-ROMs to create multimedia products. Computer hardware and software are discussed, including the use of HyperCard to combine still pictures, moving video pictures, and sound; and specific new multimedia products produced by the Voyager Company are described. (LRW)

Discussion of computer viruses describes two types of viruses and how they work; suggests ways to prevent or minimize virus risk; and explains how to recognize a virus and limit damage once a virus attacks. A sidebar lists several antivirus software products. (two references) (NRP)

Provides an overview of developments in computer-based training (CBT) authoring software and reviews the following products: Macromedia's Authorware, Aimtech's CBT Express, Iprax CourseWorks, Intersystem Concepts' Everest, Aimtech's IconAuthor, Innovus Multimedia, Allen Communication's QuestNet+, and Asymetrix's ToolBook II Instructor. A sidebar…

Describes CD-ROM technologies, including how to access them. Highlights include a history of CD-ROM development; multimedia; Macintosh versus DOS/Window users; CD-ROM XA; adding audio and video; Photo CD; video compression; new products; and a list of companies, their CD-ROM products, features and costs. (LRW)

Describes Microsoft's Windows with Multimedia Extensions Software for the IBM PC. Topics addressed include hardware and software requirements, enhancements to the standard Windows environment, computing standards utilized, how Multimedia Extensions interacts with applications and devices, extensibility and ease of use, and CD-ROM performance…

Describes the hardware, operating systems, and expenses involved with linking personal computers in low-cost, small- to medium-sized LANs (local area networks) that permit users to share CD-ROM resources. Purchasing and installing Ethernet hardware, the use of starter kits, assembling individual components, and LANtastic and NetWare Lite network…

Describes the Intermedia software, an integrated environment that supports the creation, display, and linking of text and graphics on a network of workstations. Making links, navigation and orientation, and presenting information using the program are addressed. Two publications created with Intermedia and techniques employed for these…

Describes Photo CD, a procedure developed by Eastman Kodak for storing high-resolution 35mm film images on compact discs, and explains Macintosh microcomputer-based hardware and software that can be used with it. Software for viewing as well as editing and altering images is described, and future products are discussed. (four references) (LRW)

Provides a comprehensive system for professional evaluation of CD-ROM software. The system extends the work of Peter Jacso by including a detailed evaluation form using a simplified rating scale. It also incorporates the CD-ROM Consistent Interface Guidelines, which propose 13 basic functions for CD-ROM user interfaces. The evaluation form is…

Discusses Compact Disc-Interactive (CD-I) using a question-and-answer format. Highlights include development of the CD-I technology; where to purchase discs and players; compatibility with other CD-ROM drives; how to make discs; authoring systems versus custom programs; entertainment and educational applications; licensing issues; specifications;…

Provides an overview of legal issues related to licensing entertainment rights for multimedia source materials, including the grant of rights clause, copyright ownership, territory and languages, term provision, specifications, approvals/controls, royalties, guilds, bankruptcies, termination of the license, and confidentiality. Common mistakes…

Discusses topics related to systems for in-house CD-ROM development: functions, including data capture, data conversion, data editing, indexing, database construction, simulation/testing, and formatting; components, including hardware, the processor, peripherals, and selection considerations; software, including the operating system, system…